Canadian Trains: The Don'ts of Canadian Train Travel

[@murraytown4]

Canadian here who often does VIA along the Toronto Quebec City corridor. There is another service in western Canada from Vancouver to Banff/Lake Louise. It’s called the Rocky Mountaineer. It’s private whereas VIA is state owned. The Rocky Mountaineer is luxe travel. They stop overnight along the route so as not to travel by rail at night. Rocky Mountaineer also has routes in the US (Idaho and Colorado.). Rocky Mountaineer is expensive whereas if you book the cheap seats on VIA far enough in advance, fares are very reasonable.

[@billsandford3901]

You show have mentioned that on The Canadian “sleeper class and above has snacks and drinks all the time. Plus showers.” I’ve taken it many times free meals makes up for much of the extra costs. They resupply the train in Saskatoon and if you travel when this will be dark, often with the 40minute stop you’ll be able to see the northern lights. Thanks for covering this trip. William Sandford CD Pro Patria

[@erics3317]

This is a timely post. My wife and I are booked for The Ocean from Halifax to Montreal this summer. We sprung for the Renaissance sleeper room with an en suite shower and bathroom. We can't wait!

[@chrisberry9017]

I travelled on the Rocky Mountaineer when it first started, and it was an amazing experience! I’m so blessed to have been able to travel as extensively as I have - wondering memories of places and people!

[@Santiago-in1xf]

I took The Canadian in December. The only times I had cell service was in and around bigger cities like Jasper, Winnepeg, etc. Smaller towns like White Horse were hit or miss. Night shot photos[which some phones will default into with low light] of stuff outside will also be blurry because they use a longer exposure time. They work well for stuff inside the train though (dome car at 3AM in the morning is eerie). Bringing a sealable Insulated water bottle/container of some sort is a MUST IMHO. It's good if you have your own coffee/tea or drink stuff at night. The cups they have are not exactly water tight. I would fill up before bed to avoid having to go the 3 cars down to get to the snack car / common area. When in bed mode, the berths don't have a place to put the paper cups that won't spill. The Canadian had fresh fruit in the lounge cars every day, juices during the bring time and digestives, sometimes Oreos too. If you do sleeping cars for the Canadian, you will be fed well. I did it for about $700 CAD, if you count it as a combination of food/accommodation/travel, that's not bad.

[@suddenlysolo2170]

Uhmm...since when does The Canadian go anywhere near Whitehorse? LOl

[@Santiago-in1xf]

@@suddenlysolo2170 Looked it up, ha, I'll take the L, I must have misheard the lady I had dinner with one of the nights. (her husband was an engineer so she boarded midway somewhere between Edmonton and Winnipeg, and it was notable because all the dinning room staff came over and chit chatted with her/knew her name ). 🤷‍♂

[@grantw7]

As usual, all excellent advice. I did Prestige from Toronto to Vancouver 2 years ago. Yes, it was super expensive, but definitely a trip of a lifetime. Last year I did Economy from Vancouver to Edmonton, then waited for the western train and went back to Vancouver in a sleeper. This year, because the scenery/daylight hours were better going east I'm booked on a sleeper to Edmonton then will get off, stay overnight and fly back to Vancouver the next day (hotel and flight is half the price of the train).

[@lucimaramelo4530]

I Love Vancouver 💖

[@marsgal42]

The Canadian goes through Jasper, which is indeed spectacular, but Banff and Lake Louise is where they take all the postcard pictures.

[@plskie9527]

The worst part of train travel in Canada is that, like in the US, private companies own the track and don't maintain it to a very good standard to allow the via trains to go fast. They also don't give passenger trains priority, so passengers can get stuck waiting for freight trains to go by adding to the time. It's so bad on the Canadian that they added basically a day's worth of extra time into the schedule to account for the potential delays and usually only go around 50km per hour which less than half the via trains' maximum speed they can go. Most of Canada has no need for high speed but we should atleast have a train that goes as fast as driving. And due to years of disinvestment many areas of Canada don't even have Via anymore.

[@b.w.9244]

Am planning an August trip. Windsor - Toronto- Ottawa-Montreal-Quebec City. Each leg looked short enough to justify 'cattle car' seating for 3 or 4 hours. Will check again.

[@heleneinge3840]

That sounds like an amazing trip! You're probably right that economy is fine for a few hours at a time.

[@SriLankanSw33th3art]

Also, having done Halifax to Vancouver on via rail, I would say the most scenic leg of the trip would be from Edmonton to Vancouver if you want the mountain views, or Montreal to Halifax for some lake views of Quebec

[@SirManfly]

Yup, been on the Edmonton to Vancouver and back many times and it’s beautiful !! 👍🏻😃

[@solidus_snake_]

Thank you for your wonderful insight, Wolter. God bless you!

