The Cost of a Road Trip from Carolina Beach to Savannah

If you're planning a road trip from Carolina Beach in North Carolina to Savannah in Georgia, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost. Between gas prices, tolls, and other factors, the total cost of the trip can vary significantly depending on the route you take and the choices you make. In this article, we'll break down the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one, so you can choose the best option for your needs and budget.

Route 1: Direct Route - US-17 S

The most direct route from Carolina Beach to Savannah is to take US-17 S, which runs down the coastline through Brunswick and other small towns. The total distance for this route is approximately 192 miles, and it should take around 3 hours and 20 minutes without traffic.

According to AAA's Fuel Cost Calculator, the total fuel cost for this trip in a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon would be around $36.71. This estimate assumes gas priced at $2.85 per gallon, which was the national average for unleaded regular gasoline in June 2021.

However, it's important to keep in mind that this estimate does not include any tolls or other fees that may be required on this route. Additionally, traffic conditions can greatly affect both the time and cost of this route.

Route 2: Scenic Route - NC-133 S

If you're looking for a more scenic route, you could opt to take NC-133 S instead of US-17 S. This route will take you down the coast from Carolina Beach to Southport, where you can take the Bald Head Island Ferry across the Cape Fear River. From there, you can continue down the coast through various small towns until you reach Brunswick, where you can join up with US-17 S to continue down to Savannah.

The total distance for this route is approximately 220 miles, and it should take around 4 hours without traffic. According to AAA's Fuel Cost Calculator, the total fuel cost for this trip in a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon would be around $41.63.

Again, this estimate does not include any tolls or fees associated with the ferry ride or other aspects of this route. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that the ferry schedule and other factors can affect both the time and cost of this route.

Route 3: Interstate Route - I-40 W and I-95 S

Another possible route for this trip is to take the interstate instead of following the coastline. You can start by taking I-40 W from Wilmington, which will eventually join up with I-95 S. This route will take you through Raleigh, Fayetteville, and other cities before connecting with US-17 S in Georgia and taking you down to Savannah.

The total distance for this route is approximately 292 miles, and it should take around 5 hours and 30 minutes without traffic. According to AAA's Fuel Cost Calculator, the total fuel cost for this trip in a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon would be around $54.86.

While this is the longest and most expensive route in terms of fuel costs, it may be more convenient for some travelers who prefer to stick to the interstates or who want to stop in other cities along the way.

Recommended Route

Based on distance and fuel cost alone, the most direct route along US-17 S is the cheapest option for this trip. However, if you have more time and want to enjoy some coastal scenery, the NC-133 S route with the ferry ride could be a more enjoyable option. Depending on your budget and travel preferences, any of these routes could be a good choice.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, a road trip from Carolina Beach to Savannah can be a great way to explore the coastal region and see some beautiful scenery. With gas prices and other expenses in mind, you can plan your trip accordingly and choose the option that works best for your budget and preferences. Overall, the trip should take around 3-5 hours depending on the route you choose, so plan accordingly and enjoy the journey!