Driving Cost from Boston, Massachusetts to Virginia Beach, Virginia

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The Cost of a Road Trip from Boston, Massachusetts to Virginia Beach, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Boston, Massachusetts to Virginia Beach, Virginia? Before you hit the road, it’s important to plan your route and estimate the costs to ensure a smooth journey. This article will provide an overview of the different possible routes, their distances, and their costs based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-95S

The most direct and commonly driven route between Boston and Virginia Beach is via I-95S. The total distance of this route is approximately 550 miles, and it takes around 9 hours to complete the trip non-stop.

According to AAA’s Fuel Gauge Report, the average gas price in Massachusetts is $2.60 per gallon, and in Virginia, the average gas price is $2.18 per gallon. Assuming an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, and that a car’s gas tank can hold around 15 gallons, the estimated cost of gas for the trip (one-way) is around $70.

In addition to gas, drivers will need to consider other potential expenses such as tolls. Along the I-95 corridor, there are several toll roads in states like Delaware and Maryland. Tolls can significantly add up, so it’s important to factor them in when planning your trip. For example, one-way toll costs from Boston to Virginia Beach via I-95S could be around $20.

Route 1 Total Cost Estimate:

  • Gas: $70
  • Tolls: $20

Estimated Total Cost of Route 1: $90 (one-way)

Route 2: I-84W and I-81S

An alternative route to consider is via I-84W and I-81S. This route adds approximately 100 miles to the trip but allows drivers to avoid the heavily trafficked I-95 corridor.

The total distance of this route is around 655 miles, and it should take around 11 hours to complete the trip non-stop. Based on the same assumptions about gas mileage, gas prices, and a car’s gas tank size, the estimated cost of gas for the trip (one-way) is around $90.

Tolls are not a significant issue on this route, but drivers will need to factor in the potential costs of food and lodging if they plan on stopping overnight on the way. Lodging prices will vary depending on location and time of year, but food and drinks can be estimated at around $50 per day for a single traveler.

Route 2 Total Cost Estimate:

  • Gas: $90
  • Food and lodging: $50 per day

Estimated Total Cost of Route 2 (one-way, driving straight-through): $90

Estimated Total Cost of Route 2 (one-way, stopping overnight): $140 (estimate based on a single night stay)

Route 3: US-1S

If drivers want to take a scenic route with more opportunities to stop and explore along the way, US-1S is an option. This route hugs the Atlantic coast from Maine to Florida and passes through many charming towns and cities in the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions.

The distance for this trip would be around 800 miles, and it could take at least 15 hours to complete driving straight through. Gas costs for the trip (one-way) would be around $110, and food and lodging costs would also apply.

While US-1S is a beautiful route, it is not recommended for those looking to save time or money. The cost of gas alone would be significantly more than the I-95S route, and multiple overnights would be required.

Route 3 Total Cost Estimate:

  • Gas: $110+
  • Food and lodging: $50 per day

Estimated Total Cost of Route 3 (one-way, stopping overnight): $200+ (estimate based on multiple night stays)

Overall, the I-95S route is the most practical and economical option for drivers traveling between Boston and Virginia Beach. While there may be toll costs, it is the shortest and most direct route, and the cost of gas is the lowest. Taking I-84W and I-81S can save drivers some of the traffic and tolls associated with I-95S, but the longer distance and potential costs associated with food and lodging could make it a more expensive option depending on your needs.

No matter the route, it’s important to factor in extra costs for food, lodging, tolls, and any activities you plan on doing during your trip. Always plan ahead, and budget appropriately to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Conclusion

A road trip from Boston, Massachusetts to Virginia Beach, Virginia can be an exciting adventure. Depending on your budget and timeframe, there are different routes to choose from with varying distances and costs. The recommended route is always the one that fits your needs best, balancing cost and time to make the most out of your journey. If you plan carefully and budget appropriately for gas, tolls, and food, you can enjoy a fun and memorable road trip. Have a great trip!