Driving Cost from Delran Township, New Jersey to Chester, Maryland

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Cost of Your Trip: Delran Township, NJ to Chester, MD Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can be both exciting and daunting, especially when budgeting for the journey. If you are contemplating a road trip from Delran Township, New Jersey, to Chester, Maryland, understanding the cost of fuel and the available routes can help ensure you enjoy a seamless experience. In this article, we will explore various routes, their distances, gas prices, and ultimately recommend the best route for your travel.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into specific routes, let's take a look at the current gas prices. As of October 2023, the average gas price in New Jersey is approximately $3.60 per gallon, while Maryland's average is about $3.50 per gallon. Given that you will likely be leaving New Jersey and arriving in Maryland, this will impact your overall travel costs.

To calculate the total fuel cost for your trip, we need to consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. For this breakdown, we will use a standard fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (MPG). This is a common figure for many passenger vehicles, although actual MPG can vary based on the vehicle type, driving conditions, and driver habits.

Route Options from Delran Township to Chester

Several routes connect Delran Township and Chester, each with distinct features and costs. Let's examine the two most popular routes: I-95 and I-295.

Route 1: I-95 S via DE-1 S

Distance: Approximately 90 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Route Breakdown:

  1. Start on I-295 S from Delran Township.
  2. Merge onto I-95 S.
  3. Take DE-1 S toward Dover.
  4. Continue on DE-1 S to your destination in Chester.

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total Distance: 90 miles
  • Total Gallons Needed: ( \frac{90 \text}{25 \text} = 3.6 \text )
  • Fuel Cost: ( 3.6 \text \times 3.60 \text{ (NJ gas price)} = $12.96 )

Route 2: I-295 S to US-301 S

Distance: Approximately 85 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Route Breakdown:

  1. Begin your journey on I-295 S.
  2. Merge onto US-301 S.
  3. Drive straight to Chester, MD.

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total Distance: 85 miles
  • Total Gallons Needed: ( \frac{85 \text}{25 \text} = 3.4 \text )
  • Fuel Cost: ( 3.4 \text \times 3.60 \text{ (NJ gas price)} = $12.24 )

Comparison of Routes

Here's a quick comparison of the two routes we've discussed:

Route Distance Estimated Time Gallons Needed Fuel Cost
I-95 via DE-1 S 90 miles 1 hour 45 minutes 3.6 gallons $12.96
I-295 to US-301 S 85 miles 1 hour 50 minutes 3.4 gallons $12.24

Although the I-95 route is slightly longer, it is faster by five minutes. The I-295 route is shorter but may take longer due to traffic because it goes through more populated areas.

Fuel Prices Along the Route

It's also essential to consider potential fluctuations in gas prices while en route. The cost of fuel can vary significantly along the way, especially if you stop for gas before entering Maryland. While traveling along I-95 S, you are likely to encounter multiple gas stations with prices averaging around $3.50–$3.60 per gallon. The availability of these stations can provide peace of mind in case you need to refuel.

Additional Costs to Consider

While fuel is a significant expense, other costs will likely arise during your trip. Meals, tolls, and any potential stay if you plan to visit Chester for an extended period should be factored into your budget.

  1. Meals: If you plan to stop for food along the way, budget around $10–$15 per person for a quick meal.
  2. Tolls: Depending on your route, prepare for toll fees that can range from a few dollars to around $15, especially if you travel on I-95 or routes that connect through Philadelphia.
  3. Miscellaneous Costs: Always account for unforeseen expenses, such as snacks or emergency stops.

Considering the above criteria—fuel cost, distance, and estimated travel time—the I-295 to US-301 S route emerges as the most cost-effective option, albeit marginally slower. You save around 72 cents on gas compared to the I-95 route, and the travel time remains reasonable. If you're concerned about fuel efficiency and budget, this is the route to take.

Conclusion

The journey from Delran Township, New Jersey, to Chester, Maryland, offers a beautifully scenic drive spanning approximately 85 miles. Choosing the I-295 S to US-301 S route, you'll arrive in about 1 hour and 50 minutes while spending approximately $12.24 on gas. Keep these insights in mind as you plan your trip, and remember that careful preparation can pave the way for an enjoyable travel experience. Safe travels!