The Cost of a Road Trip from Blacksburg, VA to Rochester, NY
One of the best ways to travel between Blacksburg, Virginia and the City of Rochester, New York is by car. While there are other modes of transportation like planes or buses, driving gives you a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the country and to experience the journey. However, before embarking on this journey, it's important to consider how much it will cost. In this article, we will cover the costs associated with such a trip based on current gas prices.
Different Possible Routes
There are several routes one can take when traveling from Blacksburg, VA to Rochester, NY. Each of these routes has its own advantages and disadvantages, including the distance and cost of the trip. Here are some of the most common routes:
Route 1: Via I-77 N and I-80 E
The first and most direct route is via I-77 N and I-80 E. This route has a distance of about 505 miles and takes slightly over 8 hours to complete. The advantage of this route is that it is the fastest, so you will arrive at your destination quicker. However, this route has several tolls that will cost you, like the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The total cost for the tolls is around $55.35.
Route 2: Via I-81 N and I-80 E
This route covers a distance of about 525 miles and takes approximately 9 hours to complete. It's slightly longer than the first route. However, you will save about $32.35 in toll fees. This route is recommended for those who wish to enjoy the scenic beauty of Shenandoah Valley.
Route 3: Via I-79 N and I-90 E
The third route has a distance of 630 miles and takes approximately 10.5 hours to complete. The route is longer, but there aren't many tolls along the way which will help you save money. The downside of this route is that it takes longer, making it more suitable for those who like long drives and enjoy road trips.
Cost Analysis
Now that we know the different possible routes, let's talk about the cost associated with each one. The main expenses for road trips include gas, tolls, and lodging expenses.
Gas Expenses
One of the most significant expenses during road trips is gas. When traveling from Blacksburg, VA to Rochester, NY, you'll need about 12.7 gallons of gas. The average price of gas per gallon is currently $2.44, which means you can expect to spend around $31.00 for gasoline. However, this is just an estimation and depends on the type of car you're driving and the gas prices at the time of your trip.
Tolls
As mentioned earlier, the first route has several tolls that will cost you around $55.35. On the other hand, the second route will cost you $23, while the third route has around $8 in toll fees. While tolls can be expensive, some states have discount programs for drivers who frequently travel through toll roads. It's important to consult websites or maps that show the toll fees for specific routes.
Lodging Expenses
It's important to factor in the cost of lodging when planning a road trip. Depending on the route you're taking, you might need to spend a night or more in a hotel or a lodge. It's recommended to book accommodation ahead of time to save money and to ensure that you have somewhere to stay. The cost of lodging varies from place to place, but an average of $100 per night is a good estimate.
Total Cost
Based on the estimates above, the cost for each route is:
- Route 1: $123.35
- Route 2: $154.00
- Route 3: $147.00
Best Route
When choosing the best route, it's important to consider various things, like your budget, the time you have and what you'd like to experience during the trip. If you value time over cost, the first route is the best option. On the other hand, if you don't mind spending more time on the road and would like to enjoy the scenic beauty, route 2 or 3 is the best. If you want to save on tolls, it's recommended to take route 3.
Conclusion
The trip from Blacksburg, VA to Rochester, NY via car can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to budget and plan accordingly. The cost will depend on various factors like the route taken, gas prices and the cost of lodging. After analyzing the routes and their costs, it's clear that there's no one size fits all while choosing between the different routes. It heavily depends on the specific needs and requirements of the traveler. Whichever route you choose, remember that it's important to enjoy the journey and create unforgettable memories.