The Cost of a Trip from Dumont, NJ to Bloomfield, NJ: Navigating Routes and Gas Prices

Traveling between Dumont and Bloomfield, New Jersey, can be a pleasant journey, but understanding the costs associated with the trip, especially when it comes to fuel expenses, is essential. With current gas prices fluctuating, it pays to plan your route wisely. This article explores various routes, their distances, and the costs associated with each, helping you make an informed decision for your travel.

Overview of Dumont to Bloomfield Trip

The distance from Dumont, NJ, to Bloomfield, NJ, generally ranges from approximately 20 to 23 miles, depending on the route taken. The time it takes to travel between the two towns varies as well, typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, contingent on traffic and route selection. Current gas prices in New Jersey average around $3.25 per gallon, but prices may vary slightly depending on the specific gas station or municipality.

Calculating the cost of the trip means considering your vehicle's mileage, as well. The average fuel economy for most vehicles is about 25 miles per gallon (mpg). Therefore, you will have to factor in the distance of your chosen route and these gas prices to assess your expected fuel cost.

Route Options

Let’s take a closer look at the most common routes between Dumont and Bloomfield, weighing both distance and cost.

Route 1: Via Garden State Parkway (GSP)

The primary route between Dumont and Bloomfield involves taking Route 4 East to Garden State Parkway (GSP).

• Distance: Approximately 20 miles
• Estimated Drive Time: About 30 minutes (without heavy traffic)
• Gas Cost:
  • Total distance: 20 miles
  • Fuel needed: 20 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 0.8 gallons
  • Cost: 0.8 gallons × $3.25 = $2.60

This route is straightforward and typically the quickest, provided that there is moderate traffic. Travelers enjoy a smooth drive along the parkway, which often results in less stop-and-go traffic.

Route 2: Via NJ-17 and I-280

Another viable option is traveling via NJ-17 South to I-280 East.

• Distance: Approximately 21 miles
• Estimated Drive Time: About 40 minutes (again, without heavy traffic)
• Gas Cost:
  • Total distance: 21 miles
  • Fuel needed: 21 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 0.84 gallons
  • Cost: 0.84 gallons × $3.25 = $2.73

This route offers a bit more city driving and potential traffic around the intersections, particularly near Paramus and Newark. However, it is a valid route to consider if you encounter heavy congestion on the parkway.

Route 3: Via Local Roads

For a more scenic experience, consider taking local roads through towns like Hackensack and Newark.

• Distance: Approximately 22 miles
• Estimated Drive Time: About 50 minutes (variable based on traffic conditions)
• Gas Cost:
  • Total distance: 22 miles
  • Fuel needed: 22 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 0.88 gallons
  • Cost: 0.88 gallons × $3.25 = $2.86

This route is the longest in terms of distance and time. While it may provide a more enjoyable experience, expect more traffic lights, potentially leading to a longer drive.

Summary of Costs and Recommendations

Route	Distance	Estimated Time	Fuel Cost
Via Garden State Parkway	20 miles	30 minutes	$2.60
Via NJ-17 and I-280	21 miles	40 minutes	$2.73
Via Local Roads	22 miles	50 minutes	$2.86

Based on the analysis of these routes, the recommended route is via the Garden State Parkway (Route 1). This route minimizes both the time spent on the road and the cost of gas, making it the most efficient choice when traveling between Dumont and Bloomfield. The smooth drive along the parkway also offers a more enjoyable travel experience, especially during peak traffic hours.

Consideration of Additional Costs

While gas is a primary expense to consider, it is also wise to account for other potential costs that may arise during your trip:

1. Tolls: Some routes might involve tolls, particularly when using the Garden State Parkway. It is necessary to check for current toll rates to include these in your calculations.

2. Parking: If you are planning to stop in Bloomfield, consider parking fees at your destination. Various parking lots may charge a fee, and this can vary based on the area.

3. Incidentals: Don’t forget to account for other incidental expenses such as food or beverages if you plan to make stops along the way or in Bloomfield.

4. Vehicle Maintenance: While this may not be a trip-specific cost, ensure your vehicle is in good working condition to avoid breakdowns and unexpected repair fees.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dumont to Bloomfield provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of New Jersey while also running errands or visiting friends. Opting for the most efficient route via the Garden State Parkway offers not only the shortest travel time but also minimizes your fuel expenses. The trip typically lasts about 30 minutes under good traffic conditions, yielding a fuel cost of approximately $2.60, making this a uniquely affordable and enjoyable journey. Always stay updated on traffic conditions and fuel prices to ensure you have the best travel experience possible.