Cost Breakdown of a Road Trip Between California and Indiana in 2021
When planning a road trip across the United States, one of the most significant factors to consider is the cost. While there are different modes of travel available, hitting the road offers an experience that cannot be replicated. This article breaks down the cost of a trip between California and Indiana based on current gas prices, including possible routes and distances.
Route Options and Cost
The trip from California to Indiana is a long one, with approximately 2,000 miles separating the two states. To make the journey, there are three routes to consider:
Route 1: The Southern Route
The Southern Route takes drivers through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. It is the most direct route to take, covering approximately 2,100 miles and taking about 32 hours of driving time.
Gas Prices and Cost
To calculate the cost of the trip based on gas prices, a couple of assumptions must be made. First, the car is assumed to be a non-hybrid that gets an average of 25 miles per gallon (mpg). Secondly, the current national average for gas prices is $3.00 per gallon.
Therefore, the cost of driving from California to Indiana on the Southern Route would be approximately $252.
Route 2: The Central Route
The Central Route takes drivers through Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois before reaching Indiana. This route takes about 2,300 miles and driving time is about 35 hours.
Gas Prices and Cost
Based on the assumptions above, the cost of driving from California to Indiana on the Central Route would be approximately $276.
Route 3: The Northern Route
The Northern Route takes drivers through Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Iowa before crossing into Indiana. This route covers approximately 2,500 miles and driving time is about 38 hours.
Gas Prices and Cost
Based on the assumptions above, the cost of driving from California to Indiana on the Northern Route would be approximately $300.
Recommended Route
When considering the routes available, the Southern Route provides the most direct path, the shortest driving time and the least cost. While it does take drivers through potentially scorching states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, the cost savings will make the heat worth enduring.
It is important to note that these gas price estimates will fluxuate. It is always a good idea to look up the current gas prices in your location before setting off on this trip.
Conclusion
When planning a road trip between California and Indiana, several factors such as distance, driving time, and cost must be considered. While there are three potential routes to take, the Southern Route would be the best recommendation, taking around 32 hours and costing approximately $252. With careful planning and budgeting, the trip can provide a memorable experience while being cost-effective.