The Cost of a Trip Between Chapel Hill, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC

Are you planning a trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? One of the biggest factors to consider when planning your trip is the cost. By taking into account the distance, gas prices, and route options, you can plan an affordable trip that won't break the bank. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Chapel Hill, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC based on current gas prices, the different possible routes, and our recommendation for the best route.

Distance and Gas Prices

Before we get into the different route options, it's important to understand the distance and gas prices. The distance between Chapel Hill and Myrtle Beach is approximately 215 miles. According to current gas prices, the average price of gas in North Carolina is $2.64/gallon, while the average price in South Carolina is $2.54/gallon. With this information, we can estimate the cost of gas for the trip.

To calculate the approximate cost of gas, we can take into account the average gas mileage of a car. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average miles per gallon (MPG) for a passenger car is 24.9. If we assume a car with this average MPG and a total distance of 215 miles, the trip will require approximately 8.6 gallons of gas. With the current gas prices, the estimated cost of gas for the trip will be $22.86.

Route Options

Now that we have an idea of the distance and gas prices, let's explore the different route options for the trip. There are several ways to get from Chapel Hill to Myrtle Beach, and each route has its own pros and cons in terms of distance, time, and cost.

Route 1: Via I-40 E and I-95 S

One common route to get from Chapel Hill to Myrtle Beach is via I-40 E and I-95 S. This is the most direct route and covers a distance of approximately 210 miles. The estimated driving time for this route is 3 hours and 32 minutes (without traffic).

Since this route is primarily on interstates, it is relatively easy to navigate and has several rest stops and gas stations along the way. However, because it is the most direct route, it can also be more expensive due to the higher tolls on the interstates. The estimated cost of gas for this route is $22.27 (with tolls).

Route 2: Via US-1 S and SC-66 E

Another possible route to get from Chapel Hill to Myrtle Beach is via US-1 S and SC-66 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 225 miles, making it slightly longer than the first route. The estimated driving time for this route is 4 hours and 6 minutes (without traffic).

This route is more scenic than the first route and takes drivers through several smaller towns and rural areas. It also has fewer tolls than the first route, making it slightly less expensive. The estimated cost of gas for this route is $22.52 (without tolls).

Route 3: Via I-85 S and I-20 E

A third possible route to get from Chapel Hill to Myrtle Beach is via I-85 S and I-20 E. This is the longest route, covering a distance of approximately 250 miles. The estimated driving time for this route is 4 hours and 20 minutes (without traffic).

This route is ideal for those who are looking for a scenic drive, but it also requires more time and gas. It has fewer tolls than the first route but can be more expensive due to the longer distance. The estimated cost of gas for this route is $25.05 (without tolls).

Best Route

Based on the distance, driving time, and estimated cost of gas, our recommendation for the best route is via I-40 E and I-95 S. Although this route has higher tolls, it is the most direct and quickest route, allowing you to arrive at your destination faster. Additionally, it has several rest stops and gas stations along the way, making it more convenient for travelers.

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of a trip from Chapel Hill, NC to Myrtle Beach, SC will depend on several factors including gas prices and your chosen route. While there are several possible routes, our recommendation for the best route is via I-40 E and I-95 S. With an estimated driving time of 3 hours and 32 minutes and a gas cost of $22.27 (with tolls), this route is the most direct and convenient for travelers. With a little planning, you can enjoy a smooth and affordable trip from Chapel Hill to Myrtle Beach.