The Cost of a Road Trip: Dacorum to Swindon Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip between Dacorum and Swindon in England involves more than just figuring out the best route. It requires an assessment of costs, including fuel prices, travel distances, and the overall experience. With gas prices fluctuating, understanding the total expense of your journey is crucial. In this article, we'll explore various routes from Dacorum to Swindon, analyze their costs based on current fuel prices, and recommend the best option for budget-conscious travelers.
Understanding the Basics
Dacorum sits in Hertfordshire, while Swindon is located in Wiltshire. The distance between these two notable locations is approximately 82 miles (132 kilometers). Depending on the route you choose, the journey can vary significantly in terms of distance, travel time, and therefore, fuel costs.
As of the latest information, the average price of petrol in the UK stands at around £1.50 per liter. For diesel, it's approximately £1.55. We will base our calculations on these prices. Furthermore, an average vehicle fuel consumption of 40 miles per gallon translates to about 7.1 liters per 100 kilometers, or 0.07 liters per kilometer.
Route Options
Route 1: M1 and A417
Distance: Approximately 89 miles (143 km)
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours (without heavy traffic)
Total Fuel Cost:
Fuel Consumption: 89 miles equals about 2.23 gallons or 10.12 liters.
Cost Calculation:
- Petrol: 10.12 liters x £1.50/liter = £15.18
- Diesel: 10.12 liters x £1.55/liter = £15.68
Therefore, budget approximately £15.18 for petrol or £15.68 for diesel.
Route 2: A41, M40, and A419
Distance: Approximately 93 miles (150 km)
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours 10 mins (without heavy traffic)
Total Fuel Cost:
Fuel Consumption: 93 miles translates to about 2.32 gallons or 10.55 liters.
Cost Calculation:
- Petrol: 10.55 liters x £1.50/liter = £15.83
- Diesel: 10.55 liters x £1.55/liter = £16.38
Therefore, budget approximately £15.83 for petrol or £16.38 for diesel.
Route 3: M25 and M4
Distance: Approximately 91 miles (146 km)
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours 20 mins (without heavy traffic)
Total Fuel Cost:
Fuel Consumption: 91 miles equals about 2.28 gallons or 10.37 liters.
Cost Calculation:
- Petrol: 10.37 liters x £1.50/liter = £15.56
- Diesel: 10.37 liters x £1.55/liter = £16.07
Therefore, budget approximately £15.56 for petrol or £16.07 for diesel.
Route 4: A5 and A419
Distance: Approximately 84 miles (135 km)
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 55 mins (without heavy traffic)
Total Fuel Cost:
Fuel Consumption: 84 miles translates to about 2.1 gallons or 9.54 liters.
Cost Calculation:
- Petrol: 9.54 liters x £1.50/liter = £14.31
- Diesel: 9.54 liters x £1.55/liter = £14.79
Therefore, budget approximately £14.31 for petrol or £14.79 for diesel.
Route Comparison
After carefully analyzing four viable routes from Dacorum to Swindon, a few patterns emerge in terms of distance, time, and fuel costs.
- Route 1 is the longest in distance but is relatively quick. However, its fuel cost does not offer significant savings compared to other options.
- Route 2 offers a longer drive and slightly higher costs for both fuel types. This route may require a little more navigating through larger cities, which can increase travel time during peak hours.
- Route 3 garners similar fuel costs to Route 1 but adds more time, making it less favorable compared to the others.
- Route 4 proves to be the most budget-friendly, both in terms of distance and fuel cost. This shorter drive also offers quicker travel time, making it a compelling choice for travelers.
Recommended Route
Taking into account distance, travel time, and fuel costs, Route 4 via A5 and A419 stands out as the best route between Dacorum and Swindon. With a driving distance of approximately 84 miles and an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 55 minutes, this route allows for a delightful trip with the least financial burden.
The total fuel cost is approximately £14.31 for petrol and £14.79 for diesel. Both prices represent significant savings compared to other routes, particularly important for anyone concerned about rising fuel prices.
Conclusion
A road trip from Dacorum to Swindon offers more than just a change of scenery; it allows travelers to explore the richness of England's countryside. Opting for Route 4 via A5 and A419 provides the best blend of affordability and efficiency, taking around 1 hour and 55 minutes to complete. With fuel costs kept below £15, the journey becomes not only enjoyable but also budget-friendly, ensuring you arrive in Swindon ready to embrace your next adventure or task. Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or a family visit, this route makes the most sense for your wallet and your time.