Driving Cost from Deerfield, New Hampshire to Gloucester, Massachusetts

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The Cost of a Trip from Deerfield, New Hampshire to Gloucester, Massachusetts: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Planning a trip from Deerfield, New Hampshire, to Gloucester, Massachusetts? With beautiful coastal views and charming New England towns along the way, this journey can be both enjoyable and economical if you choose the right route. In this article, we will explore different routes, their distances, approximate travel times, and the cost based on current gas prices.

Overview of the Journey

The distance between Deerfield, NH and Gloucester, MA spans approximately 60 to 70 miles, depending on the route you choose. With current gas prices hovering around $3.50 per gallon, it's essential to factor in the cost of fuel when planning your trip. The amount of fuel your vehicle consumes and the total travel time will significantly influence your trip’s overall cost.

Route Options

Route 1: I-93 S and I-95 N

  • Distance: Approximately 65 miles
  • Estimated Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cost of Fuel: About $10

The first route takes you down I-93 S, merging onto I-95 N toward Gloucester. This is the quickest route, offering minimal stops along the way. The smooth highway stretches allow for a relatively fast-paced drive, making it an attractive option for time-conscious travelers. The estimated travel time includes light traffic conditions, but delays can increase this if you hit rush hour.

To calculate fuel cost, let's assume your car averages 25 miles per gallon (mpg). The trip's total distance is 65 miles, which would require about 2.6 gallons of gas. At $3.50 per gallon, you would spend approximately $9.10 on fuel.

Route 2: Route 101 E and Route 127

  • Distance: Approximately 66 miles
  • Estimated Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cost of Fuel: About $10

A second option is taking Route 101 E to Route 127. This scenic route offers beautiful views of several small towns and natural landscapes. Although slightly longer and slower than the first option, this route rewards travelers with picturesque scenery that showcases the beauty of New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

Using the same fuel consumption rate, the total fuel cost would also approximate $9.10. While this route may not save much on gas, the experience of exploring quaint New England towns may be worth the extra time.

Route 3: I-495 N

  • Distance: Approximately 70 miles
  • Estimated Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Cost of Fuel: About $12

Taking I-495 N is another choice for reaching Gloucester. This route may take longer due to more significant stretches of highway and potential traffic buildups as you near the Massachusetts coastline. However, it offers fewer twists and turns, making it easier for some drivers who prefer a more straightforward path.

With a distance of 70 miles, you can expect to use about 2.8 gallons of gas. At current prices, the estimated fuel cost would be approximately $9.80.

Route 4: Scenic Backroads

  • Distance: Approximately 65 miles
  • Estimated Time: 2 hours
  • Cost of Fuel: About $10

Finally, for those who wish to experience the region's rural beauty, a route using scenic backroads can offer a leisurely drive. You might take local roads and avoid major highways, but this option adds to your travel time considerably, providing a great opportunity to take in the area's natural beauty and stop at local shops or eateries.

Even though the distance is similar to the first route, the slower pace means that the drive might take up to 2 hours. The total fuel cost remains roughly the same, around $9.10.

Recommendations

After evaluating the available routes, the route via I-93 S and I-95 N emerges as the best option. With a perfect balance of efficiency and comfort, it covers the distance quickly and has easily accessible amenities along the way. For travelers looking to minimize time on the road while spending the least on gas, this route provides an overall cost-effective choice.

Additional Considerations

While the fuel cost makes up a significant portion of your trip expense, keep in mind that there are other budgetary aspects to consider:

  • Tolls: always factor in tolls if you choose certain highways. For example, if you use I-95, some segments may have tolls that could add an extra $5 to $10 to your total trip cost.
  • Food and Refreshments: Depending on the length of your stay or the number of stops along the way, you might want to allocate a budget for meals or snacks. This could range anywhere from $10 to $50 based on your preferences.
  • Attractions: If you plan to stop at local attractions, budget an additional amount for entry fees and related expenses.

Conclusion

In summary, the journey from Deerfield, New Hampshire, to Gloucester, Massachusetts, offers several routes tailored to different travel preferences. The I-93 S to I-95 N route stands out for its balance of speed and fuel efficiency, allowing for a smoother travel experience over approximately 65 miles in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Regardless of your chosen timeframe and associated costs, enjoy the journey and embrace the scenic views New England offers. Safe travels!