Driving Cost from Duncan, South Carolina to Buffalo, New York

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The Cost of a Road Trip from Duncan, South Carolina to Buffalo, New York: Planning Your Journey Based on Current Gas Prices

Embarking on a road trip from Duncan, South Carolina, to Buffalo, New York, offers both scenic routes and varied costs. Understanding the routes available, their respective distances, and the impact of current gas prices enables you to plan an economical and enjoyable journey. As of October 2023, the average price of gasoline is about $3.50 per gallon, so knowing your route and vehicle efficiency can help you budget effectively.

Overview of the Trip

Traveling from Duncan to Buffalo covers a distance of approximately 600 miles. You'll find two primary route options: the Interstate 85 (I-85) to Interstate 79 (I-79) route and the Interstate 385 (I-385) to Interstate 77 (I-77) route. Each route offers its advantages, including scenery, travel time, and associated costs.

Route 1: I-85 to I-79

Distance and Travel Time

The first route, which takes you via I-85 N and I-79 N, measures around 600 miles and typically requires about 9 to 10 hours of driving time without significant stops. This option leads through Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and finally into Pennsylvania before reaching Buffalo.

Key Stops and Attractions

  • Greenville, SC: Known for its lovely downtown area.
  • Charlotte, NC: A vibrant city with entertainment and dining options.
  • Charleston, WV: The capital city of West Virginia offers beautiful riverfront views.
  • Pittsburgh, PA: A cultural hub with museums and notable architecture.

Fuel Costs

If your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you will consume approximately 24 gallons of gas over this route. With gas priced at $3.50 per gallon, expect to spend around $84 on fuel.

Route 2: I-385 to I-77

Distance and Travel Time

The alternative route via I-385 N and I-77 N runs slightly longer, approximately 610 miles, and usually requires about 10 to 11 hours of travel time. This route traverses South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and into Maryland before reaching Pennsylvania and eventually Buffalo.

Key Stops and Attractions

  • Spartanburg, SC: A city rich in history and culture.
  • Salisbury, NC: Notable for its historic architecture and downtown vibe.
  • Roanoke, VA: A gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its stunning views.
  • Harrisburg, PA: The state capital, featuring museums and attractive parks.

Fuel Costs

Assuming the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, this route will require approximately 24.4 gallons of gas. The fuel cost for this journey will be about $85.40.

Side-by-Side Comparison of Routes

Route Distance (Miles) Travel Time (Hours) Key Stops Fuel Cost
I-85 to I-79 600 9 - 10 Greenville, Charlotte, Charleston, Pittsburgh $84
I-385 to I-77 610 10 - 11 Spartanburg, Salisbury, Roanoke, Harrisburg $85.40

Additional Cost Factors

In addition to gasoline, several other costs can affect your trip budget:

Tolls

Both routes may include tolls, especially through certain highways in Pennsylvania, depending on your chosen paths. Keep in mind to factor in around $20-$30 for potential toll fees.

Meals and Snacks

Calculate about $50-$100 for food, depending on your eating choices. Fast food may be economical, while trying out diners or local restaurants may increase your budget.

Lodging

If you plan to break the trip into two days, overnight accommodations will add to your cost. Expect to spend anywhere from $80 to $150 per night, depending on the type of lodging you secure.

Vehicle Wear and Tear

Long road trips also incur maintenance costs such as tire wear, brakes, and oil changes. While these costs might not be directly calculated for this trip, consider budgeting an extra $50-$100 for wear and tear as a precaution.

After weighing both routes, taking the I-85 N to I-79 N route emerges as the best choice. Not only is it slightly shorter, but it also flows through some charming Southern regions and offers numerous attractions along the way. With a total projected cost of approximately $84 for gas, alongside the potential tolls, food, and lodging costs, you can expect an economical trip without sacrificing enjoyment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Duncan, South Carolina, to Buffalo, New York, typically spans about 600 miles and requires around 9 to 10 hours of driving. By taking the I-85 to I-79 route, you can efficiently control your travel budget while exploring various appealing sites along the way. Overall, with an estimated fuel cost of around $84 and some consideration for additional expenses, your journey can be both an adventure and a manageable trip. Prepare well, and enjoy the ride!