Further to your upcoming trip with VIA Rail, we would like to offer you a few tips on how best to prepare for your overnight voyage aboard the train. All of our guests – regardless of hotel category – are booked in VIA Rail’s Sleeper Plus class. Included, you’ll have a private cabin, meals while on board, and access to the domed observation cars. Single sleeper cabins are small and will have limited space for your belongings. Double cabins contain bunk beds. All cabins have a private half-bathroom (WC and sink). Shower facilities are shared by coach with shower kits provided.
Preparation For Your VIA Rail Train Journey For your comfort and safety, there is limited space for luggage in your cabin. We have outlined the luggage size requirements below. Our recommendation would be to check larger luggage and have a smaller carry-on bag with your change of clothes and toiletries for your time aboard the train. On board you are permitted one suitcase (max 11.5kg/25lbs, max 54.5 x 39.5 x 23cm, 21.5x15.5x9 in.) plus a personal item such as a laptop or backpack. Additionally, you may have two checked suitcases (23kg/50lb each) in the baggage car which is not accessible during your trip. The comfort of your journey will be enhanced when you check in larger items.
Meals All of your meals while aboard the train are included. After check in, please see the service manager in the station to receive your meal time allocation, as it is not possible for all passengers to dine at the same time. An announcement will be made while on board letting you know which meal time groupings are presently being seated. Naturally, delays happen and the train attendants will make sure you are fed. However, sometimes due to trains running late, a brunch may be served instead of a breakfast or lunch. Announcements will be made if any changes are foreseen. Alcohol is not included but can be purchased in the lounge or during meals.
Your VIA Rail Attendants You will have a full time service attendant looking after your room aboard the train. In the morning, while you are at breakfast, they will fold up your beds and set up your day chairs. At night, they will fold down your chairs and prepare your bed for you. Please get to know your attendant, as once they know your schedule and a little bit about you, they will be able to provide better service to you.
Entertainment Please see the train’s activities coordinator to find out all of the activities being offered on your journey. Depending on the schedule and time of day, there may be talks about local areas of interest such as geography, wine or history. The activities car and the observation cars are generally where this information can be found. Please note, there is no Wifi available on the train and you will have very limited mobile phone service.
Why is the train stopping all the time? Most of Canada uses single track rail lines, which are used for both passenger and freight trains. As the freight trains are much longer, they have priority on the rail tracks as it is easier for shorter trains to pull over to let others pass in the opposite direction. Often, your train will pull over for a period of time (anywhere from minutes to hours) to allow for such circumstances. Don’t worry, these times are budgeted into the schedule and your train will very often make up for the delays when possible. During any delays, we encourage you to sit back and enjoy your surroundings and the interesting people you are meeting on board. Remember, even if delayed, the mountains will still be waiting for you!
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