The Cost of a Road Trip from Bridgewater Township to Tinton Falls: Is it Worth the Price?
If you're planning a road trip from Bridgewater Township to Tinton Falls, you may be wondering what the cost will be. With gasoline prices fluctuating constantly, it's difficult to predict exactly how much you'll have to spend. However, there are several factors that can help estimate the cost of the trip.
Route Options
The first factor to consider is the route you'll take. There are several ways to get from Bridgewater Township to Tinton Falls, each with different distances and tolls.
Route 1: NJ-18 South
One option is to take NJ-18 South all the way to Tinton Falls. This route is about 30 miles long and takes around 40 minutes in light traffic. However, this route includes tolls that add up to $4.50.
Route 2: I-287 South and Garden State Parkway
Another option is to take I-287 South to the Garden State Parkway, then take exit 105 and follow the signs to Tinton Falls. This route is longer, at about 36 miles, but can be faster depending on traffic. It takes around 45 minutes in light traffic. However, this route includes higher tolls, at $6.75.
Route 3: Alternate Routes
There are other routes you can take that are longer or shorter than the ones mentioned above. However, they may not be as direct or fast. Some possible alternate routes include taking US-22 East to I-78 East and then to the Garden State Parkway, or taking US-22 East to US-1 South and then to NJ-18 South.
Gas Prices
The next factor to consider is gas prices. As of September 2021, the average price of gasoline in New Jersey is around $3.00 per gallon. Depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and the route you choose, you may need to fill up several times during your trip.
Another option is to use a gas cost calculator to estimate the cost of gasoline for your trip. Websites like GasBuddy and AAA offer these calculators, which take into account your vehicle's make and model, your starting point, your destination, and the current cost of gasoline.
Total Cost Estimate
To estimate the total cost of your trip, you'll need to take into account the factors mentioned above. Here's an example breakdown for a trip from Bridgewater Township to Tinton Falls using Route 1 (NJ-18 South) and assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon:
- Distance: 30 miles
- Tolls: $4.50
- Gallons of gas needed: 1.2 (rounding up)
- Total cost of gas: $3.00 x 1.2 = $3.60
- Total cost of tolls and gas: $4.50 + $3.60 = $8.10
For Route 2 (I-287 South and Garden State Parkway), using the same fuel efficiency and assuming light traffic:
- Distance: 36 miles
- Tolls: $6.75
- Gallons of gas needed: 1.44 (rounding up)
- Total cost of gas: $3.00 x 1.44 = $4.32
- Total cost of tolls and gas: $6.75 + $4.32 = $11.07
Conclusion
So, which route is the best option? It depends on your priorities. If you're looking for the fastest route, Route 2 may be the better choice. However, if you want to save on tolls, Route 1 may be more cost-effective.
Ultimately, the cost of your road trip from Bridgewater Township to Tinton Falls will depend on several factors, including route selection, gas prices, and your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Keep these factors in mind as you plan your trip to ensure that you stay within budget.
As an additional tip, it's always a good idea to check traffic and weather updates before hitting the road to avoid any surprises. Safe travels!