Driving Cost from Baltimore, Maryland to McLean, Virginia

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The Cost of a Trip Between Baltimore, Maryland and McLean, Virginia: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're planning a trip from Baltimore, Maryland to McLean, Virginia, you may wonder how much it will cost you. Several factors can affect the trip's cost, including the transportation method, route, and fuel prices. In this article, we'll explore these factors and provide recommendations for the best route to take.

Transportation Methods

The most common transportation methods for this trip include driving, taking a bus, or using a ride-sharing service. Of these, driving is the most convenient and flexible option, allowing you to stop whenever you want and control your schedule. Taking a bus or ride-sharing service may be more cost-effective, especially if you're traveling alone and don't want the hassle of driving yourself.

Possible Routes

Depending on the route you choose to take, the distance and cost of the trip will vary. Here are three possible routes from Baltimore to McLean:

Route 1: I-95 S and I-495 W

This route takes you through Washington, D.C., so it may not be the best option if you're trying to avoid traffic. However, it is the shortest route at approximately 50 miles and should take about one hour and fifteen minutes to drive.

Here's an estimate of the cost of driving this route, assuming an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $2.50 per gallon:

  • Fuel cost: $10
  • Toll (on I-495 W): $1

Total Cost: $11

Route 2: MD-200 W and I-495 W

This route requires the use of a toll road, which adds to the overall cost of the trip. However, it avoids the traffic of Washington, D.C. and is only slightly longer than Route 1, at approximately 55 miles. This route should take about one hour and twenty minutes to drive.

Here's an estimate of the cost of driving this route:

  • Fuel cost: $11
  • Toll (on MD-200 and I-495 W): $5

Total Cost: $16

Route 3: I-70 W and I-270 S

This route takes you further west, away from the metropolitan area, and therefore may be less congested. However, it is the longest of the three routes, at approximately 60 miles, and should take about one hour and thirty minutes to drive.

Here's an estimate of the cost of driving this route:

  • Fuel cost: $12
  • No tolls

Total Cost: $12

Best Route

Of the three possible routes, the best option depends on your priorities. If you want to avoid traffic, Route 2 may be the best option for you, as it skips the D.C. area entirely. However, if you are looking for the shortest distance and time, Route 1 may be the best option.

However, we recommend taking Route 3, the I-70 W and I-270 S route. While it is slightly longer, it is also the least expensive option, and you'll be able to avoid the traffic of the metropolitan area. Additionally, there are no tolls along this route, which can save you extra money.

Conclusion

When planning a trip from Baltimore to McLean, the most cost-effective method of transportation is driving. The trip's cost will depend on the route you choose, with Route 3 being the least expensive option due to the lack of tolls. We recommend taking this route to avoid traffic and save some extra money. Overall, the trip should take approximately one hour and thirty minutes.