"Calculating the Cost of Driving from Bethlehem, PA to Grafton, MA"
Planning a road trip can be exciting, but it's important to budget for the expenses that come with it. Gas prices and toll fees can add up quickly, so it's helpful to know the cost of driving from one destination to another. To give you an idea of what to expect, we've put together some information on the cost of driving from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to Grafton, Massachusetts.
Route 1: Via I-476 N and I-90 E
The first route is the most direct way to get to Grafton from Bethlehem. It covers approximately 320 miles and takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes without traffic. Here is the breakdown of the cost:
- Gas prices: According to GasBuddy, the current average gas price in Pennsylvania is $2.59 per gallon, while in Massachusetts, it's $2.85 per gallon. Assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon, you would need 12.8 gallons of gas for the trip. The total cost for gas would be $33.19.
- Tolls: You'll encounter two tolls on this route. The first toll is $7.90 for the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and the second toll is $15.60 for the Massachusetts Turnpike. The total cost for tolls would be $23.50.
The total cost for this route would be $56.69.
Route 2: Via I-78 E and I-495 N
The second route is slightly longer than the first, covering approximately 350 miles and taking around 6 hours without traffic. Here is the breakdown of the cost:
- Gas prices: Again, using GasBuddy's current average prices, you would need 14 gallons of gas for this trip. The total cost for gas would be $36.26.
- Tolls: There is one toll on this route, which cost $9.40 for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension.
The total cost for this route would be $45.66.
Route 3: Via I-81 N and I-84 E
The third route is the longest, covering approximately 400 miles and taking around 7 hours and 30 minutes without traffic. Here is the breakdown of the cost:
- Gas prices: With the same assumptions about gas prices and mileage, you would need 16 gallons of gas at a total cost of $41.59.
- Tolls: There are no tolls on this route.
The total cost for this route would be $41.59.
Conclusion
When planning a road trip, it's essential to factor in the cost of gas and tolls. In this case, the most direct route is also the most expensive due to the tolls. Route 3 may take a bit longer, but it's the most cost-effective way to get to Grafton from Bethlehem. Whatever route you choose, make sure to have fun and stay safe on your journey!