The Cost of a Road Trip from Bridgeport, Connecticut to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Based on Current Gas Prices

Taking a road trip is a great way to explore different places and create lasting memories. However, the cost of a trip can vary depending on several factors such as the distance, gas prices, and the route taken. If you're planning a trip from Bridgeport, Connecticut to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, this article will help you estimate the cost based on current gas prices and consider different routes that you can take.

Route Options and Distance

There are several routes that you can take from Bridgeport to Pigeon Forge, each with a different distance and cost depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.

Route 1: Via I-84 W and I-81 S

This route is the shortest, with a distance of approximately 800 miles. To take this route, you start by taking I-84 W from Bridgeport and keep driving straight until you merge onto I-81 S in Pennsylvania. You will continue driving on I-81 S until you reach Exit 407 in Tennessee, which leads to Pigeon Forge.

Route 2: Via I-95 S and I-75 S

This is a slightly longer route, with a distance of about 950 miles. To take this route, you start by taking I-95 S from Bridgeport and continue driving straight until you reach I-295 in Virginia. You will then merge onto I-64 W and continue driving until you reach I-75 S in Kentucky. You will then take I-75 S until you reach Exit 407 in Tennessee, which leads to Pigeon Forge.

Route 3: Via I-95 S and I-40 W

This is the longest route, with a distance of about 1,050 miles. To take this route, you start by taking I-95 S from Bridgeport and keep driving until you reach I-295 in Virginia. You will then merge onto I-64 W and continue driving until you reach I-40 W in Tennessee. You will then take I-40 W until you reach Exit 407, which leads to Pigeon Forge.

Gas Prices

Gas prices can have a significant impact on the overall cost of your road trip. As of September 2021, gas prices in Bridgeport, Connecticut, ranged from $3.13 to $3.39 per gallon, while gas prices in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, ranged from $2.91 to $3.09 per gallon.

To estimate the total cost of gas for your trip, you need to know your vehicle's fuel efficiency and the distance you plan to travel. For example, if your car has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and you plan to take Route 1, which has a distance of 800 miles, you will need approximately 32 gallons of gas. At a gas price of $3.25 per gallon (assuming a median between Bridgeport and Pigeon Forge prices), your total cost for gas will be $104.

Similarly, if you plan to take Route 2 with a distance of 950 miles, you will need approximately 38 gallons of gas, which will cost you around $123. If you choose Route 3, which has a distance of 1,050 miles, you will need approximately 42 gallons of gas, which means your gas cost will be roughly $136.

It's important to note that gas prices can fluctuate, so make sure to check the current gas prices before you embark on your road trip.

Recommended Route

Based on the factors mentioned above, Route 1 via I-84 W and I-81 S is the recommended route. It is the shortest and most straightforward route, and the gas cost is the least expensive, making it the ideal option for travelers who want to save money on gas. It's also worth noting that this route has stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and other beautiful scenery along the way.

Conclusion

The cost of a road trip from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, largely depends on the route you choose and gas prices at the time of your trip. Based on current gas prices and the distance of each route, Route 1 via I-84 W and I-81 S is the most cost-effective and recommended option. Regardless of the route you choose, make sure to plan ahead, check for traffic or construction updates, and stop for breaks and gas as needed. With the right planning, you can have a great road trip experience that will create lasting memories.