The Cost of a Road Trip from Brantford, Ontario to Baltimore, Maryland Based on Current Gas Prices
Are you planning a road trip from Brantford, Ontario to Baltimore, Maryland? While the journey may seem daunting, with proper planning, it can be an enjoyable experience. One of the most critical factors you need to consider when planning such a trip is the cost. In this article, we will explore the different routes you can consider and the cost of each one based on current gas prices.
Possible Routes
There are different routes you can take to get from Brantford to Baltimore. These routes have various distances and costs depending on the distance, road conditions, and the amount of traffic. Here are some of the most common routes you can take:
Route 1: Trans-Canada Highway and I-95 S
This route covers about 544 kilometers and is the shortest, taking approximately seven hours to cover the distance. First, you will need to take Highway 403 E, then the Trans-Canada Highway/ON-401 E, followed by I-81 S, and finally, I-95 S. While this route is shorter in distance, it covers a more populated area, meaning that the chances of experiencing traffic are higher.
Route 2: I-90 E and I-80 E
This route is longer, covering about 644 kilometers and is a 9-hour journey. You will start by taking Highway 403 E, then I-90 E, followed by I-80 E, then onto I-476 S, and finally onto I-95 S. While this route is longer, you get to cross some scenic areas such as Niagara Falls, making it a more enjoyable experience.
Route 3: NY-17 E and I-81 S
This route covers approximately 631 kilometers, taking about 9 hours to complete the journey. You start by taking Highway 403 E, then QEW to Fort Erie, then cross into New York State to take NY-17 E, followed by I-81 S, and onto I-83 S. While the route may seem longer, the scenic views along the way and the smooth roads make for a more comfortable trip.
Cost of the Different Routes Based on Current Gas Prices
The cost of a road trip depends on a wide range of variables, including the distance, the type of car you are using, and gas prices. In this section, we will explore the cost of each of the three routes outlined above based on current gas prices.
Route 1: Trans-Canada Highway and I-95 S
According to GasBuddy, as of July 2021, the average gas price in Ontario is CAD 1.30 per liter. The average gas price in the United States is USD 3.13 per gallon. To calculate the total cost of gas, we will assume an average fuel economy of 12 km/liter for the journey. Given this, the total cost of gas for the journey is approximately CAD 180.
Route 2: I-90 E and I-80 E
The cost of gas for this journey is higher due to the longer distance. With the average gas prices mentioned earlier, the total gas cost for this trip is approximately CAD 210. However, taking the scenic route has its advantages, and you can make some stops along the way, making for a more comfortable journey.
Route 3: NY-17 E and I-81 S
The cost of gas for this journey is also higher due to the longer route. Given the average fuel economy and the current gas prices, the total gas cost for this journey is approximately CAD 190. However, this route has picturesque views, and you can also make some stops along the way, making it a more comfortable journey.
Recommendation
Based on the cost and distance considerations of the different routes, we recommend route 3 as the best option. Despite being longer and slightly more expensive than route 1, it has more to offer in terms of scenery and less traffic, making it a more comfortable journey. You also get to save some gas compared to route 2, which has a more extended distance, making the cost higher.
Conclusion
Planning any road trip is an exciting experience, and a trip from Brantford to Baltimore is no different. When planning such a journey, the cost should be a primary consideration. By considering the different routes and the cost of gas, you can make an informed decision on which route to take and keep the costs manageable. Based on our analysis, we recommend route 3 as the best option regarding cost and comfort. This journey takes approximately nine hours, covering about 631 kilometers, and is worth the effort. Bon voyage!