Explore Canada by Rail: A Budget-Friendly Guide for Autumn Travel
Autumn is the perfect time for a getaway, and what better way to explore Canada than by train? As the temperatures cool down and travel enters the “shoulder season,” train travel offers a budget-friendly alternative to expensive plane tickets and inflated gas prices. Here are some tips and tricks to help you plan your affordable rail adventure.
Understanding Your Options
When it comes to train travel in Canada, Via Rail is the primary option. With over 400 stations across the country, Via Rail provides nationwide passenger service, making it convenient to explore both large cities and remote areas. The train offers various fare classes, ranging from basic Economy to luxurious Prestige tickets for multi-day journeys. Consider your travel needs and budget when choosing the right class for your trip.
Booking Early and Taking Advantage of Discounts
Booking your train tickets early is essential to secure the best deals. As demand increases closer to the travel dates, prices can double, especially for popular routes. Consider booking your tickets on a Tuesday to take advantage of Via Rail’s Discount Tuesday promotion, offering cheaper seats for those who use the promo code ‘Tuesday.’ Via Rail also offers special discounts for children, students, seniors, military members, indigenous communities, groups, CAA members, and Hostelling International members. Keep an eye out for seat sales throughout the year and sign up for Via Rail’s email list to stay informed about the latest deals.
Make the Most of Stopovers
Via Rail offers a free stopover program, allowing you to explore more of Canada without additional costs. A stopover includes a 4-hour or longer stop in a city along your route. Take advantage of this opportunity to stretch your legs, see the sights, and enjoy a meal in a new place without purchasing separate train fares or paying for lodging. Most fare classes allow one complimentary stopover, while additional stopovers may incur charges.
Reconsider the Dining Car
Depending on the length of your journey, trains may have a dining car or cart for meals. Business, Sleeper Plus, and Prestige ticket holders enjoy included meals, but economy travelers will need to purchase food onboard. To save money, consider bringing your own meals and snacks for the journey. Non-perishable items like dried fruits, nut mixes, granola bars, chips, crackers, and bottled beverages are easy to pack and don’t require refrigeration.
Bonus Tip: Pay with Points
If you frequently travel by rail or plan to do so in the future, joining Via Rail’s Via Préférence points program can be beneficial. Earn points for eligible train travel purchases and redeem them for free trips later. Additionally, if you have Air Miles points on an Air Miles credit card, you can redeem them for Via Rail vouchers to save on ticket purchases.
About the Author: Hannah Logan
“Hannah Logan is a freelance writer and blogger specializing in personal finance and travel. Her personal travel blog, EatSleepBreatheTravel.com, offers insights and tips for adventurous travelers. Follow her adventures on Instagram @hannahlogan21.”
Conclusion
Exploring Canada by train during the autumn season can be a budget-friendly and exciting experience. By understanding your options, booking early, taking advantage of discounts, making the most of stopovers, reconsidering dining options, and utilizing points programs, you can enjoy a memorable rail adventure without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, hop on board, and discover the beauty of Canada from the comfort of a train.
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
