The Cost of a Trip between Cambridge, Maryland and North Charleston, South Carolina in Today's Gas Prices
With the cost of gas on the rise, many drivers are looking to plan their routes more carefully to save money. If you're planning a trip between Cambridge, Maryland and North Charleston, South Carolina, choosing the most cost-effective route could make a big difference to your overall expenses.
Possible Routes and Their Costs
There are several possible routes you could take if you're driving from Cambridge, Maryland to North Charleston, South Carolina. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of distance, traffic, and gas prices. Here are a few options to consider:
Route 1: I-95 South
The most direct and frequently traveled route is to take I-95 South the entire way. This route covers a distance of approximately 566 miles and takes around eight hours and forty minutes, depending on traffic. According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Maryland as of June 2021 is $2.96 per gallon, while in South Carolina, it is $2.68 per gallon. Assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon and you need around 23 gallons of gas for the trip, you'll spend about $68 on gas each way.
Route 2: Route 301 and I-95 South
Another possibility is to take a slightly more circuitous route using Route 301 to avoid traffic on I-95. This route covers a distance of approximately 580 miles and takes around nine hours, depending on traffic. The gas prices and fuel efficiency assumptions are the same as for Route 1. You'll need around 23 gallons of gas for the trip, costing you around $68 each way.
Route 3: Route 13 South and Route 17 South
If you prefer to avoid highways, you could take Route 13 South and Route 17 South. This route covers a distance of approximately 650 miles and takes around eleven hours, depending on traffic. According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Maryland as of June 2021 is $2.96 per gallon, while in South Carolina, it is $2.68 per gallon. Assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon and you need around 26 gallons of gas for the trip, you'll spend about $70 on gas each way.
Recommendation
While all three routes have their own appeal, I-95 South is generally the most popular and convenient option. It's the most direct route, has the fewest turns, and is less likely to encounter unexpected traffic. Additionally, both Route 301 and Route 13 have fewer gas stations and rest areas, which could be a challenge on a long trip. Therefore, we recommend that drivers take I-95 South for their trip between Cambridge, Maryland and North Charleston, South Carolina.
Conclusion
Traveling between Cambridge, Maryland and North Charleston, South Carolina by car can be a long and tiring journey, but careful planning can help make it more affordable. By choosing the right route and keeping an eye on gas prices, you can minimize your overall expenses and enjoy your trip to the fullest. In summary, taking I-95 South is the most practical and cost-effective option for this trip, and with gas prices currently stable, it's a good time to hit the road. We hope you have a safe and enjoyable journey!