The Cost of a Trip between Brattleboro, Vermont and Williamstown, Massachusetts: The Price of Gas Affects Travel Plans
It may seem like a small distance, only 38 miles separating Brattleboro, Vermont, and Williamstown, Massachusetts, but costs associated with traveling between the two towns, can vary based on the mode of transportation as well as the path taken. One main costs source that helps dictate the overall cost of travel is the price of gas. As of June 2021, according to gasbuddy.com the average price of gas per gallon in Vermont is $3.04 and $3.01 in Massachusetts. This article will outline various options to go from Brattleboro to Williamstown, the cost of each method, as well as explore the most economical route for your next trip.
Driving
Driving is the quickest and most cost-effective way to travel from Brattleboro to Williamstown. Taking Interstate 91 South, drivers should exit on to Route 9 West in Greenfield, Massachusetts. From there, continue West on Route 9 for about 19 miles until reaching Williamstown. The drive takes approximately 50 minutes without traffic, and the distance travelled is around 35 miles.
The cost of petrol depends on the vehicle used, but as the average mpg for cars in the United States in 24.9, according to the Bureau of Transportation, the total cost for petrol, travelling at a speed of 60 mph costing $3.04 per gallon, would be around $5.50 one way. Although other factors such as the overall condition of the car, the terrain, and the driver’s habits can affect fuel consumption, these figures can help to plan a budget for driving between these two towns.
Public Transportation
Another option for people traveling between Brattleboro to Williamstown is public transportation. Several bus options are schedules and fares available that can transport passengers from Brattleboro to Williamstown.
Greyhound bus lines have services from Brattleboro to Williamstown. The bus has several pick up points in Brattleboro, and then has the capability to travel to Greyhound Drop Off Locations in Pittsfield, MA and connecting transport to Williamstown. Tickets are $14 one way and can be purchased with cash or prepaid online.
Another bus option is Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA). Catch the B11 bus from Brattleboro's transportation center stop and connect to Williamstown via Pittsfield and North Adams. The journey takes around 2 hours, and the fares cost $3.50 one way with special rates available for seniors.
Ride Share Options
Ride-share apps such as Uber and Lyft are now available via smartphones, giving customers an easy and convenient option to travel from Brattleboro to Williamstown minus the hassle of owning and maintaining your vehicle. As of 2021, Uber lists a single ride cost estimate for an UberX from Brattleboro to Williamstown at between $35-$44, and Lyft estimated fare for this journey $34-$39.
Conclusion
When it comes to determining the cost of a trip from Brattleboro to Williamstown, it’s important to consider several factors such as the fuel cost of the car, the age and condition of the vehicle, and the distance traveled. Depending on one’s needs and budget, driving can be both the quickest and most cost-effective way to travel. On the other hand, taking public transportation such as buses or utilizing ride-share options such as Uber and Lyft is an excellent alternative.
Base on the outlined routes, driving, while offering the most flexibility, is the most cost-effective option for someone traveling from Brattleboro to Williamstown. The bus’ journey may take longer but is a great option for those on a tight budget, while ride-sharing services offer an expensive option for those who prefer the convenience of reaching the destination quickly.
Overall, while the cost of gas may play a vital role in the total amount spent to reach Williamstown, smart decisions can help make it easier to stay within budget by choosing the most cost-effective mode of transportation to travel the 38 miles between Brattleboro and Williamstown.