Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator
Total Fuel Needed
Total Fuel Cost
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Fuel Cost Calculator – Plan Your Road Trip Budget
Our free fuel cost calculator helps you estimate how much you'll spend on petrol or diesel for any journey. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a long interstate drive, or simply comparing the running cost of two different vehicles, this tool gives you an instant, accurate answer.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the total distance of your trip in kilometres or miles.
- Input your vehicle's fuel efficiency (L/100km, km/L, or MPG).
- Enter the current fuel price per litre or gallon.
- Click Calculate to see total litres needed and total cost.
Understanding Fuel Efficiency Units
- L/100km – litres consumed per 100 kilometres. Lower is better. Common in India, Europe, Australia.
- km/L – kilometres driven per litre. Higher is better. Common in India and Asia.
- MPG (US) – miles per US gallon. Higher is better. Used in the United States.
Tips to Reduce Fuel Costs
- Maintain steady highway speeds (80–100 km/h) for optimal fuel economy.
- Keep tyres inflated to recommended pressure — under-inflation increases consumption by up to 3%.
- Avoid excessive idling and aggressive acceleration.
- Remove unnecessary roof racks and heavy loads from your boot.
- Use cruise control on long highway stretches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this fuel cost estimate?
The estimate is based on your stated fuel efficiency. Real-world consumption varies with traffic, AC use, terrain, and driving style — typically ±10–15% of the stated figure.
What is a good fuel efficiency for a car?
A fuel-efficient petrol car achieves 5–7 L/100km (14–20 km/L). Diesel cars are typically 10–20% more efficient. Hybrids can reach 3–4 L/100km in mixed driving.
How do I convert MPG to L/100km?
Divide 235.215 by the MPG figure. For example, 30 MPG = 235.215 ÷ 30 = 7.84 L/100km.
Can I use this for diesel vehicles?
Yes. Simply enter the diesel price per litre and your vehicle's diesel consumption figure. The calculation method is identical.