[@Suomilady88]

As a European who's lived in Canada for 11 years, I think the train is nice to have, but I wouldn't take The Canadian if you’re in a rush. Once, it was 9 hours (!) late when arriving in Vancouver! So you shouldn't plan on important things (like catching a plane) on the same day. It's because the trains that carry goods and cargo get to go first, so the train has to wait. It even warns passengers about this on their website 😅 But if you have time, the train is a great experience, very roomy (I never stayed in the sleeper cabins though), friendly and helpful staff, and very clean. 😊

[@heleneinge3840]

When I was a student, VIA amazing student rates, which could make it comparable or even cheaper than the plane. I remember it being almost as cheap as the student rate for the bus, so obviously I always chose the train!

[@joywebster2678]

Yes I hopped on it often as my fiance was an OPP and I was in Toronto University, so the train was helpful and cheap.

[@petek5523]

A flight to Montreal might be cheaper, but then you have airport hassle and you need to get from the airport to the city, the train takes you directly to downtown Montreal. It’s worth the extra few bucks and time.

[@davejones5728]

Love your videos! Thanks for the awesome info on the trains. Hopefully I’ll get lucky and get a panoramic when I do go. I’ll definitely plan way in advance for that👍

[@robertcreighton272]

I am impressed with your proper pronunciation of "Toronto"

[@SteveInNEPA1]

Favorite Mark quote du jour, "Smelly food is rude." 😊

[@joywebster2678]

And that includes stinky fish!

[@poopenlicht6448]

Thank you for this compact, informative video! I was able to make the decision just based off this video alone if I'm going to take the train! Haha.

[@alanf5351]

I use the 3 to 3-1/2” screws in larger strike plate also. I also put an additional deadbolt higher up on door keyed alike to lower locks. Just make sure the shortest person in house can reach higher deadbolt. People cannot kick or use enough force that high up on door.

[@karintippett753]

I took the Canadian last week and the train arrived in Winnipeg 6 hours late. Arrived Toronto 2 1/2 hours late. I only do Economy because one way Winnipeg to Toronto is $280. Sleeper Plus, $546. Cabin for 1, $974. Cabin for 2, $1461. Prestige, $6012. I will be going back on the first but usually going west is faster than coming east. The "cook" no longer exists in economy, just pre-packaged. I love the scenery, even the tree tunnels and shot 114gb of video on the way.

[@haweater1555]

The food trays seen here on the Toronto - Montreal trains are in Business Class only (included with fare). In economy, they only food sold are snacks from a cart.

[@davegedeon3767]

Most of the viewers just don’t get it. You don’t take the VIA Canadian because you have to. It’s because you want to. You are going to spend more money and take way more time. We have an upcoming trip on this wonderful train coming up from Toronto to Winnipeg. All the sleeper cars are booked so we will be in third class or called Economy. My wife and I can handle one night with no bed that’s for sure. Any more nights and it’s a sleeper. Sure we can fly or drive, but have always wanted to try this train. It’s about 24 hours of straight driving, but why not sit back with no stress and enjoy the views for about 32 hours. 37 hours coming back home. Even us Economy people get a dome car to sit in. I will follow up with all of you and let you know how it went in third class. All aboard!

[@tobiojo6469]

Hey Mark, great video

[@dub88acc]

Love the thumbnail of Peyto Lake

[@loveheals1020]

Canada Dry ginger ale is the best!

[@Mike_Greentea]

One time I'm on a flight and a passenger 2 rows to my left stunk it up with a bag of "Ranch Bugle's" not only did you smell it but you had to listen to them eat! I quickly retrieved my earphones and nose dived into my jacket.

[@SriLankanSw33th3art]

Another thing to note about economy train travel is that there are no showers! So if you are taking the Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver, that is 4 days without a shower

[@douglasprokipchuk7067]

The only exercise you’ll likely be getting is a little walking up and Down the main aisles in the “day coach” so would be surprised if you’d work up any kind of a sweat. Bottom line is that you’ll survive.

[@pelanconglansia2000]

Thank’s. This video is really awesome,,, regards…

[@BlueHeron654]

The Canadian trains from Toronto to Vancouver are often late. Freight trains take priority.

[@dunweyweydum]

Done the Canadian 4x west & 3x east, seen canoes brought aboard, into the box car, only to disembark a few hours later.

[@Mallyhubz]

As a European on the train from Montreal to Quebec, it was very weird.. So slow and rickety! The staff were great though, my wife has broken her foot ( not that we knew that then) bought some food on board as well. Would go again.

