The Cost of Driving from Barrie, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta

Are you planning a road trip from Barrie, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta but are unsure of the cost? Gas prices fluctuate all the time, making it difficult to determine just how much you'll need to budget for your trip. In this post, we'll provide you with an estimate of the cost of driving from Barrie, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Trans-Canada Highway

The Trans-Canada Highway is the most direct route from Barrie, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta. You'll be driving a total of 3,397 km and the estimated driving time is 37 hours.

Using the current average gas prices in Ontario ($1.23/L) and Alberta ($1.14/L), you can expect to spend approximately $443.24 on gas for the trip.

There are no tolls on this route, so the gas cost is your only expense.

Route 2: Through the United States

Another option is to drive through the United States. This route takes you through Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Montana before entering Alberta.

The total distance for this route is slightly longer at 3,880 km, and the estimated driving time is 42 hours. Keep in mind that you'll also need to account for extra time at the border, plus a valid passport and any necessary travel documents.

While gas prices may be slightly cheaper in the United States, you have to remember to factor in potential conversion fees for exchanging your Canadian dollars.

Based on the current average gas prices in the United States ($2.74/gallon USD), and an estimated exchange rate of 1.25 CAD to 1 USD, you can expect to spend approximately $476.15 on gas.

Tolls may also be a factor on this route. For example, you'll have to pay a toll of $8.00 USD to cross the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan, and $6.00 USD to cross the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit.

Route 3: The Northern Route

If you'd rather take a scenic route, you can opt to drive through Northern Ontario. This route takes you through Sudbury, Thunder Bay, and Winnipeg before entering Saskatchewan and Alberta.

The total distance for this route is 4,020 km, and the estimated driving time is 44 hours. Keep in mind that this route is mostly two-lane highways, so you'll need to be prepared for slower speeds and more traffic.

Using the current average gas prices and toll costs, you can expect to spend approximately $514.74 on gas and tolls.

There are a few tolls on this route, such as the Highway 407 ETR (Electronic Toll Route) in Toronto, which can range from $1.06 to $2.05 per km.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of driving from Barrie, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta varies depending on the route you take. The Trans-Canada Highway is the most direct and cheapest route, with no tolls to worry about. Driving through the United States may be cheaper for gas, but you'll also need to factor in currency exchange fees and potential tolls. Taking the Northern Route is the most scenic option, but you may need to factor in tolls and slower driving speeds.

Regardless of which route you choose, be sure to budget for gas, tolls, and any travel expenses. Safe travels!