Driving Cost from Dover, New Hampshire to Cranston, Rhode Island

A picture depicting a gas pump

Budgeting Your Road Trip: The Cost of Traveling from Dover, New Hampshire to Cranston, Rhode Island in 2023

Planning a road trip can bring excitement and anxiety in equal measure. When mapping out your journey from Dover, New Hampshire, to Cranston, Rhode Island, understanding the various routes available, their distances, and the associated costs can help you make an informed decision. In this article, we will explore the potential routes and calculate the cost of gas based on current fuel prices, so you can anticipate how much you'll spend on your adventure.

Understanding the Route: A Journey Overview

You will need to travel approximately 98 miles to get from Dover to Cranston. Depending on your chosen route, you can expect the drive to take anywhere from 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. For road trip enthusiasts, it’s important to consider not only the distance but also the route’s scenery, rest stops, and, of course, the fuel cost.

Current Fuel Prices and Calculating Costs

As of October 2023, the average price of gasoline in New Hampshire sits around $3.60 per gallon, while the price in Rhode Island is slightly higher at approximately $3.75 per gallon. You can anticipate an average fuel economy of about 25 miles per gallon for a typical sedan. With this information, we can calculate the estimated cost of gas for each route.

Regarding fuel costs, here’s how to calculate the total:

  1. Distance of the trip: 98 miles.
  2. Miles per gallon (MPG): 25 MPG.
  3. Gas price: $3.60 (average for New Hampshire).

Total Gallons Needed: [ \text \div \text = 98 \div 25 = 3.92 \text ]

Estimated Cost: [ \text \times \text = 3.92 \times 3.60 \approx \text{$14.11} ]

This provides a baseline for estimating fuel expenses for your journey.

Route Options

Route 1: The I-95 South Route

One of the most direct paths from Dover to Cranston involves taking I-95 South. The distance is approximately 90 miles, and this route takes you through scenic stretches of the New England coastline.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Distance: 90 miles
  • Gallons Needed: [ 90 \div 25 = 3.6 ]
  • Estimated Cost: [ 3.6 \times 3.60 \approx \text{$12.96} ]

This route typically offers a travel time of around 1 hour and 50 minutes under normal traffic conditions. You get to enjoy beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and access to various exits along the route for food and rest breaks.

Route 2: The I-93 South and I-95 South Route

A slightly longer but potentially more scenic route involves taking I-93 South to I-95 South. This route runs through Boston and adds layers of charm and city-life energy to the journey. The distance is about 100 miles.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Distance: 100 miles
  • Gallons Needed: [ 100 \div 25 = 4 ]
  • Estimated Cost: [ 4 \times 3.60 = \text{$14.40} ]

This option offers a travel time of about 2 hours and 10 minutes, depending on traffic around Boston, particularly during peak hours.

Route 3: The New Hampshire and Massachusetts Scenic Driving Route

A third choice is taking the less conventional route that wanders through Massachusetts countryside towns via Route 4 and I-295. This brings you slightly off the beaten path but allows for a quieter drive with beautiful New England charm. The distance is approximately 110 miles.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Distance: 110 miles
  • Gallons Needed: [ 110 \div 25 = 4.4 ]
  • Estimated Cost: [ 4.4 \times 3.60 \approx \text{$15.84} ]

This alternative comes with a travel time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering a peaceful drive through rural landscapes.

While each of these routes has its unique appeal, I recommend taking I-95 South for the best combination of travel time, fuel efficiency, and accessibility to amenities. With a distance of only 90 miles and a fuel cost of roughly $12.96, this route balances efficiency and scenic enjoyment without wasting too much time on the road.

Planning Your Stops

Regardless of your chosen route, it's wise to plan for rest stops and food breaks. The I-95 South route offers numerous rest areas and quick-access food establishments, allowing you to stretch your legs and grab a bite easily. Take advantage of the various small coastal towns along the way, as they have a range of local eateries that exemplify New England’s culinary delights.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

  1. Check Traffic Conditions: Always check for traffic updates before heading out or while on your route to avoid delays.
  2. Plan for Weather: Given that New England weather can be unpredictable, check forecasts for rain or snow, which may affect travel plans.
  3. GPS & Mobile Apps: Use navigation apps to stay updated on your route’s traffic and possible detours to keep your trip enjoyable and efficient.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dover, New Hampshire, to Cranston, Rhode Island, can be a pleasant experience. The most efficient route via I-95 South offers a combination of reasonable gas costs and a scenic drive, taking approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach your destination. Whether you're enjoying the coastal scenery or planning to stop for a bite, this road trip promises an enjoyable journey through some of the most picturesque parts of New England. Safe travels!