The Cost of Driving from Charles Town to Bel Air

Planning a road trip from Charles Town, West Virginia to Bel Air, Maryland? It's always important to consider the cost of gas and any tolls along the way. In this blog post, we'll break down the cost of different routes, distances, time, and current gas prices.

Route 1: Taking I-70

This route is the most direct path from Charles Town to Bel Air, covering a distance of about 160 miles. The estimated driving time is around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

First, let's look at the gas prices. According to GasBuddy, the current average price of gas in West Virginia is $2.95 per gallon. In Maryland, it's slightly higher at $3.04 per gallon. To complete this route, you'll need about 6 gallons of gas, which will cost you $17.70 in West Virginia and $18.24 in Maryland.

In terms of tolls, you'll only need to pay one toll on this route. The toll plaza on I-70 is located near Hancock, MD, and it costs $4 for cars and motorcycles.

Overall, the total cost of this route is approximately $21.70 (not including any snacks or rest stops along the way).

Route 2: Taking Route 40

If you're looking for a cheaper option and don't mind taking a slightly longer route, consider taking Route 40. The distance between Charles Town and Bel Air is about 175 miles, and the estimated driving time is around 3 hours and 20 minutes.

Based on current gas prices, you'll need about 7 gallons of gas to complete this route. In West Virginia, this will cost you $20.65, and in Maryland, it will cost you $21.28.

There are no tolls on Route 40, so the only cost you'll need to consider is the gas. Overall, the total cost of this route is approximately $41.93.

Route 3: Taking a Scenic Route

If you're in no rush and want to take a scenic drive, consider taking Route 11. This route covers a distance of about 225 miles, and the estimated driving time is around 4 hours and 20 minutes.

The gas prices for this route will be similar to Route 2, as both routes cover a similar distance. However, there are no tolls on Route 11. Your only cost will be the gas, which will come out to approximately $41.93 (based on current gas prices).

Overall, this route is more expensive than Route 1 and Route 2, but it may be worth it if you're looking to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Conclusion

The cost of driving from Charles Town, West Virginia to Bel Air, Maryland varies depending on the route you choose. Route 1 is the most direct route and has the lowest cost, with a total cost of approximately $21.70. Route 2 is slightly longer but cheaper than Route 3, with a total cost of approximately $41.93 (gas only). Route 3 is the most scenic route, but it's also the most expensive, with a total cost of approximately $41.93 (gas only). When planning your trip, make sure to consider the cost of gas and any tolls to determine which route is right for you.