The Cost of a Trip from City of Plattsburgh, NY to Columbia, SC based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip from the City of Plattsburgh, New York to Columbia, South Carolina? One of the most important factors to consider is the cost of the trip. With fluctuating gas prices, it's crucial to know how much you could be spending on fuel for this journey. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes from Plattsburgh to Columbia and highlight the cost and distance of each one based on current gas prices. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which route is the most cost-effective for your trip.

Route 1: The I-87 and I-77 Path

The most common and direct route from Plattsburgh to Columbia is to take Interstate 87 (I-87) and then connect to Interstate 77 (I-77). This route covers a total distance of approximately 905 miles.

Let's assume that the average gas price along this route is $2.50 per gallon. Considering that the average vehicle's fuel efficiency is around 25 miles per gallon, we can calculate the total fuel cost for this journey.

The total amount of fuel needed can be determined by dividing the distance by the vehicle's fuel efficiency:

905 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 36.2 gallons

To calculate the cost of fuel for this route, we multiply the number of gallons by the current gas price:

36.2 gallons * $2.50 per gallon = $90.50

Therefore, based on the current gas prices, the estimated fuel cost for this route is $90.50.

Route 2: The Scenic Route via I-90, I-86, and I-77

If you are in the mood for a more scenic drive, you can take a slightly longer route from Plattsburgh to Columbia. This alternative route involves taking Interstate 90 (I-90) and then connecting to Interstate 86 (I-86) before finally joining I-77. The total distance on this route adds up to approximately 935 miles.

By applying the same calculations as in Route 1, we can estimate the fuel cost for this journey.

935 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 37.4 gallons

37.4 gallons * $2.50 per gallon = $93.50

The estimated fuel cost for this alternate route is $93.50, considering the current gas prices.

Route 3: The Eastern Route via I-87 and I-95

Another option to consider when traveling from Plattsburgh to Columbia is taking I-87 and then connecting to Interstate 95 (I-95). This eastern route covers a total distance of approximately 970 miles.

Using the same calculations as before:

970 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 38.8 gallons

38.8 gallons * $2.50 per gallon = $97.00

Based on current gas prices, the estimated fuel cost for this eastern route is $97.00.

Route 4: The Western Route via I-87, I-81, and I-77

For those looking to experience different landscapes and attractions, the western route can be a great option. This route involves taking I-87, connecting to Interstate 81 (I-81), and finally joining I-77. The total distance for this route is approximately 975 miles.

Applying the same calculations:

975 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 39 gallons

39 gallons * $2.50 per gallon = $97.50

The estimated fuel cost for the western route is $97.50, based on current gas prices.

Recommended Route: The I-87 and I-77 Path

After considering the different routes for your trip from Plattsburgh to Columbia, the most cost-effective option is the direct route, taking I-87 and connecting to I-77. With an estimated fuel cost of $90.50, this route is not only the shortest distance-wise but also the most economical.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from the City of Plattsburgh, New York to Columbia, South Carolina requires careful planning, including factoring in the cost of fuel. By comparing the four possible routes, we found that the most cost-effective option is the direct route through I-87 and I-77, with an estimated fuel cost of $90.50. This route covers a total distance of approximately 905 miles. Taking into account current gas prices, you can now confidently plan your trip, knowing both the best and most affordable route. Safe travels!