Driving Cost from Dighton, Massachusetts to South Kingstown, Rhode Island

A picture depicting a gas pump

Exploring the Cost of Your Road Trip: Dighton, Massachusetts to South Kingstown, Rhode Island Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Dighton, Massachusetts, to South Kingstown, Rhode Island, opens avenues for adventure alongside considerations for travel costs. With gas prices being a vital component of your overall travel expenses, it becomes essential to analyze the various routes available. This article will explore different routes, the distance of each, the associated fuel costs based on current gas prices, and ultimately recommend the best route for your journey.

Understanding the Route Options

When traveling from Dighton to South Kingstown, two main routes dominate the options: Route 138 and Route 195. Each offers unique scenery and experiences but varies in distance and fuel costs.

Route 1: Via Route 138

This route covers approximately 30 miles and is fairly straightforward. The journey starts on Route 138 South, winding through rural Massachusetts and eventually into Rhode Island.

Distance and Duration

  • Distance: 30 miles
  • Estimated Drive Time: 40-45 minutes (depending on traffic)

Fuel Costs

For a typical vehicle, let’s estimate an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (MPG). If current average gas prices sit at around $3.50 per gallon, you can calculate your fuel expense as follows:

  1. Total Gallons Needed: [ \text / \text = 30 / 25 = 1.2 \text ]

  2. Total Cost for Gas: [ \text \times \text = 1.2 \times 3.50 = $4.20 ]

So the estimated gas cost via Route 138 is approximately $4.20.

Route 2: Via Route 195

This route is slightly longer but can offer more dramatic scenery along the way, especially by the coastline. The journey starts on Route 138, connecting to I-195 East.

Distance and Duration

  • Distance: 33 miles
  • Estimated Drive Time: 45-50 minutes (traffic dependent)

Fuel Costs

Using the same average fuel efficiency of 25 MPG and the current gas price of $3.50:

  1. Total Gallons Needed: [ \text / \text = 33 / 25 = 1.32 \text ]

  2. Total Cost for Gas: [ \text \times \text = 1.32 \times 3.50 = $4.62 ]

Thus, the estimated gas cost via Route 195 comes to approximately $4.62.

Choosing the Best Route

After evaluating both routes based on distance and gas costs, Route 138 emerges as the more economical choice to get from Dighton to South Kingstown. The minimal price difference may seem negligible, but the shorter distance also saves you time on the road and grants you more time to enjoy your destination.

Additional Costs to Consider

While gas is a primary expenditure for any road trip, it’s paramount to consider other costs that could affect your overall budget. Below are some additional factors you may want to include:

Tolls

Although most routes between Dighton and South Kingstown are free of tolls, always verify if any route changes would introduce toll fees during your travel planning.

Food and Beverages

If your trip spans over several hours or you plan to take a short break, budget extra for snacks or meals. Visiting local eateries can enhance your travel experience, so don’t hesitate to set aside funds for delicious local dining.

Breaks and Rest Stops

Factor in the likelihood of taking breaks during your trip. Ensure your schedule allows for adequate time to stretch your legs, grab a drink, or fuel up on food, especially if traveling with family or friends.

Accommodations

If your trip requires an overnight stay, consider accommodation costs. There are several hotels and inns in South Kingstown that range greatly in price. Booking ahead can often save you money.

Recommendations for the Trip

To make your journey enjoyable and cost-effective, follow these tips:

  1. Plan Your Departure Time: To avoid heavy traffic, aim to leave early in the morning or later in the evening. Traffic can significantly affect your travel time, particularly when using I-195.

  2. Check Gas Prices: If you’re very budget-conscious, consider refueling before leaving Dighton. Sometimes, local gas stations may offer more favorable prices than those in South Kingstown.

  3. Explore Along the Way: Make the most of your trip by stopping at interesting sites along Route 138. Consider checking out local attractions, parks, or scenic viewpoints to enrich your travel experience.

  4. Prepare an Itinerary: Creating a timeline for your journey can help keep you on track while allowing time for spontaneity.

Conclusion

In summary, the road trip from Dighton, Massachusetts, to South Kingstown, Rhode Island, offers a distinctive mix of convenience and cost efficiency. Choosing Route 138 gives you a shorter distance to cover, leading to lower fuel costs and a travel time of about 40-45 minutes. As you make your way to the coast, remember that travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination — so enjoy the ride!