Train Travel Tips

Going Green

Concerned about reducing your carbon footprint? The train is becoming increasingly recognized as an environmentally friendly travel option. A train can use up to 70% less energy and produces up to 85% less air pollution than air travel, according to Climate Action Network Europe. Via Rail has cut fuel consumption by 25% and greenhouse gas emissions by 13% per passenger kilometre since 1990, while operating 25% more trains and carrying 18% more passengers. New cleaner running locomotives were purchased in 2001 and old ones are being rebuilt to reduce fuel consumption by 5 million litres per year and eliminate another 15 tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually. On the trains, the napkins and toilet paper are made from recycled material and the coffee and tea are fair trade. Compared to other modes of travel? Comparing fuel efficiency of different modes of transportation: an Amtrak train uses 2,100 BTUs (British Thermal Units) per passenger-mile, while an automobile averages 3,597 BTUs per passenger mile (based on 1.6 passengers) and an airline uses 3,890 BTUs per passenger mile, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

Keeping Costs Down

It may not always be cheaper than travelling by plane or automobile, but the train does have benefits. For one, you get to enjoy the scenery along the way—something you can’t do if you’re on a plane, even if it is the quickest way to get from, say, Toronto to Vancouver. And you don’t lose time stopping to stretch your legs, eat, or sleep, as you would travelling across the country by car. So keep in mind the kind of trip you’ll get for your money and whether the savings are worth the trade offs.

And railways often have deals, especially in the summer—companion passes, kids travel free or at a discount, senior and student discounts. So check the railway web sites (www.viarail.ca and www.amtrak.com) for special promotions. But be sure to book early because you don’t want to be de-railed by not being able to get tickets.

Sleeper car tickets are more expensive, but you’ll be more comfortable on a long journey, according to Loren Christie, a Toronto-based travel contributor for Canada AM. On Via Rail, sleeper cars can accommodate one to three people. Double bedrooms feature single bunk-style beds, and the triple bedrooms, a bunk-style bed and a couch that converts into a day bed. Some routes simply have upper and lower berths that are not enclosed accommodations (more options are available on routes out west). You can save on sleeper class tickets in some instances if you book at least five days in advance. And if you’re traveling with little ones, try to book an end car so you don’t have to worry about your kids disturbing other passengers, recommends Vancouver-based Claire Newell, author of Travel Best Bets.

Packages that include train tickets, hotel, car rental and/or attractions are also an option if you are looking to save money on your next trip. This past year, for example, Via teamed up with spas in Ontario to offer a package that included train fare, accommodation, meals and spa treatment.