Driving Cost from Dunn, North Carolina to Duncan, South Carolina

A picture depicting a gas pump

Exploring the Cost of a Road Trip from Dunn, North Carolina to Duncan, South Carolina: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a road trip is an exciting adventure, but understanding the costs involved is crucial for a smooth experience. This article breaks down the expenses associated with a trip from Dunn, North Carolina, to Duncan, South Carolina, focusing primarily on gas prices and various routes available for this journey. With varying distances and costs, travelers can choose the route that best fits their budget and time constraints.

Overview of the Trip

Before diving into the specifics, let’s establish the basics for this journey. Dunn, NC, and Duncan, SC, are approximately 230 miles apart when traveling by road. The duration of the trip can vary based on the chosen route and traffic conditions. Currently, the average gas price in North Carolina hovers around $3.50 per gallon, while South Carolina sees slightly lower prices at about $3.30 per gallon. These price variations can impact the overall cost of your trip.

Possible Routes

There are several routes for traveling from Dunn, NC, to Duncan, SC. Here, we’ll consider the three primary routes based on distance, travel time, and overall cost.

Route 1: I-95 South and I-26 West

Distance and Time

  • Distance: Approximately 240 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Description

This route takes you south on I-95, passing through Fayetteville before transitioning onto I-26 West. This option provides a smooth drive with less traffic, particularly outside of peak hours. Along the way, travelers can enjoy scenic views and a straight-forward roadway experience.

Cost Calculation

Assuming your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon, here’s the cost calculation for this route:

  • Miles to Drive: 240 miles
  • Gallons of Gas Needed: 240 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 9.6 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Cost: 9.6 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $33.60

Route 2: US-301 South to I-95 South

Distance and Time

  • Distance: Approximately 230 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Description

This route leads you south on US-301 before connecting with I-95 South. Though it’s shorter than Route 1, it involves more local roads, which can result in slower speeds due to traffic and intersections, especially near urban areas.

Cost Calculation

Let’s break down the costs for this option:

  • Miles to Drive: 230 miles
  • Gallons of Gas Needed: 230 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 9.2 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Cost: 9.2 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $32.20

Route 3: I-40 West to I-26 South

Distance and Time

  • Distance: Approximately 250 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 4.5 hours

Description

The I-40 West route offers a more indirect approach but provides scenic mountain views as it takes you toward Charlotte before connecting with I-26 South. While picturesque, this route involves a longer distance and more extended travel time compared to Route 1 and Route 2.

Cost Calculation

Here’s a breakdown of the costs using this route:

  • Miles to Drive: 250 miles
  • Gallons of Gas Needed: 250 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 10 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Cost: 10 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $35.00

Recommendations: The Best Route

After analyzing the three routes based on distance, time, and cost, Route 2 (US-301 South to I-95 South) emerges as the best option. This route not only has the shortest travel distance at 230 miles, but it also offers an estimated fuel cost of $32.20, making it the most economical choice.

Travelers looking for a quicker trip with less hassle will appreciate the blend of local roads and major highways afforded by this route. Moreover, the journey can be enjoyable, providing opportunities to stop at quaint towns along the way.

Additional Travel Expenses

While gas is often the most significant expense when budgeting for a road trip, consider other potential costs that might add up:

  • Food and Snacks: Plan for meals during the trip. If traveling for four hours, quick snacks or a sit-down meal might be required, which can add an additional $10 to $30 depending on dining preferences.

  • Rest Stops: If you plan to take breaks, be aware of associated costs like coffee or restroom facilities.

  • Car Maintenance: Make sure your car is tuned up before hitting the road. Factor in the possibility of needing unexpected maintenance during your trip.

Conclusion

In summary, traveling from Dunn, North Carolina, to Duncan, South Carolina, presents several route options with varying costs and travel times. The recommended Route 2 via US-301 South and I-95 South offers a balance of efficiency and cost-effectiveness, totaling about $32.20 in fuel expenses for a 230-mile journey. With a travel duration of roughly 4 hours, this route allows for a pleasant driving experience while being mindful of your budget. Enjoy your road trip!