Driving from Bay City to Portland: The Cost Analysis based on Current Gas Prices

Embarking on a long road trip can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. Whether it’s traveling for leisure or running errands, knowing the cost of driving can help you plan and budget for expenses ahead of time. To help you decide the best route, we’ve compiled a cost analysis for driving from Bay City, Michigan to Portland, Maine based on the current cost of gas prices.

Route 1: The Northern Route

If you prefer scenic routes, the northern route is an option to consider. Starting from Bay City, you’ll head north on I-75 towards Sault Ste. Marie. Once you reach the Canadian border, you’ll take Trans-Canada Highway 17 east until you reach the Trans-Canada Highway 11. Follow this until you hit the I-95, where you’ll continue south towards Portland.

Distance: 1,286 miles

Time: 25 hours and 15 minutes

Gas prices: Based on the current price, it will cost you approximately $192 for gas.

Toll prices: $30

Route 2: The Eastern Route

If you prefer to stick to major highways, the eastern route is a quicker option. From Bay City, head east on I-69 until you reach I-94. Follow I-94 until you reach I-196 in Michigan. This will lead you to Grand Rapids, where you’ll take US 131 to Kalamazoo. From Kalamazoo, take I-94 east towards Detroit. Once you reach Canada, take the Ambassador Bridge to Windsor and follow the signs to the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Once in the US, take I-90 east through Buffalo, Akron, and Cleveland. Follow the signs for I-81 towards Watertown and Syracuse. Once in Syracuse, take the I-90 east towards Portland.

Distance: 1,223 miles

Time: 20 hours and 48 minutes

Gas prices: Based on the current price, it will cost you approximately $184 for gas.

Toll prices: $63

Route 3: The Southern Route

If you prefer a southern route, you’ll head south on I-75 towards Toledo. From there, take the I-80 east towards Youngstown, then follow the I-76 east towards Harrisburg, where you’ll get on the I-83 north towards Harrisburg. Then follow the signs for I-81 north towards Scranton. Once in Scranton, take the I-84 east towards Hartford and continue on until you reach the I-90 towards Portland.

Distance: 1,215 miles

Time: 21 hours and 17 minutes

Gas prices: Based on the current price, it will cost you approximately $182 for gas.

Toll prices: $90

Final Thoughts

Before setting off on your long drive, it’s crucial to check your car’s health and take all necessary precautions. While the trip may seem costly, it’s important to remember that gas prices can fluctuate, and the prices listed are based on current averages. With these cost analyses, you can pick the best and most affordable option for your long drive from Bay City to Portland. Stay safe, have fun, and enjoy the journey!