The Cost of a Road Trip: Derry, NH to Dracut, MA Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a trip from Derry, New Hampshire, to Dracut, Massachusetts, requires careful consideration of several factors, including distance, route options, and gas prices. This article delves into different routes you can take, outlines their respective costs, and provides recommendations for the most efficient journey.
Overview of the Journey
The distance between Derry and Dracut is around 30 miles, but the exact route you choose will significantly affect your travel costs. Understanding your options allows you to make an informed decision that balances cost and convenience. Currently, gas prices in this region hover around $3.50 per gallon, which will be a crucial factor when evaluating trip expenses.
Possible Routes
Route 1: I-93 South
The simplest and most direct route from Derry to Dracut is via I-93 South. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
- Distance: Approximately 27 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 30-35 minutes (without heavy traffic)
- Route Description: Depart from Derry via NH-102 S, then take a left onto I-93 S. This route leads directly to Dracut.
Cost Calculation:
- Assuming an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg), you’ll drive approximately 27 miles.
- Total gallons used = 27 miles / 25 mpg = 1.08 gallons.
- Total gas cost = 1.08 gallons × $3.50 = $3.78.
Route 2: NH-102 and MA-113
Another option is to travel via NH-102 and MA-113. This route winds through picturesque landscapes but might add some time to your journey.
- Distance: Approximately 29 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 35-45 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Route Description: Start on NH-102 S, take a right onto MA-113 E to reach Dracut.
Cost Calculation:
- Again, assuming a fuel economy of 25 mpg, you’ll drive approximately 29 miles.
- Total gallons used = 29 miles / 25 mpg = 1.16 gallons.
- Total gas cost = 1.16 gallons × $3.50 = $4.06.
Route 3: NH-102 and I-495
A third option includes traveling via NH-102 and then I-495. While this route is slightly longer, it might be preferable if you're looking for quicker travel to the nearby highways.
- Distance: Approximately 32 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 40-50 minutes
- Route Description: Travel south on NH-102 to I-495 S, then take the appropriate exit to Dracut.
Cost Calculation:
- Taking the same fuel economy of 25 mpg, you will drive approximately 32 miles.
- Total gallons used = 32 miles / 25 mpg = 1.28 gallons.
- Total gas cost = 1.28 gallons × $3.50 = $4.48.
Summary of Costs
| Route | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Gas Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-93 South | 27 miles | 30-35 minutes | $3.78 |
| NH-102 and MA-113 | 29 miles | 35-45 minutes | $4.06 |
| NH-102 and I-495 | 32 miles | 40-50 minutes | $4.48 |
Recommended Route
After analyzing the distance, cost, and estimated travel time of the three routes, the best route is to take I-93 South. It provides the shortest distance and the lowest fuel cost while keeping the travel time efficient. While the other routes offer scenic views and slight deviations, they result in more gas consumption and longer travel times.
Conclusion
The journey from Derry, New Hampshire, to Dracut, Massachusetts, takes approximately 30-35 minutes via I-93 South, covering about 27 miles. The total estimated cost for gas on this route is around $3.78 based on current gas prices. This route's combination of cost-effectiveness, distance, and travel time makes it the ideal choice for a smooth, enjoyable trip.