Can you sleep in economy on VIA Rail?

Whats the difference between economy and economy plus on VIA Rail?

Okay, VIA Rail…Economy vs Economy Plus? Hmm. Economy Plus, right. It’s gotta be better, duh.

• More space, bigger seats? Yeah, makes sense. My knees always hit the seat in front.
• Extra legroom, I need that. Cramped spaces are the worst. Remember that flight to Aunt Carol’s in Moncton? Ugh.

Is it worth it though? More comfy…but is it that much more?

• Reasonable cost. Hmm. Okay. Not first class prices then.
• Definitely prioritizing comfort if you choose it. I mean, I do like comfort. Don’t we all?

Okay so, bigger seats. More room. Not super pricey. Better travel experience overall. Got it.

Do VIA Rail economy seats recline?

VIA Rail economy seats do recline. It’s a standard feature. Think of it – a long train journey without the ability to recline? Brutal.

However, the recline isn’t extreme. Don’t expect to be completely horizontal. It’s more of a comfortable lean-back. My experience on the Toronto-Montreal route last year confirms this. The angle is sufficient, though. I slept surprisingly well. It’s all relative, I suppose. Life’s about perspective, isn’t it?

Here’s a breakdown for clarity:

• Economy Class: Reclining seats available; degree of recline is moderate.
• Sleeper Plus: Private rooms; full beds; far superior comfort. Includes dining car access. Much more expensive, obviously. A splurge, but worth it for long trips. I’d recommend this for journeys over six hours, personally.

Consider these additional factors influencing your comfort:

• Seat Selection: Choosing a window seat offers slightly better recline options, as it removes the worry of disturbing neighbors.
• Time of Year: Crowded trains offer less recline space due to people’s belongings. Think packed summer trips. A less crowded train is a better bet.

Ultimately, the recline is adequate for most people. But your personal comfort level might vary, of course.

What are economy seats like with VIA Rail?

Okay, so VIA Rail economy. I took the train from Toronto to Montreal in July 2024. The seats? Two by two. Cramped, honestly. Not uncomfortable, but definitely not spacious. My knees were practically in my chest. Legroom? Forget about it, unless you’re a hobbit.

Reclining was okay, I guess. Not much of a recline, though. More of a lean. I was glued to my phone for most of the trip trying to distract myself. That WiFi? Worked most of the time. Sometimes it dropped out completely. Annoying as hell.

The power outlets were a lifesaver. My phone was almost dead. I needed to charge it. Large windows? Yeah, nice view, but honestly, I was too busy trying to get comfortable. Luggage space? Sufficient for a small carry-on. Don’t try to bring a huge suitcase. It’ll be a nightmare.

Overall? It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t great either. It was a decent way to travel, if you don’t mind feeling a little squeezed and possibly missing a signal or two. I’d do it again but I’d probably book business class next time, if I’m honest.

• Pros: Power outlets, mostly reliable WiFi, large windows, adequate luggage space (for small bags)
• Cons: Limited legroom, cramped seating, unreliable WiFi at times, not a huge recline.

Do you have to pay for luggage on VIA Rail?

Yep, VIA Rail? Baggage fees! Like airlines but…on rails.

Economy? First bag’s $25. Second? $35. After that, fifty bucks EACH! Ouch!

Business Class gets one free. Still, that second bag will be 25 clams. Next one? Still fifty!

Sleeper class? Two free bags! Ballin’! But extra? Still…you guessed it…fifty smackers each. My bank account cries.

Here’s the skinny:

• Economy Class:
  • Bag 1: $25
  • Bag 2: $35
  • Bag 3+: $50 (yikes!)
• Business Class:
  • Bag 1: FREE! (cha-ching)
  • Bag 2: $25
  • Bag 3+: $50 (still yikes!)
• Sleeper Class:
  • Bag 1 & 2: FREE! (double cha-ching!)
  • Bag 3+: $50 (triple yikes!)

They get ya every time, eh? Pack light, my friend. Pack light. Unless you’re rich and then…go nuts.