The Cost of a Trip: Columbia, SC to Hendersonville, TN

When planning a trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Hendersonville, Tennessee, one of the biggest factors to consider is the cost of transportation. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it’s essential to calculate the cost of the trip based on current prices in order to budget appropriately. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between these two locations, different possible routes, and the associated costs and distances. Ultimately, we will recommend the best route based on cost and other relevant factors.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: I-26 W and I-40 W

The most direct route from Columbia, SC to Hendersonville, TN is to take I-26 W and I-40 W. This route covers a distance of approximately 370 miles and takes around 5.5 to 6 hours to drive, depending on traffic and speed. With the average gas price currently at $3.00 per gallon, and the average fuel efficiency of a car being 25 miles per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route would be around $132 (roundtrip) for a car with a full tank of gas.

Route 2: I-26 W and I-81 N

Another route to consider is taking I-26 W and I-81 N, which covers a distance of approximately 400 miles and takes around 6 to 6.5 hours to drive. With the same average gas price and fuel efficiency, the total cost of gas for this route would be around $144 (roundtrip) for a car with a full tank of gas.

Route 3: I-77 N and I-40 W

Lastly, you could take I-77 N and I-40 W, which covers a distance of approximately 420 miles and takes around 6.5 to 7 hours to drive. Again, with the same average gas price and fuel efficiency, the total cost of gas for this route would be around $151 (roundtrip) for a car with a full tank of gas.

Recommendations

Based on the cost of gas and the distance and duration of each route, the most cost-effective option is Route 1: I-26 W and I-40 W. This route not only has the lowest gas cost at approximately $132 roundtrip, but it is also the shortest in terms of distance and driving time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best route from Columbia, SC to Hendersonville, TN, based on current gas prices, is the I-26 W and I-40 W. With a total gas cost of around $132 roundtrip, this route offers the most affordable option for travelers. The 370-mile journey takes approximately 5.5 to 6 hours to drive, making it a reasonable choice for those looking to minimize costs without compromising too much on travel time.