The Cost of a Trip from Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania to Portsmouth, New Hampshire: A Detailed Analysis Based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a road trip can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to consider the cost of travel, especially when it comes to fuel expenses. The price of gas can vary significantly from one route to another, so it’s essential to assess the different options before hitting the road. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the cost of a trip from Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania to Portsmouth, New Hampshire based on current gas prices. We will explore the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route to minimize expenses.

Route Options

Route 1: I-90 E

One of the most direct routes from Conneaut Lake to Portsmouth is taking I-90 E. This route spans approximately 570 miles and takes around 9 hours to drive without factoring in stops or traffic. According to the current gas prices, the average cost of gas along this route is $3.00 per gallon.

Route 2: I-79 N to I-80 E

Another option is to take I-79 N until reaching I-80 E, which will then lead to Portsmouth. This route covers approximately 645 miles and takes about 10 hours to complete under normal driving conditions. The average cost of gas along this route is also $3.00 per gallon.

Route 3: Scenic Route via US-322 E

For those looking to enjoy a more scenic drive, taking US-322 E is an alternative route to consider. While this route is slightly longer, spanning around 600 miles and taking roughly 10 hours to complete, the picturesque views along the way may make it worth the extra time. The cost of gas along this route is also comparable to the previous options, at an average of $3.00 per gallon.

Cost Analysis

To calculate the total cost of gas for each route, the average fuel economy of a typical car will be considered. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average fuel economy for cars in 2021 is 25.4 miles per gallon.

Route 1

Based on the total distance of 570 miles, the number of gallons needed can be calculated by dividing the distance by the average fuel economy. This results in approximately 22.44 gallons of gas required for the trip. At the average cost of $3.00 per gallon, the total cost of gas for Route 1 comes out to around $67.32.

Route 2

With a total distance of 645 miles, the corresponding number of gallons needed is approximately 25.39. At the same gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the estimated cost for gas along Route 2 is about $76.17.

Route 3

For the scenic route via US-322 E, the total distance of 600 miles would require around 23.62 gallons of gas. At $3.00 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route is approximately $70.86.

Recommendation

After considering the cost and distance of each route, it is clear that Route 1, taking I-90 E, is the most cost-effective option. Not only does it have the shortest distance and drive time, but it also offers the lowest overall cost for gas. Therefore, for travelers looking to minimize their fuel expenses and arrive at their destination in a timely manner, Route 1 is the recommended choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, based on current gas prices, the most cost-effective route from Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania to Portsmouth, New Hampshire is taking I-90 E. With an average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route is estimated to be approximately $67.32. The total distance of 570 miles can be covered in approximately 9 hours of driving, making it an efficient and economical choice for travelers. Whether it's for a leisurely road trip or a business journey, considering the cost of travel is essential for budget-conscious individuals. By evaluating the different route options and gas prices, travelers can make informed decisions to ensure a smooth and affordable trip.