The Cost of Traveling Between Boardman, Ohio and Saint Augustine, Florida

If you are planning a road trip from Boardman, Ohio, to Saint Augustine, Florida, you are in for an amazing driving experience as you cross six states. However, before starting your journey, it is important to estimate a budget for gas, accommodation, food, and other expenses. This article will focus on the cost of gas and the different routes available from Boardman to Saint Augustine.

Gas Prices

To calculate the fuel cost, we need to know the average gas price in the United States and the amount of gas the car consumes per mile. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the national average price of regular gas on June 2021 was $3.05 per gallon. However, prices can vary depending on the region, state taxes, and demand.

Assuming a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, we can use the following formula to calculate the fuel cost for the distance:

Fuel cost = (distance ÷ miles per gallon) × gas price per gallon

For example, if the distance between two points is 100 miles, and the car gets 25 miles per gallon, with a gas price of $3.05 per gallon, the fuel cost will be (100 ÷ 25) × 3.05 = $12.20.

Now, let's apply this formula to the different routes from Boardman to Saint Augustine.

Route 1: The Fastest Way

The fastest and shortest route from Boardman to Saint Augustine is through Interstate 77 South and Interstate 95 South. This route is approximately 914 miles long, and it will take around 13 hours and 30 minutes to drive straight without any pit-stops. However, it is recommended to take a break at least every two or three hours to avoid fatigue and stretch your legs.

Using the gas cost formula, and assuming a gas price of $3.05 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for Route 1 is:

Fuel cost = (distance ÷ miles per gallon) × gas price per gallon

Fuel cost = (914 ÷ 25) × 3.05 = $111.56

Route 2: The Scenic Drive

If you are up for an adventure and have time to spare, you can take the scenic route through Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. This route is approximately 1,162 miles long and will take around 20 hours of driving time, not including pit stops. However, the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and Shenandoah Valley are worth the detour.

Using the formula for gas cost, and assuming a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3.05 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for Route 2 is:

Fuel cost = (distance ÷ miles per gallon) × gas price per gallon

Fuel cost = (1,162 ÷ 25) × 3.05 = $141.92

Route 3: The Coastal Road

Another popular and scenic route from Boardman to Saint Augustine is through the eastern coast of the United States, passing through Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Savannah, and Jacksonville. This road trip is approximately 1,062 miles long and will take around 17 hours of driving time, assuming no pit stops.

Using the formula for gas cost, and assuming a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3.05 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for Route 3 is:

Fuel cost = (distance ÷ miles per gallon) × gas price per gallon

Fuel cost = (1,062 ÷ 25) × 3.05 = $130.54

Route Recommendation

Out of the three routes mentioned above, the fastest and most direct route, Route 1, is the most cost-effective in terms of fuel cost. However, if you have time to spare and want to enjoy the scenery and attractions along the way, Route 3 is a great option, although it will come at an additional cost.

Conclusion

Planning a road trip from Boardman, Ohio, to Saint Augustine, Florida, requires careful budgeting and route planning, especially with fuel prices constantly fluctuating. By estimating the fuel cost using the formula for gas cost, and choosing the most appropriate route based on your preferences and time constraints, you can have a memorable and cost-effective road trip. In total, the route from Boardman to Saint Augustine will take around 13 to 20 hours, depending on the chosen route, and cost approximately $111 to $141 in fuel costs. Remember to pack enough snacks, drinks, and entertainment to make the trip more enjoyable. Happy traveling!