specify the departure and return dates for your trip;
click on "Search".
Your choice of trains will then be displayed. Click on the "Train Service Description" link for your train for a detailed description of the services available, including checked baggage services.
Already know your train number? Our Baggage Policy (in PDF format) describes the services available on your train along with useful information about bringing your baggage.
If your train carries checked baggage, pay special attention to the restrictions. In some cars, you are only allowed a limited number of carry-on items, but this makes it less cumbersome for you! Don't forget to carry with you any items you may need during your trip such as your medication.
This ensures that your baggage reaches your destination at the same time as you! Therefore please arrive at least:
One hour before departure: at most stations;
Ten minutes before departure: at certain stops or stations (particularly in outlying areas) where you must place your baggage into the baggage car yourself.
We do not accept articles weighing more than 32 kg (70 lb.) or measuring more than 180 cm (6 ft.), unless they qualify as oversized outdoor equipment (bicycles, canoes, etc.), pets and skis.
There is also a surcharge of $20 for any piece of baggage weighing between 23 kg and 32 kg (50 lb. and 70 lb.), or measuring between 120 cm and 180 cm (4 ft. and 6 ft.).
This surcharge does not apply to articles classified as oversized outdoor equipment (bicycles, canoes, etc.), or to pets. Different charges apply to these items. A pair of skis is considered a single article of regular size, regardless of the length of the skis.
Sample calculation
Between Halifax and Montréal, you check three pieces each weighing 16 kg (35 lb.) and one weighing 30 kg (65 lb.). You will be charged $40: $20 for one piece in excess of the free allowance and $20 for one piece weighing over 23 kg (50 lb.).
On northern routes, a minimal $2.50 charge will apply to boxes of groceries (or food). Clients will be asked to pay this fee for travel on board the Abitibi train (Montréal-Senneterre), the Saguenay train (Montréal-Jonquière), the Lake Superior train (Sudbury-White River), and the Canadian train between Winnipeg and Sudbury.
Food and liquids must be stored in hermetically sealed boxes secured with adhesive tape and must be claimed immediately upon arrival. Perishable goods stored in polystyrene containers or bags are not accepted.
Your baggage must be able to withstand handling and storing without risk of breakage. Store your belongings in suitcases or protective containers. A plastic or paper bag is not sufficient. You can find additional hints on our page on protecting baggage.
Some types of articles are prohibited in cars and baggage cars, particularly flammable materials and furniture. View the list of prohibited baggage.
You can leave your belongings in station checkrooms. Checked baggage can be kept free of charge for the first 24 hours after your arrival or until the next connecting train.
Storage charges, calculated per 24-hour period, are $3 per item, and $6 per item of overweight or oversized baggage (including bicycles, child-carriers and canoes).
Pets and perishable items cannot be left in the checkrooms.
For obvious safety reasons, VIA Rail will refuse any items that cannot be handled or stored safely aboard our trains, or that are risky to transport. If necessary, see our list of prohibited baggage.
Also, please note that it is unfortunately impossible to carry oversized baggage such as a canoe or bicycle, as well as pets aboard trains that do not have a baggage car. The fact that some trains carry checked baggage is no guarantee that you will be allowed to check in a pet or oversized baggage, especially aboard trains with Renaissance cars.
All fares are in Canadian dollars and do not include taxes. Prices are subject to change without notice. Applicable discounts, terms, conditions and schedules are also subject to change without prior notice. The final cost of tickets, departure and arrival times will be confirmed at the time of booking.
Baggage Policy