The Cost of Driving From Bowral to Sydney: Is It Worth It?
Living in the charming town of Bowral in New South Wales can be quite a unique experience. The air is fresh, the views are breathtaking, and the people are friendly. However, as much as we love our little town, sometimes we need to leave it behind and explore the big city. And let's be honest, there's nowhere better than Sydney.
But before you hit the road, it's essential to plan your route and budget your expenses properly. In this blog post, we'll go through different routes, the distance, the time it takes, and the cost of each option.
Route 1: Via the Hume Highway (M1)
This route takes you through the Hume Highway (M1) and is the shortest and most straightforward option. The distance from Bowral to Sydney CBD is about 120 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
However, this route has one significant drawback - it includes several toll roads, and they can be quite expensive. The total toll cost is approximately $22 one way, and that's on top of the gas price.
Assuming your car gets around 10 liters per 100 km, and gas is $1.50 per liter, it will cost you around $18 for a one-way trip. Add the toll costs, and you're looking at a total cost of $40 for a round trip.
Route 2: Via the Southern Highlands Road (B73)
If you're looking for a scenic drive, this route is for you. The Southern Highlands road (B73) is filled with beautiful countryside views and historical landmarks. The distance from Bowral to Sydney is approximately 150 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Unlike Route 1, this route has no tolls, making it cheaper than the M1. Assuming the same gas price and car mileage, it will cost you around $22 for a one-way trip. That's a total cost of $44 for a round trip.
Route 3: Via the Royal National Park (Bundeena Ferry)
If you're feeling adventurous and want to take a different route, you can take Bundeena ferry from the Royal National Park. The distance from Bowral to Bundeena is approximately 130 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Once you arrive at Bundeena, you board the ferry, and it takes around 30 minutes to reach Cronulla. From there, Sydney CBD is an additional 40-minute drive.
The total cost for this route is around $70, which includes gas, ferry cost, and parking. It's more expensive than the previous two options, but it's a new experience and worth the extra bucks.
Conclusion: Plan your Route and Budget
In conclusion, driving from Bowral to Sydney is not as expensive as it may sound. But it's essential to plan your route and budget your expenses properly. Each route has its pros and cons, and the final decision depends on your preferences and situation.
If you're short on time and want a straightforward trip, Route 1 is the best option. If you're looking for a scenic route and don't mind spending extra time on the road, Route 2 is ideal. And if you're feeling adventurous and want a unique experience, Route 3 is your best bet.
No matter which route you choose, make sure to consider gas prices and toll costs when budgeting your trip. Happy driving!