The Cost of a Trip: Cumberland, RI to West Haven, CT

When planning a trip from Cumberland, Rhode Island to West Haven, Connecticut, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the cost of the journey, particularly in terms of gas prices. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it's important to assess the various routes available and determine which one will be the most cost-effective. In this article, we will break down the cost of a trip between these two locations based on current gas prices, explore the different possible routes, and recommend the best route for budget-conscious travelers.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: I-95 S

The most direct route between Cumberland, Rhode Island and West Haven, Connecticut is via I-95 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 76 miles and takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes in normal traffic conditions. Based on the current average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, and considering the average fuel economy of most vehicles (25 miles per gallon), the cost of gas for this journey would be around $18.24 for a round trip.

Route 2: I-295 S and I-95 S

Another possible route is to take I-295 S and then merge onto I-95 S towards West Haven. This route covers a distance of approximately 85 miles and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes in normal traffic conditions. Given the same average gas price and fuel economy, the cost of gas for this journey would be around $20.40 for a round trip.

Route 3: Local Roads

For those looking to take a more scenic route and avoid highways, there is also the option of traveling via local roads. While this may add some extra mileage to the journey, it could result in a more fuel-efficient drive. However, the trade-off is the extended travel time and potential for encountering traffic and stoplights along the way.

Best Route Recommendation

Based on the analysis of the different routes and their associated costs, it is clear that taking I-95 S is the most cost-effective option for travelers making the journey between Cumberland and West Haven. This route not only offers the shortest distance between the two locations but also provides the most direct and efficient path, resulting in lower fuel consumption and overall cost.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the most cost-effective route for a trip between Cumberland, Rhode Island and West Haven, Connecticut is via I-95 S. With an approximate distance of 76 miles and a travel time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes, this route allows for significant savings on gas costs. Taking into account current gas prices and average fuel economy, the round trip cost of gas for this journey would be around $18.24. By choosing this route, travelers can enjoy a budget-friendly trip without sacrificing time efficiency.