Driving Cost from California to Virginia

A picture depicting a gas pump

A Road Trip from California to Virginia: How Much It Costs

Are you planning to take the scenic route from California to Virginia and wondering how much it would cost you? It's hard to come up with an exact amount since gas prices and toll fees always fluctuate. However, in this blog post, we'll try to give you a rough estimate of the cost of driving across the United States.

Here are a few things to consider:

Route 1: Via I-40 E and I-81 N

This is the most direct route from California to Virginia, covering a distance of approximately 2,739 miles. It will take you around 39 hours of non-stop driving. Assuming that your car has an average fuel efficiency of 23 miles/gallon and the current gas price is around $3.00/gallon, you can expect to pay about $335.00 for gas one way. Additionally, you'll need to pay around $50 in toll fees.

Route 2: Via I-10 E, I-20 E, I-59 N, and I-81 N

If you want to avoid the traffic congestion in I-40, you can opt for this longer but more scenic route. The total distance covered is approximately 2,982 miles, and it will take you around 44 hours of driving. Using the same fuel efficiency and gas prices mentioned above, you can expect to pay around $380.00 for gas one way. You'll also incur about $80 in toll fees.

Route 3: Via I-10 E and I-95 N

Another alternative is to take a southern route, which is ideal if you want to bypass the cold winter weather on the northern highways. The distance covered is around 3,066 miles, and it will take you approximately 45 hours of non-stop driving. You can anticipate a gas expense of around $405.00 one way, plus $90 for toll fees.

Tips to Save Money on Your Road Trip

Regardless of the route you choose, you can follow these tips to save on your road trip expenses:

  • Pack your own food and drinks instead of buying them at rest stops or fast food chains.
  • Share driving responsibilities with a companion to reduce the need for overnight stays.
  • Refuel your car at stations where there are discount gas cards and coupons available.

In summary, a cross-country road trip from California to Virginia can be an exciting and memorable adventure. You can expect to spend anywhere between $435.00 and $575.00 (with toll fees included) depending on the route you take and your flexibility in managing your expenses. Plan accordingly, stay safe, and have a great trip!