The Cost of a Road Trip: Driving From Cape Elizabeth, Maine to Arlington, Virginia

There are many reasons why you might find yourself taking a road trip from Cape Elizabeth, Maine to Arlington, Virginia. Whether it's for work, to visit family, or just for fun, driving can be a great way to see the country and take in new sights. However, before you hit the road, it's important to consider the cost of such a trip. Gas, tolls, and other expenses can add up quickly, and it's important to plan accordingly.

In this post, we'll highlight a few different routes you can take from Cape Elizabeth to Arlington and outline the distance, time, and cost of each.

Route 1: I-95 South

The most direct route from Cape Elizabeth to Arlington is to take I-95 South. This route covers approximately 550 miles and should take around 10 hours to complete, depending on traffic. You'll encounter tolls along the way, including the Maine Turnpike, New Hampshire Turnpike, and Pennsylvania Turnpike. The total cost of tolls for this route is approximately $65. Gas prices can vary, but as of September 2021, the average cost of gas along this route is about $3.20 per gallon. With a fuel-efficient car, you can expect to spend between $75 and $100 on gas for the trip, depending on the size of your vehicle.

Route 2: I-95 South to I-81 South

If you're looking for a slightly more scenic route, you can take I-95 South to I-81 South. This route covers approximately 650 miles and should take around 12 hours to complete, depending on traffic. While this route does take a bit longer, it offers some beautiful views of the Appalachian Mountains. You'll encounter tolls along the way, including the Maine Turnpike, New Hampshire Turnpike, and Pennsylvania Turnpike. The total cost of tolls for this route is approximately $70. Gas prices can vary, but as of September 2021, the average cost of gas along this route is about $3.20 per gallon. With a fuel-efficient car, you can expect to spend between $85 and $115 on gas for the trip, depending on the size of your vehicle.

Route 3: Coastal Drive

If you have some extra time and are looking for a more scenic route, you can take a coastal drive from Cape Elizabeth down to Arlington. This route covers approximately 800 miles and should take around 16 hours to complete, depending on traffic and how many stops you make along the way. While this route is the longest, it offers some stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and charming coastal towns. There are no tolls along this route, but gas prices can be a bit higher due to the more remote locations. As of September 2021, the average cost of gas along this route is about $3.30 per gallon. With a fuel-efficient car, you can expect to spend between $105 and $140 on gas for the trip, depending on the size of your vehicle.

In conclusion, the cost of driving from Cape Elizabeth, Maine to Arlington, Virginia will depend on the route you choose, the size of your vehicle, and gas prices at the time of your trip. By planning ahead and budgeting for tolls, gas, and other expenses, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip. Safe travels!