via I-10
The drive from Los Angeles to New Orleans takes approximately 36h 9min, covering 2170 miles via I-10. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $253 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during peak hours, weekends, or holidays, the journey may take 50–51+ hours. For the fastest trip, leave early morning (before 7 AM) or travel on weekday evenings.
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Stretches coast-to-coast from LA to Jacksonville. Desert sections in Arizona/New Mexico can be monotonous — bring plenty of water.
You'll likely need 6 fuel stops along the way.
For a long drive like Los Angeles to New Orleans, plan to depart early in the morning. This lets you cover most of the distance before afternoon traffic builds up. Consider breaking the trip with a lunch stop midway.
✈️ Flying is faster when you factor in airport time. Flight time is ~4h 20m but add ~2.5 hours for check-in, security, and boarding.
Estimated times and prices. Bus/train availability varies by route. Driving gives the most flexibility for stops and schedules.
Popular cities along the route for rest, food, or fuel:
The long road trip from Los Angeles to New Orleans follows I-10 for 2170 miles, with an estimated travel time of 36h 9min under normal conditions. Fuel costs run approximately $253 at current prices, assuming average fuel efficiency of 30 MPG. Late evening (8-10 pm) is generally the best window to depart for the smoothest ride.
This is a serious 2170-mile road trip that spans multiple states and regions. Plan for at least one overnight stop, pack emergency supplies, and make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready with fresh oil and properly inflated tires. Popular stopping points include Carlsbad Caverns, El Paso, White Sands — great options for grabbing a meal, fueling up, or stretching your legs.