The Cost of a Trip from Boston, Massachusetts to Portsmouth, New Hampshire

As gas prices continue to fluctuate, it's important to consider the cost of transportation when planning a trip. Boston to Portsmouth can be a popular route for those seeking a weekend getaway, but the price of travel can vary greatly depending on the mode of transportation and the route taken. In this article, we'll explore the cost of different travel options and provide recommendations for the most affordable route.

Route Options

There are generally two main routes to get from Boston to Portsmouth: I-95 North or Route 1 North. Both routes have their pros and cons in terms of cost and distance.

I-95 North

The most direct route would be to take I-95 North, which is approximately 55 miles and takes about an hour by car. This route is a toll road, with a toll fee of $6.50 each way, so the total cost for a round trip would be $13.00. The cost of gas would also have to be factored in, based on the current gas prices in the area.

Route 1 North

Another option is to take Route 1 North, which is approximately 70 miles and takes about an hour and a half by car. This route is not a toll road, so there would be no additional toll fees. However, it is a longer route and may require more gas depending on the mileage of the car.

Transportation Options

Once the preferred route has been decided upon, it's important to choose the best mode of transportation. There are several options available, each with their own cost and convenience.

Car

Driving a personal car is a popular choice for many travelers, as it offers control over the route and schedule. However, the cost of gas and any toll fees must be considered, as well as parking fees at the destination. The average cost of gas in the Boston area is currently $2.70 per gallon, and the average cost in New Hampshire is $2.60 per gallon. Based on the mileage of the car and the chosen route, the cost of gas for a round trip to Portsmouth can range from $10 to $20.

Bus

Several bus companies operate routes between Boston and Portsmouth, with a one-way fare costing between $10 and $20 depending on the company and time of day. This can be a more affordable option for those without access to a personal car, and provides the convenience of not having to worry about driving or parking. However, the schedule may be limited and the travel time may be longer than driving.

Train

Amtrak operates a train route between Boston and Portsmouth, with a one-way fare costing between $22 and $45 depending on the time of day and type of ticket purchased. This can be a more comfortable and scenic option for travelers, but may also have limited schedules and longer travel times.

Recommended Route

Based on cost and convenience, we recommend taking Route 1 North by car. This route offers a more scenic drive and avoids any toll fees. While the distance may be longer than I-95, the cost of gas is likely to be lower due to the longer mileage and lower gas prices in New Hampshire.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Boston to Portsmouth can vary greatly depending on the chosen route and mode of transportation. Taking Route 1 North by car is our recommended option, as it offers a more affordable and scenic drive without any additional toll fees. Based on the current gas prices and mileage, the cost of gas for a round trip can range from $10 to $20. Overall, the trip should take approximately an hour and a half each way, allowing for plenty of time to enjoy all that Portsmouth has to offer.