The Cost of a Trip between Bloomsburg and Slatington

With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it can be difficult to know how much a road trip will cost. This is especially true for longer distances, such as the trip between Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania and Slatington, Pennsylvania. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, their distances, and their costs based on current gas prices.

Route Options

There are various routes one can take from Bloomsburg to Slatington. The most direct route is via Interstate 80 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, while another option is to take state highways.

Option 1: Via I-80 and Pennsylvania Turnpike

The distance from Bloomsburg to Slatington via this route is approximately 96 miles, and it takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes without traffic. This route involves taking I-80 East towards Hazleton, Pennsylvania, and then taking the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension. After exiting the turnpike, drivers will come off of exit 74 at the interchange with PA Route 209 then Drive south on PA Route 209 till Slatington.

Option 2: Via State Highways

Another option to consider is taking state highways. This route involves taking State Route 42 North out of Bloomsburg and following it through Millville, Catawissa and eventually joining with State Route 487 North of Ransom. Continue on SR 487 to Bethlehem and then follow the signs to Slatington. This route is roughly 93.5 miles and takes 2 hours and 20 minutes without traffic.

Calculating the Cost of Gas

To calculate the cost of gas for a trip, we first need to know the distance of the route and the current gas prices. According to Gas Buddy, as of August 2021, the average price of gas in Pennsylvania is $3.15 per gallon.

To calculate the cost of gas, we will use an average car with a fuel efficiency rating of 25 miles per gallon (MPG). This means that the car can travel 25 miles using 1 gallon of gas. To calculate the total cost of gas for a particular route, we divide the distance of the route by the car's MPG rating and then multiply it by the current gas prices.

Let’s say that the distance between Bloomsburg and Slatington is 96 miles. For a car with a fuel efficiency rating of 25 MPG, the car will consume 3.8 gallons of gas (96 miles / 25 MPG = 3.84 gallons). At a gas price of $3.15 per gallon, the cost of gas for this route would be $11.97.

Using the same calculation, we can calculate the cost of gas for the state highways route, which is approximately 93.5 miles. For this route, a car with a fuel efficiency rating of 25 MPG would use 3.74 gallons of gas. At a gas price of $3.15 per gallon, the cost of gas for this route would be $11.79.

Analysis of Route Options

Both route options have similar costs and are relatively similar in distance and time. Option 1 is slightly more expensive but takes slightly less time. Option 2 is less expensive but takes slightly more time. Which route is the best for a driver will depend on their priorities.

Option 1 is the most direct route, making it ideal for drivers who value efficiency and time. However, drivers should be prepared to pay a higher cost for gas. Option 2 provides a more scenic route with smaller towns, making it a great option for drivers who value a leisurely drive with plenty of stops along the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a road trip from Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania to Slatington, Pennsylvania will vary depending on the route chosen and gas prices. Based on current gas prices, the cost of gas for each route is relatively similar. Option 1 (via I-80 and Pennsylvania Turnpike) is slightly more expensive but takes less time, while Option 2 (via state highways) is less expensive but takes more time. Ultimately, the best route will depend on the driver's priorities. Regardless of the route chosen, the drive will take approximately 2 hours and provide opportunities to see some beautiful sights and make cherished memories.