The Cost of a Road Trip: Blacksburg, Virginia to City of Corning, New York
Are you considering embarking on a road trip from Blacksburg, Virginia to the City of Corning, New York? Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, it is essential to have a plan in place, including your budget. In this article, we will explore the different routes you can take and the cost of fuel to help you plan your trip and save on expenses.
Route Options
There are a few different options for routes you can take on your trip from Blacksburg to Corning. The most direct route is typically taking I-81 and I-86. The total distance is 411 miles, and it takes approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes.
Another option is to take the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is a scenic route that takes you through the mountains of western Virginia and North Carolina. This route is beautiful but significantly longer, with a total distance of 591 miles and an estimated travel time of 11 hours.
If you prefer a more coastal route, you can take I-95 and I-87. This route takes you through the eastern seaboard of the United States, passing through cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City. While this route offers city scenery, it is the longest route with a total distance of 677 miles and an estimated travel time of 11 hours and 50 minutes.
Fuel Costs
The cost of fuel is a critical consideration when budgeting for a road trip. Gas prices vary depending on where you fuel up and the current market. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Virginia is $2.91 per gallon, and in New York, it is $3.12 per gallon.
Using these prices as a baseline, we can estimate the cost of fuel for each of the different routes.
Taking the direct route of I-81 and I-86, assuming a car with a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the total fuel cost would be approximately $51.96 for the trip.
Taking the Blue Ridge Parkway route, assuming a car with a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the total fuel cost would be approximately $74.64 for the trip.
Taking the I-95 and I-87 route, assuming a car with a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the total fuel cost would be approximately $86.32 for the trip.
These calculations are based on driving non-stop and fueling up only at the beginning of the trip. However, it is essential to account for potential stops, detours, and fluctuating gas prices.
Budget-Friendly Tips
There are several tips you can consider to save on expenses during your road trip from Blacksburg to Corning.
Bring snacks and water: Pack snacks and water in a cooler to avoid buying overpriced food and drinks at gas stations or rest stops.
Plan for free activities: Research free activities in the cities you plan to visit along the way. For example, many museums offer free admission on certain days or evenings.
Use coupons: If you plan to eat at restaurants along your route, look for coupons online or in travel brochures.
Consider carpooling: If you are traveling with friends or family, consider carpooling to split fuel costs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a road trip from Blacksburg, Virginia to the City of Corning, New York, can be a fun and exciting adventure. There are a few different routes you can take, each with varying costs and distances. The most direct route is typically cheaper, but the longer coastal route can offer city scenery. Additionally, it is essential to consider the cost of fuel and budget-friendly tips to save on expenses. Plan your route, pack your snacks, and enjoy the journey!