Driving Cost from Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania to Bennington, Vermont

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The Cost of a Trip between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania and Bennington, Vermont

Introduction

When planning a trip, it is crucial to consider the costs involved, especially when it comes to long distances. For those traveling between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania and Bennington, Vermont, there are various routes to consider, each with its own distance and associated expenses. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, highlighting their costs and distances, and ultimately recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Route Options

Before we delve into the specifics of each route, it's essential to note that there are generally multiple ways to get from one destination to another. Some routes may be more direct, while others could offer more scenic views or fewer tolls. Considering these factors can help you make an informed decision that best suits your preferences and travel budget.

Route 1: I-90 E

  • Distance: 384 miles
  • Estimated Time: 6 hours and 5 minutes (excluding stops and traffic)

The first route option, I-90 E, is a direct path that spans approximately 384 miles. This route takes you through several cities, including Allentown, Scranton, and Binghamton, before reaching Bennington. Keep in mind that this route involves tolls, so it's essential to factor in these additional costs.

Route 2: I-476 N and I-88 E

  • Distance: 433 miles
  • Estimated Time: 6 hours and 50 minutes (excluding stops and traffic)

Another possible route is to take I-476 N and then switch to I-88 E. This slightly longer route covers approximately 433 miles. Although it adds extra mileage to the journey, it may be a suitable option for those looking to avoid toll roads. This route passes through Wilkes-Barre and Albany before arriving in Bennington, Vermont.

Route 3: PA-611 N and US-4 W

  • Distance: 408 miles
  • Estimated Time: 7 hours and 15 minutes (excluding stops and traffic)

For travelers seeking a mix of scenic views and a moderate distance, Route 3 is worth considering. This route starts with PA-611 N and then transitions to US-4 W. Covering around 408 miles, it's slightly longer than Route 1 but offers the potential for picturesque sights along the way. This route passes through the stunning Green Mountains in Vermont, making it a great choice for nature enthusiasts.

Taking into account both the cost and distance, the recommended route for the trip between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania, and Bennington, Vermont is Route 2: I-476 N and I-88 E. While it may be slightly longer than Route 1, it allows travelers to bypass toll roads, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget.

Cost Analysis

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the costs involved, we need to consider various factors. The primary focus will be on the cost of fuel, as it is one of the most significant expenses associated with road trips. Other costs, such as tolls and potential accommodation or dining expenses, will not be covered in this analysis. It's essential to create a personalized budget that includes these additional expenses to accurately estimate the overall cost of your trip.

Fuel Cost

As gas prices can vary, we'll use the national average gas price to calculate the fuel cost for each route. According to the AAA, the average gas price in the United States is $2.95 per gallon as of September 2021. Additionally, we'll assume a vehicle with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Using these figures, let's calculate the estimated fuel cost for each route:

Route 1: I-90 E

  • Distance: 384 miles
  • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total Fuel Needed: 384 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 15.36 gallons
  • Fuel Cost: 15.36 gallons * $2.95 per gallon = $45.24

Route 2: I-476 N and I-88 E

  • Distance: 433 miles
  • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total Fuel Needed: 433 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 17.32 gallons
  • Fuel Cost: 17.32 gallons * $2.95 per gallon = $51.08

Route 3: PA-611 N and US-4 W

  • Distance: 408 miles
  • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total Fuel Needed: 408 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 16.32 gallons
  • Fuel Cost: 16.32 gallons * $2.95 per gallon = $48.12

Based on this analysis, Route 1 has the lowest fuel cost at $45.24, followed closely by Route 3 at $48.12. However, since we recommend Route 2 as the best option due to its combination of cost-effectiveness and avoiding toll roads, it's crucial to consider the slightly higher fuel cost of $51.08.

Conclusion

After considering the different route options and their associated costs, we recommend taking Route 2: I-476 N and I-88 E for the trip between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania, and Bennington, Vermont. This route offers a balance between cost-effectiveness and bypassing toll roads, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.

The estimated travel time for this route, excluding stops and traffic, is approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes. It's important to note that this duration may vary depending on road conditions and the speed of travel. It is always advisable to check for real-time traffic updates before embarking on a road trip to ensure a smoother and more efficient journey.

With careful planning and cost considerations, you can now embark on your trip between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania, and Bennington, Vermont, knowing the most affordable and suitable route for your travel needs. Happy travels!