The True Cost of a Road Trip Between Chantilly and Stanley

Planning a road trip can be exciting, but it's also important to consider the cost of gas, tolls, and other expenses that can add up along the way. When traveling between Chantilly, Virginia and Stanley, Virginia, there are different route options to consider. In this article, we will explore the cost and distance of each route, as well as recommend the best option for a cost-efficient journey.

Route 1: I-66 W and Rt 211W

The first route option is to take I-66 W and Rt 211 W. According to Google Maps, this route is approximately 90 miles and takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes of driving time without traffic. However, during peak travel times, traffic can significantly increase the driving time.

The cost of gas is a major factor when considering the cost of the trip. Based on the current national average of gas prices, which is around $3.00 per gallon, it would cost around $15.30 for a car that gets 25 miles per gallon to travel 90 miles. However, this can vary depending on the type of car and the efficiency of its fuel consumption.

In addition to the cost of gas, there are also tolls to consider along this route. There is a toll road section of I-66 W from East Falls Church to Gainesville, which costs $1.00 during off-peak hours and $2.25 during peak hours for cars with an E-ZPass. If traveling during peak hours without an E-ZPass, the toll fee increases to $12.00 for cars. There are no tolls along Rt 211 W.

Route 2: US-50 W and Rt 340 W

Another option is to take US-50 W and Rt 340 W. This route is approximately 115 miles and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes of driving time without traffic. Again, traffic can significantly increase the driving time during peak travel times.

The cost of gas for this route is estimated to be around $18.60 for a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, based on the current national average of gas prices. As with the previous route, this can vary depending on the type of car and its fuel efficiency.

There are no tolls along this route, which makes it an attractive option for those who want to avoid paying additional fees.

Route 3: I-66 W and I-81 S

The third option is to take I-66 W and I-81 S. This route is approximately 135 miles and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes of driving time without traffic.

The cost of gas for this route is estimated to be around $21.80 for a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, based on the current national average of gas prices. Again, this cost can vary depending on the type of car and its fuel efficiency.

There are no tolls along I-66 W, but there are tolls along I-81 S. The toll fees vary depending on the exit, but the average cost is around $6.00 for cars with an E-ZPass and $8.00 for cars without one.

The Best Route

After considering the distance, cost of gas, and tolls, the best route for a cost-efficient journey between Chantilly and Stanley is US-50 W and Rt 340 W. While it is a longer route, it has no tolls to consider, making it the most affordable option.

Conclusion

When planning a road trip between Chantilly and Stanley, it's important to consider the cost of gas, tolls, and other expenses that may arise. Route 1, which takes I-66 W and Rt 211 W, has tolls to consider along with the cost of gas. Route 3, which takes I-66 W and I-81 S, also has tolls to consider. The best option for a cost-efficient journey is Route 2, which takes US-50 W and Rt 340 W. It may be a longer route, but it has no tolls to consider, making it the most affordable option. When embarking on the journey, it's important to budget for gas, tolls, and any other expenses that may arise to ensure a road trip that is both fun and affordable.