The Cost of a Trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Martensville, Saskatchewan

Introduction

Planning a road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Martensville, Saskatchewan? One of the most important factors to consider is the cost of the trip, particularly given the fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will analyze the cost of various route options, highlighting the distance and expenses associated with each.

Route Options

Option 1: Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1)

One of the most direct routes from (Old) Ottawa to Martensville is traversing the Trans-Canada Highway, also known as Highway 1. This route covers a distance of approximately 2,400 kilometers (1,491 miles), and the current gas prices will significantly impact the cost of the trip.

Option 2: Northern Route via Highway 11

Another alternative is taking Highway 11, also known as the Mackenzie Highway, which offers a more scenic route through northern Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. This option may add some extra mileage, but it could be worth considering for those seeking to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Canadian north.

Option 3: Southern Route via Highway 17 and Highway 1

If you prefer a more southern route, you can take Highway 17 and combine it with Highway 1 to reach Martensville. While this route adds a few more kilometers, it may provide a different travel experience and the opportunity to visit interesting towns along the way.

Cost Analysis

To calculate the cost of the trip, we will assume an average fuel consumption of 9 liters (2.38 gallons) per 100 kilometers (62 miles), based on an average-sized sedan. As of the time of writing this article, the average gas prices in Ontario and Saskatchewan were $1.35 CAD per liter ($5.10 CAD per gallon) and $1.25 CAD per liter ($4.73 CAD per gallon), respectively.

Option 1: Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1)

With a distance of 2,400 kilometers (1,491 miles) to cover, the cost of fuel becomes a significant factor. Using the average fuel consumption stated earlier and an estimated average gas price of $1.35 CAD per liter in Ontario, the approximate cost for this route would be:

2,400 km / 100 km * 9 L * $1.35 CAD = $291.60 CAD

As you cross into Saskatchewan, the gas prices drop to around $1.25 CAD per liter, so on this portion of the journey:

900 km / 100 km * 9 L * $1.25 CAD = $101.25 CAD

Therefore, the total fuel cost for the entire route is approximately $392.85 CAD.

Option 2: Northern Route via Highway 11

Taking a more northerly route through Highway 11 will add extra distance to the trip, increasing the fuel expenses. However, the change in scenery might be worth the investment. For this option, let's calculate the cost based on an additional 400 kilometers (248 miles) compared to Option 1.

2,800 km / 100 km * 9 L * $1.35 CAD = $340.20 CAD

As we cross into Saskatchewan:

900 km / 100 km * 9 L * $1.25 CAD = $101.25 CAD

The total fuel cost for this route is approximately $441.45 CAD.

Option 3: Southern Route via Highway 17 and Highway 1

For those seeking a more southern experience, let's assess the cost of taking Highway 17 and then merging onto Highway 1. This route adds an extra 200 kilometers (124 miles) compared to Option 1 due to detouring through Highway 17.

2,600 km / 100 km * 9 L * $1.35 CAD = $313.20 CAD

As we enter Saskatchewan:

900 km / 100 km * 9 L * $1.25 CAD = $101.25 CAD

The total fuel cost for this route is approximately $414.45 CAD.

Recommendation

After analyzing the cost, distance, and potential experiences of each route, we recommend the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) as the most efficient and cost-effective option. While there are longer and more scenic routes, the directness of this highway and the ability to refill at a lower gas price in Saskatchewan make it the most favorable choice. However, the decision ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Martensville, Saskatchewan requires careful consideration of the cost and distance involved. With gas prices at approximately $1.35 CAD per liter in Ontario and $1.25 CAD per liter in Saskatchewan, we estimate the total fuel cost for the recommended Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) route to be approximately $392.85 CAD. Depending on external factors such as traffic and weather conditions, the journey could take around 25 to 30 hours of driving time. Enjoy the trip and drive safely!