Canada’s children and teens under the age of 18 can hit the tracks with VIA Rail this summer, for free, when travel is with a parent or guardian, as part of the Canada Strong Pass initiative. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Canada’s children and teens under the age of 18 can hit the tracks with VIA Rail this summer, for free, when travel is with a parent or guardian, as part of the Canada Strong Pass initiative.
Photo: VIA Rail

The Canadian government implemented this policy to encourage family tourism, and increase the number of Canadian tourists between June and August 2025. Prime Minister Mark Carney underscored that the program is part of a larger national effort Canada has embarked upon, to strengthen Canadian unity against transborder challenges.

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VIA Rail Program Makes Family Travel More Affordable

The deal is available on all VIA Rail routes across the country. Families can reserve free seats for their children and teenagers free of charge via the ring carrier’s official reservation site.

In addition, people between 18 and 24 will get greatly reduced fares. It is a policy that encourages students and young travellers to see the country in summer.
Along with cost-free train rides, the Canada Strong Pass offers free museum and gallery visits for people younger than 18. It also includes discounted camping fees in national parks throughout the country.

VIA Rail Program Fosters National Identity

During tough economic times, Prime Minister Carney said, Canadians need to come together. He encouraged people to explore the country’s national parks, historic sites, museums and other cultural institutions this summer.

VIA Rail anticipates the full booking instructions to be available in the next few weeks. These will detail how families can apply the discounts, and plan and book their travel with ease.

The task for Canada Strong Pass is to help jump start local tourism and make travel more affordable and build stronger Canadian connectivity. It frames VIA Rail as a central player in national recovery and cultural exploration.

The government wants national pride to be fostered and regional economies to be supported thanks to available travel and cultural experiences. This simple travel effort exemplifies Canada’s government’s commitment to family-friendly and inclusive public policy.

Source: railway-news.com

Who is eligible to ride VIA Rail for free this summer?

As part of the Canada Strong Pass campaign, any individuals under 18 can travel for free on all VIA Rail routes across Canada when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

But are there benefits for young adults, too?

Yes, students and young adults aged 18 through 24 receive generous fare discounts, enabling students and young budget travelers to explore Canada affordably during the summer months.

What added bonuses does the Canada Strong Pass include?

This free access to museums and galleries for those under 18 and reduced camping fees for national parks is an initiative that encourages family-friendly travel and cultural experiences.

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