The Cost of a Trip between Castlemaine and Melbourne: A Guide on Gas Prices

Traveling between Castlemaine and Melbourne might seem like a simple task, but there are multiple routes to consider and different modes of transportation available. One of the most important factors to take into account is the cost of gas, which fluctuates often and can vary depending on the route chosen. In this guide, we will explore the different routes between Castlemaine and Melbourne, the distance of each one, and how much it would cost according to current gas prices.

Route 1: Via the Calder Freeway (105 km)

The Calder Freeway is a direct route that connects Castlemaine to Melbourne. It is the quickest way to get to the city, taking around an hour and a half to complete the trip. The distance between the two points is approximately 105 km.

To calculate the cost of gas, we must first know the current average gas prices in Victoria. As of August 2021, the average price for unleaded petrol in Victoria is around $1.39 per liter.

Assuming a car gets around 10 km per liter, the cost of the trip from Castlemaine to Melbourne via the Calder Freeway would be approximately $15.67. This is based on driving a car that gets around 10 km per liter of unleaded petrol and consuming around 10.5 liters for the trip.

Route 2: Via the Western Highway and the M8 (115 km)

Another possible route to Melbourne from Castlemaine is via the Western Highway and the M8. This is a slightly longer route than the Calder Freeway, taking around two hours to complete the trip. The distance between Castlemaine to Melbourne via this route is approximately 115 km.

To calculate the cost of gas for this route, we must add an extra 10 km to the total distance. This is because the Western Highway and M8 combination adds an extra 10 km to the total distance.

Assuming a car gets around 10 km per liter, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $16.88. This is based on the consumption of around 12 liters of unleaded petrol for the trip.

Route 3: Via the Midland Highway (119 km)

One more route to consider is via the Midland Highway. This is the longest route available, but it does offer picturesque scenery and a chance to explore some of the smaller towns along the way. The total distance between Castlemaine and Melbourne via this route is approximately 119 km.

To calculate the cost of gas for this route, we must add an extra 14 km to the total distance. This is because the Midland Highway route adds an extra 14 km to the total distance.

Assuming a car gets around 10 km per liter, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $17.52. This is based on the consumption of around 12.65 liters of unleaded petrol for the trip.

Best Route Recommendation

Based on the distance and cost, the Calder Freeway is the best route recommendation to get to Melbourne from Castlemaine. It is the shortest and quickest route, taking only an hour and a half to complete the trip. The cost of gas for this route is also the lowest, only costing around $15.67 based on current gas prices.

Conclusion

Whether you're traveling to Melbourne for business or pleasure, the cost of gas is an important factor to consider. While there are multiple routes available to get to Melbourne, some are more cost-effective than others. Based on current gas prices, the Calder Freeway is the best route recommendation for traveling from Castlemaine to Melbourne. It is the shortest and most direct route available, taking around an hour and a half to complete the trip and costing approximately $15.67 in gas. With this guide, you can find the best route for your trip and ensure you're accounting for the cost of gas before you hit the road.