The Cost of a Trip between Calverton and Suitland: Navigating Gas Prices

If you are planning a trip between Calverton, Maryland and Suitland, Maryland, understanding the different routes, distances, and possible costs can help you save money on gas and choose the most efficient way to reach your destination. In this article, we will highlight the different trip routes and provide estimated cost analyses based on current gas prices, helping you make an informed decision about your travel plans.

Route 1: Using the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295)

One option for traveling between Calverton and Suitland is using the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), which is a direct and relatively fast route. The total distance of this route is approximately 20.9 miles, and the estimated travel time is 32 minutes without traffic. However, during rush hour or peak traffic times, this route can become congested and slow-moving, so it is essential to account for extra time to avoid being late.

Based on the current gas prices in Maryland, which averages around $2.80 per gallon, and assuming your vehicle has an average fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon, the estimated cost for a one-way trip would be around $5.59.

Route 2: Using the Capital Beltway (I-495)

Another option is using the Capital Beltway (I-495), which adds some extra miles to your trip but can be a faster alternative during times of heavy traffic on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. This route has a total distance of approximately 25.4 miles and an estimated travel time of 35 minutes.

Using the same gas prices and fuel consumption rate, the estimated cost for this route would be around $6.40 for a one-way trip.

Route 3: Using local roads

For those who prefer to avoid highways, there are several local roads that can be used between Calverton and Suitland, including New Hampshire Avenue (Route 650), Martin Luther King Jr. Highway (Route 704), and Central Avenue (Route 214). However, since these routes have more traffic lights and lower speed limits than the highways, they may take longer to travel.

The total distance for this route varies depending on the specific roads taken and the traffic, but it can be estimated at around 22 miles for an average trip. The estimated travel time can range from 35 to 55 minutes.

Based on the gas prices and fuel consumption rate, the estimated cost for a one-way trip using local roads would be around $5.60, which is slightly cheaper than Route 1 but more expensive than Route 2.

Choosing the Best Route

When deciding which route to take between Calverton and Suitland, there are several factors to consider, including distance, traffic, time of day, and gas prices. Route 1 offers the most direct and fast route, but it can be congested during peak traffic times. Route 2 adds some extra miles, but it can be a good alternative during rush hour. Route 3 is a possible option for those who prefer to avoid highways.

Based on our cost analyses, the most cost-efficient route is Route 1 using the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, which has an estimated one-way cost of $5.59. However, if you want to avoid traffic and don't mind paying a slightly higher cost, Route 2 (using the Capital Beltway) might be a good choice.

Conclusion

Traveling between Calverton and Suitland, Maryland, has several options depending on your preferences and priorities. Each route has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of distance, travel time, and costs. Based on our analysis, the most cost-efficient and direct route is Route 1 using the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, which has an estimated one-way cost of $5.59. However, it is important to factor in traffic and time of day when planning your trip to avoid delays.