Fueling Your Adventure: The Cost of Driving from Bakersfield, California to San Antonio, Texas

Are you planning a road trip from Bakersfield, California to San Antonio, Texas? The idea of a long drive may be daunting, but with the right preparation, it can be an unforgettable adventure. One of the most important factors to consider when planning the trip is the cost of gas. In this blog post, we will break down the cost of driving from Bakersfield, California to San Antonio, Texas, based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-10 E

The most direct route from Bakersfield to San Antonio is via I-10 E. The distance between these two cities is approximately 1,320 miles, and it takes roughly 20 hours to complete the trip. Travelers can expect to spend around $220 on gas, assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3.25 per gallon. However, it is important to note that this route has tolls. For example, the toll for the Desert Express lanes is $19.50 in California and the Texas Department of Transportation charges up to $17.25 for various toll roads in Texas.

Route 2: I-210 E and I-20 E

Another option is to take I-210 E and I-20 E. This route is about 1,400 miles and takes roughly 21 hours, but it avoids some of the tolls on I-10. Travelers can expect to spend around $230 on gas, assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3.25 per gallon.

Route 3: I-40 E and I-35 S

For those who want to enjoy some scenic views along the way, I-40 E and I-35 S is another option. This route is approximately 1,540 miles, and it takes roughly 24 hours to complete the trip. Travelers can expect to spend around $260 on gas, assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3.25 per gallon. This route also has tolls, with the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority charging up to $12.35 in tolls.

Route 4: CA-58 E and I-20 E

Lastly, travelers can take CA-58 E and I-20 E. This route is approximately 1,450 miles, and it takes roughly 22 hours to complete the trip. Travelers can expect to spend around $240 on gas, assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3.25 per gallon. However, this route has tolls as well, for example, the Central Texas Turnpike System charges up to $8.80 in tolls.

In conclusion, when planning a road trip from Bakersfield, California to San Antonio, Texas, it is important to consider the cost of gas and tolls. The most direct route via I-10 E is the shortest and fastest, but it also has the highest toll costs. Alternatives routes like I-210 E and I-20 E, I-40 E and I-35 S, and CA-58 E and I-20 E offer drivers a chance to avoid toll roads but are generally longer than I-10. Regardless of your route, getting behind the wheel and hitting the open road is an adventure worth having.