Understanding the Cost of a Trip from Delanco, New Jersey to New Brunswick, New Jersey Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling between Delanco and New Brunswick, New Jersey, opens the door to a range of experiences, from scenic views to cultural attractions. However, before hitting the road, it’s crucial to understand the costs associated with the trip. Drivers should consider distances, routes, gas prices, and vehicle fuel efficiency when calculating the total trip cost. Here’s a breakdown of various routes, distances, estimated costs, and a recommended option.
Overview of the Trip
Delanco, located in Burlington County, is about 40 miles away from New Brunswick, situated in Middlesex County. The journey traverses a mix of urban landscapes and suburban areas, making it an intriguing drive. As of now, the average gas price in New Jersey hovers around $3.50 per gallon. This figure varies, so always check local prices before making your journey.
Different Routes to Consider
When planning a trip from Delanco to New Brunswick, travelers have several route options. Below, we will evaluate three primary routes, analyzing their distances and associated costs.
Route 1: The Direct Route via NJ Turnpike
Distance: 40 miles
Estimated Time: 50 minutes
Tolls: Approximately $3.50 (NJ Turnpike)
Fuel Cost:
Assume an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon:
[ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} = \frac{40}{25} = 1.6 \text ]Fuel cost:
[ \text = \text \times \text = 1.6 \times 3.50 = 5.60 ]
Total Trip Cost:
Tolls + Fuel = $3.50 + $5.60 = $9.10
This route is the quickest and the most straightforward option. However, be mindful of potential traffic jams, especially during rush hour.
Route 2: Scenic Route via US-130
Distance: 42 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Tolls: None
Fuel Cost:
Fuel requirements remain the same (assuming identical fuel efficiency):
[ \text = \frac{42}{25} = 1.68 \text ]Fuel cost:
[ \text = 1.68 \times 3.50 = 5.88 ]
Total Trip Cost:
Fuel = $5.88
This route offers a more picturesque drive, taking you through local neighborhoods and charming small towns along the way. It can provide a break from highway driving, making it a pleasant experience, albeit slightly longer.
Route 3: Alternative via Route 295
Distance: 45 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Tolls: Approximately $2.00 (for some segments of Route 295)
Fuel Cost:
Fuel requirements are slightly higher:
[ \text = \frac{45}{25} = 1.8 \text ]Fuel cost:
[ \text = 1.8 \times 3.50 = 6.30 ]
Total Trip Cost:
Tolls + Fuel = $2.00 + $6.30 = $8.30
This option is more indirect but can offer a stress-free environment, particularly during peak traffic times.
Cost Comparison of Routes
| Route | Distance | Estimated Time | Tolls | Fuel Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Route (NJ Turnpike) | 40 miles | 50 minutes | $3.50 | $5.60 | $9.10 |
| Scenic Route (US-130) | 42 miles | 1 hour 10 min | $0.00 | $5.88 | $5.88 |
| Alternative (Route 295) | 45 miles | 1 hour 15 min | $2.00 | $6.30 | $8.30 |
From the above table, Route 2, the scenic route via US-130, offers the cheapest trip cost at $5.88. However, it does take slightly longer. Meanwhile, the direct route, while convenient with a total cost of $9.10, includes tolls, contributing significantly to the overall cost.
Recommended Route
Based on our analysis, the Scenic Route via US-130 proves to be the best choice for budget travelers. Not only does it save on toll costs, but it also provides an enjoyable atmosphere, passing through picturesque landscapes and local attractions. While it may add some time to your journey, the savings in costs and the overall experience are worthwhile.
Conclusion
The trip from Delanco to New Brunswick offers various routes, each with unique views and travel times. While the NJ Turnpike is the quickest, the scenic US-130 proves to be the most economical option, costing around $5.88 for fuel without tolls. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer this route, which takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Enjoying the journey alongside the savings makes this trip a pleasant experience to both navigate and discover parts of New Jersey.