Air Travel
- Companies: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours (including layover)
- Distance: 1,050 miles (1,690 km)
- Costs: Approximately R9,000 - R12,000 (prices vary based on booking time and season)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable for air travel
Pro Tip: Book your flight at least 2 months in advance for the best rates and consider flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) when prices are generally lower.
Ground Travel (Car)
- Companies: Rent-A-Car companies (e.g., Enterprise, Hertz)
- Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours, depending on traffic
- Distance: 870 miles (1,400 km)
- Costs: Approximately R2,500 for rental (24-hour period) + R1,500 for petrol + tolls
- Roads/Routes: I-40 E to I-44 N to I-70 E
Pro Tip: Download offline maps before your trip to avoid losing navigation when you lose cell service, especially through more rural areas.
Bus Travel
- Companies: Greyhound, Megabus
- Duration: Approximately 20-22 hours
- Distance: 870 miles (1,400 km)
- Costs: Approximately R1,200 - R1,800 (prices vary based on booking time and availability)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable for bus travel
Pro Tip: Bring snacks and a travel pillow for comfort on long bus journeys, as stops may be infrequent.
Recommendation
For a balance of comfort, speed, and affordability, I recommend flying with Delta Air Lines or American Airlines, as it offers the quickest travel time. If you prefer the road trip experience, consider renting a car for flexibility and convenience, especially equipped with a good playlist for the journey. Lastly, if you are budget-conscious and don't mind the longer travel duration, taking a bus could be a cost-effective alternative.