The Cost of a Trip between Brookhaven, Pennsylvania and Lancaster, Pennsylvania: Navigating Through Gas Prices
When it comes to planning for a trip from Brookhaven, Pennsylvania to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, many factors come into play. One of the most significant ones is the cost of transportation, especially in terms of gas prices. In this article, we will discuss the different possible routes between these two places and highlight the cost and distance of each one. Ultimately, we will recommend the best route, taking into account the current gas prices and other practical considerations.
Possible Routes
Before discussing the cost of the trip between Brookhaven and Lancaster, it is essential to identify the possible routes that one can take. The most straightforward and common one involves driving on the US-30 W highway. This route covers a distance of around 37.2 miles and takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Another route that some drivers may consider involves taking the I-95 South highway and then switching to the US-1 S highway. This longer route covers a distance of around 46.3 miles and takes approximately one hour and 10 minutes. Despite the extra mileage, this route may be preferable for those who want to avoid the tolls on the US-30 W highway.
A third possible route would involve taking the PA-352 S highway, which takes drivers through several smaller towns and boroughs before linking to the US-30 W. This route covers a distance of around 40.9 miles and takes approximately one hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Gas Prices and Calculating the Cost of The Trip
Gas prices are constantly fluctuating. Therefore, it is essential to take into account the current gas prices before calculating the cost of the trip. As of the time of writing, the average gas price in Pennsylvania is around $3.14 per gallon. However, gas prices can vary between different cities and regions. Therefore, it is advisable to check local gas prices using a gas-price-tracking application or website.
Based on the above gas price average, we can calculate the approximate cost of driving between Brookhaven and Lancaster using the three possible routes mentioned above, assuming an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon. To do this, we take each distance and divide by the average fuel economy, then multiply by the average gas price in Pennsylvania:
- Route 1: Using the US-30 W highway, the distance is 37.2 miles. Therefore, the approximate cost of gas for a trip using this route is calculated as follows:
37.2 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $3.14 = $4.67
- Route 2: Using the I-95 S and US-1 S highways, the distance is 46.3 miles. Therefore, the approximate cost of gas for a trip using this route is calculated as follows:
46.3 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $3.14 = $5.92
- Route 3: Using the PA-352 S and US-30 W highways, the distance is 40.9 miles. Therefore, the approximate cost of gas for a trip using this route is calculated as follows:
40.9 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $3.14 = $5.16
Recommended Route
Based on the calculations above, the most cost-effective route between Brookhaven and Lancaster is the first one, using the US-30 W highway. This route is not only the shortest but also the most direct, and it has no tolls. Furthermore, it has less traffic than the other routes, especially during rush hours.
The second route, using the I-95 S and US-1 S highways, may be suitable for those who want to avoid the tolls on the US-30 W highway. However, it is longer and more expensive in terms of gas prices. Therefore, it may not be the most practical option for those who want to save money.
The third route, using the PA-352 S and US-30 W highways, is an alternative for those who want a more scenic route or who want to pass through small towns along the way. However, this route is not the most direct, and it is more expensive in terms of gas prices than the first route.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Brookhaven and Lancaster PA depends on several factors, but the most significant one is gas prices. Based on the current average gas prices in Pennsylvania, Route 1, using the US-30 W highway, is the most cost-effective option. It covers a distance of around 37.2 miles and should cost approximately $4.67 in gas prices. However, travelers should take into account other factors such as traffic conditions and tolls, depending on their preferences and priorities. Regardless of which route one takes, the trip should take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, making it a relatively short car ride.