Time It Takes To Drive From Bakersfield, California to Washington, District of Columbia

Are you planning to drive from Bakersfield, California to Washington, District of Columbia? The drive is quite long but can be a great adventure. You'll have to cross a few states to reach your destination. To make your trip smooth, it's essential to have an idea of the fastest and slowest routes, distances, and time it takes based on traffic patterns.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Bakersfield, California, to Washington, District of Columbia, is via I-40 East and I-81 North. The distance is approximately 2,700 miles, and it takes around 40 hours of driving in normal traffic conditions. However, the driving time varies with several factors like time of the day, season, and traffic patterns.

The slowest route is via I-10 East, I-20 East, and I-95 North. The distance is around 3,100 miles and takes approximately 46 hours of driving time in normal traffic conditions.

Traffic Patterns

Traffic is a significant factor that determines how long your trip will take. Rush hours, construction, and weather can all impact your driving time. The best time to drive is during off-peak hours, especially early mornings, late nights, and weekends.

If you choose the fastest route, expect to spend around 55 hours of driving time during peak hours, which is 15 hours more compared to normal traffic conditions. The slowest route may take up to 64 hours of driving time in peak conditions, which is 18 hours more than in normal traffic situations.

Route Recommendations

Driving from Bakersfield, California, to Washington, District of Columbia, is an epic road trip that can bring you lots of memories. However, to make the most of it, timing and route choice are significant. If you are looking for the quickest route, I-40 East and I-81 North is your best bet.

But if you prefer a more scenic route, take I-10 East, I-20 East, and I-95 North. You'll cross several states and cities, making your journey more thrilling. Regardless of the route you choose, always take caution while driving and follow traffic rules.

In conclusion, driving across the country is a great adventure. Before starting your trip, research different routes, traffic patterns, and travel time to make the best decision. Remember to take breaks and have a lot of fun. Safe travels!