The Cost of a Road Trip between Bowie, Maryland and Middletown, Pennsylvania

Are you planning a road trip from Bowie, Maryland, to Middletown, Pennsylvania? You may be curious about the cost of such a trip, including gas, food, and lodging. In this article, we will explore the different route options, including the distance and cost of each option, to help you budget and plan your trip.

Route Options

There are a few different routes you can take when driving from Bowie, Maryland, to Middletown, Pennsylvania. The most direct route is via I-270 N and I-70 W, which takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes to travel a distance of 112 miles. However, this route can be prone to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

Another option is to take I-495 W and I-270 N, which passes through the heart of Washington, D.C., and Frederick, Maryland. While this route is slightly longer at 123 miles and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, it can be more scenic and less prone to traffic congestion.

A third option is to take MD-97 N and MD-27 N, which takes you through a more rural area of Maryland and Pennsylvania. This route is the longest option at 128 miles but takes roughly the same amount of travel time as the previous two options.

Cost of Gas

Gas prices fluctuate based on many factors, including the state, season, and location of the gas station. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Maryland is $3.11 per gallon, while it is $3.18 per gallon in Pennsylvania. Therefore, calculating the cost of gas for a one-way trip between Bowie and Middletown will depend on the gas mileage of your vehicle as well as the route you choose to take.

Assuming your car gets an average of 25 miles per gallon and you choose the most direct route via I-270 N and I-70 W, you will need roughly 4.5 gallons of gas for the trip (112 miles / 25 miles per gallon). At the current gas prices mentioned above, the cost of gas one way would be approximately $14. Therefore, for a round trip, the estimated cost of gas would be $28.

If you choose another route that is longer or more scenic, keep in mind that the cost of gas for your vehicle will increase accordingly. You may want to use a gas cost calculator to estimate the cost of gas based on your car's gas mileage and the current gas prices in the area.

Other Costs

Gas is not the only cost to consider when taking a road trip. There are other expenses, such as food and lodging, that will impact your budget.

Suppose you plan to stop for a meal on your way to Middletown. In that case, you can expect to spend roughly $10-$15 per person at a fast-food restaurant or up to $30 per person at a sit-down restaurant. If you plan to stay overnight in Middletown, the cost of lodging will vary depending on your preferences.

You can find a good quality hotel in Middletown for an average nightly rate of $85-$100. However, if you prefer more luxurious accommodations or are traveling during peak season, you can expect to pay more.

When budgeting for your road trip, be sure to account for the cost of food and lodging, as well as other expenses such as tolls and parking fees.

The Best Route

So, which route should you take when driving from Bowie, Maryland, to Middletown, Pennsylvania? The answer will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.

If you prioritize getting to Middletown as quickly as possible, the most direct route via I-270 N and I-70 W is the best option. However, if you want to avoid traffic congestion and enjoy a more scenic drive, you might prefer taking I-495 W and I-270 N.

The route via MD-97 N and MD-27 N may be preferred by those who want to take a more leisurely drive through rural areas. This option can also offer a more relaxed and less stressful driving experience than taking the highways.

Ultimately, the best route for your road trip will depend on your preferences and priorities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Bowie, Maryland, to Middletown, Pennsylvania, can be a great way to explore the area's scenic beauty. When planning your trip, consider the different route options, estimating the cost of gas and other expenses, and evaluate what works best for you. By taking a little time to plan, you can make the most of your road trip, stay within your budget, and enjoy all that this part of Maryland and Pennsylvania has to offer.