I used to drive I81 south to I77 but in the past few years truck traffic has increased exponentially. And there are only two lanes. By midday truck convoys clog the road. I78 to I81 south to I66 to Rt17 to I95 is now my preferred route. 295 bypass around Richmond. With three lanes most of the way now I95 moves better than I81. The I81 route to 77 does have nicer scenery but even a small accident backs up traffic for long long ways because of only two lanes. 95 between DC and Boston is a hell hole to be avoided.