Driving Cost from Bethesda, Maryland to Raleigh, North Carolina

A picture depicting a gas pump

Road Trip from Bethesda, Maryland to Raleigh, North Carolina: Cost Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Bethesda, Maryland to Raleigh, North Carolina anytime soon? If so, you might want to start considering the cost of driving. After all, fuel prices fluctuate regularly and can quickly add up, especially if you’re taking a long trip.

To help you plan your trip more efficiently, we’ve put together this blog post outlining the different routes, distances, times, and costs for each one based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Taking I-95 South

The most direct route from Bethesda to Raleigh is taking I-95 South. This route covers approximately 296 miles and takes roughly 5.5 hours to complete.

Here’s a breakdown of costs based on current gas prices in July 2021:

  • Gas: Bethesda to Raleigh = 296 miles ÷ 25 mpg × $3.13 = $37.55
  • Tolls: $7.50 for the Fort McHenry Tunnel (if taking this route) or $11.40 for the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge

Total cost for Route 1: $45.95 - $49.05

Route 2: Taking I-81 South

If you’re looking for a more scenic route that avoids traffic, you can consider taking I-81 South instead. This route covers a longer distance of about 419 miles and takes roughly 7.5 hours to complete.

Here’s how much you’ll need to budget for this route based on current gas prices in July 2021:

  • Gas: Bethesda to Raleigh = 419 miles ÷ 25 mpg × $3.13 = $52.15
  • Tolls: none

Total cost for Route 2: $52.15

Route 3: Taking US-29 South

Another option for those who prefer a mix of urban and rural scenery is taking US-29 South. This route covers about 395 miles and takes roughly 7 hours to complete.

Here’s how much you’ll need to budget for this route based on current gas prices in July 2021:

  • Gas: Bethesda to Raleigh = 395 miles ÷ 25 mpg × $3.13 = $49.06
  • Tolls: none

Total cost for Route 3: $49.06

Route 4: Taking I-70 West and I-81 South

If you’re looking for an alternative to I-95 that won’t take you too far out of the way, you can consider taking I-70 West and then switching to I-81 South. This route covers about 415 miles and takes roughly 7.5 hours to complete.

Here’s how much you’ll need to budget for this route based on current gas prices in July 2021:

  • Gas: Bethesda to Raleigh = 415 miles ÷ 25 mpg × $3.13 = $51.58
  • Tolls: none

Total cost for Route 4: $51.58

Conclusion

While taking I-95 is the most direct route, it’s always worth considering other options based on gas prices, time, and personal preference. In this case, traveling via US-29 or I-81 can give you more scenic views, avoid tolls, and even save you a bit of money on gas. Whatever route you choose, planning your trip ahead of time can make all the difference. Safe travels!