Driving Cost from Calverton, Maryland to Goose Creek, South Carolina

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Calverton, Maryland and Goose Creek, South Carolina: Navigating the Gas Prices

When deciding to travel between Calverton, Maryland, and Goose Creek, South Carolina, one of the primary factors that people consider is the cost. Travel costs can cover various expenses, such as gas money, toll fees, and hotel rentals, among others. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Calverton and Goose Creek, focusing on the most economical driving routes, to help you decide which option is the best for your budget.

Exploring the driving routes

Route 1: I-95 South

The most direct route between Calverton and Goose Creek is to take Interstate 95 South. The distance between the two cities is approximately 575 miles, and the estimated driving time is about ten hours with regular traffic. Suppose your vehicle’s average fuel consumption is 25 miles per gallon (MPG) and that you’ll use regular unleaded gasoline costing $2.22 per gallon (National average price as of May 2021, according to AAA Gas Prices) for the entire trip. In that case, the gas cost would amount to $49.23.

You should expect to pay a few tolls along this route, including the-

  • Fort McHenry Tunnel ($4)
  • John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway ($6-$7)

This route's total cost (not including meals or lodging) would come to around $60, depending on potential tolls, i.e., bridge passage fees and other expenses along I-95.

Route 2: I-95 South and I-20 West

This route will take a longer time, about 11 hours with regular traffic, but it will allow you to avoid some of the traffic congestion you can experience using I-95 South alone. The total distance covered would be around 620 miles. Here are the driving directions:

  • Start heading south on I-95 S
  • Follow I-95 S to Exit 86 (SC-48)
  • Turn left onto SC 48 E, and drive for a short distance
  • Turn right onto SC-527
  • Turn left onto SC-261 N
  • Turn right onto Cane Savannah Rd.
  • Turn left at SC-34 E
  • Drive towards I-20 W, and take Exit 116 towards Columbia
  • Continue west on I-20 W to Augusta, Georgia
  • Next, follow the I-520 W until you reach Exit 3B. Turn right on the ramp onto GA-56 N/Mike Padgett Hwy.
  • Turn left onto Tobacco Rd, and then turn right at the crossroad with Peach Orchard Rd.
  • Merge onto I-20 W once more, and take Exit 22 towards I-520 W.
  • Get on I-520 W until you reach Exit 1C, and follow the signs for Glenn Mcconnell Pkwy and US-17Alternate S.
  • Merge onto Johnston St, and drive over the Ashley River.
  • Turn right onto Magwood Dr, and you will have arrived at your destination in Goose Creek.

Using the same model as in Route 1 to calculate gas consumption and its cost, which in this case, involves longer mileage, the estimated gas expense will cost about $55.

Route 3: I-95 South and US-17 South

For this route, you will use two significant interstates, I-95 South and US-17 South, to reach your destination. The total distance covered would be around 570 miles, and the estimated driving time is about ten hours. Here are the driving directions:

  • Head south on the I-95 S towards Virginia
  • Exit onto US-17 S towards Charleston/Beaufort
  • Follow US-17 S directly into Goose Creek.

This route doesn't include any tolls, and you'll pass through several cities, including Fredericksburg, Richmond, and Wilmington, before arriving in Goose Creek.

An estimated fuel cost for this route using the same fuel consumption model would be approximately $48.

The Best Route

After exploring all three driving routes, the best option for a budget-sensitive traveler would undoubtedly be Route 3, which is the shortest route in miles and has no tolls on the way. So, even though the estimated gas cost for Route 3 is around $48, it is still the cheapest option compared to the other two driving routes.

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of a trip between Calverton, Maryland, and Goose Creek, South Carolina, is heavily influenced by fuel consumption, tolls, and unexpected traveling expenses. Using accurate calculations and comparing the three driving routes available for you, it's evident that Route 3 is the most affordable and efficient. Nonetheless, always remember to consider variables like the traffic conditions, the condition of the roads, and weather forecasts to make the best decision on your journey. The trip's itinerary, distance, and time are also vital factors when planning your trip, so make sure to engage in a thorough plan to make your trip enjoyable and budget-friendly.