The Cost of a Trip from Columbus, Ohio to Westerly, Rhode Island

When planning a trip from Columbus, Ohio to Westerly, Rhode Island, one of the most important considerations is the cost of transportation. Whether you're driving, flying, or taking a bus, it's crucial to factor in the cost of the trip to ensure it fits within your budget. In this article, we'll explore the cost of a trip between these two locations, with a particular focus on driving. We'll examine the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Driving Costs and Route Options

Route 1: I-70 E and I-80 E

One of the most common routes for driving from Columbus to Westerly involves taking I-70 E and I-80 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 800 miles and can take anywhere from 11 to 13 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Route 2: I-71 N to I-90 E

Another possible route is taking I-71 N to I-90 E. This route is slightly longer, covering a distance of about 850 miles and taking roughly 12 to 14 hours to complete. While it may add some miles to your trip, it could potentially offer a more scenic drive through parts of Pennsylvania and New York.

Route 3: I-76 E and I-80 E

A third option is to take I-76 E and I-80 E, which covers a distance of around 820 miles and takes approximately 12 to 14 hours. This route may provide a slightly different driving experience compared to the other two options.

Cost Analysis

When considering the cost of driving from Columbus, Ohio to Westerly, Rhode Island, the two main expenses to account for are gas and tolls.

Gas Prices

As of the time of writing, the average price of gas in Columbus, Ohio is $2.75 per gallon, while the average price in Westerly, Rhode Island is $2.85 per gallon. When factoring in the distance of each route and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, you can estimate the total cost of gas for the trip.

Tolls

In addition to fuel costs, it's important to consider toll expenses when driving across multiple states. Each route may have different toll booths and fees, so it's crucial to research this information before hitting the road. Tolls can add up, especially on longer trips, so be sure to budget accordingly.

Recommended Route and Summary of Costs

Based on current gas prices and overall distance, Route 1 (I-70 E and I-80 E) appears to be the most cost-effective option for driving from Columbus, Ohio to Westerly, Rhode Island. While it covers a distance of 800 miles, the relatively lower gas prices along the route make it a more economical choice compared to the other options.

Assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for Route 1 is approximately $110 each way, totaling $220 for a round trip. Tolls for this route may add an additional $50 to $70, depending on the specific toll booths encountered along the way. Thus, the total estimated cost for driving round trip from Columbus, Ohio to Westerly, Rhode Island via Route 1 is around $270 to $290.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Columbus, Ohio to Westerly, Rhode Island can vary based on several factors, including gas prices, route choice, and toll expenses. After analyzing the different driving routes and their associated costs, Route 1 (I-70 E and I-80 E) stands out as the most economical option, with an estimated total cost of $270 to $290 for a round trip. Keep in mind that these cost estimates are based on current gas prices and general toll expectations, and actual expenses may vary. Safe travels!