Trip Cost Analysis: Dumont to East Brunswick Township, NJ Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Dumont, New Jersey, to East Brunswick Township can be a rewarding journey, but understanding the costs associated with the trip is essential for budget planning. The primary expense for most road trips involves fuel, so analyzing different routes and calculating gas prices can provide valuable insights. This article will break down several routes, their costs, and distances based on current gas prices.
Overview of the Journey
Dumont, located in Bergen County, is approximately 25 miles north of East Brunswick Township, situated in Middlesex County. The drive takes you through various parts of North and Central New Jersey, allowing for scenic views and opportunities to explore local attractions. We'll consider several routes while calculating the expected expenses based on the current average gas price in New Jersey, which, as of October 2023, hovers around $3.50 per gallon.
Route Options
Route 1: Route 4 to I-95 South (Approx. 27 miles)
- Start on Route 4 heading west.
- Merge onto I-95 South.
- Continue on I-95 until you pick up I-287 South, which leads directly to East Brunswick Township.
Distance: 27 miles
Estimated Time: 45 minutes
Fuel Efficiency: Calculating for a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon, you will consume approximately 1.08 gallons of gas.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
- 1.08 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $3.78
Route 2: NJ-208 to Garden State Parkway South (Approx. 30 miles)
- Take NJ-208 South from Dumont.
- Merge onto Garden State Parkway South.
- Follow the Garden State Parkway south until you reach your exit for East Brunswick Township.
Distance: 30 miles
Estimated Time: 50 minutes
Fuel Efficiency: Again, using the same vehicle efficiency, you will need about 1.2 gallons of gas.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
- 1.2 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $4.20
Route 3: Local Roads via Route 17 South (Approx. 29 miles)
- Start by heading down Route 17 South.
- Continue until you intersect with I-287 South.
- Take I-287 to East Brunswick.
Distance: 29 miles
Estimated Time: 55 minutes
Fuel Efficiency: Consuming about 1.16 gallons of gas.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
- 1.16 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $4.06
Route 4: I-80 to I-287 (Approx. 35 miles)
- Head west towards I-80.
- Take I-80 East until you exit onto I-287 South.
- Proceed south on I-287 until reaching East Brunswick.
Distance: 35 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Fuel Efficiency: Consuming about 1.4 gallons of gas.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
- 1.4 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $4.90
Comparison of Routes
| Route | Distance (miles) | Time (minutes) | Fuel Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Route 4 to I-95 South | 27 | 45 | 3.78 |
| 2. NJ-208 to GSP South | 30 | 50 | 4.20 |
| 3. Local Roads via Route 17 | 29 | 55 | 4.06 |
| 4. I-80 to I-287 | 35 | 65 | 4.90 |
From the comparison table, Route 1 (Route 4 to I-95 South) emerges as the clear winner. It achieves the balance of being the shortest in distance and the least expensive in fuel costs. Although it takes a little longer than the fastest route, the savings in fuel and relatively short travel time make it the best choice.
Additional Factors to Consider
While fuel costs are a primary concern, several other factors can influence the total cost of your trip:
Tolls
Some routes may involve tolls, particularly when using the Garden State Parkway or I-95. Make sure to calculate the cumulative toll costs as they can add up quickly. Typically, expect to pay anywhere from $1 to $7 for tolls depending on your route.
Eating and Breaks
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of food and any breaks along the way. Depending on your preferences, this could range from quick snacks from a convenience store to a sit-down meal at a restaurant.
Vehicle Wear and Tear
Mileage could contribute to maintenance costs over time, so while not a direct factor in the trip, consider the wear on your vehicle, especially if you are planning frequent trips.
Seasonal Considerations
Driving conditions can adopt a different character based on the time of year. Snowy winter months may impose additional challenges, potentially extending travel time and fuel consumption if driving conditions worsen.
Conclusion
The drive from Dumont, NJ, to East Brunswick Township is not only scenic but also straightforward, particularly when taking the recommended Route 1 along Route 4 to I-95 South. This route covers approximately 27 miles and takes about 45 minutes, making it both economical and efficient. As learned, the cost of gas for this trip is estimated at around $3.78, providing an affordable travel option in a state where gas prices remain competitive. Whether you’re commuting for business or pleasure, this route offers the best of both worlds: a quicker route and lower fuel expense. Happy travels!