The Cost of a Trip between Cambridge, Maryland and Chesterfield, South Carolina: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a road trip, one of the biggest factors to consider is the cost of gas. With fluctuating gas prices and varying distances and routes, it can be difficult to estimate the cost of a trip. This guide aims to provide a breakdown of the cost of a trip between Cambridge, Maryland and Chesterfield, South Carolina, with information on the different routes and distances available.

Route Options

There are two main routes available when traveling between Cambridge and Chesterfield: option one is to take I-95 South, and option two is to take Route 50 West to Route 301 South. Each route offers its own pros and cons in terms of distance, time, and cost.

Option One: I-95 South

Option one is the most direct route, taking drivers on I-95 South for the majority of the journey. This route covers a distance of approximately 470 miles and takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes without accounting for any delays or stops. The route passes through major cities such as Washington D.C. and Richmond, Virginia, and offers plenty of opportunities for pit stops, food, and rest along the way.

However, the directness of this route comes at a cost. Gas prices are likely to be higher than the alternative route due to the higher demand for gas on a major highway. Additionally, tolls may be required, and these can add up quickly. For example, the cost of tolls on the journey from Cambridge, Maryland, to Chesterfield, South Carolina, via I-95 South can range from $13 to $16.

Option Two: Route 50 West to Route 301 South

Option two offers a more scenic and relaxed journey, taking drivers on Route 50 West to Route 301 South. This route covers a distance of approximately 500 miles and takes about 9 hours and 30 minutes without any stops or delays. This route passes through quaint towns and countryside, allowing for more leisurely stops along the way.

While the route itself may be more enjoyable, it comes with its own costs. Gas prices may be slightly lower than on I-95 South due to the smaller demand, but this is offset by the distance of the route. Additionally, while tolls may be avoided on this route, there may be other fees such as parking and food costs.

Gas Price Estimates

To calculate the cost of gas for each route, we can use data from gas price tracking website GasBuddy.com. According to current data (as of August 2021), the average price of regular gasoline in Maryland is $2.96 per gallon, while in South Carolina, it is $2.83 per gallon. Using these estimates, we can calculate the cost of gas for each route based on the expected gas mileage of your vehicle.

For example, if your vehicle has an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, and you take option one (I-95 South), you can expect to use approximately 19 gallons of gas on your journey. At $2.96 per gallon in Maryland, this will cost approximately $56.24 for the journey.

Using the same formula, if you take option two (Route 50 West to Route 301 South), you can expect to use approximately 20 gallons of gas on your journey. At $2.96 per gallon in Maryland and $2.83 per gallon in South Carolina, this will cost approximately $56.69 for the journey.

Recommendation and Conclusion

Based on the above information, I recommend using option one (I-95 South) for the journey between Cambridge, Maryland, and Chesterfield, South Carolina. This route is more direct, the gas prices, and toll costs are relatively affordable. Though there are some tolls to pay along the way, the total cost of the journey is likely to be lower compared to option two.

However, it's important to keep in mind that the cost of gas can be affected by a variety of factors, such as your vehicle's gas mileage, road and traffic conditions, and gas prices in the area at the time of the journey. It's also important to factor in costs such as tolls, parking, and food when planning a road trip.

Ultimately, the journey from Cambridge, Maryland to Chesterfield, South Carolina, will take approximately 8 to 9 hours depending on the route chosen and any stops made along the way. With the information provided above, you can more accurately estimate the cost of this journey and make an informed decision on the best route for you.