Road Trip Cost: Bakersfield, California to Detroit, Michigan

Are you planning a cross-country road trip from Bakersfield, California to Detroit, Michigan? Before hitting the road, it's important to budget for the cost of gas and tolls. We've researched several routes to help you estimate the cost of your trip based on current gas prices.

Route 1: via I-40 and I-44

This is the shortest route from Bakersfield to Detroit: a total distance of 2,109 miles. Driving time takes around 31 hours without stops.

You'll pass through states like Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Missouri. The cost of gas would be around $240, based on the current national average of $2.77 per gallon, for a car that averages 25 miles per gallon. Additionally, tolls will add an extra $10 to your budget for this trip.

Route 2: via I-80

This is the longer route to Detroit, with a total distance of 2,417 miles. The driving time would take you around 36 hours without stops, passing through states of California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois.

Although it is a longer route, it offers breathtaking views of mountain ranges and beautiful sceneries. The added distance might also mean additional gas expenses, raising the cost to $280, based on the current national average of $2.77 per gallon, for a car that averages 25 miles per gallon. Tolls will add another $30 to your budget for this trip.

Route 3: via I-70

This route is the longest and has a total distance of 2,567 miles. Driving time will take around 39 hours without stops, passing through states such as California, Utah, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and finally, ending in Michigan.

Though it's longer, it's a worthwhile choice for people looking for varying scenery and places to stop along the way. In terms of cost, you'll spend around $305 on gas, based on the current national average of $2.77 per gallon, for a car that averages 25 miles per gallon. Additionally, tolls will add another $15 to your budget.

Conclusion

Whether you decide to take a shorter or longer route, it's essential to plan your budget and ensure that you have enough funds to enjoy your trip. To get the most out of your journey, make sure to plan enough breaks to rest, stretch your legs, and enjoy some of the local attractions. With good planning, snacks, and a sense of adventure, your road trip from Bakersfield, California to Detroit, Michigan will surely be a memorable one!