The Cost of a Trip between Bristol, Maine and Burlington, Vermont: Navigating Gas Prices

For those living in Bristol, Maine, a trip to Burlington, Vermont may seem like a daunting task. The distance between these two locations is roughly 210 miles, and with varying gas prices, it can be hard to determine the most cost-effective route. This article will explore the various options for travel, including driving, flying, and taking a bus, and provide an estimate for the total cost of each. After comparing each option, we will recommend the best route for individuals traveling between Bristol and Burlington.

Driving

Driving from Bristol, Maine to Burlington, Vermont is a popular choice for many travelers. The most direct route to Burlington would be taking I-95 south toward Portland before then taking I-295 North. The route then continues on US-2 West, where Burlington can be reached through a series of smaller roads. This route is approximately 246 miles, and depending on traffic, the trip should take roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes.

When driving, it is important to factor in the cost of gas. The current national average for a gallon of gas is $3.18, according to AAA. With a car that gets 20 miles per gallon, a round trip will require 22.5 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of $71.55 in gas alone. This does not include the cost of toll roads or parking fees, which may vary depending on the route.

Alternatively, travelers can opt for a slightly longer route that follows I-95 south to Providence before taking I-93 North toward Concord. This route is approximately 262 miles, and the trip should take roughly 5 hours. While this route takes a bit longer, the trip may cost less than the previous option in terms of gas and tolls. The cost for gas alone would come out to roughly $81.54, which is $10 more than the more direct route.

Flying

For those looking to save time, flying may be a more appealing option. Bristol’s nearest airport is the Brunswick Executive Airport, which is located approximately 20 miles away. From Brunswick, travelers can fly to Boston Logan International Airport, which is approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes away from Burlington, Vermont.

The cost of a one-way ticket from Brunswick to Boston can range from $185 to $350, depending on the airline, time of year, and length of the trip. Once in Boston, travelers will need to factor in additional costs such as ground transportation, baggage fees, and any additional fees that may be charged by the airline.

Bus

Another cost-effective option is taking a bus. There are several bus options available in Bristol, including Greyhound and Megabus. Greyhound offers direct trips from Brunswick to Burlington, while Megabus requires a transfer in either Boston or New York.

The cost of a one-way ticket on Greyhound ranges from $29 to $43, depending on the time of year and whether the trip is booked in advance. The total cost for a round trip would cost approximately $94. However, it is important to note that bus travel often takes longer than driving, as there may be several stops along the way.

Recommendation

After examining each option, we recommend that travelers opt for driving from Bristol to Burlington. While flying may save time, the cost of a round-trip ticket and additional fees can add up quickly. Taking the bus may be the cheapest option, but the travel time may not be ideal. Driving allows for more flexibility and control over the trip, as well as eliminating the need for additional ground transportation once in Burlington.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bristol, Maine to Burlington, Vermont can be done in a few different ways, each with its own pros and cons. By calculating the cost of gas, tickets, and other fees, it is possible to determine the most cost-effective option. While driving may take more time than flying, it provides more control over the trip and allows for more flexibility. Ultimately, the choice of travel will depend on individual preferences and priorities.