The Cost of a Road Trip between Bristow, Virginia and Scarborough, Maine

Are you planning a road trip between Bristow, Virginia and Scarborough, Maine? It's an exciting journey, filled with many possibilities, but it can also be an expensive one. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the total cost of the trip based on current gas prices, different possible routes, their distances, and what you can expect from the journey.

The Cost of Fuel

Before we dive into the different routes, let's talk about the most significant expense, fuel. The distance between Bristow, Virginia, and Scarborough, Maine, is approximately 600 miles. The average fuel efficiency of a midsize vehicle is around 25 miles per gallon. Therefore, to cover the full distance, you will need 24 gallons of gas. The average price of gas in the United States in 2021 is $3.00 per gallon. Therefore, the total cost of gas during your trip will be around $72, assuming you go through a single route. However, keep in mind that the cost of fuel can vary depending on the route you choose, and gas prices can change.

The Route Options

There are several possible routes you can take between Bristow, Virginia, and Scarborough, Maine. Each route comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, such as longer or shorter distances, scenic routes, tolls, and traffic. Here are four different routes based on their distance, cost, and estimated time:

Route 1: The I-95 N Route (via Baltimore, MD and New York, NY)

Total distance: 637 miles
Total time: 10 hours
Total cost (gas only): around $86
Advantages: Fewer hills, smooth roads, and multiple gas stations.

The I-95 N route is one of the most direct routes from Bristow, Virginia, to Scarborough, Maine. It is known as the East Coast's main highway, connecting cities from Florida to Maine. Choosing this route, you will pass through cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City. However, keep in mind that it’s also a heavily trafficked road, with tolls and potential roadwork, especially in Connecticut.

Route 2: The I-84 E Route (via Hartford, CT)

Total distance: 622 miles
Total time: 10 hours
Total cost (gas only): around $84
Advantages: Scenic drive through mountains and forests.

Choosing the I-84 E route, you will pass through cities like Scranton, Stroudsburg, and Hartford, crossing the Appalachian Mountains and forests. This route is suitable for those who enjoy a scenic drive and don't mind paying for tolls.

Route 3: The I-80 E Route (via New York)

Total distance: 609 miles
Total time: 10 hours
Total cost (gas only): around $81
Advantages: Fewer tolls and traffic than the I-95 N route.

The I-80 E route passes through several states, mainly Pennsylvania and New York. It is a less trafficked road than the I-95 N route, with less tolls. However, keep in mind that it is a longer route.

Route 4: The I-95 and I-91 Route (via Hartford, CT)

Total distance: 642 miles
Total time: 11 hours
Total cost (gas only): around $87
Advantages: Scenic drive through Connecticut river valley.

The I-95 and I-91 route is an alternative to Route 2, combining the I-95 N and I-91 N routes. This route passes through some scenic spots in Connecticut, such as the Connecticut River Valley. However, it has more tolls and congested roads, especially around Hartford.

The Conclusion

Considering different factors like distance, tolls, traffic, and the cost of gas, the best route between Bristow, Virginia, and Scarborough, Maine, is the I-95 N route. With a distance of 637 miles and around ten hours of driving, this route is the most direct one. Although it comes with tolls and traffic, it's the most fuel-efficient and straightforward road. Whatever route you choose, make sure to check the current gas prices, road conditions, and plan your stops accordingly. A road trip from Bristow, Virginia, to Scarborough, Maine, can be a memorable experience, and well worth the cost if you plan accordingly.