Driving Cost from Columbus, Ohio to Albuquerque, New Mexico

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The Cost of a Road Trip from Columbus, Ohio to Albuquerque, New Mexico

Introduction

Planning a road trip can be an exciting and daunting task, especially when it comes to considering the costs involved in such an adventure. Whether you are traveling for leisure or business, the expense of a road trip from Columbus, Ohio to Albuquerque, New Mexico can vary based on several factors, including the route, gas prices, and vehicle fuel efficiency. In this article, we will explore the cost of a road trip between these two cities, taking into account the current gas prices and the different possible routes to reach your destination.

Route Options

Option 1: I-70 W and I-44 W

The most direct route from Columbus, Ohio to Albuquerque, New Mexico is to take I-70 W and then merge onto I-44 W once you reach St. Louis. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,450 miles and is estimated to take around 21 hours of driving time. With an average gas price of $2.80 per gallon, driving a car that gets 25 miles per gallon would cost approximately $224 for gas alone for a one-way trip.

Option 2: I-70 W and I-44 W with detour through Kansas City

Another route option involves taking I-70 W and I-44 W but with a detour through Kansas City. This route adds approximately 100 miles to the trip but may offer additional sightseeing opportunities. The total distance for this route is around 1,550 miles, and the estimated driving time is 22 hours. Factoring in the same gas prices and vehicle fuel efficiency, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $248 for a one-way trip.

Option 3: I-80 W and I-76 W

For those looking for a more scenic route, traveling via I-80 W and I-76 W is a viable option. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,600 miles and is estimated to take around 24 hours of driving time. With the same gas prices and vehicle fuel efficiency, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $256 for a one-way trip.

Option 4: I-40 W

Lastly, taking I-40 W from Columbus, Ohio to Albuquerque, New Mexico is another route to consider. This southern route covers a distance of approximately 1,850 miles and is estimated to take around 27 hours of driving time. Factoring in the same gas prices and vehicle fuel efficiency, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $296 for a one-way trip.

Based on the distance, driving time, and cost of gas, the recommended route for a road trip from Columbus, Ohio to Albuquerque, New Mexico is to take I-70 W and I-44 W with the option to take a detour through Kansas City. This route offers a balance of efficiency and potential sightseeing opportunities, with an estimated driving time of 22 hours and a gas cost of approximately $248 for a one-way trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a road trip between Columbus, Ohio and Albuquerque, New Mexico can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and the chosen route. Based on the current average gas prices and considering the different possible routes, the most cost-effective and efficient option is to take I-70 W and I-44 W with the option to take a detour through Kansas City. With an estimated driving time of 22 hours, this route offers a balance of convenience and potential exploration along the way. Safe travels!