Throw that GPS out the window because you won’t need it anymore. It is I, Ozair Khan, your guide for today’s adventure!
And with me leading the way, there’s nothing but an exciting trip ahead, which is why people know me as the “The Ultimate Travel Genie”.
Okay, maybe I just conjured up that nickname on the spot.
If we’re getting serious, though, I’ve listed down all possible ways to get to Saskatoon from Calgary. With my help, you’ll find that getting from the former to latter can be done so quickly and smoothly that it feels like – dare I say it – genie magic!
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What are different ways to get to Saskatoon from Calgary?
The different ways to get to Saskatoon from Calgary include flying, taking a bus, riding a train, and driving by car.
To figure out which one works best for you, I suggest considering your budget, preferences, and possible time constraints present. Overall, if you’re looking for the fastest way to get there, hopping on the plane is the wisest decision.
1. Calgary to Saskatoon by Plane
Booking a flight to get to Saskatoon from Calgary is the wisest choice in my opinion. Though a bit more expensive than the other modes of transportation, I find it reasonable because of how time-efficient it is.
Step 1: Book flight tickets
Do this step as early as you can. As soon as you lock in a date, head over to the website of the airline of your choice.
Here’s an insider tip: to snag the cheapest flights available, I suggest checking out Google Flights first. If you’re booking months ahead, plane tickets could cost around CA$320 to CA$490.
On the other hand, ticket costs could reach up to CA$1,080 if you’re booking within the same month of your departure.
Step 2: Prepare all travel essentials
Now that the flight schedule has been finalized, it’s time to prepare all travel essentials. This includes packing for your trip, purchasing other necessities, and planning your itinerary.
Step 3: Head over to the Calgary International Airport
The day of your long-awaited trip has finally arrived! Pretty soon, you’ll feel the warm Saskatoon shores on your toes.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, be at the Calgary International Airport 2 hours before the time of your flight to avoid the stress of delays. You’ll have to go through several airport procedures before finally reaching your departure gate, after all.
Step 4: Proceed to the check-in counter
If you find that the check-in counter for your flight is open, it’s important to head there as soon as you can to avoid being in a rush later.
Step 5: Look for the departure gate
After getting your boarding pass, look for the departure gate assigned to your flight. If you plan to explore the airport, be alert to any announcements being broadcasted over the airport’s speaker system as changes to the departure gate occur every now and then.
Step 6: Board the plane
Heard that? Great – you’re being alert! Proceed to your departure gate and enjoy your trip!
2. Calgary to Saskatoon by Bus
Riding the bus from Calgary to Saskatoon is extremely cost-effective. However, the travel time is severely long, which might test the patience of some people.
With that in mind, you can say that this is an ideal choice for budget travelers who prefer to splurge on their other trip’s essentials like food and accommodation rather than allocating a huge chunk of their budget on the cost of transportation.
Step 1: Book a ride on a bus company’s website
There’s a wide range of companies offering rides from Calgary to Saskatoon like Ride Express, Red Arrow, and Ebus. If you want to compare prices and see which one offers the cheapest or fastest ride, I suggest checking out Bus Bud.
Once you find something that aligns with your plans and preferences, make a booking! Don’t forget to double check the important details to avoid any inconveniences.
Step 2: Organize your travel essentials
With the day of your trip slowly approaching, it’s time to start packing your travel must-haves! For me, my luggage is usually packed with the following items:
- Headphones
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Toiletries (don’t forget the sunscreen!)
- Mosquito repellant (especially during summer)
- Travel pillow
- Hand sanitizers or alcohol
Step 3: Head over to the pick-up point
Depending on the schedule and the company you chose, pick-up points can vary. Regardless of the location, be there at least 30 minutes in advance so that everything runs on schedule. Enjoy your trip!
3. Calgary to Saskatoon by Bus and Train
Taking the train from Calgary to Saskatoon is another option that might be ideal for some travelers. That said, it could be a challenge because you have to transfer from one mode of transportation to another.
But don’t fret! The Travel Genie is here to provide you with a clear step-by-step process to help you have a smooth journey.
Step 1: Book a bus ride to Edmonton
Book a ride to Edmonton by heading over to Red Arrow’s website. Do note that there are 6 pick-up locations to choose from, so choose the most convenient one for you.
The website should be easy enough to navigate since it’s pretty straightforward. You won’t have a hard time finding seats of your choice.
Step 2: Book a train ride from Edmonton to Saskatoon
As I mentioned, heading to Saskatoon requires transferring since there’s no direct train line from Calgary to Saskatoon.
VIA Rail Canada offers rides varying in prices and perks. If possible, I recommend considering spending a few extra bucks on better tickets for added comfort. Remember, you’re going to be on that ride for 10 or so hours, so it would come in handy.
And of course, don’t forget to book a train ride from Edmonton to Saskatoon that aligns with your bus schedule!
Step 3: Start your trip preparations
Now that everything’s in order, it’s time to start your trip preparations! I suggest making a list to avoid forgetting anything (try my suggestions from earlier in the article).
Step 4: Head over to the pick-up point
On the day of your trip, be at the pick-up point around 30 minutes in advance. Bus rides tend to leave on the said departure time.
In the event that you miss your bus, do keep in mind that not only will you need to rebook your bus ride, but you’ll also have to do the same for your train booking.
Anyway, your bus ride should take 5 hours or less. Sit back, eat some snacks, and take this opportunity to catch up on that series you’ve been meaning to watch.
Step 5: Explore Edmonton
If you have a few hours to kill, feel free to explore the city! Of course, skip this step if you’re in a rush!
Here’s a tip: Edmonton is famous for countless festivals all year round. With that in mind, be sure to check out the local event calendar to see what’s happening during your short visit.
Step 6: Climb aboard the train
The time your train leaves is now approaching. Be at the train station that will take you to Saskatoon at least 30 minutes earlier.
The final leg of your trip from Calgary to Saskatoon should take around 10 hours. Given the duration, bring out your travel entertainment of choice for a more enjoyable trip.
4. Calgary to Saskatoon by Car
Getting from Calgary to Saskatoon by car is an easy journey because you just have to stay on a single route. However, the travel time is worth considering because 7 hours on the road could be challenging for some travelers.
1. Start at the Trans-Canada Highway (AB-1)
Start your exciting trip ahead by heading over to Trans-Canada Highway (AB-1). Head east on this path and just continue following AB-1.
While driving, you’ll notice that you’ll pass by several interesting towns like Medicine Hat. Feel free to stop by if you have time, because a lot of them are worth seeing.
2. Reach the Alberta-Saskatchewan border
After hours of driving on the same path, you’ll finally reach the Alberta-Saskatchewan border, which will take you closer to your destination.
3. Continue driving along Trans-Canada Highway (SK-1)
After passing through the border, continue driving along SK-1. Before you know it, you’ll finally reach Saskatoon!
