The Cost of a Trip Between Benson, NC and Kingsland, GA: Navigating Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip can be an exciting endeavor, but navigating the expenses can sometimes be overwhelming. One major cost to consider is the price of gas. With fluctuating gas prices, it's important to keep an eye on the expenses associated with your road trip. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Benson, North Carolina, and Kingsland, Georgia, focusing on different possible routes and their associated costs. By assessing current gas prices and distances, we aim to provide you with valuable information to make an informed decision about your route.

Determining Factors

Before diving into specific route options and costs, it's crucial to understand the factors that play a role in calculating the cost of gas for a road trip. The main elements that should be considered are:

Distance: The overall distance between the starting point and the destination directly influences the amount of gas needed for the trip.
Vehicle Fuel Efficiency: Different vehicles have varying fuel efficiency rates, impacting the amount of gas consumed per mile.
Current Gas Prices: Fluctuating gas prices have a direct impact on the cost of a road trip. It is important to consider the average gas prices at the time of planning.

Keeping these factors in mind, let's explore the different possible routes from Benson, NC to Kingsland, GA, along with their respective distances and associated costs.

Route 1: I-95 South

The first and most straightforward route is taking I-95 South for the entire trip. This route spans approximately 280 miles and offers a direct path from Benson to Kingsland. The fuel efficiency of your vehicle will be a significant factor in calculating the cost of this trip.

According to recent statistics, the average price of gas in North Carolina is $2.50 per gallon, while in Georgia, it stands at $2.45 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle runs at an average fuel efficiency of 28 miles per gallon, we can calculate the approximate cost of gas for this route.

Distance: 280 miles
Fuel Efficiency: 28 miles per gallon
Gas Price in North Carolina: $2.50 per gallon
Gas Price in Georgia: $2.45 per gallon

The total amount of gas required for the trip is calculated by dividing the distance by the fuel efficiency:

Total Gas Required = Distance / Fuel Efficiency
                 = 280 miles / 28 miles per gallon
                 = 10 gallons

To calculate the cost of gas, we multiply the total number of gallons required by the average gas price along the route:

Cost of Gas = Total Gas Required * Average Gas Price
           = 10 gallons * $2.50 per gallon
           = $25.00

Thus, taking Route 1 (I-95 South) would cost approximately $25.00 in gas expenses.

Route 2: Scenic Route via Coastal Highway

If you prefer a more scenic drive and have some extra time on your hands, you may consider taking the scenic route along the coast. This route involves taking Route 701 South from Benson to US-117 South, and then continuing on US-17 South until you reach Kingsland. While this route is longer than the previous one, it might offer beautiful coastal views.

The distance for this scenic route is approximately 325 miles. To calculate the cost of gas, we will use the same fuel efficiency rate of 28 miles per gallon.

Distance: 325 miles
Fuel Efficiency: 28 miles per gallon
Gas Price in North Carolina: $2.50 per gallon
Gas Price in Georgia: $2.45 per gallon

Total Gas Required = Distance / Fuel Efficiency
                 = 325 miles / 28 miles per gallon
                 = 11.61 gallons

Cost of Gas = Total Gas Required * Average Gas Price
           = 11.61 gallons * $2.50 per gallon
           = $29.03

Taking the scenic route via the coastal highway would cost approximately $29.03 in gas expenses.

Route 3: Hybrid Route

For those seeking a balance between scenic views and a slightly shorter trip, the hybrid route may be the ideal choice. This route involves taking I-40 East from Benson, NC, until you reach US-421 South. From there, continue on US-421 South until you reach Fayetteville, NC. Once in Fayetteville, take I-95 South to Kingsland, GA.

The overall distance for this route is approximately 305 miles. Considering a fuel efficiency rate of 28 miles per gallon, we can calculate the gas cost.

Distance: 305 miles
Fuel Efficiency: 28 miles per gallon
Gas Price in North Carolina: $2.50 per gallon
Gas Price in Georgia: $2.45 per gallon

Total Gas Required = Distance / Fuel Efficiency
                 = 305 miles / 28 miles per gallon
                 = 10.89 gallons

Cost of Gas = Total Gas Required * Average Gas Price
           = 10.89 gallons * $2.50 per gallon
           = $27.23

Taking the hybrid route would result in approximately $27.23 in gas expenses.

Recommendation: Best Route

Considering the cost-effectiveness and simplicity of the route, the recommended path is Route 1: I-95 South. With a total gas expense of $25.00, this route offers a direct journey from Benson, NC, to Kingsland, GA, spanning 280 miles. It is important to note that gas prices can vary slightly depending on the specific gas station and region, so it's advisable to check for real-time prices before embarking on your journey.

Conclusion

In summary, planning a road trip involves careful consideration of various factors, and the cost of gas is undeniably a significant one. In the case of a trip from Benson, NC, to Kingsland, GA, the recommended route is Route 1: I-95 South. With a distance of 280 miles and an estimated gas expense of $25.00 (based on current gas prices and assumed fuel efficiency), this route offers a direct and cost-effective journey. However, personal preferences and additional factors might influence your decision. Regardless of the chosen route, it's essential to drive safely and enjoy the adventure ahead.