
Whether or not you can go through the I-95 tunnel with a camper depends on a few factors. Firstly, the height and width of the camper need to be considered. Most newer tunnels can accommodate vehicles up to 13 feet high and 8.5 feet wide. The I-95 tunnel has a maximum height restriction of 13 feet 6 inches and a width restriction of 8 feet. Additionally, some tunnels have restrictions on propane tanks due to safety concerns, as propane is heavier than air and could pool at the bottom of a tunnel. The I-95 tunnel prohibits vehicles carrying bottled propane gas in excess of 10 pounds per container (up to a maximum of 10 containers). Therefore, if your camper fits within the height and width restrictions and does not have excess propane, you may be able to go through the I-95 tunnel. However, it is always a good idea to check with the local authorities or enforcement agency to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Height restriction | 13 feet 6 inches |
Width restriction | 8 feet |
Propane restriction | No propane in excess of 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers) |
Hazardous materials restriction | No explosives, radioactive materials, or bulk gasoline |
Vehicle type restriction | No double trailers |
Alternative route | Francis Scott Key Bridge (I-695) |
What You'll Learn
Height and width restrictions for tunnels
When driving a large vehicle such as a camper, it is important to be aware of height and width restrictions for tunnels. Many tunnels will have their maximum height restrictions listed before the tunnel and on the tunnel itself. Most newer tunnels have been built to accommodate vehicles up to 13 feet in height and 8.5 feet in width. However, older tunnels may not be large enough to accommodate vehicles of this size, so it is important to check the restrictions in advance.
Some tunnels have additional restrictions on vehicles carrying propane tanks. This is because propane is flammable and can pool at the bottom of a tunnel, particularly if the tunnel goes downhill and then uphill. Tunnels that go under water typically have this design, and so most of them either prohibit or restrict propane.
In the United States, some tunnels that prohibit propane include the Baltimore Harbor and Fort McHenry (I-95) tunnels in Maryland, all tunnels in Boston, Massachusetts, and the Holland Tunnel between Manhattan and Jersey City. In Canada, the Montreal tunnel prohibits propane; RVs can take the shorter and faster Hwy 30 bypass, but it has a toll.
If you are driving a large vehicle, it may be worth investing in an RV GPS, which will warn you in advance of low tunnels and bridges and route you through safer alternatives.
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RV GPS systems
If you're planning a big road trip with your RV, you might be wondering if there are any restrictions on your route, especially when it comes to bridges and tunnels. While RVs are generally allowed on most roads, bridges, and tunnels, there are some restrictions to be aware of. Here's where an RV GPS system can come in handy.
An RV GPS is a specialised navigation tool designed for RVs or recreational vehicles. These GPS systems are programmed to take into account the height, width, and weight of your RV, as well as the presence of propane tanks, to help you navigate safely and avoid low bridges or tunnels with restrictions.
- Height and Width Restrictions: RV GPS systems will alert you to upcoming tunnels and bridges that may be too low or narrow for your RV to pass through safely. This is especially important as many tunnels have height restrictions, typically accommodating vehicles up to 13 feet high, while RVs can be almost as tall.
- Propane Tank Considerations: Some tunnels prohibit RVs with propane tanks due to safety concerns. Propane is heavier than air, and in underwater tunnels, it can pool at the bottom, creating a fire hazard. RV GPS systems can route you away from such tunnels or alert you to turn off your propane tanks before entering.
- Advanced Route Planning: RV GPS systems allow you to plan your route in advance, taking into account the specifications of your RV. This helps you avoid last-minute detours and ensures a smoother journey.
- Safety and Peace of Mind: These GPS systems enhance your safety on the road by providing accurate and timely information about potential hazards. They offer peace of mind, especially when navigating unfamiliar territories.
- Toll and Weight Information: Some RV GPS systems also provide information about toll roads and weight restrictions, helping you make informed decisions about your route.
While RV GPS systems are incredibly useful, it's important to validate the information they provide. Always double-check the height and width restrictions of tunnels and bridges before entering, and be mindful of any signs or instructions along your route. Additionally, keep the dimensions of your RV handy, either written down or stored in your phone, so you can easily reference them during your trip.
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Propane tank restrictions
In the United States, individual states regulate highways and tunnels, so it is essential to check the policies for each state and tunnel you plan to visit. Here are some specific examples of tunnel restrictions:
- The Baltimore Harbor and Fort McHenry (I-95) tunnels in Maryland prohibit vehicles with propane gas in excess of 10 pounds per container, with a maximum of 10 containers.
- All tunnels in the Boston Harbor in Massachusetts prohibit propane.
- The Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, Queens Midtown Tunnel, and Holland Tunnel in New York prohibit propane.
- The lower level of the George Washington Bridge in New York also does not allow propane.
In addition to these restrictions, it is important to consider the height and width of your RV when planning a route. Many older tunnels may not accommodate larger vehicles, so it is wise to check height and width restrictions in advance. An RV GPS can be a useful tool for navigating these restrictions, but it is always a good idea to double-check the restriction signs when approaching a tunnel.
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Weight restrictions
Some tunnels may have weight restrictions in place, but these are not always clearly indicated. For example, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel in Virginia has a weight restriction in place for RVs with propane tanks. RVs equipped with ICC-approved compressed cooking tanks not exceeding two 45-pound capacity tanks (or two permanently mounted containers with a maximum total capacity of 200 pounds) may cross the facility. In the opinion of the toll collector or police sergeant after inspection, the tanks are completely shut off and securely attached.
The Baltimore Harbor and Fort McHenry tunnels on I-95 have a height restriction of 13 feet 6 inches and a width restriction of 8 feet. While weight restrictions are not explicitly mentioned, these tunnels prohibit vehicles carrying bottled propane gas in excess of 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials.
To ensure a safe journey, it is always a good idea to check the restrictions of a tunnel before planning your route.
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Toll costs
The toll costs for the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel and Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) vary depending on whether you have an E-ZPass® Maryland account. As of July 1, 2015, the toll rate for cars is $4.00 cash or $3.00 with E-ZPass, paid in both directions. Vehicles with more than two axles pay additional amounts, up to $30.00 for six axles.
In March 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all-electronic tolling was implemented, with tolls payable through E-ZPass or Video Tolling, which uses automatic license plate recognition. All-electronic tolling was made permanent in August 2020.
As of January 1, 2016, vehicles with a valid E-ZPass Maryland account and transponder will pay $2 per axle for 3, 4, 5, and 6+ axle vehicles to use the I-895/Childs Street ramps at the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel.
The Baltimore Harbor Tunnel and Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) also offer commuter discount plans for customers with valid E-ZPass Maryland accounts driving two-axle vehicles. The Baltimore Regional Plan costs $70.00 and offers 50 trips. The plan ends after 45 days or when all trips are used, whichever comes first.
Additionally, the E-ZPass Maryland website provides information on commercial vehicle toll rates, multi-axle base toll rates, and video toll rates.
It is important to note that toll rates may change over time, so it is recommended to check the official websites or contact the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.
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Frequently asked questions
No, RVs and campers are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) and the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895). This is due to regulations that govern the transportation of hazardous materials.
The restrictions for the I-95 tunnel include a ban on vehicles carrying bottled propane gas in excess of 10 pounds per container, with a maximum of 10 containers. The height restriction is 13 feet 6 inches, and the width restriction is 8 feet.
Yes, vehicles carrying bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are also prohibited.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge (I-695) is a convenient alternative route for crossing Baltimore's harbor.
The toll for the Key Bridge is $6 for three axles.