Cost of a Trip between Carolina Beach, North Carolina and Blacksburg, Virginia

If you're planning a trip between Carolina Beach, North Carolina and Blacksburg, Virginia, one of the most important considerations is the cost. Gas prices fluctuate constantly, so it's crucial to be aware of the expenses you may incur during your journey. In this article, we will explore different routes you can take, highlighting the distances and costs associated with each option. By the end, we'll recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes

Route 1: Via I-40 W and I-77 N (378 miles, 6 hours 30 minutes)

One of the most direct routes between Carolina Beach and Blacksburg is via I-40 W and I-77 N. Starting from Carolina Beach Road, you'll head west on US-421 N for about 121 miles until you reach I-40 W. Take Exit 416 to merge onto I-40 W. Stay on I-40 W for approximately 220 miles until you reach Exit 188 for I-77 N. Merge onto I-77 N and continue for another 37 miles until you reach Blacksburg.

Considering the distance and current gas prices, this route may cost you around $60 to $80 in fuel expenses, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and the prevailing gas prices.

Route 2: Via US-52 N and I-77 N (402 miles, 7 hours 10 minutes)

Another alternative is to take a slightly longer route via US-52 N and I-77 N. Starting from Carolina Beach Road, head north on North Carolina Avenue S. Continue onto Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and take the US-17 N/US-74 W ramp. Merge onto US-17 N/Andrew Jackson Hwy and continue for approximately 65 miles. Then, take Exit 14A to merge onto US-421 N/US-52 N towards Winston-Salem.

Follow US-421 N/US-52 N for about 195 miles until Exit 93B for I-74 W/US-52 N. Merge onto US-52 N and continue for another 95 miles until you reach Exit 100 for I-77 N. Merge onto I-77 N and continue for approximately 47 miles until you reach Blacksburg.

Considering the additional mileage, this route may cost you around $70 to $90 in fuel expenses, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and the current gas prices.

Route 3: Via US-421 N and I-77 N (413 miles, 7 hours 20 minutes)

If you prefer a variation of Route 2, you can take the same path until you reach US-421 N/US-52 N. Instead of continuing on US-52 N, proceed on US-421 N. This route will take you through Winston-Salem and eventually merge with I-77 N.

Considering the extra distance, this route may cost you around $75 to $95 in fuel expenses, depending on gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Best Route Recommendation

Based solely on distance and cost, Route 1 via I-40 W and I-77 N seems to be the most economical choice. While it may not be the shortest route, it minimizes travel time and fuel costs.

Considering the distance of 378 miles and an estimated fuel cost of $60 to $80, this route strikes a balance between efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, other factors such as traffic, road conditions, and personal preferences should also be taken into account when making your final decision.

Conclusion

After careful consideration of the different available routes, it is recommended to take Route 1, which involves driving via I-40 W and I-77 N. This route spans a distance of 378 miles and is estimated to take approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.

Considering the current gas prices, you can expect to spend around $60 to $80 on fuel for this trip. However, these costs are subject to change due to fluctuations in gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Remember to plan your journey accordingly, considering factors such as rest stops, food, and any potential detours along the way. Safe travels!