Are you planning a road trip from Colorado to California? It’s a popular route that offers some stunning views as you drive through different states.
However, before you hit the road, it’s important to plan your trip and budget accordingly. In this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with a road trip from Colorado to California.
Route
The most direct route from Colorado to California is through Interstate 70 West and then merging onto Interstate 15 South. This route will take you through Utah, Nevada, and finally into California. However, there are multiple routes you can take depending on your preferences and time constraints.
Gas Prices
Gas prices vary depending on the state you’re in and the time of year. According to GasBuddy.com, as of May 2021, the average gas price in Colorado is $2.93 per gallon while in California it’s $4.16 per gallon. The distance between Denver, Colorado, and Los Angeles, California is approximately 1,050 miles which means you’ll need to fill up your tank multiple times during the trip.
Estimated Gas Cost
Assuming your car gets an average of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) and gas prices remain constant throughout your trip, here’s an estimated breakdown of gas costs:
- Colorado to Utah: approximately 370 miles – $44
- Utah to Nevada: approximately 450 miles – $63
- Nevada to California: approximately 230 miles – $55
Total Gas Cost: $162
Lodging Costs
Another major expense during a road trip is lodging. Depending on your travel style and budget, you can choose from various options such as hotels/motels or camping sites.
Hotels/Motels
The cost of hotels/motels varies depending on the location, time of year, and amenities. On average, you can expect to pay around $100-150 per night for a decent hotel room along the route.
Camping Sites
If you’re traveling on a budget or love the outdoors, camping sites are a great option. The cost of camping sites varies depending on the location and amenities provided. On average, you can expect to pay around $20-40 per night for a basic site.
Food Costs
Food is another expense that can add up quickly during a road trip. To save money, you can pack your own snacks and meals or stop at grocery stores along the way instead of eating at restaurants.
Estimated Food Cost
Assuming an average of $10-15 per meal (including drinks), here’s an estimated breakdown of food costs:
- Breakfast: $30-45
- Lunch: $30-45
- Dinner: $30-45
- Snacks: $10-15
Total Food Cost (per day): $100-150
Total Estimated Cost
Adding up all the estimated costs mentioned above, here’s an estimated breakdown of the total cost for a road trip from Colorado to California:
- Gas: $162
- Lodging: $100-150 (per night)
- Food: $100-150 (per day)
Keep in mind that these are just estimates and your actual costs may vary depending on various factors such as your travel style and preferences.
Conclusion
A road trip from Colorado to California can be a memorable experience with proper planning and budgeting. By estimating the costs associated with gas, lodging, and food, you can plan your trip accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!