The Cost of a Trip from Cherry Hill Township, New Jersey to Chesterfield, New Hampshire: Navigating Gas Prices
Introduction
Planning a trip from Cherry Hill Township, New Jersey to Chesterfield, New Hampshire entails careful considerations of various factors, with the cost of gas being a significant one. The route chosen and the current gas prices can greatly impact the overall cost of the trip. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.
Route Options and Costs
Route 1: Via I-295 N and I-95 N
- Distance: Approximately 325 miles
- Cost based on average gas price per gallon: $50-$60
This route takes you through Philadelphia and onto I-95 N, passing through parts of Delaware and into Maryland before entering Pennsylvania. While it is the most direct route, the tolls in and around the Philadelphia area can add up, contributing to the overall cost of the trip. Additionally, the high traffic in the Philadelphia and Baltimore areas can impact travel time and fuel efficiency.
Route 2: Via I-295 N and I-195 W
- Distance: Approximately 350 miles
- Cost based on average gas price per gallon: $55-$65
This route also begins with I-295 N but diverges onto I-195 W towards Trenton, before connecting with I-95 N in Pennsylvania. While it adds a few extra miles compared to Route 1, it bypasses some of the toll-heavy areas and may offer a smoother travel experience. However, the additional distance may result in higher gas expenses.
Route 3: Via I-287 N and I-87 N
- Distance: Approximately 365 miles
- Cost based on average gas price per gallon: $60-$70
This route takes you north and west through New York before entering Massachusetts and eventually New Hampshire. While it may seem like a longer route, it bypasses the toll-heavy and high-traffic areas of the Philadelphia and Baltimore regions. The overall cost may be slightly higher due to the longer distance, but it could result in a more relaxed and fuel-efficient journey.
Route 4: Via Local Roads
- Distance: Varies
- Cost based on average gas price per gallon: Varies
For those looking to avoid major highways and tolls, taking local roads through Pennsylvania and New York may be an option. However, this can result in a significantly longer travel time and increased fuel consumption due to the slower speeds and frequent stops. The cost may vary depending on the specific route taken and the fluctuating gas prices.
Recommended Route Based on Current Gas Prices
Considering the current gas prices and the overall cost-effectiveness, Route 3 via I-287 N and I-87 N appears to be the most favorable option. While it may involve slightly higher gas expenses compared to the more direct routes, the potential savings from toll avoidance and efficient travel could make up for it. Additionally, the reduced stress from bypassing major metropolitan traffic and tolls can contribute to a more enjoyable journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when planning a trip from Cherry Hill Township, New Jersey to Chesterfield, New Hampshire, it is essential to factor in the cost of gas based on current prices. The route chosen can greatly influence the overall expenses, and carefully considering the trade-offs between distance, tolls, traffic, and fuel efficiency is crucial. For this particular trip, opting for Route 3 via I-287 N and I-87 N proved to be a cost-effective and relatively stress-free choice, despite the slightly longer distance. Taking into account gas prices, tolls, and travel conditions, the journey took approximately 7 hours, offering a balance between cost and convenience.