Travel across the vast expanse of Canada is not fast but that’s the attraction. A train trip is genuinely about the journey. Read here to learn the “don’ts” of train travel across Canada.
For riders viewing the natural landscape that Canada has to offer, the voyage ahead offers an incredible natural landscape with lakes, prairies, and mountains, the chance to see as much of the country as they can within roughly four days.
For first-time train travelers, they may be uncertain about the experience, a little overwhelmed, maybe intimidated, and unclear on the ins and outs of onboard etiquette. Let’s review a few tips meant so that those considering a trip will be well informed as they venture into unknown train travel territory.
Essential Train Travel Trips for Your First Journey Across Canada
The ideal way to see the extraordinary landscapes of Canada is taking in the scenes slowly by train. You can explore the vibrant cities and take in the glorious sites the country has to offer from the comfort of your cabin.
Still, the logistics of planning a trip via train across Canada can be somewhat overwhelming when it’s your first trip country wide.
Fortunately, many seasoned travelers in varied platforms are available with guidance and advice on how to prepare for the Canadian getaway. Let’s look at a few tips to make your experience positive.
Consider a shorter trip as a family
When you have small children and have never traveled extensively, it’s wise to consider a smaller trip to test their tenacity before initiating them by trekking across Canada via rail. Small kids may be overwhelmed, especially with a wealth of activity and the idea of spending four days on a train.
This could actually spoil the excursion. In fact, this is a dream holiday, it may be worth considering leaving the kids with loved ones and venturing on your own this time and taking the kids when they can better appreciate it. Visit – 9 things my kids learned by taking a train from Toronto to Vancouver – Today’s Parent – to find out what kids may learn on a train trip across Canada.
This way you can see the sights you long to see, and the kids will have a greater sense of stability that they may need for the moment.
Charge devices
While many trains offer power outlets to charge riders’ devices beforehand, it’s wise to have these charged upfront so that you can take photos when you least expect them; a majestic mountain view or something equally photo worthy.
When you have a power bank, it’s essential to ensure it’s full before the voyage begins. You may want to whip the camera out in a split second, but if the phone is dead, it won’t do any good, preventing you from documenting that incredible memory and sharing stories for future generations.
Comfortable clothing
One thing to prioritize when traveling by train is wearing comfortable clothing. In the same way you would dress for comfort on an extended flight, wearing breathable clothes is important when taking a train trip across Canada. Many people bring sleep masks, particularly those sensitive to the light.
It’s also wise to bring a neck pillow for optimal comfortability when taking a nap or resting while taking in the scenes.
In that same vein, the trip across Canada’s countryside involves several overnight stops, making it necessary to pack lightly. The last thing riders want to do is carry a heavy massive suitcase each day, on and off the train. Some carriers only permit carry-ons; meaning you must pack wisely.
Packing appropriate clothing for each season
Canada’s weather is notorious for temperature unpredictability as you travel from one area to the next. It’s vital to pack for any possible weather scenario when traveling across country.
If you pass through areas known for bitter cold in the winter you want to be prepared with warm layers; but in areas with mild temps, you will do well with a windbreaker and lighter layers.
Pay attention to the activities you plan, such as hiking when packing for your travels. Whether you intend to relax with the hot springs or hike a major trail, it’s essential to stay ahead of the route leading the train on the path for your holiday.
You want to plan out the excursion to cover every detail, every stop and double check the schedule upon arriving. The train’s schedule can be changed at the last minute due to technical difficulties or unexpected weather changes. Staying updated can help ensure a safe and smooth holiday experience.
Bring Earbuds or headphones
Being considerate of fellow passengers is important, meaning you want to bring earbuds or headphones if you intend to use your laptop, tablet, or phone. The people surrounding you don’t want to be exposed to your entertainment or business.
It’s relatively cost-effective to buy disposable earbuds for the trip from any store to save from damaging a more expensive pair that would be at risk not only for damage but being stolen or lost.
Earbuds or headphones help distract travelers from the noise associated with traveling, such as talking passengers, crying babies and the roar of the engine. This ensures you enjoy a fully immersive experience, the ultimate goal when traveling on a scenic voyage across Canada. Go here for guidance on train travel etiquette.
Bring food
There will be food on the train, usually in a dining car or a cafe car; however, these are costly for each person. If you have a restricted budget, it’s wise to consider bringing your own food and drinks.
Remember, alcohol is something to avoid bringing on the train and you won’t have access usually to an oven or microwave so the food you bring needs to be ready-made.
Sleeper car passengers tend to have a slight bit more leniency, but you want to check this before boarding the train. Many times, these riders are permitted to bring their own alcohol as long as it’s kept in the cabin, and their meals are included in the ticket price.
This is a consideration when buying a ticket. Sometimes a little extra cost is worth the price when you factor in meals from the dining car.
Final Thought
It’s easy to become lost in the notion of train travel across Canada. Following these tips will help to ensure your trip is smooth and stress-free so that you can enjoy all the country has to offer.
