The Cost of a trip between Athens, Tennessee and Montpelier, Vermont

As the summer approaches, many families are planning their next summer road trip. However, with the current gas prices, some may be hesitant about the cost of their trip. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between Athens, Tennessee, and Montpelier, Vermont, and highlight their cost and distance. We will also recommend the best route for budget-savvy travelers.

The Routes

Route 1: I-81 N and I-87 N

The first route option is to take Interstate 81 North and then Interstate 87 North. This route will take you through Virginia, New York, and then Vermont. The distance is approximately 1,100 miles, and it will take approximately 17 hours, without stops.

Route 2: I-40 E and I-81 N

A second route option is to take Interstate 40 East, and then switch to Interstate 81 North until you reach your destination. This route will take you through Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The distance is approximately 950 miles, and it will take approximately 15 hours, without stops.

Route 3: I-75 N and I-64 E and I-81 N

The third route option is to take Interstate 75 North, and switch to Interstate 64 East, until you reach Interstate 81 North. This route will take you through Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The distance is approximately 1,050 miles, and it will take approximately 16 hours, without stops.

Route 4: I-75 N and I-77 N and I-64 E and I-81 N

The fourth route option is to take Interstate 75 North, and switch to Interstate 77 North, until you reach Interstate 64 East. Then, switch to Interstate 81 North. This route will take you through Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The distance is approximately 1,100 miles, and it will take approximately 17 hours, without stops.

The Costs

Calculating the cost of a road trip is not an easy task. The main cost driver is gasoline, which can vary greatly depending on location and demand. However, assuming an average cost of $2.75 per gallon, and a car with an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, we can estimate the cost per route.

Route 1: I-81 N and I-87 N

Assuming a total distance of 1,100 miles with an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, this route would require approximately 44 gallons of gasoline. At our assumed price of $2.75 per gallon, the total cost of gasoline would be approximately $121.

Route 2: I-40 E and I-81 N

Assuming a total distance of 950 miles with an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, this route would require approximately 38 gallons of gasoline. At our assumed price of $2.75 per gallon, the total cost of gasoline would be approximately $105.

Route 3: I-75 N and I-64 E and I-81 N

Assuming a total distance of 1,050 miles with an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, this route would require approximately 42 gallons of gasoline. At our assumed price of $2.75 per gallon, the total cost of gasoline would be approximately $116.

Route 4: I-75 N and I-77 N and I-64 E and I-81 N

The Recommended Route

Based on our analysis, the best route based on cost and distance is Route 2: I-40 E and I-81 N. It is the shortest and requires the least amount of gasoline, meaning it will cost the least. While it is not the most direct route, the difference in time is relatively small, and the savings in cost outweigh any inconvenience.

Conclusion

The cost of a road trip between Athens, Tennessee, and Montpelier, Vermont, differs based on the chosen route. Route 2: I-40 E and I-81 N is the best option, not only in terms of cost, but also in terms of distance and time. Keep in mind that this cost estimation is based on assumptions of fuel economy and price per gallon, and actual prices may vary. Nonetheless, with Route 2, budget-savvy travelers can take a road trip without breaking the bank. Drive safe, and enjoy the journey!