Gas Prices: The Cost of a Trip between Blythewood, SC and Charleston, SC

As you plan your trip from Blythewood, SC to Charleston, SC, one of the key considerations on your mind will be cost. Driving to Charleston can take anywhere from two and a half to three hours, depending on the route you take, and understanding the different routes and how gas prices will impact your decision is an important part of planning. In this article, we will explore the various options for driving from Blythewood to Charleston, breaking down the distance, costs, and benefits of each route.

Route 1: I-20 East to I-26 East (122 miles)

This is the most direct and straightforward route to Charleston and will take you through some of the more populous parts of South Carolina. From Blythewood, you will get on I-20 East and take it all the way to Columbia before connecting to I-26 East. Once on I-26, you will continue straight until you reach downtown Charleston.

The cost of gas for this route will depend on current gas prices, but you can estimate the cost based on the distance. If we assume a price of $2.50 per gallon, and your car has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, it will cost you about $29 to make this trip.

Route 2: SC-215 and I-77 South to I-26 East (149 miles)

If you are looking for a more scenic route that will take you off the main highways and through some of the rural areas of South Carolina, this may be the option for you. From Blythewood, you will take SC-215 South to Winnsboro before connecting to I-77 South. Once on I-77, you will continue straight until you reach Columbia, then connect to I-26 East to Charleston.

Since this route is longer, it will also be more expensive in terms of gas. Using the same fuel efficiency and gas prices as before, this route will cost around $36.

Route 3: US-176 and I-26 East (142 miles)

This route will take you through some small towns and suburbs of Columbia, but with a shorter distance than route 2. From Blythewood, you will take US-176 to Columbia, connecting to I-26 East once you reach the city.

The cost of gas for this route will be slightly less than route 2, but more than route 1. At $2.50 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the total cost for gas is around $34.

Route 4: I-77 South to I-20 East to I-26 East (133 miles)

This route involves taking I-77 South from Blythewood to Columbia and then connecting to I-20 East before connecting to I-26 East.

The cost of gas for this route is close to route 3, at around $33.

Route Recommendation: I-20 East to I-26 East

In terms of cost and distance, the most cost-effective and direct route to Charleston is Route 1. With a distance of 122 miles and an estimated cost of $29 in gas, it's a no-brainer for those on a budget.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of a trip from Blythewood, SC to Charleston, SC will depend largely on gas prices and the route you choose. With four different routes to choose from, it's important to consider not just the cost, but also the distance and scenery you want to take in during your journey. If you're looking for a straightforward route that takes you through more populous areas, Route 1 is the clear choice. However, if you want to take a more scenic and relaxed journey that will take you through some of the rural areas of South Carolina Route 2 may be best for you. Regardless of which route you choose, with an estimated travel time of two and a half to three hours, there is plenty to see and do along the way.