Estimating the Cost of a Road Trip from Denville, NJ to Southern Pines, NC: A Comprehensive Analysis Based on Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Denville, New Jersey, to Southern Pines, North Carolina, involves various considerations, and chief amongst them is the cost of fuel. With gas prices fluctuating, understanding your route options and calculating the associated costs can help you budget effectively. Here’s an in-depth analysis of possible routes, including mileage, fuel efficiency, and overall trip costs based on current gas prices.
Current Gas Prices
As of October 2023, the average gas price in New Jersey hovers around $3.60 per gallon, while in North Carolina, it is approximately $3.30 per gallon. These prices can vary slightly based on the area and type of gas stations. For our calculations, we will use the average price of $3.60 per gallon for the trip since the bulk of the journey starts in New Jersey.
Route Options
There are several routes to take when driving from Denville to Southern Pines. Each route offers different scenery, travel times, and distances.
Route 1: I-95 South
The most direct route from Denville to Southern Pines is via I-95 South. This route spans approximately 600 miles and takes about 9 hours of driving time, not including rest stops.
- Distance: 600 miles
- Travel Time: Approximately 9 hours
- Fuel Efficiency Assumption: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Needed: 600 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 24 gallons
- Total Cost for Gas: 24 gallons x $3.60 = $86.40
Route 2: I-81 South and US-64 East
This alternative route is slightly longer but takes you through the scenic Shenandoah Valley and offers a more beautiful countryside experience. It covers about 640 miles and takes roughly 10 hours.
- Distance: 640 miles
- Travel Time: Approximately 10 hours
- Fuel Efficiency Assumption: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Needed: 640 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 25.6 gallons
- Total Cost for Gas: 25.6 gallons x $3.60 = $92.16
Route 3: I-78 West to I-81 South
This route has you starting by heading west on I-78 before merging onto I-81 South. It covers a bit more distance than the first route and also takes you through beautiful regions of Pennsylvania and Virginia. This route spans about 660 miles and takes about 10.5 hours.
- Distance: 660 miles
- Travel Time: Approximately 10.5 hours
- Fuel Efficiency Assumption: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Needed: 660 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 26.4 gallons
- Total Cost for Gas: 26.4 gallons x $3.60 = $95.04
Route 4: US-13 South & US-64 East
This off-beat route takes you through Delaware and Maryland before heading southwest through Virginia and North Carolina. The total distance is about 670 miles, and it takes about 11 hours.
- Distance: 670 miles
- Travel Time: Approximately 11 hours
- Fuel Efficiency Assumption: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Needed: 670 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 26.8 gallons
- Total Cost for Gas: 26.8 gallons x $3.60 = $96.48
Quick Comparison of Routes
| Route | Distance | Travel Time | Total Gallons Needed | Cost of Gas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-95 South | 600 miles | 9 hours | 24 gallons | $86.40 |
| I-81 South + US-64 East | 640 miles | 10 hours | 25.6 gallons | $92.16 |
| I-78 West to I-81 South | 660 miles | 10.5 hours | 26.4 gallons | $95.04 |
| US-13 South & US-64 East | 670 miles | 11 hours | 26.8 gallons | $96.48 |
Which Route to Choose?
Based on the analysis, taking I-95 South stands out as the best option. It is the shortest, quickest, and the most cost-effective route for your trip from Denville, NJ to Southern Pines, NC. While slightly longer routes may offer picturesque views and unique experiences, if your priority is to save money and minimize travel time, I-95 is the clear winner.
Additional Costs to Consider
While this article focuses on gas, there are additional costs that you may want to factor into your trip budget:
Tolls: Depending on your route, particularly if you take I-95, expect to pay tolls, especially in New Jersey and through certain toll bridges. The total can vary significantly, so checking local toll schedules is advisable.
Food: Plan for meals along the roadside. Depending on how many stops you make, meals could add an extra $10-$50 per day per person.
Accommodation: If you plan to split the drive over two days, consider hotel expenses. A budget hotel might cost around $80-$150 per night.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Include costs for activities, snacks, or rest areas, which can add another $10-$30.
Conclusion
The road trip from Denville, NJ, to Southern Pines, NC, is manageable and worth considering for its combination of distance and travel options. If you opt for the route along I-95 South, you can expect a journey of approximately 600 miles, taking around 9 hours of continuous driving. Overall, you are looking at a fuel cost of about $86.40, depending on current gas prices. With careful planning and the right choices, you can enjoy a reasonably priced road trip packed with adventure and beautiful sights along the way. Plan your stops wisely, keep your budget in check, and cruise through the beautiful landscapes as you head south!