Driving Cost from Durham, North Carolina to Chesapeake, Virginia

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The Cost of Driving from Durham, NC to Chesapeake, VA: How Current Gas Prices Impact Your Trip

Are you planning a road trip from Durham, North Carolina to Chesapeake, Virginia? Whether you’re heading for business or a weekend getaway, it’s essential to know the costs involved. One of the most significant factors driving up expenses is gas. Let’s break down the best routes, their distances, estimated travel times, and current gas prices to help you understand your overall trip costs.

Route 1: I-85 N and US-58 E

Distance: 164 miles
Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
Estimated Cost: $35.00 (including gas and tolls)

This popular route offers a straightforward drive. Starting on I-85 N, you’ll enjoy a smooth ride until you connect to US-58 E. This route is not only scenic but also relatively fast. Here’s the cost breakdown:

  • Gas Prices: As of now, the average gas price in North Carolina is about $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle gets around 25 MPG, you will need about 6.56 gallons for the trip.
  • Gas Cost: 6.56 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $22.96
  • Tolls: There are no major tolls for this route, so that keeps your costs down!

Overall, this route is great if you're looking for a quick, cost-efficient drive.

Route 2: I-40 E and I-95 N

Distance: 185 miles
Time: 3 hours
Estimated Cost: $40.00 (including gas and tolls)

Opting for I-40 E and then connecting to I-95 N adds a few extra miles but offers a different driving experience. This northeastern drive is packed with interesting sights along the way. Here’s what to expect with costs:

  • Gas Prices: The price of gas remains the same at around $3.50 per gallon. With the added distance, you’ll need about 7.4 gallons of gas.
  • Gas Cost: 7.4 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $25.90
  • Tolls: This route may include minor toll charges depending on your specific exit routes. Estimate $5.00 for tolls overall.

With a total of $30.90, you might find this drive worthwhile if you’re looking for a little scenic diversion.

Route 3: US-70 E and I-64 E

Distance: 215 miles
Time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Estimated Cost: $50.00 (including gas and tolls)

For those who don’t mind a longer ride, taking US-70 E and then I-64 E gives you an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of North Carolina and Virginia. Here’s the breakdown for this route:

  • Gas Prices: Sticking with the $3.50 per gallon average, you’ll use about 8.6 gallons of gas for this longer route.
  • Gas Cost: 8.6 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $30.10
  • Tolls: Similar to the previous route, you can expect road tolls adding about $5.00.

That brings your total to $35.10. If you’re not in a rush, this route has some picturesque views worth enjoying along the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning your driving cost from Durham, NC to Chesapeake, VA is essential for budget-conscious travelers. Choosing between these routes can help you save money, especially considering current gas prices. Route 1 offers the best balance of distance, time, and cost, but you can choose the other routes if you’re looking for a change of scenery or a bit of adventure. Remember to enjoy the journey ahead, and safe travels!