The Cost of a Cross-Country Road Trip: California to Missouri

Are you planning a road trip from California to Missouri? It's a long drive, spanning over 1,700 miles, and there are a few different routes you can take depending on your preferences and budget. In this article, we'll break down the costs of each potential route, including gas prices and approximate distance, to help you make an informed decision about your trip.

Possible Routes

Before delving into the specifics of each route, let's first outline the three most common options for driving from California to Missouri:

1. Interstate 40: Taking I-40 east through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and then through the southeast corner of Kansas before touching down in Missouri.
2. Interstate 70: Taking I-70 east through the northern part of Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, and then into Missouri.
3. Interstate 80/I-70 hybrid: This route takes you north on I-80 through Wyoming and Nebraska before turning onto I-70 and heading east into Missouri.

In terms of distance, all three routes are relatively close to one another in terms of total miles driven. However, there are differences in cost, scenery, and driving difficulty that may impact your decision.

Route 1: Interstate 40

The first route that many travelers consider when traveling from California to Missouri is Interstate 40. Crisscrossing across the southern part of the United States, this route offers a few different options for things to see along the way including the Grand Canyon, Carlsbad Caverns, Amarillo, Memphis, and St. Louis.

The total distance for this route is roughly 1,990 miles. Assuming an average of 24 miles per gallon for a midsize car, you'll need around 82.9 gallons of gas for the trip. The average cost of gas along the way ranges from around $2.50 to $3.00 per gallon, depending on location and time of year. Therefore, your total fuel costs will be somewhere around $210 to $250.

Other incidental costs to factor in might include lodging, food, drinks, and tolls. If you're looking to save money, there are plenty of affordable lodging options along the way including chain hotels, motels, and campgrounds. Gas station food and fast food are also a cheaper option for on-the-road meals.

Route 2: Interstate 70

If you're looking for a more northern route from California to Missouri, then consider taking Interstate 70. This route offers stunning mountain views and a stop in Denver, which is a great city for food, culture, music, and outdoor recreation.

The total distance for this route is roughly 1,620 miles. Assuming an average of 24 miles per gallon for a midsize car, you'll need around 67.5 gallons of gas for the trip. The average cost of gas along the way ranges from around $2.60 to $3.10 per gallon. Therefore, your total fuel costs will be somewhere around $175 to $210.

Other incidental costs to factor in might include lodging, food, drinks, and tolls. Some of the most interesting places to visit along this route include Glenwood Canyon, Arches National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Lodging in these areas can be pricier than in other parts of the country, so be sure to budget accordingly.

Route 3: Interstate 80/I-70 Hybrid

Finally, if you're looking for a bit of a mix between the first two routes, consider taking the Interstate 80/I-70 Hybrid. This route takes you to destinations such as the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, and even a stop in the Windy City, Chicago.

The total distance for this route is roughly 1,880 miles. Assuming an average of 24 miles per gallon for a midsize car, you'll need around 78.3 gallons of gas for the trip. The average cost of gas along the way ranges from around $2.50 to $3.00 per gallon. Therefore, your total fuel costs will be somewhere around $195 to $235.

Other incidental costs to factor in might include lodging, food, drinks, and tolls. This route is a great option if you're interested in a little bit of everything: city life, small towns, and natural attractions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best route to take when traveling from California to Missouri depends largely on your preferences in terms of sightseeing, budget, and driving style. If you're looking for scenic mountain views and outdoor recreation, then Interstate 70 may be the best choice for you. If you're in a hurry and want to make good time, then the I-80/I-70 hybrid may be the best option. Finally, if you're looking for a lot of potential stops and a wide variety of activities, then Interstate 40 is your best bet. Regardless of which route you choose, you're in for a memorable cross-country road trip full of adventure and opportunity.