The Cost of a Trip Between Barnstable, Massachusetts and Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania: A Comparison of Routes

Introduction

Planning a trip from Barnstable, Massachusetts to Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania? One of the key factors in your journey will undoubtedly be the cost of travel. As gas prices fluctuate and travel expenses rise, it is essential to consider the most economical route while still ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between these two destinations, highlighting the cost and distance of each one. Buckle up, as we embark on a cost-conscious adventure!

Route 1: The Direct Path (I-95 S and I-295 S)

The most straightforward route from Barnstable to Bloomsburg is to take the direct path, primarily utilizing I-95 S and I-295 S. This route spans approximately 439 miles and avoids major detours or diversions. However, it is essential to note that this route may not always be the most cost-effective option due to various factors such as tolls and high gas prices in certain states. Let's break it down!

Gas Prices

To estimate the cost of gas for this route, we need to know the average gas mileage and current gas prices. Assuming your vehicle delivers 25 miles per gallon (mpg), and the current gas price is $2.50 per gallon, we can calculate the approximate cost of gas as follows:

Total gas cost = (Total distance / Vehicle mpg) * Gas price per gallon
              = (439 miles / 25 mpg) * $2.50
              = $43.90

Tolls

Tolls can significantly impact the overall cost of your trip. Unfortunately, this route includes several tolled sections, primarily in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. Here are the tolls you should consider:

Bourne Bridge (Bourne, Massachusetts): $1.25 for passenger vehicles.
George Washington Bridge (New York, New York): $16 for passenger vehicles.
Delaware Memorial Bridge (New Castle, Delaware): $5 for passenger vehicles.

Total Cost

Considering both the gas cost and toll fees, the total cost of this route amounts to:

Total cost = Gas cost + Toll fees
           = $43.90 + $1.25 + $16 + $5
           = $66.15

Route 2: The Scenic and Cost-Effective Detour (I-195 W and I-84 W)

If you're seeking a more scenic and potentially cost-effective route, diverting from the direct path could be an intriguing option. By taking I-195 W and I-84 W, you can experience picturesque landscapes and potentially save on toll costs. However, it's important to consider the additional distance and time required for this diversion.

Gas Prices

Using the same assumptions of 25 mpg and $2.50 per gallon, let's calculate the gas cost for this route.

Total gas cost = (Total distance / Vehicle mpg) * Gas price per gallon
              = (482 miles / 25 mpg) * $2.50
              = $48.20

Tolls

One of the advantages of this detour is the reduced number of toll roads. However, there are still a few tolls to consider along the way:

Bourne Bridge (Bourne, Massachusetts): $1.25 for passenger vehicles.
Newport Bridge (Newport, Rhode Island): $4 for passenger vehicles.

Total Cost

Taking into account the gas cost and toll fees, the total cost of this route is:

Total cost = Gas cost + Toll fees
           = $48.20 + $1.25 + $4
           = $53.45

Route 3: The Scenic and Toll-Free Experience (MA-6 W, MA-2 W, and I-476 S)

If you have more time on your hands and prefer to avoid toll roads altogether, this route might be the one for you. By combining MA-6 W, MA-2 W, and I-476 S, you can enjoy beautiful scenery while potentially saving some money on tolls.

Gas Prices

Similar to the previous calculations, with an assumed gas mileage of 25 mpg and a gas price of $2.50 per gallon, we can estimate the gas cost for this route.

Total gas cost = (Total distance / Vehicle mpg) * Gas price per gallon
              = (502 miles / 25 mpg) * $2.50
              = $50.20

Tolls

By steering clear of major toll roads, this route provides a toll-free experience!

Total Cost

Considering only the gas cost, the total cost of this route is:

Total cost = Gas cost
           = $50.20

Recommending the Best Route

After comparing the three routes, we can conclude that:

Route 1 (I-95 S and I-295 S) has a total cost of $66.15, including gas cost and toll fees.
Route 2 (I-195 W and I-84 W) has a total cost of $53.45, including gas cost and toll fees.
Route 3 (MA-6 W, MA-2 W, and I-476 S) has a total cost of $50.20, covering gas cost only.

Based on the total cost and other factors such as distance and time, Route 3 seems to be the most cost-effective option. With no toll fees involved, this route offers the advantage of saving a considerable amount of money compared to the other routes.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from Barnstable, Massachusetts to Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania demands careful consideration of the cost. Based on an analysis of the different routes, it is recommended to opt for Route 3 (MA-6 W, MA-2 W, and I-476 S) to ensure a cost-conscious journey. By avoiding toll roads, you can save a significant amount of money, resulting in a total cost of $50.20 for gas only.

Remember, the cost of gas and toll fees may vary depending on actual market prices and any updates in toll rates. It is always advisable to consult current information before embarking on your trip. Safe travels!