Charge Up For Adventure! Planning an Electric Alberta Road Trip

So, you're thinking about driving an electric vehicle this summer? Or maybe you're considering buying one? You're not alone. With so many great rebates and incentives available, nearly 70% of Canadians planning to buy a new car in the next five years are leaning toward electric vehicles. And Alberta is getting ready for the EV revolution!

So, what are you waiting for? We’ve put together some essential tips to help you make the most of your electric road trip. Charge up your EV and get ready for an unforgettable adventure across Alberta.

Charge Before You Go

Start your journey with a full battery. Make sure your EV is fully charged at home before hitting the road. Installing a charger at home is easy—whether indoors or outdoors, these units are built to handle extreme temperatures, from -40°C to 50°C, perfect for Alberta’s unpredictable weather.

Free to Roam

Alberta is making it easier than ever to explore by electric vehicle. Use online tools to plan your route and locate charging stations along the way. Thanks to initiatives like Peaks to Prairies, there are now 20 fast-charging (Level 2) stations across Southern Alberta, helping rural communities benefit from the economic and environmental advantages of EVs.

Most EVs can travel between 300 to 500 kilometers on a single charge—enough to drive from Calgary to Waterton Lakes National Park and back. Road trips in Alberta have never been more accessible for electric drivers.

Pack a Cooler

Don’t leave your appetite behind. Pack healthy snacks like puffed wheat squares, peanut butter granola bars, and no-bake fruit and nut bars. Pre-packing saves money, keeps you healthy, and gives you more time to enjoy scenic views instead of fast food.

Remember: Always follow the 2-hour rule when storing perishable foods. If the temperature is above 27°C, reduce that time to 1 hour. Keep your cooler stocked and your food fresh during your entire trip.

Play Some Games

Keep everyone entertained on long drives with fun games. Try classics like I Spy, 20 Questions, or the License Plate Game. Look out for unique landmarks like the Giant Corn Stalk in Taber or the Starship Enterprise Replica in Vulcan.

For a modern twist, bring along travel-sized games like Mad Libs or download group trivia apps. Just remember: keep the driver focused on the road at all times.

Rock Out to Some Tunes

Not all radio signals reach every corner of Alberta. Consider a satellite radio subscription or create a playlist featuring local Alberta artists. Many streaming services let you share playlists, so everyone can contribute. Shuffle a collaborative playlist for a little something for everyone.

Or go old school with a few CDs. Encourage everyone to bring a mixtape or a nostalgic compilation and see how many lyrics they still know.

Savings That Are Worth the Trip

According to a 2020 report, EV owners who charge at home can save around $1,000 annually compared to gas-powered cars. Plus, you’re reducing your carbon footprint. Why not use those savings to explore the best ice cream shops in town?

Whether you're planning to buy an EV or already own one, take a backyard road trip this summer. With so many charging stations across the province, the possibilities are endless. Charge up, pack your cooler, and turn up the music—it's time for an electric adventure!