The Cost of Driving From Brandywine, Maryland to Alexandria, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Brandywine, Maryland to Alexandria, Virginia? Before hitting the road, it's important to consider the cost of your journey. Let's explore the different routes available, their distances, travel times, and the associated costs.

Route 1: Taking the Fastest Route

If you're looking to save time, the fastest route from Brandywine to Alexandria is via US-301 S and I-495 N. This route covers a distance of approximately 38 miles. With light traffic, you can expect to reach your destination in about 45 minutes.

To calculate the cost of this route, we should consider gas prices. As of today, the average gas price in Maryland is $2.75 per gallon. Given an average car fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need approximately 1.5 gallons of gas for this trip. So the cost of fuel for this route would be approximately $4.13.

It's worth noting that this route doesn't involve any tolls, so you won't have to worry about additional expenses.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you'd like to enjoy a more scenic drive, you can opt for a slightly longer route. Taking MD-381 S and US-1 S, the distance between Brandywine and Alexandria stretches to about 42 miles. However, this route offers beautiful views and an opportunity to explore charming towns along the way.

The travel time for this route is estimated to be around 1 hour. While it may take a bit longer, the journey is well worth it for nature enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a relaxed drive.

As for the cost, the gas prices mentioned earlier apply to this route as well. With an additional few miles to cover, you may need approximately 1.68 gallons of gas, resulting in a fuel cost of around $4.62. Again, no tolls are involved in this route.

Route 3: Balancing Time and Cost

For those looking to save a few bucks while still maintaining a reasonable travel time, a combination of routes might be the best choice. Taking US-301 S and US-1 S, you'll cover a distance of approximately 40 miles. This route strikes a balance between the fastest and the scenic options.

With moderate traffic, you can expect to arrive in Alexandria in around 50 minutes. As for the cost, it will be similar to Route 1, totaling around $4.40 for gas alone. However, do keep in mind the potential and variable toll amounts that come with using the express lanes on I-495.

Final Thoughts

When planning your road trip from Brandywine, Maryland to Alexandria, Virginia, it's essential to consider the cost of the journey. The three routes mentioned above offer different travel times, distances, and associated costs. Choosing the best route for you will depend on your priorities and preferences.

Safe travels, and enjoy exploring the charming towns and beautiful scenery along the way!