The Cost of a Trip from Allentown, Pennsylvania to College Park, Maryland: A Guide

Are you planning a trip between Allentown, Pennsylvania and College Park, Maryland? One of the most important factors to consider is the cost of transportation. With gas prices fluctuating frequently, it's essential to know the different possible routes and their costs. In this guide, we'll discuss the cost of a trip from Allentown to College Park based on the current gas prices, including various routes, their distance, and calculate the total cost of each route.

Possible Routes

There are generally three main routes travelers opt for when driving from Allentown, Pennsylvania to College Park, Maryland. These routes differ in terms of distance, traffic, and cost.

Route 1: Pennsylvania Turnpike/Interstate 70

The first route takes you through the Pennsylvania Turnpike and then via Interstate 70. This route is around 179 miles and could take you between 3 and 4 hours depending on traffic. In most cases, you'll encounter moderate traffic once you are close to Baltimore. This route's toll cost is around $13.50, and the gas cost will vary depending on your vehicle's fuel economy and gas price.

Route 2: I-83 S

The second route involves taking Interstate 83 south towards Baltimore, and then eastward towards College Park. This route is 146 miles long and could take you around 2 and a half to 3 hours, depending on traffic. There are no tolls on this route, and the gas cost is estimated to be between $21 to $24, again depending on fuel economy and gas price.

Route 3: US-15 S and I-270 S

The third route takes you along US-15 South and I-270 South. This route is approximately 165 miles, and the estimated time of travel is around 3 hours, depending on traffic. This route is a bit longer than the previous routes, but it does offer scenic views for travelers. There are no tolls on this route, and the gas cost is expected to be between $26 to $30.

Recommended Route

Based on the above route analysis, it's clear that route 2, which involves taking Interstate 83 south, is the most practical route in terms of cost, distance, and time. The route is also free from tolls, reducing the overall cost of the trip. Moreover, the route is relatively free of traffic, making it a hassle-free journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Allentown, Pennsylvania to College Park, Maryland, can vary depending on the route you choose. The three main routes that we've analyzed will provide you with varied experiences and costs. But based on our evaluation, we recommend the second route, which involves taking the Interstate 83 South route. It's cost-friendly, has a moderate traffic situation, and takes a relatively shorter time. Remember, the gas prices fluctuate frequently, and hence the calculations made above are based on the current market trends. Additionally, always ensure that you factor in variables such as your vehicle's fuel economy, the number of passengers, and luggage when making your budget. With these factors considered, you can enjoy your trip from Allentown to College Park while sticking to your budget.