The Cost of Driving from Charleston, South Carolina to Lexington Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Charleston, South Carolina to Lexington, Virginia? It's a beautiful drive through the Appalachian Mountains, but it can be costly if you're not prepared. Here's a breakdown of the cost of driving based on current gas prices.

The Most Direct Route - I-64W

The most direct route from Charleston to Lexington is taking I-64W. It covers a distance of around 387 miles and takes about 6 hours to drive without any pit stops. Considering current gas prices, which are averaging around $2.57 per gallon, this route will cost you around $77 in fuel. There are no tolls on this route, so the total cost of driving on I-64W is approximately $77. However, please keep in mind this does not include any expenses during your trip such as rest stops, lodging, or meals.

The Scenic Route - I-81N

If you have a bit more time on your hands and want to enjoy some breathtaking views, take I-81N. The distance covered on this route is around 463 miles, and it takes approximately 8 hours to drive without any pit stops. Gas prices are around $2.51 per gallon, so you can expect to pay around $94 in fuel. There are no tolls on this route. So, you can explore the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, take a detour for some apple picking, or indulge in some famous Southern barbecue. Including expenses, the total cost of driving on I-81N is approximately $300 depending on your stops and budget.

The Middle Option - I-77N

Looking for a middle option between the two routes mentioned above? Take I-77N. It covers a distance of 472 miles and takes approximately 8 hours to drive without any pit stops. The average gas price along this route is $2.43 per gallon, so you can expect to pay around $91 for fuel. There are no tolls on this route. But, you can take some scenic detours such as the Blue Ridge Parkway or the New River Gorge Bridge, depending on your time and interests. So, the total cost of driving on I-77N is approximately $300 including expenses.

Conclusion

As you can see, the cost of driving from Charleston, South Carolina to Lexington, Virginia varies depending on the route you take. While taking the direct route on I-64W is the cheapest, taking the longer routes can allow you to enjoy scenic views and explore hidden treasures along the way. Ensure to factor in other expenses like food, lodging, and events during your road trip! Whatever route you take, make sure you have enough fuel and snacks to keep you satisfied throughout your adventure!