The Cost of A Trip Between Cumberland, Maryland, and Alexandria, Virginia: A Comparison of Routes and Gas Prices

Introduction

When planning a trip between Cumberland, Maryland and Alexandria, Virginia, there are numerous factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the cost of the trip, particularly in terms of gas prices. The route you choose can greatly impact the cost of the trip, so it's important to carefully consider all available options. In this article, we'll break down the different possible routes between these two cities and highlight the cost and distance of each one. We'll also provide recommendations for the best route based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-68 E to I-70 E to I-270 S to I-495 E

This route takes you from Cumberland to Alexandria via I-68, I-70, I-270, and I-495. The total distance of this route is approximately 185 miles, and it typically takes around 3 hours to complete the journey. With current gas prices averaging around $2.75 per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this route is approximately $30 for a standard vehicle.

Route 2: US-50 E to I-495 E

Another option is to take US-50 eastward to I-495, then continue on to Alexandria. This route is slightly shorter than Route 1, with a total distance of approximately 175 miles. The estimated travel time for this route is also around 3 hours. Based on current gas prices, the estimated cost of gas for this route is approximately $28 for a standard vehicle.

Route 3: I-68 E to I-79 S to I-66 E

For a more scenic route, you can take I-68 eastward to I-79 southward, then continue on to I-66 eastward, which will take you directly into Alexandria. This route is the longest of the three, with a total distance of approximately 220 miles. The estimated travel time for this route is around 4 hours. With current gas prices, the estimated cost of gas for this route is approximately $35 for a standard vehicle.

Recommendation

Based on the current gas prices and the overall cost of the trip, Route 2 (US-50 E to I-495 E) is the most cost-effective option. Not only does this route have a slightly shorter distance compared to Route 1, but it also offers a more direct path to Alexandria, ultimately saving you time and money on gas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip between Cumberland, Maryland and Alexandria, Virginia, it's important to consider the cost of gas and the overall distance of each possible route. Based on the current gas prices, Route 2 (US-50 E to I-495 E) is the recommended route, offering a balance of cost-effectiveness and efficiency. With an estimated travel time of around 3 hours and an estimated cost of approximately $28 for gas, this route provides the most economical option for the trip.