Driving Cost from Derwood, Maryland to Baltimore, Maryland

A picture depicting a gas pump

Cost of a Trip from Derwood to Baltimore: Navigating Routes and Fuel Expenses

Planning a trip from Derwood, Maryland, to Baltimore, Maryland, opens the door to numerous possibilities, with several routes to choose from. However, when weighing your options, it’s crucial to consider the cost of transportation, particularly in light of fluctuating gas prices. This article delves deep into the various routes, distances, and estimated costs associated with a trip from Derwood to Baltimore to help budget-conscious travelers make informed decisions.

Current Gas Prices in Maryland

Before assessing the routes, let’s take a moment to understand the current gas prices in Maryland. As of October 2023, gas prices in Maryland average around $3.40 per gallon, but prices can vary considerably based on location and time. For the purpose of this analysis, we will use this average price to calculate fuel costs.

Route Options

Traveling from Derwood to Baltimore offers several routes, each with unique features in terms of distance, time, and toll expenses. Here, we will evaluate three primary routes:

  1. I-270 South to I-95 North
  2. MD-200 East to I-95 North
  3. I-370 East to I-95 North

Route 1: I-270 South to I-95 North

Distance: Approximately 40 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 45-60 minutes (depending on traffic)

This route involves taking I-270 South from Derwood and then merging onto I-95 North toward Baltimore. The trip predominantly follows interstate highways, ensuring a smooth and expedited journey.

Cost Analysis

  1. Fuel Calculation:

    • Average MPG of a typical vehicle: 25 miles per gallon.
    • Total miles: 40 miles.
    • Estimated gallons needed: 40 miles / 25 MPG = 1.6 gallons.
    • Estimated fuel cost: 1.6 gallons x $3.40 per gallon = $5.44.

  2. Tolls:
    This route does not incur tolls, making it an economical choice in that regard.

Route 2: MD-200 East to I-95 North

Distance: Approximately 32 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 45-50 minutes

An alternative option is to take MD-200 East after departing Derwood. This route leads to I-95 North, providing an indirect way to reach Baltimore.

Cost Analysis

  1. Fuel Calculation:

    • Average MPG of a typical vehicle: 25 miles per gallon.
    • Total miles: 32 miles.
    • Estimated gallons needed: 32 miles / 25 MPG = 1.28 gallons.
    • Estimated fuel cost: 1.28 gallons x $3.40 per gallon = $4.35.

  2. Tolls:
    The MD-200 route does feature tolls, which can cost approximately $1.50.

  3. Total Estimated Cost:
    Fuel cost ($4.35) + Toll cost ($1.50) = $5.85.

Route 3: I-370 East to I-95 North

Distance: Approximately 39 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 50-55 minutes

The final route option is to utilize I-370 East, which also connects to I-95 North. Although this seems relatively straightforward, traffic conditions can impact travel time.

Cost Analysis

  1. Fuel Calculation:

    • Average MPG of a typical vehicle: 25 miles per gallon.
    • Total miles: 39 miles.
    • Estimated gallons needed: 39 miles / 25 MPG = 1.56 gallons.
    • Estimated fuel cost: 1.56 gallons x $3.40 per gallon = $5.30.

  2. Tolls:
    This route also does not incur tolls.

After considering both distance and cost, the I-270 South to I-95 North route emerges as the best option. The estimated fuel cost is competitively low at $5.44 with no tolls included. Although the MD-200 option is cheaper at $4.35 plus tolls, the total ($5.85) makes it less appealing in terms of simplicity and time. The I-270 route provides a more straightforward drive, especially during peak traffic hours.

Travel Tips

  1. Plan for Traffic: Baltimore has notoriously heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours. If possible, aim to travel mid-morning or early afternoon to avoid congestion.

  2. Carpool to Save Costs: If traveling with friends or family, consider carpooling. It decreases fuel costs per person and enhances the travel experience.

  3. Use a Navigation App: Utilize GPS navigation or traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to monitor real-time traffic conditions and receive updates on the fastest routes.

  4. Keep an Eye on Gas Prices: Use apps or websites that track fuel prices to find the best deals on gas along your route. Filling up before your trip or before heading back home can lead to significant savings.

Conclusion

In summary, the journey from Derwood to Baltimore spans approximately 40 miles and offers three main routes to consider. When assessing the cost based on current gas prices, the I-270 South route stands out as the most efficient and affordable option with an estimated fuel cost of $5.44. Expect the trip to take around 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic, ensuring a practical option for travelers looking to explore Baltimore while keeping an eye on their budget. Safe travels!