The Cost of Driving From Binghamton, NY to Columbia, MD

Are you planning a road trip from the charming city of Binghamton, New York to the bustling town of Columbia, Maryland? Whether you're visiting friends, exploring new places, or simply embarking on a new adventure, it's always a good idea to plan ahead and consider the cost of your journey. In this blog post, we'll break down the different routes you can take, the distance of each route, the time it takes to reach your destination, and of course, the cost associated with each route based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Scenic Route

If you're in the mood for a picturesque drive that takes you through some stunning landscapes, then this route is for you. Take I-81 S from Binghamton, NY, and continue on I-70 W towards Columbia, MD. This route covers a distance of approximately 320 miles and should take you around 5 hours to reach your destination, depending on traffic conditions.

Now, let's talk about the cost. With gas prices averaging around $2.75 per gallon, and assuming your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you will need approximately 12.8 gallons of gas for this route. Therefore, the cost of fuel for this trip alone would be around $35.

Route 2: The Quicker Commute

If time is of the essence and you're looking for a more direct route, this option might be the best fit. Take I-88 E from Binghamton, NY, and continue on I-81 S towards Columbia, MD. This route covers a distance of approximately 285 miles and should take you around 4 hours and 30 minutes to reach your destination, again depending on traffic conditions.

Now, let's discuss the cost associated with this route. Assuming the same gas prices and fuel efficiency as before, you will need approximately 11.4 gallons of gas. Therefore, the cost of fuel for this trip would be around $31.

Route 3: The Toll Road

If you prefer using toll roads to reach your destination quickly, this route is worth considering. Take NY-17 to I-81 S and continue on I-70 W towards Columbia, MD. This route covers a distance of approximately 330 miles and should take you around 5 hours and 30 minutes, once again depending on traffic conditions.

However, it's important to note that this route includes tolls. The current toll prices for this journey are roughly $8 for the New York State tolls, $7 for Pennsylvania tolls, and $8 for Maryland tolls. Therefore, when factoring in the gas cost (using the same assumptions as before) and tolls, the total cost of this trip would be around $60.

Final Thoughts and Considerations

As you plan your road trip from Binghamton, NY to Columbia, MD, it's essential to account for the distance, time, and cost associated with each route. While the scenic route offers beautiful views, it does come at a slightly higher cost. On the other hand, the quicker commute may be more time-efficient, but still keeps the overall cost reasonable. Lastly, the toll road option saves time but comes with additional expenses.

Ultimately, the choice of route depends on your personal preferences, budget, and time constraints. Whichever route you choose, may your journey be enjoyable, safe, and filled with unforgettable memories!