A few years ago, I found myself rushing to an important meeting. I had just 30 minutes to cover a 10-mile distance. I thought to myself, “This will be easy.” I didn’t consider the traffic, road conditions, or how long it would take with my chosen way to travel.
Spoiler: I didn’t arrive on time. That moment really highlighted for me how essential it is to grasp what a 10-mile trip entails under different circumstances.
Let’s go through this step-by-step and look at the things that can change how long it takes to travel, along with some tips I wish I had known then.
Car Travel: The Easy Choice
Most folks usually think about driving for short to medium trips. In theory, if the road is clear and you’re going 60 mph, you could make it in just 10 minutes. Sounds simple, right? But here’s what I didn’t realize:
Traffic Can Be a Game Changer: During crowded times, those 10 minutes can quickly turn into 30 or more. I learned to check live traffic updates before I left.
Local Speed Limits and Stops: In cities where the speed limit is around 30-40 mph and you have to stop frequently, expect closer to 20 minutes.
A Helpful Hint: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze. They not only help find the fastest route but also predict traffic based on past behavior. Always check them before hitting the road, even if you think you know the way.
Walking: The Steady Option
Walking 10 miles is quite the challenge. On average, people walk at 3-4 mph, meaning you’re looking at about 2.5 to 3.5 hours. While that seems tough, walking has its advantages:
No Waiting: You’re not stuck in traffic or following a schedule.
Health Perks: Walking 10 miles can burn between 700-1,200 calories, depending on your weight and speed. One long walk I took really showed me how much time I had to think and enjoy my surroundings—what a nice surprise!
A Helpful Hint: Wear good shoes. Trust me, blisters can ruin your day. And if you walk for over an hour, remember to bring water.
Cycling: Quick and Enjoyable
Cycling strikes a balance between speed and effort. Most casual bikers go about 10-15 mph, which means you could cover 10 miles in 40-60 minutes. Here’s what caught me off guard:
The Terrain Matters: Hills, wind, and road conditions can really change your timing.
Good Gear Makes a Difference: A decent bike and proper tire pressure can help you save time.
A Helpful Hint: Plan your route ahead to avoid tough hills or unsafe areas. Apps like Strava are excellent for cyclists planning efficient rides.
Public Transport: The Uncertain Choice
Using a bus, train, or subway might seem fast, especially in busy areas. But I learned that public transport often means waiting, transfers, and delays.
Bus: A 10-mile bus ride can take anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on stops and traffic.
Train/Subway: This is sometimes quicker if the route is straightforward, but don’t forget to account for the time spent walking to and from stations.
A Helpful Hint: Always check the schedule beforehand. It would have helped me to know there are apps that allow you to track buses or trains in real time.
Running: For the Active Ones
If you’re a runner, doing 10 miles can feel like a good challenge. On average, you can expect to run at 6-8 mph, finishing in about 1.25 to 1.75 hours.
Training is Essential: When I first tried running 10 miles, I didn’t realize how tough it would be. Proper training and pacing are important.
Staying Hydrated: For runs that go over an hour, bringing water or energy gels can really help.
A Helpful Hint: Make sure to warm up and stretch afterward to prevent injuries. Running 10 miles isn’t just about stamina; it’s also about being ready.
Flying (Really!)
Flying for a 10-mile journey might sound silly, but it happens sometimes—like crossing water or between islands. While the flight itself would be brief, consider:
Airport Time: Checking in, security, and boarding can take at least an hour.
Cost: Unless necessary, flying isn’t practical for such a short trip.
Fun Fact: The shortest commercial flight in the world is just 1.7 miles between Westray and Papa Westray in Scotland, taking less than two minutes!
Other Things That Can Affect Travel Time
No matter how you travel, several outside factors can play a role:
Weather: Rain, snow, or heat can slow you down.
Time of Day: Traveling during peak hours likely means more traffic.
Your Own Speed: Everyone has their own pace, especially when walking, running, or biking.
Quick Recap: How Long Does It Take to Travel 10 Miles?
Here’s a fast summary based on how you choose to travel:
- Car: 10-30+ minutes (depending on traffic)
- Walking: 2.5-3.5 hours
- Cycling: 40-60 minutes
- Public Transport: 20-60+ minutes
- Running: 1.25-1.75 hours
- Flying: 1+ hour (including time at the airport)
What About You?
Traveling 10 miles might seem easy, but as you can see, many factors can change how long it takes. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or exploring, knowing your options can help ease your journey.
How do you prefer to travel 10 miles? Have you had any trips that didn’t go quite as planned? Feel free to share your stories or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
