The Cost of a Road Trip from California to West Virginia

If you're planning a road trip from California to West Virginia, you're in for quite the adventure. The trip can take up to 32 hours and can be anywhere from nearly 2,000 to over 2,500 miles depending on the route you choose. In addition to the distance, the cost of the trip will depend on several factors, including the type of car you drive, the price of gas, and the route you take. This article will break down the cost of a road trip from California to West Virginia and suggest the best route to take.

Route Options and Costs

There are three main routes you can take when driving from California to West Virginia. Each route has its own pros and cons, including distance, scenery, and tolls.

Route 1 - The I-40 Route

The most direct and fastest option for the trip is the I-40 route. Starting from Barstow, California, you will drive straight across the country to West Virginia. The total distance on this route is approximately 2295 miles.

One of the main advantages of this route is that it is the most direct option. With less distance to cover, you can save on both gas and time. However, it's important to note that it's not the most scenic route with lots of open roads and desert landscapes.

Assuming that you’re driving using a car with average gas mileage of 25 mpg and gas costs $2.60 a gallon, the cost of the trip using this route would add up to around $278.

Route 2 - The I-70 Route

The second route option takes travelers on the I-70, which runs through the heart of the country. The total distance on this route is approximately 2277 miles.

One advantage of this route over the other routes is that it is more scenic. You will pass through the Rocky Mountains, providing breathtaking views. The route also provides several opportunities for stopping to visit national parks, including Arches National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. However, the downside is that there are several tolls along the way.

Relying on the same car and mileage of 25 mpg and gas pricing at $2.60 a gallon, the cost of the trip on the I-70 route would amount to around $276, with additional fees for tolls.

Route 3 - The I-80 Route

The third and longest route option extends through Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska before reaching West Virginia. The total distance on this route is approximately 2575 miles.

Though this route adds up to more additional mileage, it’s one of the best routes when it comes to experiencing scenic views across the United States of America. It features incredible National Parks such as Yellowstone near Wyoming. However, it also tends to have the most tolls, which increases the cost significantly.

If you drive this route using the car with similar specifications mentioned above, expect the cost to reach roughly $313, which can be higher due to tolls charges.

Recommendations and Conclusion

Based on the analysis above, the I-70 route seems to be the best option. The route is the perfect balance for individuals seeking to take advantage of the scenic views offered with a reduced budget on the gas cost.

In conclusion, road trips can be both a thrilling and efficient way to travel across the country. A cost-effective and reasonable route means it’s affordable and can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of their financial status. Safe travels!