How Many Tolls from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach?

Planning a road trip from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach? You might be wondering how many tolls you’ll face along the way. Knowing this helps you budget for your trip and choose the best route. I’ll guide you through the toll roads, approximate costs, and travel tips for a smooth drive.

Driving from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, covers about 530 miles. The trip takes roughly 9 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and stops. Let’s explore the tolls you’ll encounter, the best routes to avoid or minimize tolls, and how to prepare for your journey.

Understanding the Main Routes from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach

There are two main routes you can take:

• Route 1: I-95 South through Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina.

• Route 2: I-95 South to I-26 East in South Carolina, then US-17 South to Myrtle Beach.

Both routes involve toll roads, but the number and cost vary. Let’s break down the tolls you’ll face on each.

Tolls on the I-95 South Route

The I-95 corridor is a major highway with several toll sections, especially in the Mid-Atlantic states. Here are the main toll points you’ll encounter:

• Delaware Turnpike (I-95): A 14-mile toll road in Delaware. The toll is about $4 for passenger vehicles.

• New Jersey Turnpike (if you start south of Philadelphia or detour): Not on the direct route from Philadelphia, but if you use it, tolls can add up to $15 or more.

• Maryland’s John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway (I-95): A toll section in northern Maryland. Toll cost is around $5.

• Virginia’s 495 Express Lanes (optional): These are tolled express lanes around Washington, D.C. You can avoid these lanes to skip tolls.

After Virginia, I-95 has no tolls in North Carolina or South Carolina. You’ll exit I-95 near Florence, SC, and take US-76 or US-301 toward Myrtle Beach.

Alternative Routes and Toll Avoidance

If you want to avoid tolls, consider these tips:

• Use GPS or apps like Google Maps or Waze to select toll-free routes.

• Take US highways parallel to I-95, such as US-13 or US-301, which have no tolls but may add travel time.

• In Delaware, you can bypass the Delaware Turnpike toll by using local roads, but this may slow you down.

• Virginia’s I-95 Express Lanes are optional; stay in the regular lanes to avoid tolls.

Keep in mind that toll-free routes often mean slower speeds and more traffic lights.

Estimated Total Toll Costs from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach

On the fastest I-95 route, expect to pay around $9 to $10 in tolls one way. This includes:

• Delaware Turnpike: $4

• Maryland I-95 toll: $5

If you take optional toll lanes or detours, costs can increase. Planning ahead helps you budget accordingly.

Tips for Paying Tolls on Your Road Trip

Here are some practical tips for handling tolls during your trip:

• Use an E-ZPass or compatible electronic toll tag: This saves time and often reduces toll fees.

• Check each state’s toll payment options: Some accept cash, others are cashless and require electronic payment.

• Keep small bills and change handy: For toll booths that accept cash.

• Plan your route in advance: Know where tolls are and decide if you want to pay or take alternate roads.

Where to Stay on the Way from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach

If you want to break up the drive, here are some good cities with hotel options:

• Baltimore, MD: Offers many hotels near I-95, like Marriott and Hilton brands.

• Richmond, VA: A good halfway point with budget and mid-range hotels.

• Fayetteville, NC: Close to I-95 and a convenient stop before reaching Myrtle Beach.

Booking hotels near major highways can save time and help you rest well for the next day’s drive.

What to Expect When You Arrive in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a popular coastal city with plenty of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. It’s known for its beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions.

• Popular hotel chains include Marriott, Hilton, and Holiday Inn.

• Many beachfront resorts offer ocean views and amenities like pools and restaurants.

• Plan your stay near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for easy access to shops and entertainment.

Driving into Myrtle Beach from I-95, you’ll take US-17, which has no tolls, making the last leg of your trip easy and affordable.

Final Thoughts on Driving from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach

Driving from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach involves a few tolls, mainly in Delaware and Maryland. Expect to pay about $10 total if you take the fastest route on I-95. You can avoid tolls by using alternate highways, but this may add time.

Using an electronic toll pass like E-ZPass makes paying easier and can save money. Plan your stops and hotel stays to make the trip comfortable. With the right preparation, your road trip to Myrtle Beach will be smooth and enjoyable.

FAQs

How many tolls are there from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach?

You will encounter about two main toll points: the Delaware Turnpike and Maryland’s I-95 toll section. Together, they cost around $9 to $10 one way.

Can I avoid tolls driving from Philadelphia to Myrtle Beach?

Yes, you can avoid tolls by using local roads and US highways parallel to I-95. However, this may increase your travel time and add traffic lights.

What is the best way to pay tolls on this route?

Using an E-ZPass or compatible electronic toll tag is the easiest and often cheapest way to pay tolls on I-95 and Delaware Turnpike.

Are there tolls on US-17 to Myrtle Beach?

No, US-17 from I-95 to Myrtle Beach has no tolls, making it a toll-free final stretch of your trip.

Where are good places to stop overnight on the drive?

Good stops include Baltimore, MD; Richmond, VA; and Fayetteville, NC. These cities have many hotel options near I-95 for convenient rest.