Driving Cost from Baltimore, Maryland to Cape May, New Jersey

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The Cost of a Trip Between Baltimore, Maryland and Cape May, New Jersey

Are you planning a trip between Baltimore, Maryland and Cape May, New Jersey? If so, you might be wondering about the cost of the journey. With fluctuating gas prices and various routes to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which option is the most cost-effective. In this article, we will break down the different possible routes, highlighting the costs and distances of each one, and recommend the best route to help you save both time and money.

Possible Routes

When traveling from Baltimore, Maryland to Cape May, New Jersey, there are several different routes you can take. Each route has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of distance, time, and cost. Let's explore the options:

Route 1: I-95 and DE-1

The first route is a common choice for many travelers. It involves taking Interstate 95 (I-95) northbound from Baltimore, Maryland, and then merging onto DE-1 South in Delaware. From DE-1, you can reach Cape May by crossing the Delaware Bay on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry.

  • Distance: Approximately 167 miles
  • Toll: $34 for a vehicle on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry (each way)
  • Total Cost: $68 (round trip)

Route 2: Route 50 and Route 404

The second route takes you through a scenic drive on Route 50 East from Baltimore, Maryland, into Delaware and then onto Route 404 East. From Route 404, you can take Route 9 South, leading you directly to Cape May.

  • Distance: Approximately 157 miles
  • Toll: $3 for the Chesapeake Bay Bridge (each way)
  • Total Cost: $6 (round trip)

Route 3: I-95 and Garden State Parkway

The third alternative involves taking I-95 northbound from Baltimore, Maryland, and then merging onto the Garden State Parkway in New Jersey. From the Garden State Parkway, you can take multiple turns to reach Cape May.

  • Distance: Approximately 161 miles
  • Toll: $8.25 for the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (each way) and additional tolls on the Garden State Parkway
  • Total Cost: Varies based on the number of tolls

Now that we have explored the different routes and their associated costs, let's compare them to determine which is the most cost-effective option.

Cost Comparison

To accurately compare the total cost of each route, we need to consider both the fuel costs and any tolls incurred. Let's assume the current average gas price is $2.70 per gallon, and the average fuel efficiency for a vehicle is 25 miles per gallon.

Route 1: I-95 and DE-1

  • Fuel Cost (round trip): 167 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.70 per gallon = $18.18
  • Toll: $68 (round trip)
  • Total Cost: $18.18 + $68 = $86.18

Route 2: Route 50 and Route 404

  • Fuel Cost (round trip): 157 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.70 per gallon = $16.97
  • Toll: $6 (round trip)
  • Total Cost: $16.97 + $6 = $22.97

Route 3: I-95 and Garden State Parkway

  • Fuel Cost (round trip): 161 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.70 per gallon = $17.38
  • Toll: Varies based on the number of tolls

As you can see from the cost comparison, Route 2 (Route 50 and Route 404) is the most cost-effective option, with a total cost of $22.97. Route 1 (I-95 and DE-1) is the most expensive option, with a total cost of $86.18, mainly due to the high ferry toll.

Now that we have determined the most cost-effective route, let's talk about the best route in terms of time and convenience.

Based on both cost and convenience, Route 2 (Route 50 and Route 404) is the recommended route for traveling between Baltimore, Maryland, and Cape May, New Jersey. Not only is it the most cost-effective option, as we discovered earlier, but it also provides a scenic drive and minimal toll costs. The journey via Route 2 takes approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions, making it an efficient way to reach your destination with reduced time spent on the road.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip between Baltimore, Maryland, and Cape May, New Jersey, it is essential to consider the cost of the journey. The most cost-effective option is Route 2 (Route 50 and Route 404), which incurs a fuel cost of approximately $16.97 and a toll of $6 (round trip). This scenic drive offers a pleasant experience and takes approximately 3 hours to complete, depending on traffic conditions. By following this recommended route, you can save both time and money, ensuring an enjoyable trip from Baltimore to Cape May.