[@seprishere]

To be fair, C$300 is reasonable compared with first class fares from say Preston to London, which walk-up are 3257 anytime (more than C$300) or £178.80 "off-peak" single (a bit less than C$300). These are of course (semi-)flexible fares one can buy by simply turning up on the day.

[@MadeNCda]

Thanks Mark. Cdn born and raised, and I hope to one day take train from Atlantic to Pacific- but it cost 1000s of $. Bucket list type of trip. I advise visitors depending on how long they will be here, to break up their visit and focus on regions. It isn't really feasible to do the country in 2 wks unless you are doing quick stops and 1 overnighter in ea city etc.

[@elnamayberry]

So sad they no longer have the observation car for The Ocean from Montreal to Halifax. :(

[@pascalolivier4458]

When I became Canadian citizen in 2012, I got a year-worth of 50% discount on viarail. For personal reasons I was not able to enjoy it. I don't know if they still make that offer to new citizens though. Good to check.

[@j.harryfeldman1776]

Given the 100s of miles of mostly prairie going west from Toronto to the mountains of Alberta, I’d say the smart thing for the scenery lover to do would be to fly to Vancouver and take the train from there to Jasper. Rent a car there and take a couple of days to ride south to Banff and then go on to Calgary. Enjoy the attractions of that great city and then fly home. Of course, you could do the same trip in reverse and it would be equally rewarding. Just watch out for the train being late getting into Jasper.

[@dunweyweydum]

Tell me you've never been east of alberta without telling me 😂😂

[@joliettraveler]

Also remember that freight takes precedence. We VIA rail from Toronto to Vancouver, and we had to stop for every freight.

[@user-hu3iy9gz5j]

5:18 Beautiful

[@ashantitraylor7240]

Is the panoramic train the one with wine & charcuterie boards?

[@travelwithwill1]

I would love to go… it’s on my list thanks for the tips. I will be vlogging in Geneva.

[@woltersworld]

Cool. Have fun in Geneva

[@travelwithwill1]

@@woltersworld thanks, will you visit? If you do I’ll get you a fondue 🫕

[@Scambush]

How about: Don't expect the Winnipeg-Churchill train to take like 5-6 hours when in fact it takes like 45 hours!

[@tedneanderthal7373]

Hi. Do you have a video on Amtrak from Chicago to Seattle?

[@lorenadugan6355]

@@tedneanderthal7373 Donnie Live many train route videos.

[@A_Canadian_In_Poland]

I can confirm that there are now many itineraries in Europe where flying is also the cheapest option.

[@ItsGroundhogDay]

One question the border people asked me when I went there was "Why do you have snacks?" I guessed they were just stalling for time with small talk, but it seemed like a strange question.

[@woltersworld]

They ask random questions to see your reaction. It can trip people up who may be up to nefarious dealings

[@dunnyodonovan3947]

Did I hear you correctly? You said 4 days straight from Toronto to Vancouver?

[@merc340sr]

Do the Toronto to Vancouver train. Well worth it. I'd like to do it again. There enthousiasts who have done it many times.

[@NadesikoRose]

Not all train stations have places where you can get snacks, the one here is Moncton doesn’t. Thankfully the station is within walking distance of the grocery store and a drug store, so you can grab snacks there if you have time

[@rdtennent]

You should tell people that because they have a reserved ticket, they don't need to line up to wait to board. They can just sit on the side till boarding starts. Canadians got used to lining up because once upon a time they couldn't reserve a seat.

[@paulkoza8652]

Practical advice regardless of whether one is on the Canadian or US trains. Although this is not a "don't" I wish you would have said if there is a hop on hop off ticket option. I once wanted to take the transcontinental Canadian train but after watching this video, I am glad I did not. Better to fly/drive to see the scenery up close and personal than to look at it through a brief blur on a train. Thanks!

[@Pressplay_Media_EU]

Another one should be not to try to use an OVchipkaart for the Sprinter . However I wonder if they have a similar system in via rail.. I agree with alex pope too btw

[@alex-pope]

Key to train travel in Canada: buy a plane ticket

[@woltersworld]

😀

[@murraytown4]

Not true

[@keith96969]

then we just screwed on the heavy taxes on air. Like i seen Toronto to la cheaper than toronto to winnipeg… we should have the power of levitation.

[@georgewooldridge703]

Nonsense Canadian airlines are unreliable, expensive and have poor service

[@ccbige]

MANNERS NOTE - bring comfortable headphones or earbuds that you will actually wear with that device so the rest of us don't have to hear it.

[@gnomealone350]

I’ve been Canadian for 60+ years now (ie my whole life) and I can honestly say I don’t know one single person who has ever taken the train in this country.

[@cynthiakazmierzski8144]

Where do you live? I think it's mostly between Quebec City and Windsor that people take the train. Elsewhere in the country, intercity trains are mostly a tourist thing.

