The Cost of a Trip between Columbia, Maryland and Knoxville, Tennessee: Navigating Gas Prices

Introduction

When planning a trip between Columbia, Maryland and Knoxville, Tennessee, one of the major factors to consider is the cost of transportation, especially with fluctuating gas prices. This article will explore the different possible routes for this journey and highlight the cost and distance of each one. By the end, you will be able to determine the most cost-effective route based on current gas prices.

Route Options

There are several routes to consider when traveling from Columbia, Maryland to Knoxville, Tennessee. Each route has its own cost and distance, so it's important to weigh the options before hitting the road.

Route 1: I-70 W and I-68 W

This route takes you through the scenic countryside of Maryland and then into the hills of West Virginia before connecting to I-79 S and I-40 W to reach Knoxville. The total distance for this route is approximately 570 miles.

Route 2: I-95 S and I-40 W

This route will take you through the bustling cities of Baltimore and Washington, D.C. before heading south on I-95 and connecting to I-40 W towards Knoxville. The total distance for this route is approximately 640 miles.

Route 3: I-66 W and I-81 S

For a more scenic drive, this route takes you through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia before connecting to I-40 W towards Knoxville. The total distance for this route is approximately 600 miles.

Cost Analysis

To determine the cost of each route, we will consider the average fuel economy of a vehicle and the current gas prices. The average fuel economy for most vehicles is around 25 miles per gallon (MPG). As for gas prices, the current average in Columbia, Maryland is $2.75 per gallon, while in Knoxville, Tennessee it is $2.65 per gallon.

Route 1: I-70 W and I-68 W

With a total distance of 570 miles, the cost of gas for this route can be calculated by dividing the total distance by the average fuel economy and then multiplying it by the current gas price in Columbia. This gives us a total gas cost of approximately $62.70 for the entire trip.

Route 2: I-95 S and I-40 W

With a total distance of 640 miles, the cost of gas for this route is higher than Route 1. Using the same calculation method, the total gas cost for this route is approximately $70.40.

Route 3: I-66 W and I-81 S

This route has a total distance of 600 miles, putting the gas cost for the trip at approximately $66.00.

Recommended Route

Based on the cost analysis, Route 1 (I-70 W and I-68 W) is the most cost-effective option for traveling from Columbia, Maryland to Knoxville, Tennessee. Not only does it have the lowest gas cost, but it also offers a scenic drive through the countryside of Maryland and West Virginia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best route for a trip between Columbia, Maryland and Knoxville, Tennessee based on current gas prices is Route 1 via I-70 W and I-68 W. With a total gas cost of approximately $62.70, this route is not only the most cost-effective but also offers a scenic drive through the countryside. Keep in mind that the actual cost of the trip will depend on your vehicle's fuel economy and the fluctuating gas prices. With careful planning, you can ensure a budget-friendly journey while enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.