The Cost of a Trip Between Belleville, Ontario and Moncton, New Brunswick
Introduction
Are you planning a trip from Belleville, Ontario to Moncton, New Brunswick? One of the most important considerations for any traveler is the cost of transportation. With fluctuating gas prices and multiple route options, it can be challenging to determine which route is the most economical for your trip. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between these two beautiful Canadian cities and highlight the cost and distance of each one. We will also recommend the best route based on current gas prices. Let's dive in and discover the most cost-effective way to reach your destination!
Route Options
Route 1: Highway 401 and Trans-Canada Highway (Distance: 1,181 km)
One of the most popular routes between Belleville, Ontario and Moncton, New Brunswick is to take Highway 401 and then connect to the Trans-Canada Highway. This route offers a good balance between distance and convenience.
Starting from Belleville, you will head east on Highway 401 towards Montreal. After driving for approximately 346 kilometers, you will reach the interchange to Trans-Canada Highway 20. Take this exit and follow Trans-Canada Highway 20 east, which will eventually merge with Trans-Canada Highway 185.
Continue on Trans-Canada Highway 185 until you reach the border of New Brunswick. Once you enter New Brunswick, the highway becomes Trans-Canada Highway 2. Stay on Trans-Canada Highway 2 until you reach Moncton.
Route 2: Highway 401, Highway 416, and Highway 417 (Distance: 1,228 km)
If you prefer to bypass Montreal and the potential traffic congestion, another option is to take Highway 401, Highway 416, and Highway 417. This route adds a bit more distance, but it can save you time and reduce the likelihood of encountering heavy traffic.
Starting from Belleville, you will head east on Highway 401, just like in Route 1. However, instead of taking the exit towards Montreal, you will continue on Highway 401 until you reach Highway 416.
Take the exit to Highway 416 and continue driving south towards Ottawa. Once you reach Ottawa, you will connect to Highway 417 and continue eastward. Eventually, Highway 417 will join with Trans-Canada Highway 17, which you will follow until you reach Moncton.
Route 3: Northern Route via Quebec (Distance: 1,552 km)
For those who want to take a slightly longer, but more scenic and adventurous route, there is a northern option via Quebec. This route offers a different experience and allows you to explore more of Canada's diverse landscapes.
Starting from Belleville, you will head northeast on Highway 37 towards Tweed, Ontario. From Tweed, take Highway 7 east until you reach Ottawa. Once in Ottawa, you will connect to Highway 417 and continue eastward.
Instead of joining Trans-Canada Highway 17, you will stay on Highway 417 until you reach Quebec. In Quebec, take exit 5 to Route 148 East, which will eventually connect to Route 30. Continue on Route 30 until you reach the famous Confederation Bridge, which links Quebec to Prince Edward Island.
After crossing the Confederation Bridge and exploring the iconic Prince Edward Island, continue on Route 1 until you reach Moncton, New Brunswick.
Cost Analysis
Now that we have explored the different route options between Belleville and Moncton, let's analyze the cost of each route based on current gas prices. Please note that gas prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the region and time of year.
Route 1: Highway 401 and Trans-Canada Highway
This route covers a distance of approximately 1,181 kilometers. Based on the average fuel consumption of a typical car (10 liters per 100 kilometers), and assuming a current gas price of $1.25 per liter, the total cost for the trip can be calculated as:
Fuel cost per 100 km = 10 liters * $1.25/liter = $12.50
Total fuel cost = 1,181 km * $12.50/100 km = $147.63
Route 2: Highway 401, Highway 416, and Highway 417
With a distance of around 1,228 kilometers, this route is slightly longer than Route 1. Using the same fuel consumption and gas price assumptions, the total cost for this route would be:
Total fuel cost = 1,228 km * $12.50/100 km = $153.50
Route 3: Northern Route via Quebec
As the longest route, covering approximately 1,552 kilometers, Route 3 is expected to have a higher fuel cost. Let's calculate the fuel cost based on the same assumptions:
Total fuel cost = 1,552 km * $12.50/100 km = $194.00
Recommended Route
Taking into account both distance and cost, the recommended route for most travelers would be Route 1: Highway 401 and Trans-Canada Highway. This route offers a reasonable distance while providing a direct connection between Belleville and Moncton. With a total fuel cost of approximately $147.63, it is the most economical option.
However, it's worth noting that if you have extra time and want to explore more of Canada's beautiful landscapes, Route 3: Northern Route via Quebec can be a great alternative. While it does add more distance and a higher fuel cost, the scenic views and the opportunity to visit Prince Edward Island can make for an unforgettable journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the trip between Belleville, Ontario and Moncton, New Brunswick can be cost-effective and enjoyable. We have explored three different routes, taking into account the cost and distance of each option. Based on current gas prices, the recommended route is Route 1: Highway 401 and Trans-Canada Highway, which is estimated to take around 13-15 hours depending on traffic and stops. However, if you have more time to spare and crave an adventure, exploring Route 3: Northern Route via Quebec can be a rewarding experience, despite the longer distance and higher fuel cost. Remember to plan your trip accordingly, consider traffic conditions, and enjoy the journey as you make your way from Belleville to Moncton!