Cost-Effective Travel: A Trip Between Dover, New Hampshire and Everett, Massachusetts Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling from Dover, New Hampshire to Everett, Massachusetts offers an engaging opportunity to explore New England’s charming towns and bustling cities. However, the trip's costs, particularly gas prices, can affect budget planning. In this article, we will dissect the possible routes, lay out their costs and distances, and recommend the most efficient path.

Overview of the Journey

The direct distance between Dover and Everett measures around 80 miles. However, various routes could alter this distance, and different factors can impact fuel costs, including vehicle efficiency and current gas prices. With gas prices fluctuating, it’s crucial to evaluate the potential cost for each route based on fuel efficiency and pricing at local gas stations.

Route Options

Route 1: I-95 S and I-93 S

• Distance: Approximately 80 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cost Analysis:
  • Gas Price: $3.50 per gallon (based on 2023 averages)
  • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon (average vehicle)
  • Total Gallons Needed: 80 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 3.2 gallons
  • Total Cost: 3.2 gallons × $3.50 = $11.20

Summary: Route 1 is the most direct path and likely the fastest. Although you may encounter light traffic in certain areas, this route primarily runs through highways, making it efficient for travel.

Route 2: NH-16 S to I-495 S

• Distance: Approximately 85 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Cost Analysis:
  • Gas Price: $3.50 per gallon
  • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total Gallons Needed: 85 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 3.4 gallons
  • Total Cost: 3.4 gallons × $3.50 = $11.90

Summary: Finding a balance between urban scenes and nature, this route provides scenic views along New Hampshire’s forests. However, the extra five miles mean slightly increased fuel costs.

Route 3: US-1 S

• Distance: Approximately 95 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Cost Analysis:
  • Gas Price: $3.50 per gallon
  • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total Gallons Needed: 95 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 3.8 gallons
  • Total Cost: 3.8 gallons × $3.50 = $13.30

Summary: This route offers a more leisurely travel experience but at a higher distance and travel time. The route runs through several coastal towns, making it an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the scenic views.

Route 4: I-93 S and MA-1 S

• Distance: Approximately 82 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Cost Analysis:
  • Gas Price: $3.50 per gallon
  • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total Gallons Needed: 82 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 3.28 gallons
  • Total Cost: 3.28 gallons × $3.50 = $11.48

Summary: Combining highway and city traffic, this option may provide slightly longer driving time, depending on conditions. Still, it’s an efficient route that avoids unnecessary diversions.

Recommended Route

After considering the distances, estimated driving times, and associated costs, Route 1 (I-95 S and I-93 S) emerges as the best option for the trip from Dover to Everett. This route strikes an excellent balance between distance and travel time, keeping the fuel costs reasonable at approximately $11.20.

Budgeting Your Trip: Additional Costs

While gasoline forms a substantial part of your travel budget, consider adding other potential costs such as food, tolls, and parking:

Food Costs

If you plan on stopping for food, expect to spend between $10 and $25 per person, depending on your preferences. Opting for quick-service restaurants will tend to be on the lower end of this scale, while sit-down dining will likely be on the higher end.

Tolls

Route 1 contains tolls, particularly if you use the I-95 and I-93 connectors through Massachusetts. Prepare to budget about $4.00 for tolls depending on exact routes and any additional stops. Check the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority's website for the latest toll rates as they can vary by entry and exit points.

Parking Costs

Once you arrive in Everett, parking will depend on your final destination. The cost ranges from $0 (if street parking is available) to $20 for parking garages, especially near busy commercial areas.

Travel Tips for Cost Cutting

1. Plan Your Fuel Stops: Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas along your route.
2. Drive Efficiently: Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel economy, reducing gas costs.
3. Carpool: Share the ride with friends or family to split gas expenses.
4. Travel Off-Peak: Avoid weekend traffic to save time and fuel.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dover, NH, to Everett, MA, is a journey enriched with potential experiences and scenic views. The recommended Route 1, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, balances time and cost, making it the most efficient choice. With a total estimated fuel cost of $11.20, the trip remains manageable on the budget, especially by planning for additional costs like food and tolls. Whether you aim for a leisurely adventure or a swift drive, this route offers an optimal balance for a satisfying road trip experience.