The Cost of a Trip between Blacksburg, Virginia and Columbia, South Carolina

Gas prices can greatly impact the cost of a road trip, making it essential to plan ahead and consider various routes. If you are traveling between Blacksburg, Virginia, and Columbia, South Carolina, this article will guide you through the potential routes and their associated costs. Taking into account the distance, gas prices, and other factors, we will recommend the most cost-effective route for your journey.

Route 1: I-81 and I-77 via Charlotte, NC

The first route we will explore is the one that utilizes the Interstate-81 (I-81) and Interstate-77 (I-77), passing through Charlotte, North Carolina. This route offers a relatively direct path from Blacksburg, Virginia, to Columbia, South Carolina.

The driving distance between Blacksburg and Columbia via this route is approximately 290 miles, which takes around 5 hours of driving. However, the cost of gas is a significant consideration, depending on the prevailing gas prices.

To estimate the cost of the trip, we need to calculate the number of gallons of gas required for the journey and multiply it by the current gas price. Taking into account average gas mileage (approximately 25 miles per gallon), the total number of gallons needed is around 11.6 (290 miles / 25 miles per gallon). If the current gas price is $2.50 per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this route is approximately $29 (11.6 gallons * $2.50 per gallon).

Route 2: I-81 and I-77 via Charlotte, NC (Using the Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway)

For those looking to enjoy a scenic drive and explore beautiful landscapes, an alternative to Route 1 is to take the Blue Ridge Parkway, an iconic scenic road that winds through the Appalachian Mountains. This road offers breathtaking views and provides an opportunity for a memorable journey.

However, it is important to note that taking the Blue Ridge Parkway will increase the driving distance. From Blacksburg, Virginia, to Columbia, South Carolina, the total mileage using this route is around 337 miles. The estimated travel time is approximately 7 hours due to the winding nature of the scenic road.

Considering the gas mileage (25 miles per gallon), the total number of gallons needed for this extended route is approximately 13.5 (337 miles / 25 miles per gallon). If the current gas price is $2.50 per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this alternative route is around $34 (13.5 gallons * $2.50 per gallon).

Route 3: I-81, I-77, and I-26 via Asheville, NC

Another possible route is to take I-81 and I-77 but then continue on I-26 through Asheville, North Carolina, before reaching Columbia, South Carolina. This route offers a slightly different journey and provides an opportunity to explore the charming city of Asheville along the way.

The driving distance between Blacksburg, Virginia, and Columbia, South Carolina, via this route is approximately 350 miles. With an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, the total number of gallons required is around 14 (350 miles / 25 miles per gallon). Considering a gas price of $2.50 per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this route is approximately $35 (14 gallons * $2.50 per gallon).

Route 4: I-77 and I-20 via Charlotte, NC

Our final route recommendation is to travel on I-77 but then divert onto I-20 after reaching Columbia, South Carolina. This route is the shortest in terms of driving distance, making it an appealing option for those who prioritize reaching their destination as quickly as possible.

The driving distance between Blacksburg and Columbia via this route is approximately 230 miles, taking around 4 hours of driving time. With an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, the total number of gallons needed is approximately 9.2 (230 miles / 25 miles per gallon). Assuming a gas price of $2.50 per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this route is around $23 (9.2 gallons * $2.50 per gallon).

Recommended Route: Route 4 (I-77 and I-20 via Charlotte, NC)

Considering both the driving distance and the cost of gas, Route 4 (I-77 and I-20 via Charlotte) is the most cost-effective option for the trip between Blacksburg, Virginia, and Columbia, South Carolina. It minimizes both the time spent on the road and the amount spent on gas.

If reaching your destination quickly while minimizing costs is your priority, this is the recommended route. It offers a driving distance of approximately 230 miles, which can be covered in around 4 hours. With a gas price of $2.50 per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this route is approximately $23.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice of the best route between Blacksburg, Virginia, and Columbia, South Carolina, depends on factors such as gas prices, available time, and personal preferences. While Route 1 (via Charlotte) offers a balanced option in terms of distance and cost, those looking for a scenic drive might prefer Route 2 (via Blue Ridge Parkway). Similarly, Route 3 (via Asheville) provides the opportunity to explore an additional city along the way.

However, for most travelers, Route 4 (via Charlotte and I-20) is the recommended route due to its shorter distance and lower gas costs. It covers approximately 230 miles in around 4 hours of driving, with an estimated gas cost of $23 (based on a gas price of $2.50 per gallon). By choosing this route, you can maximize both time efficiency and cost-effectiveness for your trip between Blacksburg and Columbia.