The Cost of a Trip between Barnegat Township and Manalapan Township: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices
Looking to take a trip from Barnegat Township to Manalapan Township in New Jersey? While the distance may not be too far, the cost of traveling can add up quickly. This guide will break down the different routes you can take and provide insight into the cost and distance of each one, as well as recommend the most practical and cost-effective option.
Route Options
There are several routes one can take to travel between Barnegat Township and Manalapan Township. Let's examine the most common ones:
Route 1: Garden State Parkway
The Garden State Parkway is the most popular route between these two townships. While it is a toll road, the convenience and time saved may justify the cost for some. This route begins in Barnegat Township and ends in Manalapan Township, with a distance of approximately 43 miles.
Route 2: Route 72 to Route 9
Another option is to take Route 72 to Route 9, which is a good option for those looking to avoid tolls. This option is a bit longer in distance, with a total of approximately 52 miles and takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Route 3: Route 539
Route 539 is another option, although it is not as popular due to the high amount of traffic and numerous stops. The total distance is around 51 miles, and the trip can range from an hour and a half to two hours, depending on traffic.
Calculating the Cost
Calculating the cost of travel is essential for creating an accurate budget. The cost of gas and potential tolls should be factored into your total expenses.
Traffic and Gas Prices
It is essential to review traffic and gas prices when planning any trip. Traffic can be unpredictable, so it's best to plan enough time in advance to avoid stress. Additionally, gas prices can vary, so one should research the average gas prices of the area around the travel dates.
Garden State Parkway
Taking the Garden State Parkway entails tolls. The total cost of this route will depend on the number of exits traveled, the time of day, and the vehicle's size. As of October 2021, the Garden State Parkway toll cost for a car or motorcycle is $1.50 at most exits and environmentally-friendly cars cost $1.10 at most exits. Typical car gas consumption ranges between 20-40 MPG. At the time of writing, the average gas price per gallon in the New Jersey area is $3.20. This means that the total cost of a Garden State Parkway trip for a typical car consuming 35 MPG would be between $7.91 and $10.34 for gas and $1.50 for tolls.
Route 72 to Route 9
Unlike the Garden State Parkway, Route 72 to Route 9 does not involve tolls. The average cost of gas in New Jersey is $3.20 per gallon, and the total distance of this route is approximately 52 miles. Traveling on a car with a 35 mpg range, the cost of gas will be approximately $10.34.
Route 539
Route 539 is cheaper than the Garden State Parkway, but it does have a few tolls ($1 at some stations, $1.70 for a standard car, and $1.30 for an environmentally-friendly car) and a slower travel time. If one takes this route, the cost of gas consumption will be around $10.08.
Our Recommendation
When looking at the cost and time involved in each option, Route 72 to Route 9 is the most cost-effective option at around $10 for gas and no tolls. This route is also more practical, as there is less traffic than on Route 539 and fewer tolls compared to the Garden State Parkway. This route is likely the best choice for those looking to budget their expenses while on their trip.
Conclusion
Overall, the cost of traveling between Barnegat Township and Manalapan Township depends on factors such as the route chosen, gas prices, and tolls. To help make informed decisions, be sure to plan travel times and factor in all expenses before taking a trip. Based on our analysis, Route 72 to Route 9 is the most practical and budget-friendly option for those traveling between these two locations. It is approximately 52 miles and will take around an hour and 20 minutes to arrive at your destination.