Written by Wendy Ly, Digital Marketing Officer, pointA
Canada is known for its vast, natural landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the Rocky Mountains or heading east to the Maritimes, traveling long distances can be done sustainably. Choosing sustainable transportation not only helps protect the environment but also enhances your overall travel experience. Here are five advantages of travelling long distance with sustainable transportation in Canada.
Methods of Long-Distance Transportation
- Travel by Train – VIA Rail
VIA Rail, Canada’s largest rail network, offers convenient and eco-friendly travel across the country. From Vancouver to Halifax, VIA Rail connects you to all provinces, providing an easy and eco-friendly way to experience the best Canada has to offer. With flexible options ranging from economy or business class, or opting for an all-inclusive travel package, the options are flexible and designed to meet your needs.
- Travel by Bus – Greyhound and FlixBus
For those seeking to travel between the Canada and the US, Greyhound offers direct bus services, with routes from Toronto to multiple destinations in the US, such as New York City. FlixBus, which partners with Greyhound, provides even more inter-city travel options across Canada and the US, serving both major cities and rural areas. With over 1,800 destinations in the US and convenient overnight routes, sustainable travel by bus is both accessible and efficient.
Advantages of Travelling Long Distance with Sustainable Transportation
- Reduced Carbon Emissions
One of the biggest benefits of choosing sustainable transportation, such as trains, is the reduced environmental impact. In fact, a train, on average produces nine times less carbon than a fuel gas car. By opting for rail over driving, you’re making an eco-conscious decision that helps mitigate the effects of climate change, allowing you to explore Canada’s beauty without the guilt of a high carbon footprint.
- A Fun Family Road Trip
Sustainable travel doesn’t mean sacrificing fun, especially when it comes to family trips. For families, you can sit face-to-face, play games, and enjoy quality time together. Without the stress of driving, you can relax and take in the scene routes, making the trip itself a memorable part of your adventure.
- Cost-Effective Travel
Sustainable transportation can also be budget friendly. VIA Rail offers numerous discount options for regular rail travelers. Children under 24 months travel for free, and kids aged 2-12 receive discounts of up to 50% in economy class and 25% in other classes (excluding Business and Prestige classes). VIA Rail also provides a variety of discount offers and travel packages, including all-inclusive train and hotel vacations. Check out what discounts you are applicable for here.
- Convenient Stops in Multiple Locations
With over 140 stations across Canada, VIA Rail makes it easy to visit multiple destinations in one trip. Most stops are centrally located in cities, allowing you to explore urban areas with ease. Want to go to the United States to visit family for a holiday, such as Thanksgiving? With connections to Amtrak, so you can also travel to smaller towns across the U.S. Make sure you have the necessary documentation such as your passport to do so!
- Comfort, Flexibility, and Accessibility
Long-distance sustainable travel is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. On overnight train rides, you can book cabins, use shower facilities (available on some trains), extra baggage allowance, and more. Meals and Wi-Fi are also available on day and overnight trips. Through VIA Rail’s website, you can easily reserve spots and pre-pay for extra baggage. Plus, sustainable transportation is accessible to all—wheelchairs, scooters, and service animals are accommodated, ensuring that everyone can enjoy long distance travel comfortably.
The next time you’re planning a long-distance trip in Canada, consider taking sustainable travel – train, bus, there are a lot of options through different providers! It’s a great way to enjoy the journey while keeping our future green!
