Fuel cost calculator
Get gallons, price per mile and cost per person from your own numbers.
Open calculator →GUIDE / METHOD
How to calculate a road trip cost
Start with the numbers that matter, and separate known expenses from estimates.
1. Find the distance
Use a driving route for the actual road distance, not a straight-line map measurement. If you cannot get a route, enter a measured distance in miles.
2. Estimate gasoline or electricity
Gas: miles ÷ MPG × dollars per gallon. Electricity: miles × kWh per 100 miles ÷ 100 × dollars per kWh. For charging losses and mixed tariffs, use the EV calculator.
3. Add the other known costs
Include tolls, parking, accommodation and food. Avoid calling fuel-only output a complete trip budget. Your plan should distinguish confirmed prices from assumptions.
4. Test a second scenario
Change the vehicle MPG or energy price to see the sensitivity. For a 300-mile trip, a vehicle rated 30 MPG uses 10 gallons. At $3.995/gal (EIA Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Update, U.S. regular, week of Nov 9, 2026), fuel would cost $39.95.
Frequently asked questions
Is a road trip cost estimate exact?
No. Real-world efficiency, route conditions and prices at the pump vary. Use the estimate to compare scenarios rather than promise a final bill.
Keep exploring
Build a real road trip budget
Energy is only one cost. Bring everything into one clear plan before you leave.
Open calculator →EV road trip charging cost
Model a realistic charging mix instead of pretending every kWh costs the same.
Open calculator →