The Cost of a Road Trip Between Baltimore, Maryland and Dallas, Texas

Are you planning a road trip from Maryland to Texas but wondering how much it will cost you? In this article, we're going to break down the costs of different route options, including gas prices, and offer our recommendation for the best and most cost-effective route.

Route Options

I-95 S to I-85 S to I-20 W

This route is the most direct route from Baltimore to Dallas and covers a total distance of 1,330 miles. To start, take I-95 South from Baltimore all the way through Virginia and North Carolina until it intersects with I-85 in South Carolina. Follow I-85 towards Atlanta until it meets with I-20 in Georgia. Then head west on I-20 until you reach Dallas.

Using AAA's fuel cost calculator for a Toyota Camry, assuming an average gas price of $2.79 per gallon, the estimated cost for this route is approximately $175.06 in gas. Keep in mind that this is an average cost and you may encounter lower or higher gas prices along the way.

I-81 S to I-40 W to I-30 W

This route is slightly longer, clocking in at 1,412 miles, but it is a less congested and more scenic drive. To start, take I-81 South from Baltimore to Tennessee. Once in Tennessee, follow I-40 West towards Arkansas, and then take I-30 West into Dallas. This route will take you through the Appalachian Mountains and into the Great Smoky Mountains before you reach the flat plains of Texas.

Using the same fuel cost calculator, the estimated cost for this route is approximately $191.84 in gas for a Toyota Camry. Once again, this is an average cost and not accounting for any unforeseen gas price increases or decreases.

I-95 S to I-10 W to I-35 N

This route is the longest of the three options, totaling 1,794 miles. To begin, take I-95 South from Baltimore to Florida. Continue West on I-10 until you reach Texas before heading North on I-35 to Dallas. This route will take you through some of the most beautiful parts of Florida and pass through New Orleans, Louisiana.

Using the fuel cost calculator, the estimated cost for this route is approximately $242.72 in gas for a Toyota Camry. While this route is the longest, it may be the most scenic and provide the most memorable road trip experience.

Recommendation

After analyzing the three options, we recommend taking the I-81 S to I-40 W to I-30 W route. While it may be slightly longer and more costly in gas, it offers a scenic route with less traffic. Taking this drive through the Appalachian and Great Smoky Mountains and passing through Tennessee and Arkansas can be a truly breathtaking experience. The slightly higher cost in gas is worth the unforgettable memories and unique experiences this route offers.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, a road trip from Baltimore to Dallas can be an exciting experience filled with adventure. After taking into account gas prices and distances, we believe the I-81 S to I-40 W to I-30 W route is the best option. Remember to take breaks and visit attractions along the way to make the most of your trip. Safe travels!