The Cost of Your Trip Between Bristol and Elizabethton in 2021's Gasoline Market
Traveling between Bristol and Elizabethton in Tennessee is a small trip, but making the most cost-effective choice is still essential. Whether you're traveling to work, visiting family, or just enjoying a day trip, the route and transportation method you choose can have a significant impact on your wallet. That's why it's essential to consider the different routes, modes of transport, and gasoline prices to make the best decision for you.
Route Alternatives
The best route may depend on various factors, such as distance, traffic, and the number of stops you need to make. The two most commonly used routes between Bristol and Elizabethton are TN-19E and US-19E.
TN-19E
TN-19E is the quickest and most straightforward route, covering 19.4 miles, and requiring only 28 minutes to drive. This route passes through Bluff City and Hampton, making it an easier choice if you're not familiar with the area. However, it may not be the most cost-effective.
US-19E
The US-19E route is slightly more extended, stretching 21.6 miles and taking around 32 minutes to complete. Although you may lose a few minutes on the road, this option may end up costing less.
Cost of Gasoline
Gasoline prices have been trending up in Tennessee and the rest of the United States since the COVID-19 pandemic started. As of mid-June 2021, Tennessee gas prices average $2.85 per gallon, with higher prices in the major cities.
Gasoline prices are volatile, changing frequently. However, it's still essential to consider the cost of gasoline when traveling between Bristol and Elizabethton.
Gasoline Cost per Mile
To calculate the cost of gasoline, we must first consider the cost per mile of each route. We'll use the EPA's fuel efficiency rating for this calculation. According to the EPA, a car driving in Tennessee averages 25 miles per gallon (MPG), and we'll use that as our reference point.
To calculate gasoline's cost for each mile, we'll need to divide the gasoline cost per gallon by the average MPG.
TN-19E calculation
TN-19E is 19.4 miles long. To calculate the required gasoline, divide the distance by the average MPG.
19.4 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 0.776 gallons
To find the cost of gasoline for this route, multiply the gallons of gasoline required by the gasoline cost per gallon.
0.776 gallons x $2.85 per gallon = $2.21
The cost of gasoline for TN-19E is about $2.21.
US-19E calculation
US-19E is 21.6 miles long, making it slightly longer than TN-19E.
21.6 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 0.864 gallons
To calculate the final gasoline cost, multiply the gallons required by the cost of gasoline.
0.864 gallons x $2.85 per gallon = $2.46
The gasoline cost for US-19E is approximately $2.46.
You can now compare the cost of gasoline for these two routes. Although TN-19E is the shortest route, it has a higher gasoline cost. US-19E, on the other hand, is more expensive, but only by approximately $0.20.
Recommendations
The fastest, most practical route is TN-19E. The 2.2 miles and 5-minute difference between routes is minimal, and the road conditions are relatively the same. However, the slight difference in gasoline cost may mean you'll save a few pennies if you take US-19E.
With these factors in mind, traveling might not be as expensive as you initially thought. You may even save money, depending on what choice you make.
Conclusion
When traveling between Bristol and Elizabethton in Tennessee, the best route depends on your preferences. TN-19E, despite being the fastest route, may not always be the most cost-effective, depending on gasoline prices. Still, it's the ideal route for most scenarios.
The only difference between TN-19E and US-19E is a few minutes and approximately $0.20 in gasoline prices. Whichever option you choose, make sure to compare gasoline prices at various gas stations to pick the cheapest option.