Cost of a Road Trip from Derry, NH to Worcester, MA Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Derry, New Hampshire, to Worcester, Massachusetts, opens the door to beautiful New England scenery and experiences along the way. However, understanding the costs involved, especially in terms of fuel expenses, is crucial for budgeting your trip. This article explores different routes, their distances, estimated gas costs based on current prices, and recommendations to optimize your travel.
Current Gas Prices and Fuel Efficiency
As of October 2023, the average gas price in New England hovers around $3.50 per gallon. On average, a mid-sized vehicle achieves about 25 miles per gallon (mpg). Knowing these figures will help calculate the fuel cost for the trip.
Estimated Fuel Cost Calculation
The formula for calculating fuel costs is:
[ \text \div \text \times \text ]
For example, if you’re taking a route that covers 50 miles, the estimated cost would look like this:
- Total Distance: 50 miles
- MPG: 25
- Gas Price: $3.50
[ 50 \div 25 \times 3.50 = 7 \text ]
Routes to Consider
Several routes connect Derry, NH, and Worcester, MA. Each offers unique landscapes, travel times, and fuel costs, catering to different preferences for scenery or efficiency.
Route 1: I-93 South to I-290 West
Distance: Approximately 50 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour
This is the most direct route, taking you through scenic areas with minimal traffic. You start by taking I-93 South, then merge onto I-290 West to approach Worcester. This highway boasts a straightforward drive through urban and rural landscapes.
- Cost Calculation:
Using the earlier fuel cost formula:
[ 50 \div 25 \times 3.50 = 7 \text ]
Route 2: NH-28 South to MA-38 South
Distance: Approximately 55 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
This route veers from the interstates, taking you through downtown areas and a few charming small towns. While it extends the travel distance by about 5 miles, it presents a beautiful journey with local shops and restaurants perfect for a pit stop.
- Cost Calculation:
[ 55 \div 25 \times 3.50 = 7.70 \text ]
Route 3: I-93 South to I-90 West
Distance: Approximately 60 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
A slight detour from the most direct route, this journey takes you onto I-90 (the Massachusetts Turnpike) after merging from I-93 to I-290. This option offers slightly more in terms of scenic views and less congestion than I-290 can sometimes present.
- Cost Calculation:
[ 60 \div 25 \times 3.50 = 8.40 \text ]
Recommendations
Considering the distances, travel times, and fuel costs, Route 1: I-93 South to I-290 West stands out as the best option for your trip. It provides the shortest distance and most direct approach to Worcester. It balances time efficiency with fuel costs, ensuring that you arrive without overspending at the gas pump.
In case of drone-like distractions and a desire for local experiences, Route 2: NH-28 South to MA-38 South is worth a glance, but expect to use more gas. Alternatively, Route 3, while visually appealing, presents a longer distance and increased travel time. But if you're in the mood to explore, it may satisfy the wanderlust.
Conclusion
Traveling from Derry, NH, to Worcester, MA, creates an opportunity to embrace the charm of New England. The most efficient route, I-93 South to I-290 West, spans about 50 miles and takes roughly an hour to complete. At an estimated fuel cost of just $7, this route allows you to maximize your trip without breaking the bank. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, choose your route wisely, and enjoy the scenic journey from Derry to Worcester!