The Cost of a Road Trip from Derry, New Hampshire to Acton, Maine: A Gas Price Perspective
Planning a road trip is exciting, but figuring out the cost can add some complexity to the adventure. As gas prices fluctuate, knowing how much you can expect to pay for fuel between Derry, New Hampshire, and Acton, Maine helps you budget effectively for your journey. In this article, we’ll explore various routes, calculate the distances, and ultimately determine the costs associated with each route based on current gas prices.
Understanding the Trip Overview
Derry, NH, serves as a vibrant community with a rich history and strong connections to agriculture, while Acton, ME, boasts beautiful landscapes and a tranquil rural atmosphere. The distance between these two towns is approximately 30 miles. Depending on your chosen route and driving style, you can expect varying travel times and fuel costs.
Current Gas Prices Evaluation
Before diving into the route options, let’s establish an estimate for current gas prices. As of now, the average gas price in New Hampshire is approximately $3.70 per gallon. Consider your vehicle’s fuel efficiency: for this article, we will use a common small SUV, averaging about 25 miles per gallon (mpg).
Fuel Cost Calculation Formula
To calculate the cost of gas for the trip, you can use the following formula:
[ \text = \left(\frac{\text}{\text}\right) \times \text ]
Now, let’s look at the potential routes from Derry to Acton.
Route Options
Route 1: I-93 N to ME-109 S
- Distance: 31 miles
- Estimated Time: 40 minutes
- Outline:
- Start on I-93 N.
- Merge onto NH-101 E.
- Take exit 1 for ME-109 S towards Acton.
Cost Calculation: [ \text = \left(\frac{31}{25}\right) \times 3.70 \approx 4.59 ]
Route 2: NH-28 N to ME-35 N
- Distance: 32 miles
- Estimated Time: 45 minutes
- Outline:
- Start on NH-28 N.
- Take NH-111 E towards ME.
- Merge onto ME-35 N to reach Acton.
Cost Calculation: [ \text = \left(\frac{32}{25}\right) \times 3.70 \approx 4.74 ]
Route 3: I-93 N and US-202 E
- Distance: 34 miles
- Estimated Time: 50 minutes
- Outline:
- Begin on I-93 N.
- Transfer to US-202 E towards Acton.
Cost Calculation: [ \text = \left(\frac{34}{25}\right) \times 3.70 \approx 5.04 ]
Summary of Route Costs
| Route | Distance (miles) | Time (minutes) | Fuel Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-93 N to ME-109 S | 31 | 40 | 4.59 |
| NH-28 N to ME-35 N | 32 | 45 | 4.74 |
| I-93 N and US-202 E | 34 | 50 | 5.04 |
Recommendations for Best Route
After comparing these routes, the best route to take from Derry, New Hampshire, to Acton, Maine, is the I-93 N to ME-109 S route. This route covers the least distance (31 miles) and has the lowest fuel cost of approximately $4.59. Additionally, the driving time is the shortest at about 40 minutes, making it ideal for a quick getaway.
While the NH-28 N to ME-35 N presents a reasonable alternative, it adds both distance and cost. The I-93 N and US-202 E route not only lengthens the trip but also results in higher fuel costs—it is less efficient for this particular journey.
Conclusion
Traveling from Derry, New Hampshire, to Acton, Maine, can be a scenic and enjoyable experience. The most efficient route is through I-93 N to ME-109 S, covering 31 miles and costing approximately $4.59 in fuel. Expect to complete the trip in about 40 minutes, allowing you to reach your destination without the unnecessary worry of increasing fuel expenses. With careful planning and route selection, you can easily enjoy the journey while managing costs effectively.