Driving Cost from Drysdale, Victoria to Carroll, New South Wales

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Cost-Effective Travel: A Road Trip from Drysdale, Victoria to Carroll, New South Wales

Planning a road trip offers a chance to explore the picturesque landscapes of Australia while enjoying the flexibility of travel. If you're considering a journey from Drysdale, Victoria to Carroll, New South Wales, it’s essential to assess your routes, calculate potential costs, and make the most of this adventure. This article delves into various routes, gas prices, and the overall travel experience.

Overview of the Journey

The distance between Drysdale and Carroll is approximately 800 kilometers (about 497 miles) depending on the route taken. The journey usually takes around 9 to 10 hours, not including breaks or any additional stops along the way. Before setting off, determining the best route that balances gas costs and scenery will enhance your overall experience.

Gas Prices Consideration

As of the latest reports in October 2023, the average price of petrol in Australia hovers around AUD 1.80 per liter. However, prices can vary significantly based on location and gas station chains, especially in rural versus urban areas. To estimate fuel costs accurately, knowing the fuel efficiency of your vehicle is essential. The following is a breakdown of fuel expenses based on gas consumption:

  • Average Fuel Economy: Let's assume an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 10 liters per 100 kilometers.
  • Total Distance: 800 kilometers.
  • Total Fuel Needed: (800 km / 100 km) * 10 liters = 80 liters.
  • Total Fuel Cost: 80 liters * AUD 1.80/liter = AUD 144.

So, you might spend about AUD 144 on gas for the trip, depending on your vehicle's efficiency and current fuel prices along your route.

Route 1: The Princes Highway (A1)

Description and Distance

One of the simplest routes is taking the Princes Highway (A1). This highway runs along the southeastern coast and offers beautiful coastal views.

  • Distance: Approximately 880 kilometers (about 546 miles).
  • Estimated Time: 10 to 11 hours.

Cost Estimation

Using the same fuel consumption calculation, your total fuel cost on this route would be:

  • Total Fuel Needed: (880 km / 100 km) * 10 liters = 88 liters.
  • Total Fuel Cost: 88 liters * AUD 1.80/liter = AUD 158.40.

Although this route is longer, it offers stunning coastal scenery and various attractions along the way, including the towns of Geelong, Werribee, and Ulladulla.

Route 2: The Hume Highway (M31)

Description and Distance

The Hume Highway (M31) represents the most direct and quickest route from Drysdale to Carroll.

  • Distance: Approximately 850 kilometers (about 528 miles).
  • Estimated Time: 9 to 10 hours.

Cost Estimation

For this more efficient route, fuel costs are as follows:

  • Total Fuel Needed: (850 km / 100 km) * 10 liters = 85 liters.
  • Total Fuel Cost: 85 liters * AUD 1.80/liter = AUD 153.

Although less scenic than the Princes Highway, the Hume Highway is renowned for its well-maintained roads and convenient rest stops, making it easier to cover the distance in a shorter time.

Route 3: Local Roads and Scenic Detours

Description and Distance

For those who enjoy backroads and avoiding the highway's bustle, an alternative route involves taking local roads with scenic detours through various small towns.

  • Distance: Approximately 950 kilometers (about 590 miles).
  • Estimated Time: 11 to 12 hours.

Cost Estimation

Taking local roads can lead to higher fuel costs due to the longer distance.

  • Total Fuel Needed: (950 km / 100 km) * 10 liters = 95 liters.
  • Total Fuel Cost: 95 liters * AUD 1.80/liter = AUD 171.

While this route allows for exploring charming towns like Benalla, Wangaratta, and even visiting vineyards and national parks, the increased travel time and cost may not be worth it for everyone.

Which Route Should You Choose?

When considering which route to take, evaluate your priorities:

  • If time is of the essence and you're comfortable with less scenic views, the Hume Highway is the optimal choice, offering the quickest travel time and reasonable fuel costs.
  • If you seek picturesque scenery and wish to uncover more of Victoria's coastal landscape, the Princes Highway presents an enriching experience, albeit with a higher travel expense.
  • Lastly, if your adventurous spirit is calling and you enjoy exploring quaint towns, local roads can provide a more memorable experience but will take the longest and cost the most in fuel.

Conclusion

In this journey from Drysdale, Victoria to Carroll, New South Wales, the Hume Highway (M31) stands out as the best route for balancing efficiency and cost, allowing travelers to enjoy a smooth ride while keeping fuel expenses reasonable at approximately AUD 153. The trip takes around 9 to 10 hours depending on the driving speed and breaks. Choose your preferred route based on your travel preferences, and prepare for a fantastic road trip ahead!