Exploring the Costs of a Trip between Deal, NJ and Coopersburg, PA Amid Rising Gas Prices
Planning a trip between Deal, New Jersey, and Coopersburg, Pennsylvania? Understanding the costs involved can help you budget effectively and enjoy your journey without financial strain. In this article, we will explore various route options, evaluate the fuel costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the most cost-effective and efficient route.
Estimated Distance and Gas Prices
The distance from Deal, NJ to Coopersburg, PA is approximately 80 miles, depending on the route chosen. Given the fluctuating price of gas, which hovers around $3.50 per gallon as of early October 2023, it’s essential to calculate the fuel expense before hitting the road.
To provide a comprehensive overview of your trip costs, we will analyze the following three routes from Deal to Coopersburg.
Route 1: The Direct Interstate Route
Description
The most straightforward and quickest way to reach Coopersburg from Deal is by taking the Garden State Parkway (GSP) and Interstate 78 (I-78).
Directions
- Depart from Deal, NJ.
- Take GSP North towards the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95).
- Merge onto I-78 West.
- Continue on I-78 until you reach Exit 67 towards Coopersburg.
Distance and Fuel Costs
- Distance: Approximately 77 miles
- Driving Time: Around 1.5 hours (without traffic)
- Estimated Fuel Consumption: Assuming a vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon, you would need roughly 3.08 gallons of gas.
- Total Gas Cost: 3.08 gallons x $3.50 = $10.78
The direct interstate route is usually the fastest, although traffic can occasionally slow you down, especially during rush hours.
Route 2: The Scenic Backroads Route
Description
For those who enjoy scenic drives, this route encompasses the New Jersey countryside and Pennsylvania's rolling hills. It involves a combination of state roads and smaller highways.
Directions
- Depart Deal, NJ and take the local road to Route 35 North.
- Take Route 35 North to Route 202 North.
- Merge onto I-78 West towards Coopersburg via Route 309.
Distance and Fuel Costs
- Distance: Approximately 85 miles
- Driving Time: Around 2.25 hours
- Estimated Fuel Consumption: With the same fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you will require roughly 3.4 gallons of gas.
- Total Gas Cost: 3.4 gallons x $3.50 = $11.90
While this route provides beautiful scenery, it adds extra mileage and travel time compared to the direct route.
Route 3: The Highway and Backroad Combo Route
Description
This route strikes a balance between the speed of the interstate and the charm of rural roads. It utilizes both the New Jersey Turnpike and backcountry roads.
Directions
- Depart from Deal, NJ, and take local roads to the New Jersey Turnpike.
- Merge onto the Turnpike North towards I-78.
- Exit onto Route 309 South, leading towards Coopersburg.
Distance and Fuel Costs
- Distance: Approximately 80 miles
- Driving Time: Around 1.75 hours
- Estimated Fuel Consumption: This route will also require about 3.2 gallons of gas.
- Total Gas Cost: 3.2 gallons x $3.50 = $11.20
This option minimizes travel time while also allowing you to experience some landscapes away from major highways.
Route Comparison Summary
| Route | Distance (miles) | Driving Time (hours) | Gas Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Interstate Route | 77 | 1.5 | $10.78 |
| Scenic Backroads Route | 85 | 2.25 | $11.90 |
| Highway and Backroad Combo | 80 | 1.75 | $11.20 |
Recommended Route
After comparing the three routes, the Direct Interstate Route emerges as the most cost-effective and time-efficient option. With a fuel cost of $10.78, and a driving time of approximately 1.5 hours, this route offers convenience without sacrificing too much in terms of experience.
The Highway and Backroad Combo Route is a solid alternative for those looking to add a little variety to their drive. While it costs a bit more in gas, it strikes a pleasant balance between speed and scenery.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip from Deal, New Jersey to Coopersburg, Pennsylvania can be budget-friendly and enjoyable if planned correctly. Choosing the right route not only impacts your travel time but also affects your overall costs. With approximately 77 miles to cover, you can expect the direct interstate route to take about 1.5 hours and cost around $10.78 for gas. Ultimately, this route maximizes both value and efficiency, making it the best choice for your next road adventure.