The Cost of a Trip Between Bluefield, WV and Hartwell, GA Using Current Gas Prices
When planning a trip between Bluefield, West Virginia and Hartwell, Georgia, many factors come into play. One of the most significant factors, however, is the cost of gas. The rising prices can significantly increase the budget for road trips, causing travelers to opt for alternative routes or modes of transportation. This article will analyze the various routes between Bluefield, WV, and Hartwell, GA, and their associated gas costs to find the most budget-friendly option.
Popular Routes Between Bluefield, WV and Hartwell, GA
Route 1: Via I-81 S and I-85 S
This route covers a distance of approximately 383 miles, taking travelers through several cities, including Roanoke, Greensboro, and Spartanburg. The route begins on I-77 S, then onto I-81 S, and finally onto I-85 S. Drivers can expect to spend around six and a half hours driving this route.
Route 2: Via I-77 S and I-26 S
Covering an estimated 412 miles, this route takes drivers through Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville. The journey starts on I-77 S and then continues onto I-26 S. Motorists can expect to spend around seven hours driving this route.
Route 3: Via US-19 S and I-75 S
This route covers a distance of approximately 430 miles. It takes drivers through Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Atlanta. The journey begins on US-19 S and then onto I-40 W. From there, drivers will take I-75 S until they reach their destination. The estimated driving time for this route is around seven and a half hours.
Cost of Gas
The cost of gas is one of the essential factors for planning a road trip. Gas prices vary from state to state and city to city. According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in West Virginia is $2.81 per gallon, while the average gas price in Georgia is $2.87 per gallon. To estimate the cost of gas for this trip, the car's fuel efficiency needs to be determined. Let us assume the car gets 30 miles per gallon (mpg). The following table shows the estimated gas cost for each route:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Number of Gallons | Cost of Gas (West Virginia) | Cost of Gas (Georgia) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-81 S and I-85 S | 383 | 12.77 | $35.89 | $36.68 |
| I-77 S and I-26 S | 412 | 13.73 | $38.40 | $39.46 |
| US-19 S and I-75 S | 430 | 14.33 | $40.18 | $41.09 |
Based on the above table, the estimated gas cost for each route ranges from $35.89 to $41.09, assuming a 30 mpg vehicle. It is essential to note that the actual gas cost may vary based on the car's overall fuel efficiency, driving habits, and other factors.
Choosing the Best Route
When it comes to selecting the best route, various factors come into play, such as the driving time, distance, and road conditions. Based on the estimated gas cost and distance, Route 1 is the cheapest option. However, the difference between the estimated gas cost for Route 1 and Route 3 is not significant, and the journey time is almost the same.
On the other hand, Route 2 is the longest, covering a distance of 412 miles. However, this route has its advantages, like avoiding the typical traffic of I-81 and I-85 during peak travel times.
Therefore, the recommended route depends on the travel priorities of the driver. If the goal is to find the cheapest option, Route 1 is an ideal choice. For those who want to avoid traffic, congestion, and toll roads, Route 3 is a fantastic option. Lastly, for those who don't mind spending more time on the road and want scenic trails, Route 2 is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the perfect route for a road trip depends on several factors- travel time, gas prices, and road conditions. For trips between Bluefield, West Virginia, and Hartwell, Georgia, drivers can choose one of the three routes mentioned above. Route 1, via I-81 S and I-85 S, is the cheapest, while Route 2, via I-77 S and I-26 S, is the longest but the most scenic. On the other hand, Route 3, via US-19 S and I-75 S, is an excellent option for avoiding traffic and toll roads. Regardless of which route is chosen, it is essential to ensure the vehicle is in excellent condition, and the driver is well-rested before hitting the road. Drive safely, and enjoy the journey!