What time should I board the VIA Rail?


What time should I board the VIA Rail? How early must I check-in for departure? We are recommending travellers to be at the station 45 minutes prior to departure if you are travelling in the Corridor and 1 hour prior for the long hauls and regional services. Please validate VIA station hours as some stations open 30 minutes prior to scheduled train time.


How early do you need to arrive for an international train?

Please ensure that you have enough time to go through all the extra passport and security checks before your train departs. We recommend arriving around 30 minutes before your train leaves. Don't cut it too fine, as it is no longer possible to board the train within five minutes of departure.


Why is the train so expensive in Canada?

Limited competition: In Canada, most long-distance train routes are operated by a single company, Via Rail. This lack of competition can make it difficult for travelers to find lower prices.


Do you check bags on a train?

Checked baggage service is available at a number of our stations and on many trains and Thruway Services. Not all trains or locations are equipped to handle checked baggage. Before you travel, make sure to check and see if your train and origin and destination stations accept checked baggage.


Is there WIFI on VIA Rail?

VIA Rail is proud to provide complimentary Wi-Fi service on board most of its trains, in its Business lounges and in select stations in the Québec City – Windsor corridor. Note that Wi-Fi is also offered on board the Ocean train (Montreal - Halifax) in the service cars located on either side of the dining car.


Can I bring my own snacks on VIA Rail?

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks on VIA Rail? You can bring your own snacks and drinks onto the train; however, Provincial laws forbid passengers from consuming personal alcoholic drinks on the trains. Personal alcoholic drinks may only be consumed inside private sleeping cabins.


Are there washrooms on VIA Rail trains?

All of our private cabins have washrooms and berths have access to shared facilities in each car. At the end of your car, you have exclusive access to a shower room at all times and we offer towels and toiletries.


Is VIA Rail comfortable?

Accessible and Comfortable VIA Rail is one of the most accessible travel options in Canada, and you can always count on us for a safe, comfortable, and more autonomous way to travel. You'll enjoy a unique experience, one-of-a-kind services, and a warm welcome.


How often is via delayed?

Delays of 10-30 minutes are pretty common. Delays of 30-60 minutes are uncommon. Delays longer than that are rare, and are almost always due to an obvious incident.


Are you guaranteed a seat on a train?

Passengers are entitled to one seat per fare, to ensure other paying passengers are not excluded. Unless specific seats are assigned, seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Seat availability is not guaranteed until we provide you with a reservation confirmation.


Do you need passport for VIA Rail?

Bring valid identification issued by the federal, provincial, territorial or foreign government that includes your: Photo, Full name, and. Date of birth.


How strict is VIA Rail with luggage?

How much luggage is allowed? For both the Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail you are allowed two large, checked items per person. For both rail companies, the maximum weight allowed per bag is 22.6 kg (50 lbs)., with a maximum linear dimension (combination of length, width, and height) of 158 cm (62 inches).


Where do you put your luggage on VIA Rail?

Carry-on baggages are items that you can bring on board and that can either be stowed under your seat or above your seat, or placed in the spaces designated for this purpose.


How early should I board my train?

Arriving at the Station Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours prior to departure).


Do you carry your own luggage on train?

You're generally welcome to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage onboard, at no extra cost. These items may include satchels, backpacks, suitcases and the like. However, some train companies have different luggage policies, so it's always a good idea to check their website before you travel.


Can I eat my own food on a train?

Bringing Your Food Aboard You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars.