Driving Cost from Derry, New Hampshire to Bristol, Connecticut

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip from Derry, NH to Bristol, CT Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Derry, New Hampshire, to Bristol, Connecticut, can evoke a sense of excitement and adventure. The journey spans approximately 95 miles, and understanding the costs involved can help you budget your trip better. This article breaks down various routes, the associated gas costs based on current fuel prices, and some tips to optimize your travel experience.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the details of the trip, it’s essential to understand the current gas prices. As of the latest update, the average gas price in New England is approximately $3.60 per gallon. Depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency, this will significantly impact your overall travel costs.

Fuel Efficiency Calculation

To estimate your gas expenses, calculate your vehicle's miles per gallon (MPG). Let’s consider three average scenarios:

  1. Fuel-Efficient Car (30 MPG)
  2. Average Car (25 MPG)
  3. Large SUV (20 MPG)

Using these benchmarks, we can calculate the fuel costs for the journey from Derry to Bristol.

Cost Calculation Formula

To calculate the fuel cost, you can use the following formula:

[ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} \times \text ]

Route Options

The drive from Derry, NH, to Bristol, CT, provides several route options, each with its distance, time, and cost implications. Here are three primary routes to consider:

Route 1: Interstate 93 to I-84

Distance: 95 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Driving Directions:

  1. Start on I-93 S from Derry.
  2. Merge onto I-89 S.
  3. Merge onto I-84 S at Hartford, CT, and take exit 35 for CT-72 E.
  4. Follow CT-72 E to Bristol.

Cost Breakdown:

  • For a vehicle with 30 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{95}{30} \times 3.60 \approx $11.40 ]

  • For a vehicle with 25 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{95}{25} \times 3.60 \approx $13.68 ]

  • For a vehicle with 20 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{95}{20} \times 3.60 \approx $17.10 ]

Route 2: Route 102 to I-91

Distance: 96 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Driving Directions:

  1. Head south on Route 102 from Derry.
  2. Merge onto I-93 S and follow the same initial steps as Route 1.
  3. Merge onto I-91 S until you reach exit 31 for CT-372.
  4. Follow CT-372 to Bristol.

Cost Breakdown:

  • For a vehicle with 30 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{96}{30} \times 3.60 \approx $11.52 ]

  • For a vehicle with 25 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{96}{25} \times 3.60 \approx $13.83 ]

  • For a vehicle with 20 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{96}{20} \times 3.60 \approx $17.28 ]

Route 3: Route 28 to I-84

Distance: 97 miles
Estimated Time: 2 hours
Driving Directions:

  1. Start on Route 28 S from Derry.
  2. Turn onto I-84 S near Danbury, CT.
  3. Continue on I-84 to Bristol.

Cost Breakdown:

  • For a vehicle with 30 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{97}{30} \times 3.60 \approx $11.66 ]

  • For a vehicle with 25 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{97}{25} \times 3.60 \approx $14.06 ]

  • For a vehicle with 20 MPG:
    [ \text = \frac{97}{20} \times 3.60 \approx $17.37 ]

After evaluating the three routes, Route 1 is the most efficient path from Derry to Bristol. With the shortest distance of 95 miles and the quickest estimated time of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, this route balances both cost and travel time effectively. Whether you're driving a fuel-efficient car or a larger vehicle, Route 1 offers the most economical choice, especially when considering gas prices.

Additional Considerations

While planning your trip, consider additional factors that may affect your journey:

  • Traffic Conditions: Traveling during peak hours may significantly add to your travel time. Check traffic updates before your journey for optimal timing.
  • Tolls: Depending on the route, you might encounter tolls along I-93 or other highways. Budget an additional amount to cover any tolls.
  • Rest Stops: Factor in breaks for food, fuel, or stretching. These stops can result in extra time but are essential for maintaining comfort during the drive.

Conclusion

The road trip from Derry, New Hampshire, to Bristol, Connecticut, using Route 1 offers an efficient and economical journey. With a distance of approximately 95 miles and an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 45 minutes, you can arrive in Bristol conveniently, enjoying the picturesque landscapes of New England along the way. Anticipate spending approximately $11.40 to $17.10 on gas, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy your trip!