How Much Does It Cost to Drive from Bowie, Maryland to Richmond, Virginia on Current Gas Prices?

Are you planning a trip from Bowie, Maryland to Richmond, Virginia? Driving can be a cost-saving option, but it's important to consider the various routes to get to your destination. Here we break down the costs of driving between these two locations based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-95 South

One of the most direct routes from Bowie, Maryland to Richmond, Virginia is via I-95 South. The distance between Bowie and Richmond is approximately 122 miles, and the estimated driving time is around 2 hours.

Using the current gas prices of around $2.35 per gallon and an average vehicle fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, we can calculate the cost of gas for this trip. In total, you would need approximately 5 gallons of gas, bringing the total cost of gas to around $11.75.

Additionally, there are tolls you will need to consider. On this route, there is one toll, the Susquehanna River Bridge, which is $8. The total cost for this route would therefore be about $19.75.

Route 2: I-95 South and VA-288

Another option to consider is taking I-95 South and then VA-288. This route is slightly longer, at approximately 129 miles, but it can offer less traffic. The estimated driving time is around 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Using the same gas prices and an average vehicle fuel economy, the cost of gas for this trip would be approximately $14.50. There are also tolls to consider, with a total of three: Susquehanna River Bridge ($8), Fort McHenry Tunnel ($4), and Powhite Parkway Bridge ($2.75). The total cost for this route would be about $29.25.

Route 3: US-301 South

If you're looking for a scenic route, you could consider taking US-301 South, which is slightly longer at approximately 138 miles. The estimated driving time is around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Using the same gas prices and an average vehicle fuel economy, the cost of gas for this trip would be approximately $16.50. There are no tolls on this route, so the total cost for this route would be about $16.50.

Conclusion

In summary, if you're planning a trip from Bowie, Maryland to Richmond, Virginia on current gas prices, there are a variety of factors to consider. The most direct route, I-95 South, will cost you approximately $19.75 with one toll. If you're looking to avoid traffic, I-95 South and VA-288 will cost around $29.25 with three tolls. US-301 South, while slightly longer, will set you back around $16.50 with no tolls. Keep these factors in mind before you hit the road, and happy travels!