Driving Cost from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to New Bern, North Carolina

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip Between Chapel Hill, NC and New Bern, NC Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a trip from Chapel Hill to New Bern, North Carolina? Whether you're visiting family, on a weekend getaway, or embarking on a business trip, one of the factors to consider is the cost of travel. With fluctuating gas prices, it's essential to understand the expenses associated with a road trip between these two cities. In this article, we'll break down the cost of a trip between Chapel Hill and New Bern, exploring the different possible routes and highlighting the distance and associated expenses.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: I-40 E and US-70 E

One way to travel from Chapel Hill to New Bern is via I-40 E and US-70 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 130 miles and takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive without factoring in traffic. Based on current gas prices of $2.50 per gallon and an estimated fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon for the average vehicle, the cost of this trip would amount to around $31 for a round trip.

Route 2: US-64 E

Another option is to take US-64 E, covering a slightly longer distance of approximately 140 miles. This route takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive without accounting for traffic. With the same gas prices and fuel efficiency, the cost for a round trip on this route would be around $34.

Route 3: Scenic Route via NC-55 and NC-70

For those looking to take a more scenic route, traveling via NC-55 and NC-70 is an option. This route covers a distance of approximately 150 miles and takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to drive one way. With the current gas prices and fuel efficiency, the estimated cost for a round trip on this route would be approximately $36.

Best Route and Cost Comparison

After considering the different possible routes and their associated costs, it becomes apparent that Route 1 via I-40 E and US-70 E offers the most cost-effective option in terms of both travel time and expenses. While it may not be the shortest route in terms of distance, the efficiency of the highways and overall fuel consumption make it the most economical choice for travelers looking to save on transportation costs.

Comparing the expenses for a round trip on each route:

  • Route 1: I-40 E and US-70 E - $31
  • Route 2: US-64 E - $34
  • Route 3: Scenic Route via NC-55 and NC-70 - $36

It's clear that Route 1 provides the best value when factoring in both the distance traveled and the associated costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip from Chapel Hill to New Bern, North Carolina, it's important to consider the various routes available and their associated costs. While there are multiple options for traveling between these two cities, Route 1 via I-40 E and US-70 E stands out as the most cost-effective choice based on current gas prices. With an estimated round trip cost of $31 and a drive time of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, this route offers a balance of affordability and efficiency for travelers. Whether it's for a short visit or a weekend getaway, understanding the cost implications of different travel routes can help individuals make informed decisions when planning their trip.