Driving Cost from Dundalk, Maryland to Paris, Ontario

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The Cost of a Road Trip: Dundalk, Maryland to Paris, Ontario

Taking a road trip between Dundalk, Maryland, and Paris, Ontario, is an exciting adventure that offers scenic views and unique experiences. With rising gas prices, it's essential to estimate the total cost of your trip, including fuel expenses, tolls, food, and potential overnight stays. This guide explores the different routes you can take for this journey, examines the associated costs, and recommends the best option.

Overview of the Trip

The distance between Dundalk, Maryland, and Paris, Ontario, is approximately 550 miles (885 kilometers). The trip can take around 10 to 12 hours of driving time, depending on traffic, road conditions, and how often you stop. Considering current gas prices averaging about $3.50 per gallon in Maryland, let's break down the costs and routes you can take.

Possible Routes

Route 1: I-95 N and ON-401 W

  1. Distance: 570 miles (917 kilometers)
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 11-12 hours
  3. Cost Considerations:
    • Fuel Efficiency: Assuming a vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (MPG), you need around 22.8 gallons of fuel (570 miles ÷ 25 MPG).
    • Total Gas Cost: At $3.50 per gallon, the total cost is approximately $79.80 (22.8 gallons × $3.50).

Highlights

This route takes you through major highways, including I-95 N and ON-401 W. You'll get to experience urban areas like Baltimore and Philadelphia before driving through scenic landscapes in Ontario.

Route 2: I-295 N and I-75 N

  1. Distance: 600 miles (966 kilometers)
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 12-13 hours
  3. Cost Considerations:
    • Fuel Efficiency: Again, assuming 25 MPG, you'd need approximately 24 gallons of fuel (600 miles ÷ 25 MPG).
    • Total Gas Cost: The total cost would be about $84.00 (24 gallons × $3.50).

Highlights

This route is slightly longer and covers more diverse scenery. You'll pass through northern parts of West Virginia and Ohio.

Route 3: I-70 W and I-75 N

  1. Distance: 650 miles (1,046 kilometers)
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 13-14 hours
  3. Cost Considerations:
    • Fuel Efficiency: With the same 25 MPG, you'll use around 26 gallons of fuel (650 miles ÷ 25 MPG).
    • Total Gas Cost: This route would set you back about $91.00 (26 gallons × $3.50).

Highlights

This route involves going further west before heading back north and may offer more rural landscapes. It's the longest option but showcases different states' scenery.

Additional Costs

Tolls

Several routes include toll roads, specifically around the I-95 corridor and crossing into Canada. You should allocate approximately $20-$30 for tolls, which can vary by the route you choose and the payment methods available.

Food and Break Expenses

Consider budgeting around $20-$40 per person per day for meals if you opt for quick stops or fast food. If you plan to dine at sit-down restaurants, this amount can quickly double. Along your journey, you may also want to make rest stops, which can incur dining and snack costs.

Overnight Stays

If you plan to make the journey over two days, consider an additional $100-$150 for budget accommodations, bringing the total cost of your trip closer to $250-$300 (including overnight stays and other considerations).

Recommendations for the Best Route

The most efficient and cost-effective route is Route 1: I-95 N and ON-401 W. This option balances distance and cost effectively, allowing for an 11-12 hour journey with an overall gas cost of around $79.80. The scenery is diverse, and you pass through cities that offer great rest stops and dining options as needed.

Conclusion

The road trip from Dundalk, Maryland, to Paris, Ontario, provides an enjoyable experience filled with picturesque views and memorable stops. Taking Route 1 not only saves you money with a gas cost of around $79.80, but it also minimizes travel time to approximately 11-12 hours. Plan your stops wisely, pack your favorite snacks, and enjoy the journey ahead!