The Cost of Driving From Charlottesville, Virginia to Tampa, Florida

Are you planning a road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia to Tampa, Florida? Driving can be a fun and adventurous way to explore the country and create lasting memories. However, it's important to consider the cost of the trip, especially when it comes to gas prices and tolls. In this blog post, we will break down the different routes available, the distance of each route, the time it takes, and the cost of each option based on current gas prices. So buckle up, and let's hit the road!

Route 1: The I-85 and I-75 Route

If you prefer the most direct route, taking the I-85 and I-75 is the way to go. The distance between Charlottesville and Tampa using this route is approximately 825 miles. Driving this route typically takes around 13 hours.

As for the cost, let's break it down. Considering the current average gas price of $2.50 per gallon, and assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would need to fill up your tank about 33 gallons of gas. Multiply this by the average price per gallon, and that brings the total cost of gas to approximately $82.50.

Additionally, there are tolls you'll encounter during your journey. The total toll cost for this route is approximately $25. Don't forget to budget for these additional expenses!

Route 2: The Coastal Route

If you prefer a scenic drive along the coast, you might want to consider taking Route 17. This route adds a bit more distance to your trip, coming in at around 915 miles. The estimated driving time for this route is approximately 15 hours.

In terms of cost, the calculations are similar. With an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need around 37 gallons of gas. At the current average price of $2.50 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route would be approximately $92.50.

As for tolls, you'll be happy to know that this route is toll-free! This can help offset the extra mileage and time spent driving.

Route 3: The Scenic Route via the Blue Ridge Parkway

For those who want to make the journey part of the adventure, taking the scenic route via the Blue Ridge Parkway can be a great choice. This route offers stunning views and a chance to explore some of the country's natural beauty, but it does come with some trade-offs.

The distance for this route is approximately 970 miles, making it the longest option. The estimated driving time is around 17 hours, considering the slower speed limits on the parkway.

When it comes to cost, it's important to note that gas stations are limited along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Therefore, it's highly recommended to fill up your tank before entering the parkway and plan accordingly. Assuming you need around 39 gallons of gas, the total cost at $2.50 per gallon would be approximately $97.50.

Similar to Route 2, this scenic route is toll-free. However, you might want to make sure you're well-prepared with snacks, drinks, and a full tank of gas to enjoy the uninterrupted beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are several routes to choose from when driving from Charlottesville, Virginia to Tampa, Florida. The most direct route via the I-85 and I-75 offers the shortest distance, while the coastal route adds some extra mileage but allows for a scenic drive without any tolls. If you're up for an adventure and want to experience the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can take the longest but most picturesque route.

Don't forget to consider the cost of your trip when planning. With gas prices and tolls taken into account, you can budget accordingly and ensure a smooth journey. Safe travels, and enjoy the ride!