Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Durham to Barrington, New Hampshire: A Detailed Breakdown
Traveling between Durham, New Hampshire, and Barrington, New Hampshire, offers beautiful scenery, charming small-town vibes, and a taste of New England culture. However, understanding the cost of this trip, especially with fluctuating gas prices, is essential for planning a budget-friendly journey. In this article, we will explore various routes, their distances, potential gas expenses based on current fuel prices, and ultimately recommend the best option for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Overview of Routes
When considering a road trip, the route you choose significantly influences your travel experience. For those planning a drive from Durham to Barrington, you typically have two primary routes to take:
- Route via NH-4 and NH-125 (approximately 23 miles)
- Route via NH-108 and NH-125 (approximately 25 miles)
By comparing these routes, travelers can select the one that best fits their preferences in terms of scenery, time, and costs.
Route 1: NH-4 and NH-125
This route begins in Durham and takes you west on NH-4. Following NH-4, you’ll merge onto NH-125, which leads directly into Barrington.
Distance:
- Approximately 23 miles
Estimated Travel Time:
- About 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Cost Calculation:
To accurately calculate the cost of gas for this 23-mile trip, we need to consider the following:
- Average Fuel Economy: Assume your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon (mpg).
- Current Gas Prices: As of October 2023, the average gas price in New Hampshire is around $3.60 per gallon.
Gas Calculation:
Determine how many gallons you use for the trip: [ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} = \frac{23 \text}{25 \text} \approx 0.92 \text ]
Calculate the cost: [ \text = \text \times \text = 0.92 \text \times 3.60 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 3.31 \text ]
Route 2: NH-108 and NH-125
This alternative route starts similarly in Durham but travels down NH-108 before connecting to NH-125 to Barrington.
Distance:
- Approximately 25 miles
Estimated Travel Time:
- Around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Cost Calculation:
Using the same fuel economy and gas price assumptions:
Gas Calculation:
Determine how many gallons you use for the trip: [ \text = \frac{ \text}{ \text} = \frac{25 \text}{25 \text} = 1.00 \text ]
Calculate the cost: [ \text = \text \times \text = 1.00 \text \times 3.60 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 3.60 \text ]
Summary of Route Costs
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Cost ($) | Estimated Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| NH-4 and NH-125 | 23 | 3.31 | 30 to 40 minutes |
| NH-108 and NH-125 | 25 | 3.60 | 35 to 45 minutes |
Comparing Scenery and Experience
While both routes are relatively quick, the scenery offered by each can vary significantly.
NH-4 and NH-125: This route tends to have a more agricultural landscape, with sprawling fields and woods lining the road. The straight path reduces potential travel stresses as you won’t face as many stops. This makes it an ideal route for a quick trip.
NH-108 and NH-125: The NH-108 route showcases more picturesque small towns and vibrant neighborhoods, offering a peek into local life. This often leads to more traffic due to increased populations near the towns, making it a less efficient option for those prioritizing speed over sights.
Recommended Route
Based on cost, travel time, and overall convenience, I recommend taking Route 1: NH-4 and NH-125. This route strikes a balance between efficiency and affordability, costing approximately $3.31 in gas while allowing you to enjoy a scenic drive without excessive delays.
Conclusion
Traveling from Durham to Barrington, New Hampshire, offers an exciting opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of the Granite State. Choosing Route 1 via NH-4 and NH-125 minimizes both travel time and cost, allowing you to arrive swiftly and enjoy the journey. With an approximate distance of 23 miles and a gas expenditure of around $3.31, this trip typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Enjoy your journey, and keep an eye on gas prices for the best budgeting!