Katerina Swanson
Route 66 is a historic highway that runs from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, covering a distance of about 2,278 miles. The route has become a popular road trip destination, offering travellers a unique experience of old America. When planning a trip on Route 66, one of the most significant expenses to consider is fuel. The cost of fuel for the trip can vary depending on several factors, including the vehicle type, fuel efficiency, distance travelled, and fuel prices in different states.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Route 66 distance | 2,278 miles (current length) |
| 2,448 miles (original length) | |
| 2,400+ miles (approximate distance) | |
| 2,500 miles (approximate distance) | |
| 3,017 miles (including side trips) | |
| Fuel cost | $392.21 (for 2000 miles, plus side trips to Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon) |
| $400 (in a Mustang) | |
| $608 (in a 2007 Pontiac G6) | |
| £150 (based on achieving 30mpg) | |
| $800 (budget for a user) | |
| $1,404 (14-day car rental) | |
| $2300 (14-day rental) | |
| £2500/$3400 (16-day trip for a family of 4) | |
| Fuel availability | Mostly self-service filling stations where you prepay with your credit card |
| Speed limits | 35-65 mph (most commonly 55 mph) |
| 65-75 mph (on Interstate highways) |
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What You'll Learn
- Route 66 is around 2,250-2,500 miles long, with side trips adding mileage
- Fuel costs vary depending on your vehicle, but are cheaper than the UK
- The first tank of fuel is often included in holiday costs
- Gasoline is relatively cheap in the US, but prices vary by state
- Driving your own car saves on rental costs, but incurs wear and tear
Route 66 is around 2,250-2,500 miles long, with side trips adding mileage
Route 66 is a historic highway that starts in Chicago, Illinois, and ends in Santa Monica, California, by the Pacific Ocean. The route is approximately 2,250-2,500 miles long, but side trips can add mileage, with some sources claiming the total distance travelled can be as much as 3,000 miles. The route has had several different alignments over the years, which can also affect the total mileage.
The cost of fuel for a trip along Route 66 will depend on the distance travelled, the vehicle's fuel efficiency, and the price of fuel. Fuel prices can vary between states, with fuel in Oklahoma being cheaper than in California, for example. The age and type of vehicle can also have a significant impact on fuel costs. Older vehicles tend to have poorer fuel efficiency, and some vehicles, such as hybrids, may be more fuel-efficient than others.
When budgeting for a trip on Route 66, it is important to consider not only the cost of fuel but also other expenses such as accommodation, food, and attraction fees. Travelling with others can help to reduce overall costs, as expenses can be shared. Additionally, packing food and drinks can help to save money, as eating out can be expensive.
It is worth noting that fuel stations along Route 66 can be few and far between, so it is recommended to keep the fuel tank at least half full. These fuel stations are mostly self-service, and payment is usually made by credit card directly at the pump. Gasoline is generally considered to be relatively cheap in the US compared to other countries, such as the UK.
In conclusion, the fuel cost for a trip along Route 66 can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the distance travelled, the vehicle's fuel efficiency, and fuel prices. By considering these factors and implementing cost-saving strategies, travellers can effectively budget for their journey along the iconic Route 66.
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Fuel costs vary depending on your vehicle, but are cheaper than the UK
The fuel cost for driving Route 66 varies depending on several factors, including the type of vehicle, fuel efficiency, distance travelled, and fuel prices in different states.
The route spans approximately 2,250 to 2,500 miles, with additional miles accrued through side trips and detours. The type of vehicle driven significantly impacts fuel consumption. For example, a Mustang can complete the trip with side excursions for under $400 in fuel. In contrast, a 10-year-old Chevy Malibu may have poorer fuel efficiency, resulting in higher fuel costs.
Travellers from the UK have found fuel costs in the United States, specifically for driving Route 66, to be significantly cheaper than prices in the UK. For instance, one traveller calculated the fuel cost from Chicago to Los Angeles in a 2007 Pontiac G6 to be $608, which is approximately £368. In comparison, the average fuel cost per litre in the UK is £1.29, while in the US, it is £0.56.
To manage fuel expenses, it is advisable to keep the tank above half full, as fuel stations can be scarce along certain stretches of Route 66. Additionally, fuel prices vary across states, with Oklahoma having cheaper fuel than California. Planning and budgeting for fuel costs, considering vehicle fuel efficiency, and being mindful of fuel prices in different states can help travellers prepare for the trip and manage their expenses effectively.
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The first tank of fuel is often included in holiday costs
When planning a trip to drive Route 66, it is important to consider the costs involved. The first tank of fuel is often included in holiday costs when booking a package with certain providers. This can be a great incentive to choose a particular travel company, as fuel costs can be a significant expense, depending on the vehicle you are driving and current fuel prices.
