The Cost of Your Trip from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Town of Big Flats, New York

If you're planning a trip from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Town of Big Flats, New York, you're probably wondering how much it will cost you. Gas prices can fluctuate frequently, so it can be a bit challenging to determine the exact cost of a trip. In this article, we'll break down the estimated costs of different driving routes and provide recommendations to help you budget for your trip.

Route 1: I-90 W and I-86

The first route we'll explore is primarily via interstates: I-90 W and I-86. This route will take you approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes to travel the distance of 383 miles. It is the most direct route but passing through toll routes.

As of May 2021, the gas price in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is approximately $3.00 per gallon. Considering the average fuel economy of 25 mpg for passenger cars and light trucks, the estimated fuel cost is $46 for the one-way trip.

Suppose you also need to pass through tolls. In that case, you'll need to factor this cost into your budget. On the Massachusetts Turnpike, the toll for cars is $1.30 per exit. The tolls vary along I-90 W, and from Cambridge, MA, to the New York border, tolls cost approximately $30 one way. Similarly, the New York State Thruway sets a rate of around $55 for a passenger car, which covers the 496-mile drive across its entirety.

If you take Route 1, the estimated total cost of the trip would be around $152.

Route 2: I-84 W and I-86

The second route to consider is via I-84 W and I-86. This route is approximately 417 miles and takes approximately 7 hours to drive. Although it is a more scenic route, it will take you a little longer to reach your destination.

With this additional distance and estimated fuel economy, you can expect to pay approximately $56 one way. But, you'll be passing through fewer toll booths as most of the trip stays on I-84, and there are no tolls to pay. However, if you use I-86 toward your destination, you could expect up to $3 in tolls along the route. Therefore, the total estimated cost for this route would be approximately $59.

Route 3: I-88 W and I-86

The third and final route we'll outline is via I-88 W and I-86, taking approximately 430 miles and approximately 7.5 hours to travel. This route is more rural than the previous two, yet it is more straightforward than the second and shorter than the second route.

Taking into account the mileage and fuel economy, we estimate that a one-way trip would cost approximately $59. The route passes through 1 toll booth costing $2.75. In total, the estimated cost for this route would be around $62.

Route Recommendation

Based solely on the estimated cost of miles per gallon and tolls, taking Route 3 is the best option for traveling from Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Town of Big Flats, New York. Although it requires slightly more driving than Route 2, the difference in tolls cost balances the difference in miles driven. However, this is the estimated cost, and actual toll fees, parking costs, and other expenses may arise during the journey.

When compared to the other two routes, Route 3 may be a more budget-friendly option. Additionally, travelers will have the chance of experiencing rural scenery along I-88.

Conclusion

For trips from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Town of Big Flats, New York, Route 3 via I-88 W and I-86 is the cheapest option, with an estimated cost of around $62-- factoring in fuel cost and tolls. This exciting trip is about 7.5 hours, depending on traffic. Always remember to take into consideration time for rest stops and possible meal breaks. Safe travels!