The Cost of a Trip between Chesapeake, Virginia and Smithfield, Virginia
If you're planning a scenic journey between Chesapeake and Smithfield in Virginia, one of the key considerations on your mind would undoubtedly be the cost of the trip. With fluctuating gas prices, it's crucial to evaluate the various routes available, taking into account both distance and expense. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, highlight their associated costs, and recommend the best route to optimize your travel budget.
Route Options:
When traveling from Chesapeake to Smithfield, there are primarily two main routes to choose from: the Route 17 Expressway or a combination of Route 168 and Route 10. Let's examine these options in detail and compare their costs and distances.
Route 17 Expressway:
The Route 17 Expressway offers a direct and straightforward path from Chesapeake to Smithfield. The total distance covered along this route is approximately 30 miles. On average, this takes around 30 minutes to complete, depending on traffic conditions.
To calculate the cost of traveling on this route, we need to consider the current gas prices and the average fuel efficiency of your vehicle. As of this writing, the average gas price in Virginia is around $2.80 per gallon. Let's assume your vehicle has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.
To calculate the gas cost for the Route 17 Expressway, we divide the total distance of 30 miles by the fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, resulting in a requirement of 1.2 gallons of gasoline. Multiplying this by the current gas price of $2.80 per gallon, we obtain a total cost of $3.36 for this leg of the journey.
Route 168 and Route 10 Combination:
An alternate route is to take a combination of Route 168 and Route 10, which offers a longer but arguably more scenic journey between Chesapeake and Smithfield. This route covers a total distance of approximately 40 miles, thus increasing your travel time to approximately 45 minutes.
Using the same assumptions as before (average gas price of $2.80 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon), we can calculate the gas cost for this route. Dividing the distance of 40 miles by the fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, we arrive at the need for 1.6 gallons of fuel. Multiplying this by the current gas price results in a total cost of $4.48.
Choosing the Best Route:
When comparing the Route 17 Expressway to the combination of Route 168 and Route 10, both distance and cost must be taken into account. While the Route 17 Expressway is shorter by approximately 10 miles and takes less time to complete, it is slightly cheaper in terms of fuel cost.
If your primary concern is reaching your destination quickly and minimizing travel expenses, the Route 17 Expressway is the ideal option. However, if you're in the mood for a more scenic drive and don't mind spending a little extra time on the road, the combination of Route 168 and Route 10 provides a pleasant alternative.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Chesapeake and Smithfield in Virginia depends on the route you choose to take. With the current gas prices in mind, the Route 17 Expressway offers a cost of approximately $3.36, while the combination of Route 168 and Route 10 comes in at around $4.48.
Ultimately, the decision of which route to take depends on your priorities and preferences. If time is of the essence and you wish to reduce travel costs, the Route 17 Expressway is the optimal choice. However, if you are in the mood for a longer but visually rewarding journey, the combination of Route 168 and Route 10 offers a more scenic drive.
Whichever route you select, we hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the cost and distance of your trip, allowing you to plan accordingly and make the most of your journey from Chesapeake to Smithfield. Safe travels!