The Cost of a Trip Between Cumberland, Maryland and Stafford, Virginia Based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip between Cumberland, Maryland and Stafford, Virginia involves several factors to consider, with the cost of gas being one of the most significant. The distance between the two cities is approximately 175 miles, and there are multiple routes to choose from, each with varying costs and distances. In this article, we will break down the cost of a trip between these two locations based on current gas prices and provide recommendations for the most cost-effective route.

Possible Routes and Costs

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

This route is the most direct, with a distance of approximately 175 miles. Based on current gas prices of $3.00 per gallon, a vehicle with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon would require 7 gallons of gas for the trip, totaling $21.00 in fuel costs.

Route 2: US-220 S and I-66 E

This alternate route covers a distance of approximately 200 miles, making it slightly longer than Route 1. With the same gas prices and fuel efficiency, the total cost of gas for this route would be approximately $24.00.

Route 3: US-522 S and I-81 S

Another possible route involves taking US-522 S and I-81 S, covering a distance of around 190 miles. The estimated cost of gas for this route would be $22.80, based on the current gas prices and fuel efficiency.

Route 4: US-50 W and I-81 S

This route is the longest of the options, with a distance of approximately 215 miles. With the current gas prices, the total cost of gas for this route would be around $25.80.

Recommendation

Based on the cost of gas and the distance covered, Route 1 (I-68 W and I-70 E) emerges as the most cost-effective option for a trip between Cumberland, Maryland and Stafford, Virginia. While it is the most direct route, it also proves to be the most economical in terms of gas expenses. Additionally, major highways like I-68 and I-70 offer a smooth and efficient travel experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Cumberland, Maryland and Stafford, Virginia varies based on the chosen route and current gas prices. After analyzing the possible routes, it is evident that Route 1 (I-68 W and I-70 E) is the most cost-effective option, with an estimated fuel cost of $21.00. With average traffic conditions, this route is expected to take around 3 to 3.5 hours to complete, providing a balance of cost savings and travel time efficiency. When planning a trip between these two locations, considering the cost of gas and distance covered can help in making informed decisions for a budget-friendly journey.