For example, one traveller calculated their fuel costs for a trip from Chicago to Los Angeles via Route 66 in a 2007 Pontiac G6 as $608 or £368. They recalled a figure closer to £250 when they made the trip in 2007, highlighting how fuel prices can fluctuate over time. Another traveller estimated that a trip in a Mustang, including some side excursions, would cost under $400 in fuel.
It is worth noting that the distance travelled on Route 66 can vary. While the road is estimated to be around 2,250 to 2,500 miles, travellers often end up driving more due to side trips, getting lost, or exploring towns and attractions along the way. As a result, fuel costs can vary significantly, and it is recommended to budget accordingly.
When booking a trip, it is essential to review the inclusions and exclusions carefully. Some companies may include the first tank of fuel, while others may offer unlimited miles or waive one-way drop-off charges. It is also worth considering other costs such as car rental, accommodation, food, and activities to ensure you have a realistic budget for your Route 66 adventure.
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Gasoline is relatively cheap in the US, but prices vary by state
The cost of fuel for a trip along Route 66 varies depending on several factors, including the vehicle driven, the origin and destination of the trip, and the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Generally, the route spans about 2,250 to 2,500 miles, though some travellers drive upwards of 3,000 miles due to side trips and getting lost.
One driver reported that they spent $608 on fuel for a trip from Chicago to Los Angeles in a 2007 Pontiac G6, while another driver estimated that the same trip in a Mustang could be done for under $400. The first driver noted that fuel in the US was much cheaper than in the UK, with fuel in the US costing £0.56 per litre compared to £1.29 per litre in the UK at the time of their trip.
Fuel prices in the US vary by state. For example, as of August 2023, the average fuel price in Vermont was $3.11 (USD), while the average price in New Jersey was $3.08. The AAA National Average fuel price during this time was $3.15.
To save money on fuel when driving in the US, one can use a fuel cost calculator or a fuel-saving app like GasBuddy, which offers discounts and benefits to users who pay with the app.
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Driving your own car saves on rental costs, but incurs wear and tear
Driving Route 66 in your own car can save you money on rental costs, but there are other expenses to consider. The length of Route 66 is approximately 2,278 miles, but most travellers will drive around 2,500 miles, and the route can be up to 3,000 miles if you include side trips. The cost of fuel for the trip can vary depending on your vehicle, but it can be estimated at around $400 for the main route in a Mustang, and up to $600 for the longer trip in a 2007 Pontiac G6. Fuel prices in the US are relatively cheap compared to other countries, but they do vary between states, with fuel in Oklahoma being cheaper than in California, for example.
If you drive your own car, you will need to factor in the additional wear and tear on your vehicle. This can include necessary repairs and maintenance, such as oil changes, which can add up quickly. For example, one person driving their own car on Route 66 had to pay for a $750 repair before their trip and a $118 oil change after. Another driver of a 10-year-old Chevy Malibu spent nearly as much on fuel as they did on hotels due to poor gas mileage.
Renting a car for Route 66 can be a good option if you want to avoid the wear and tear on your own vehicle. The cost of renting a car for the trip can vary depending on the type of car and the length of the rental. For example, a one-way rental between Chicago and LA for eight days can cost around $623, while a 14-day rental can cost around $1,404. A smaller car, such as an economy or compact size, will be cheaper, but you will have less space for luggage.
There are other ways to save money on your Route 66 trip besides driving your own car or renting a car. One way is to travel with a buddy so you can split the costs of gas and accommodation. You can also save money by packing your own food and camping or sleeping in your car, although this may not be legal in all places.
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Frequently asked questions
The amount of fuel you will need depends on the vehicle you're driving, the length of your trip, and your driving habits. Route 66 is approximately 2,278 miles long, but most travellers will drive around 2,500 miles, including side trips. Fuel costs for this distance could range from $392.21 to $608.
The cost of renting a car for Route 66 depends on the length of your trip and the type of car. For an eight-day trip, rental costs start at $623, while a 14-day rental can cost around $1,404. Smaller cars are cheaper, but have less luggage space.
In addition to fuel and car rental costs, you should budget for accommodation, food, and attraction admissions. For a 14-day trip, the approximate total cost for two people is $2,180, or $1,090 per person. This includes car rental, fuel, and accommodation.
To save money on your trip, consider driving your own car instead of renting, travelling with a group to split costs, and packing your own food. Travelling in the winter can also be cheaper, but be aware of the weather conditions and ensure you have winter driving experience.
