Budgeting Your Road Trip: The Cost of Driving from Denver to Oakland
Planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado to Oakland, California? It’s an exciting adventure, but before you hit the road, it’s essential to crunch some numbers, especially with gas prices fluctuating. With the current average gas price sitting around $3.50 per gallon, let's break down a couple of popular routes, the costs associated with each, and everything else you need to know to stay on budget.
Route 1: I-70 W and I-15 S
The first route you might consider is taking I-70 W and I-15 S. This route generally provides some stunning views and a chance to experience diverse landscapes.
- Distance: Approximately 1,026 miles
- Time: Roughly 15 hours and 30 minutes of driving time, not considering breaks.
Gas Cost Calculation
Assuming your vehicle averages about 25 miles per gallon, you will need about 41 gallons of gas for this journey. At $3.50 per gallon, the total gas cost comes to around $143.50.
Tolls
There are minimal tolls along this route, particularly in Utah, where you might pay around $10 for a couple of highway stretches.
Total Estimated Cost
Adding it all together, you’re looking at about $153.50 for gas and tolls.
Route 2: I-80 W
If you prefer a more direct journey, then I-80 W may be the way to go. This route is slightly longer but a great option if you want to pass through some iconic cities and enjoy the scenery.
- Distance: Approximately 1,200 miles
- Time: About 17 hours of driving.
Gas Cost Calculation
With the same fuel efficiency of around 25 miles per gallon, this route will require 48 gallons of gas. This totals around $168 at the recent average price of $3.50 per gallon.
Tolls
Prepare yourself for some tolls, especially in areas like the Bay Area. You can expect to pay around $20 for tolls depending on your route in and around Oakland.
Total Estimated Cost
So, for this trek, your estimated total reaches around $188 for gas and tolls.
Conclusion
In summary, whether you choose the scenic route through I-70 W or the more straightforward I-80 W, you’re looking at a cost range of about $153.50 to $188 just for gas and tolls. It’s always good to budget for food, lodging, and any unexpected expenses on the way.
Regardless of the route you choose, this road trip promises stunning views and memorable experiences. Drive safely and enjoy your journey from Denver to Oakland! Safe travels!