The Cost of Driving From Charlotte, North Carolina to St. Louis, Missouri
Are you planning a road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to St. Louis, Missouri? Driving can be a fun and adventurous way to explore new places and enjoy the scenic beauty along the way. However, it's essential to plan your journey wisely, including considering the cost of the trip based on current gas prices. Let's dive into the details of different routes, their distances, travel times, and associated costs.
Route 1: The Classic Interstate Route (via I-40 W and I-64 W)
This is the most straightforward and commonly taken route for road trips from Charlotte to St. Louis. The total distance covered by this route is approximately 675 miles. Depending on traffic, weather conditions, and your driving speed, it usually takes around 10 to 12 hours to complete this journey.
Gas Costs and Toll Prices
Considering an average gas price of $2.50 per gallon, and assuming your car gives you a mileage of 30 miles per gallon, you would require around 22 gallons of gas to reach your destination.
As for the toll prices, there are a few toll roads along this route. The approximate toll cost for this journey is around $15.
Route 2: The Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway (via US-321 N and US-421 N)
If you're looking for a more scenic and picturesque route, this one is for you! This route takes you through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, showcasing nature at its best. However, do keep in mind that this route is longer and can take slightly more time than the interstate option.
The total distance covered by this route is approximately 720 miles, making the journey around 11 to 13 hours long.
Gas Costs and Toll Prices
Using the same gas price and car mileage assumptions mentioned earlier, you would need around 24 gallons of gas for this route.
There are no toll roads along this scenic route, which makes it a great choice for those looking to avoid additional expenses.
Route 3: The Economical Route (via US-74 W and US-60 W)
For the budget-conscious travelers out there, this alternate route can help you save some dollars while still ensuring an enjoyable journey. Although it's slightly longer in terms of distance, the cost-saving benefit might be worth it!
The total distance covered by this route is approximately 715 miles, which translates to a travel time of around 11 to 13 hours.
Gas Costs and Toll Prices
Again, assuming the same gas price and car mileage, you would require approximately 24 gallons of gas for this route.
When it comes to tolls, this route also skips any toll roads, helping you keep your expenses in check.
Conclusion
Regardless of the route you choose, driving from Charlotte, North Carolina to St. Louis, Missouri offers a fantastic road trip experience. The cost of the trip, based on current gas prices, can be estimated by considering the distance, travel time, gas costs, and toll prices along the different routes.
For the classic interstate route, covering around 675 miles in 10 to 12 hours, you would need approximately 22 gallons of gas and an additional $15 for tolls.
The scenic Blue Ridge Parkway route, spanning around 720 miles in 11 to 13 hours, would require around 24 gallons of gas, with no toll expenses.
On the economical route of about 715 miles in 11 to 13 hours, you would also need around 24 gallons of gas, and there are no tolls to worry about.
Now that you have a better idea of the costs associated with each route, you can plan your trip accordingly and start looking forward to an exciting adventure on the road! Safe travels!