Calculating the Cost of Driving from Darlington, South Carolina to Chattanooga, Tennessee: A Road Trip Breakdown
Planning a road trip from Darlington, South Carolina, to Chattanooga, Tennessee, can be an exciting adventure! But before you hit the road, let’s break down the costs involved, especially concerning gas prices and any potential tolls. With current gas prices hovering around $3.50 per gallon, it’s essential to calculate how much your journey will cost. So, buckle up as we explore different routes, their distances, estimated travel times, and overall expenses!
Route 1: I-20 W to I-75 N
The first and most popular route takes you through I-20 W and I-75 N. This route is the most straightforward and offers scenic views along the way.
- Distance: 275 miles
- Time: 4 hours and 15 minutes
To calculate the gas cost for this journey, let’s assume your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon. You’ll need approximately 11 gallons of gas for the entire trip. Given the current gas price of $3.50 per gallon, your total gas expense would be around:
- Total Gas Cost: $38.50
This route does not have tolls, making it a budget-friendly option to get to Chattanooga!
Route 2: I-95 S to I-85 N
For those looking to take a slightly longer route with more highway driving, consider this option via I-95 S and I-85 N. This route is rich in history and features a variety of attractions along the way.
- Distance: 300 miles
- Time: 4 hours and 45 minutes
With the same vehicle efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll consume roughly 12 gallons of gas. Thus, at the same gas price, the breakdown looks as follows:
- Total Gas Cost: $42.00
This route is also toll-free, allowing you to keep your expenses in check while enjoying the road.
Route 3: Scenic Route through US-78 W
If you’re in the mood for a leisurely drive with plenty of picturesque landscapes, why not take the scenic route? Traveling along US-78 W can add a charming aspect to your trip. Just be prepared for a longer travel time.
- Distance: 290 miles
- Time: 5 hours
Once again sticking with the 25 miles per gallon estimate, you'll require around 11.5 gallons for this route. At $3.50 per gallon, your gas cost will be approximately:
- Total Gas Cost: $40.25
As with the other routes, you won’t encounter any tolls on this scenic pathway, making it an enjoyable yet cost-efficient choice.
In Summary
As you prepare for this journey, you have various options to choose from, each offering a unique experience. Here’s a quick summary of the routes:
- Route 1 (I-20 W to I-75 N): 275 miles, 4 hours 15 minutes, $38.50
- Route 2 (I-95 S to I-85 N): 300 miles, 4 hours 45 minutes, $42.00
- Route 3 (US-78 W Scenic Route): 290 miles, 5 hours, $40.25
Regardless of which route you choose, ensure you enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Drive safely and have a fantastic trip from Darlington to Chattanooga!