The Cost of a Road Trip from Bensalem Township, PA to Fort Myers Beach, FL

As summer approaches, many people are eagerly planning their vacations. One popular destination for those craving relaxation and warmth is Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this beautiful beach town offers sandy shores, stunning sunsets, and vibrant nightlife. For residents of Bensalem Township, Pennsylvania, a road trip to Fort Myers Beach might be the perfect way to escape the routine and enjoy a memorable vacation. In this article, we will explore the various routes from Bensalem Township to Fort Myers Beach, focusing on the cost and distance of each option, and recommending the best route based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The I-95 Southway

If you prefer a more straightforward and direct route, taking the I-95 Southway is the way to go. This route typically takes around 17 hours, covering a distance of approximately 1,242 miles. As you leave Bensalem Township, Pennsylvania, you'll follow I-95 South through scenic areas such as the Delaware River and Chesapeake Bay. Then, you'll continue through various states, including Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and finally Florida. The main advantage of this route is its efficiency and relatively straightforward navigation.

When it comes to the cost of gas for this route, it's important to consider the current average gas prices. As of May 2021, the average price of regular unleaded gas in the United States is $3.00 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the total cost of gas for the trip would be approximately $149. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer not to put the wear and tear on your own vehicle, with rental prices varying depending on the type of vehicle and duration of the rental.

Route 2: The Eastern Seaboard Highway

For travelers seeking a scenic and coastal journey, the Eastern Seaboard Highway offers a delightful alternative. This route takes you along the beautiful eastern coastline, allowing you to enjoy stunning ocean views and charming coastal towns. While it does add some extra miles to your trip, the scenery and experience may well be worth it.

To take this route, you would start by driving south on I-95 just like in Route 1. However, once you reach Richmond, Virginia, you will veer east towards the coast, following highways such as US-17 and US-23. This will take you through cities like Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Myrtle Beach, allowing you to soak in the charming coastal vibes. From there, you will continue to drive south along the Atlantic coast until you reach Florida. The estimated distance of this route is around 1,420 miles, with a travel time of approximately 20 hours.

Considering the cost of gas, the additional miles on this route mean a higher fuel cost. With an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, and the current average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route would be around $171. While this may seem like a notable increase compared to Route 1, keep in mind that the breathtaking coastal views and potential stopovers at picturesque cities along the way can make the extra expense worthwhile.

Route 3: The Scenic Mountain Drive

For those who love the wilderness and prefer a more adventurous route, the Scenic Mountain Drive promises an awe-inspiring journey. This route takes you through the Appalachian Mountains, offering stunning vistas and the opportunity to connect with nature while on your way to Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

To embark on this route, you will initially follow I-95 South, just like in Route 1 and 2. However, once you reach Fredericksburg, Virginia, you will turn west onto I-64, heading towards the picturesque Shenandoah Valley. From there, you will connect with the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds through the mountain ranges of Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Once you reach the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can make your way towards Florida, passing through Georgia.

The distance covered on this route is approximately 1,400 miles, with a travel time similar to that of the Eastern Seaboard Highway. However, it's important to note that this route may take longer due to the slower speed limits on scenic parkways and potential stops to admire viewpoints or experience hiking trails. Thus, if time is of great concern, this route might not be the best choice.

In terms of cost, the total gas expense for this route would be similar to the Eastern Seaboard Highway, around $171. Bearing in mind that this route offers incredible mountain landscapes and the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, it might be an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a unique adventure.

Recommending the Best Route

After considering the three different routes from Bensalem Township, Pennsylvania, to Fort Myers Beach, Florida, it's time to make a recommendation based on current gas prices and the overall experience offered by each route. While the I-95 Southway may be the most straightforward and time-efficient route, it lacks the scenic beauty and unique experiences that the Eastern Seaboard Highway and Scenic Mountain Drive provide.

For travelers seeking a balance between efficiency and coastal views, the Eastern Seaboard Highway is an excellent option. Although the extra miles may increase the fuel cost slightly, the coastal scenery and the delightful experience of exploring charming towns make it a worthwhile choice.

However, if you crave adventure and are willing to invest more time into your journey, the Scenic Mountain Drive is the ultimate choice. The stunning views, unspoiled wilderness, and unforgettable experience of driving through the Appalachian Mountains make this route an exceptional option for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking for an extraordinary road trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the road trip from Bensalem Township, Pennsylvania, to Fort Myers Beach, Florida, offers multiple routes to choose from, each with its own advantages and appeal. The I-95 Southway provides efficiency and a direct path, with an estimated travel time of around 17 hours. The Eastern Seaboard Highway, while adding some extra mileage, offers stunning coastal views and the opportunity to explore charming towns along the way, with an estimated travel time of approximately 20 hours. Lastly, the Scenic Mountain Drive presents an adventurous route through the Appalachian Mountains, showcasing breathtaking vistas and a connection with nature, with a similar travel time as the Eastern Seaboard Highway.

Ultimately, the choice of route will depend on your personal preferences, time constraints, and willingness to explore new environments. No matter which route you choose, this road trip promises to be a memorable adventure, leaving you with countless stories to share and a newfound appreciation for the diverse landscapes the United States has to offer.