The Cost of a Road Trip Between Buffalo, New York and Barnstable, Massachusetts
If you're planning a road trip from Buffalo, New York to Barnstable, Massachusetts, you're in for a scenic adventure. With plenty of beaches, state parks, and historic attractions along the way, there's no shortage of things to see and do. However, before you head out on the open road, it's important to know how much your trip will cost.
Route Options and Costs
There are several different route options you can take to get from Buffalo to Barnstable, which will impact the total cost of your trip. Here are three possible routes and the total distance and estimated cost for each:
Route 1: I-90 E and I-84 E
This route has a total distance of 551 miles and takes around 9 hours and 15 minutes to drive. Here's the estimated cost breakdown based on gas prices:
- Gas: $66 (based on an average gas price of $2.85/gallon)
- Tolls: $100 (approximately, depending on your vehicle and specific tolls you encounter)
- Total Cost: $166
Route 2: I-86 E and I-87 N
This route has a total distance of 661 miles and takes around 11 hours and 15 minutes to drive. Here's the estimated cost breakdown based on gas prices:
- Gas: $78 (based on an average gas price of $2.85/gallon)
- Tolls: $41 (approximately, depending on your vehicle and specific tolls you encounter)
- Total Cost: $119
Route 3: I-90 E and I-495 S
This route has a total distance of 546 miles and takes around 9 hours and 30 minutes to drive. Here's the estimated cost breakdown based on gas prices:
- Gas: $65 (based on an average gas price of $2.85/gallon)
- Tolls: $18 (approximately, depending on your vehicle and specific tolls you encounter)
- Total Cost: $83
As you can see, the cost of your trip can vary significantly depending on the route you choose. Route 3 is the cheapest option, while Route 1 is the most expensive.
Recommended Route
Based on the estimated cost and distance, Route 3 (via I-90 E and I-495 S) is the recommended route. It's the shortest and cheapest route, and there are relatively few tolls to contend with. Additionally, this route takes you through some lovely scenery in Massachusetts, including the Quabbin Reservoir and Wachusett Mountain.
Other Expenses
Of course, there are other expenses to consider when planning a road trip, including food, lodging, and activities. Here are some estimated costs to keep in mind:
- Food: Budget around $50 per day per person for meals.
- Lodging: Depending on the type of accommodation you choose (camping, motel, hotel, Airbnb), prices can range from $20 to $200 per night.
- Activities: There are plenty of things to see and do in both Buffalo and Barnstable, including museums, state parks, and beaches. Plan to budget around $100 per day per person for activities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a road trip from Buffalo, New York to Barnstable, Massachusetts can be a fun and adventurous journey. The recommended route via I-90 E and I-495 S is the shortest and cheapest, with an estimated total cost of $83 for gas and tolls. However, keep in mind that there are other expenses to consider when planning a road trip. With careful budgeting and planning, you can experience all the sights and attractions these two states have to offer. Safe travels!