[@gnomealone350]

@@cynthiakazmierzski8144 Alberta.

[@SirManfly]

@@gnomealone350 I would guess that it’s because getting a room from Vancouver or Edmonton to Toronto is honkin’ expensive and most people probably just fly ! 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@yyyfffff33333]

Don't expect them to be fast .

[@nomsantuli6023]

😂😂 Mark Ur funny

[@woltersworld]

Thank you 😊

[@angus7278]

Canada had a great and relatively inexpensive rail system for years. As a teenager I paid $79 to travel (bench seat only) from Vancouver to Kingston Ontario in 1975. Then the Conservatives took power and dismantled and privatized almost all of it. No more affordable low-carbon services for the Canadian public, we were forced onto highways and planes.

[@Tramptraveller]

👏👏👏🌹👏👏👏

[@anabsolutelynormalseraph3599]

I might secretly be a canadian xD

[@pbsteamatspeed7683]

This video seems not to work, adverts start it but no video after. Is it still a live link?

[@lanaeva9198]

Dear Wolters. Thank you so much for your video. You are so good speak English, but a bit fast.I am Ukrainian 🇺🇦 and for me I would prefer, please could you speak a bit slowly ? Please can I ask you about something : is a real found in Canada Shelters ? My sister with 3 kids in Canada now and this is quite not easy for them survive without husband and father and when is not warm climate. I imagine that you are busy.But I am appreciate your answer in advance❤. Thank you very much.Have a good one❤

[@Greybone62]

If You click on the Cog-wheel in the lower Right side of the Screen, You will get the possibility to adjust the play-back Speed.

[@serdip]

VIA RAIL could be rebranded as CamTrak. 🙂

[@merc340sr]

No sardines...loll...

[@Stache987]

Okay, note to the men, have you walked up to a urinal and the floor in front of it is a mess, remember that's while standing still, wait till your on a train, it's like using the lavatory in a plane with turbulence, most likely others have missed somewhere along the journey and you might too.. also be cautious dropping your drawers to sit down, do you want others bodily fluids contacting your threads? Now I've heard women complain ladies rooms are worse than men's rooms, my family members always complain no hooks for coats, bags and purses.. don't rely on a baby changing table, it's been dirty more than once.. seeing a woman put her purse on a eating table after using a restroom sickens one out once they realize they probably set that damn lug-bag somewhere filthy and didn't even use a wet towel on it, and more and more bathrooms have motion activated cold only faucets and blow driers, if someone gets sick, they bring whatever back with them, public toilet paper is skimpy thin and you need a bunch, try using wet toilet paper to clean sickness.. not going to work well

[@joywebster2678]

Sadly our government made freight trains priority on the rails which is the reverse of past policy. So you will sit on sidings often waiting for freight to pass. I iused to opt for train to go southern Ontario up to James Bay but nope, now they bus u to timmins to catch the polar express. So much for the sleeper bunk. And hot breakfast. Now unless you pay for prime routes ( expensive), it's like being on a subway.

[@dunweyweydum]

Not the government friend, blame corporations for this one

[@61raindrops]

Family? Just drive. No family? Carpool. Long distance? Cheap air tickets. I don’t see many young people travelling by train. We don’t have the time and money.

[@MTM358]

Basically don't take the train in Canada 😂

[@davidgibson7615]

Smelly snacks??!?? EWWWWW!!!! 🤮

[@smallmj2886]

Don't of Canadian Trail Travel: Just Don't. Slow, often delayed, expensive. I've been actively avoiding Via Rail since my last train trip in 1989.

[@MeITellYou]

Via rail is way too 💰💰💰

[@JohnManzo]

I live in Calgary. We have none, zero, intercity rail. Zero. We're the biggest city in the world with none, not even suburban rail as our LRT doesn't go outside city limits. And Banff? There is no rail service to Banff from the Calgary airport, or from any part of Calgary. THIS is the most disappointing thing about Canadian rail. So your thumbnail of Moraine Lake (in BANFF National Park, which is in SW Alberta) is a horrific lie- shame on you. You can't take the train there.

[@dunweyweydum]

Used to be that CP Rail had passenger service one time, went thru Calgary too!!

[@haweater1555]

Phoenix is bigger than Calgary and it also has none. Mexico City is even much bigger, and recently started a commuter train. Mexico's passenger train network collapsed in the 80s.

[@tommontreal4821]

Most Canadians drive or fly. Taking the train is for tourists (who have plenty of time and money) - and who have perhaps seen those classic photos of Canada in a travel ad.

[@Phlegethon]

Or...don't take the train

[@Gillespie5150]

Please come back to the United States.

[@Voltaireooooo]

Don't take one. They are old and slow.