The Cost of a Road Trip between Bristol, Tennessee and Hampton, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Bristol, Tennessee to Hampton, Virginia? One of the key factors to consider is the cost of the trip. The cost will depend on various factors such as fuel prices, distance, and tolls. In this article, we will explore the different routes available and the cost of each one.

Routes from Bristol, Tennessee to Hampton, Virginia

There are three main routes you can take from Bristol to Hampton. These routes include:

1. Route 1: The I-81 South and I-77 North Route

This route covers a distance of approximately 438 miles and takes around 7 hours to drive without stops. This route begins on the I-81 south and makes a merge with I-77 North a few miles after crossing the Virginia border. This route is a relatively simple drive without many tolls. However, there is a section where you will have to drive through the city of Wytheville, and this section could add some time to the trip with city traffic.

2. Route 2: The I-40 West, I-81 South, and I-77 North Route

This route covers a distance of approximately 460 miles and takes around 8 hours to drive without stops. The route begins on the I-40 west and makes a merge with I-81 south. You will then merge with I-77 North as you approach the Virginia border. This route has more tolls compared to the I-81 and I-77. However, it is a more scenic route with beautiful views of mountains and countryside.

3. Route 3: The I-81 South, I-26 East, I-40 East, I-77 North Route

This route covers a distance of approximately 518 miles and takes around 9 hours to drive without stops. This is the longest of the three routes and has more tolls. The route begins on the I-81 south and merges with the I-26 East. You will then merge with the I-40 East. Finally, you will merge with the I-77 North. This route takes you through the cities of Asheville and Winston-Salem. However, it is a more scenic route with lovely views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Cost of the Trip

The cost of the trip will depend on various factors such as fuel prices, the route chosen, and tolls. Here is a breakdown of the estimated cost for the three routes mentioned above:

1. Route 1: The I-81 South and I-77 North Route

Assuming an average fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon, you will need approximately 17.5 gallons to cover the 438 miles from Bristol to Hampton. With the current fuel prices around Bristol and Virginia at $2.59 per gallon and $2.61 per gallon, respectively, the estimated fuel cost for one-way trip is $45.33. There are no tolls involved in this route.

2. Route 2: The I-40 West, I-81 South, and I-77 North Route

Assuming an average fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon, you will need approximately 18.4 gallons to cover the 460 miles from Bristol to Hampton. With the current fuel prices around Bristol and Virginia at $2.59 per gallon and $2.61 per gallon, respectively, the estimated fuel cost for one-way trip is $47.66.

The route has two tolls, one at the Interstate 77 Toll Plaza and another at the Chesapeake Expressway. The toll fee at Interstate 77 Toll Plaza ranges from $3 to $6 depending on the vehicle type, and the toll fee at the Chesapeake Expressway is $5 for a two-axle vehicle.

3. Route 3: The I-81 South, I-26 East, I-40 East, I-77 North Route

Assuming an average fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon, you will need approximately 20.7 gallons to cover the 518 miles from Bristol to Hampton. With the current fuel prices around Bristol and Virginia at $2.59 per gallon and $2.61 per gallon, respectively, the estimated fuel cost for one-way trip is $53.61.

The route has several tolls, including the John F. Kennedy Highway Toll Plaza, North Carolina Turnpike Authority, and Chesapeake Expressway. The toll fee at the John F. Kennedy Highway Toll Plaza is $8.90 for a two-axle vehicle, while the North Carolina Turnpike Authority tolls are between $3 to $4 depending on the vehicle type. The toll fee at the Chesapeake Expressway is $5 for a two-axle vehicle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are on a tight budget, Route 1 is the cheapest option at an estimated cost of $45.33 for one-way trip. However, if you are looking for a more scenic drive without lots of traffic, Route 2 is a good option at approximately $53.66. Route 3 may be the longest and most expensive at around $68.34 for one-way trip, but it provides lovely views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Overall, whatever route you choose, ensure you take necessary measures to stay safe on the road, such as adjusting your speed to stay within the speed limit, taking enough breaks to avoid fatigue, and always wearing a seat belt. Safe travels!