Driving Cost from Dover, New Hampshire to West Brookfield, Massachusetts

A picture depicting a gas pump

Exploring the Cost of a Road Trip: Dover, NH to West Brookfield, MA Based on Current Gas Prices

A road trip from Dover, New Hampshire, to West Brookfield, Massachusetts, offers a delightful mix of scenic views and charming small towns. But before you hit the road, it’s essential to analyze the cost of traveling between these two locations. With fluctuating gas prices, choosing the most economical route is crucial. In this article, we will explore various routes, calculate the total travel costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the best path to take.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in the New England region hovers around $3.40 per gallon. This price can vary based on location and the type of gas station you choose. To calculate the trip cost accurately, we’ll use this average figure as a baseline for our calculations.

Distance and Route Options

There are primarily two main routes to travel from Dover, NH, to West Brookfield, MA. Each route offers its own unique scenery, with different distances and travel times.

Route 1: Via I-95 S and MA-9 W

  • Distance: Approximately 85 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Description: This route takes you southwest on I-95, merging onto I-395 S and then taking MA-9 W. As you travel through the quaint towns of southern New Hampshire and into Massachusetts, you’ll encounter a mix of urban and rural landscapes.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Average fuel economy: Assume a vehicle achieves 25 miles per gallon (mpg).
  2. Total gallons needed:
    [ \text \div \text = 85 , \text \div 25 , \text = 3.4 , \text ]
  3. Total fuel cost:
    [ \text \times \text = 3.4 , \text \times 3.40 , \text{$/gallon} = 11.56 , \text{$} ]

Route 2: Via I-95 S and I-90 W

  • Distance: Approximately 95 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours

Description: The second route involves traveling south on I-95, then merging onto I-90, also known as the Massachusetts Turnpike. This highway offers a more direct path but is slightly longer than the first route. You can expect a more highway-centric drive and less local scenery.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Average fuel economy: Again, assume 25 mpg.
  2. Total gallons needed:
    [ \text \div \text = 95 , \text \div 25 , \text = 3.8 , \text ]
  3. Total fuel cost:
    [ \text \times \text = 3.8 , \text \times 3.40 , \text{$/gallon} = 12.92 , \text{$} ]

Route Comparison

Now that we’ve calculated the costs and distances of each route, let’s summarize the findings:

Route Distance (miles) Estimated Time Gallons Needed Cost ($)
I-95 S and MA-9 W 85 1 hour 40 min 3.4 11.56
I-95 S and I-90 W 95 2 hours 3.8 12.92

Best Route Recommendation

Based on distance, travel time, and cost analysis, taking the route via I-95 S and MA-9 W emerges as the best option. It not only saves you money on gas but also reduces your overall travel time by approximately 20 minutes. Plus, this route allows you to enjoy the picturesque countryside, making the journey more enjoyable.

Additional Costs to Consider

While gas is a significant expense, it's helpful to consider other potential costs associated with your trip:

  1. Tolls: If you choose the route via I-90, be prepared for tolls, which can add to your overall expenses. Most of Massachusetts has toll roads, and depending on your entry and exit points, you may end up paying up to $10 in tolls.

  2. Food and Snacks: Depending on how long you plan to travel, consider budgeting for food or snacks along the way. A quick stop at a diner or fast food joint can add about $10-$20 to your travel budget.

  3. Parking: In case you plan to spend some time exploring West Brookfield, consider parking fees. Certain areas may charge for parking, so it's a good idea to check local information ahead of time.

  4. Miscellaneous Expenses: Always keep a buffer for unexpected costs, like crossing into a city that may require a parking fee or needing to refuel before the final destination.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dover, New Hampshire, to West Brookfield, Massachusetts, provides a perfect blend of adventure and economical driving. Opting for the route via I-95 S and MA-9 W is the best choice, being the most cost-effective and time-efficient. The trip takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes, with a total fuel cost of about $11.56 based on current gas prices. Armed with this knowledge, you’re all set for an enjoyable drive, where every mile brings new landscapes and experiences waiting to be explored!