Driving Cost from Dartmouth, Massachusetts to Charleston, South Carolina

A picture depicting a gas pump

Road Trip Budget: Driving from Dartmouth, MA to Charleston, SC

Planning a road trip from Dartmouth, Massachusetts, to Charleston, South Carolina? It’s essential to figure out your budget, especially when it comes to gas and tolls. Let’s break down the costs based on current gas prices and various routes you can take.

Route 1: I-95 South

The most straightforward way to get to Charleston is by taking I-95 South. This route covers approximately 1,200 miles and usually takes about 18 hours of driving time.

Costs:

  • Gas Prices: Assuming a gas price of $3.50 per gallon and a vehicle fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need around 48 gallons of gas. This brings the total gas cost to about $168.
  • Tolls: You'll encounter tolls, especially in states like New Jersey and Maryland. Anticipate paying approximately $50 in tolls.

Total Estimated Cost of Route 1: $218

Route 2: I-81 and I-77 South

Another option is to take I-81 South, which is a bit more scenic but adds some extra miles. This route is roughly 1,250 miles and takes about 19 hours to drive. It’s a great way to see the Appalachian Mountains if you have a little extra time.

Costs:

  • Gas Prices: Using the same assumption of $3.50 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 mpg, you'll need about 50 gallons of gas. Your total for gas would be around $175.
  • Tolls: This route generally has fewer tolls, so you might only pay about $30.

Total Estimated Cost of Route 2: $205

Route 3: Coastal Route via I-95 and SC-41

If you're looking for a lovely coastal view, consider taking the coastal route that goes down through Virginia Beach and Savannah. This route stretches approximately 1,300 miles and takes about 20 hours. Although it adds some time to your trip, the scenic views make it worthwhile.

Costs:

  • Gas Prices: At $3.50 per gallon and 25 mpg, you would need roughly 52 gallons of gas, resulting in a gas cost of about $182.
  • Tolls: Tolls are slightly higher here, especially near tourist areas, so budget approximately $60.

Total Estimated Cost of Route 3: $242

Conclusion

Choosing the right route can significantly impact your travel expenses. Whether you prefer the quickest path, a scenic journey, or something in between, determining your fuel and toll costs helps you prepare for the adventure ahead. Based on the routes we covered, you can expect to spend anywhere from $205 to $242.

So, pack your bags, load up your playlist, and enjoy the drive from Dartmouth to Charleston! Safe travels!