The Cost of a Trip between Athens, Tennessee and Middlesex, New Jersey

Introduction

Planning a trip can be an exciting experience, but it's essential to consider the expenses associated with your journey. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, understanding the cost of transportation is crucial. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Athens, Tennessee, and Middlesex, New Jersey, focusing primarily on gas prices. We will delve into the different potential routes, highlighting the cost and distance of each one, and ultimately recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Current Gas Prices

Before discussing the specific routes and costs, let us first take a look at the current gas prices. As of September 2021, the average gas price in the United States is around $3.19 per gallon. It's important to note that gas prices may fluctuate depending on various factors such as region, time of year, and global events. It's always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date gas prices before your trip.

Route 1: The Direct Route via I-81 N and I-78 E

The most direct route between Athens, Tennessee, and Middlesex, New Jersey, involves taking I-81 N and I-78 E. This route has a total distance of approximately 729 miles and takes around 11 hours and 30 minutes without traffic. To calculate the cost of gas, we need to consider two main factors: the distance traveled and the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, we can estimate the number of gallons needed for the journey:

Gallons = Distance / Fuel Efficiency

Gallons = 729 miles / 25 miles per gallon
Gallons = 29.16 gallons

Multiplying the number of gallons by the average gas price, we get the cost of gas for this route:

Cost = Gallons * Gas Price

Cost = 29.16 gallons * $3.19 per gallon
Cost ≈ $93.00

Therefore, the estimated cost of gas for the direct route is approximately $93.00.

Route 2: The Scenic Route via I-40 E and I-95 N

If you're looking for a more scenic drive, an alternative route could be taken via I-40 E and I-95 N. This route adds some extra mileage to the journey but offers beautiful views along the way. The total distance for this route is approximately 797 miles, taking around 12 hours and 30 minutes without traffic.

Using the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, we can calculate the required gallons of gas:

Gallons = Distance / Fuel Efficiency

Gallons = 797 miles / 25 miles per gallon
Gallons ≈ 31.88 gallons

Multiplying the number of gallons by the average gas price, we find the estimated cost of gas for this route:

Cost = Gallons * Gas Price

Cost = 31.88 gallons * $3.19 per gallon
Cost ≈ $101.77

Therefore, the estimated cost of gas for the scenic route is approximately $101.77.

Route 3: The Economical Route via US-411 N and I-81 N

For those seeking a more economical option, a route via US-411 N and I-81 N could be a suitable choice. This route offers a shorter distance but may take a bit longer due to slower speed limits and lesser-known roads. The total distance for this route is approximately 708 miles, taking around 11 hours and 15 minutes without traffic.

Following the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, we can determine the gallons of gas required:

Gallons = Distance / Fuel Efficiency

Gallons = 708 miles / 25 miles per gallon
Gallons = 28.32 gallons

Using the average gas price, we can calculate the estimated cost of gas for this route:

Cost = Gallons * Gas Price

Cost = 28.32 gallons * $3.19 per gallon
Cost ≈ $90.33

Therefore, the estimated cost of gas for the economical route is approximately $90.33.

Recommendation: The Best Route

After analyzing the different routes and their associated costs, we can confidently recommend the most efficient option. Considering both distance and cost, the economical route via US-411 N and I-81 N proves to be the most favorable choice. With a distance of 708 miles and an estimated gas cost of around $90.33, this route offers a balance between saving money and reaching your destination efficiently.

While the direct route via I-81 N and I-78 E may seem like the most straightforward option, the additional miles can significantly impact the overall cost. The scenic route via I-40 E and I-95 N offers beautiful views but comes with the highest gas cost due to the increased distance traveled.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Athens, Tennessee, and Middlesex, New Jersey, heavily relies on gas prices and the chosen route. Considering the current average gas price of around $3.19 per gallon, we have explored three potential routes and their associated costs. The direct route via I-81 N and I-78 E has a gas cost of approximately $93.00, the scenic route via I-40 E and I-95 N has a gas cost of approximately $101.77, and the economical route via US-411 N and I-81 N has a gas cost of approximately $90.33.

Based on distance, efficiency, and cost, we recommend opting for the economical route. With a distance of 708 miles and an estimated gas cost of about $90.33, this offers the most cost-effective option without considerably increasing the travel time. Whether you're embarking on a road trip for leisure or business purposes, understanding the cost of transportation can help you plan and budget accordingly. Safe travels!