Image Description: A VIA Rail passenger train interior viewed from the corridor. The aisle has seats on either side, filled with people smiling and looking at a VIA Rail agent walking down the aisle. Large windows let in natural light, and overhead luggage racks run along both sides of the aisle. The scene captures the ease and comfort of rail travel, perfect for students navigating trips between school and home.
If you rushed back for the first week on campus, this won’t help right now but do save it for your next trip. This is for those planning travel back to Kingston, travelling for winter conferences or research trips, or anyone who regularly commutes to campus from a neighbouring city.
One of the most frustrating things about Kingston is the lack of a major, fully functioning airport. Travelling by plane almost always means commuting to another city first. While I’ve flown out of Montréal, I usually choose Toronto Pearson International Airport because there are more flight options and better schedules that connect with the trains and buses.
So how do you get from point A to point B, and what should you know along the way?
1.
Because I travel with Charlie, my Havanese bestie, VIA Rail is usually my go-to and the option I know best.
Things to know
• Booking ahead makes a big difference. Train prices increase quickly closer to the travel date.
• If you’re travelling with a dog, a young child, or need a little extra time, you can preboard in Toronto and Montréal, which helps a lot when you are juggling luggage.
• In Kingston, sometimes you have to go to track two. This can be challenging if you have more than one piece of luggage and have to navigate two escalators (and a dog in my case).
• You have to load your own luggage on the train. Ask for help. It’s heavy and hard to get up the stairs and into the luggage area. On newer trains, they sometimes want the luggage above your head, which is tricky.
• Having a buffer before your flight or class is always a good idea. VIA Rail sometimes has to stop for freight trains or weather.
• Food on the train is ok. I would bring your own. Their tea is good and relatively inexpensive.
• Request a forward-facing seat if you get motion sick like I do.
• Wi-Fi is often spotty. Download what you need ahead of time.
• Join the VIA Rewards program. You earn points quickly toward extra luggage, travelling with a dog, or tickets. You can also transfer points and book tickets for others on your account.
Discounts to know
• Queen’s University discount
Faculty, staff, and alumni code 709508
Students code 820105
15 percent off with valid ID
• Youth discount for ages 18 to 24 code CANADA1824
• VIA Rail discount cards for purchase. I used the old version, which functioned like a punch card. If you commute to Kingston regularly for classes, the new cards could add up over time and be worth looking into.
•&²Ô²ú²õ±è;. Often the best rate in my experience. A CAA Everyday card is $30 per year and easily pays for itself if you travel a few times.
2.
Buses are usually the cheapest option, especially if you book early. I have seen fares as low as $15 and on average I have paid around $45. Because I travel with a dog, I don’t usually take Megabus unless Charlie is staying behind, but when I have used it or my family has, the experience has been good despite the online reviews.
Things to know
•&²Ô²ú²õ±è;The bus takes you directly to the airport terminal, so you avoid the Union Station shuffle.
•&²Ô²ú²õ±è;In Kingston, you are dropped off or picked up right at the university or at the Megabus terminal.
•&²Ô²ú²õ±è;You do not have to haul your luggage up train stairs. They load it and unload it for you underneath the bus.
• Traffic delays are possible.
• Seating is closer to other passengers with less air circulation.
• There is one bathroom on board, which sometimes means less clean bathrooms.
• No food is available for purchase.
3.
I have not used these myself, so I can’t speak to how well they work or how safe they are, but rideshare options, especially Queen’s-specific Facebook groups, can be cost-effective and faster than public transit.
Things to know
• Always confirm pickup locations, timing, and luggage space in advance.
• Check driver reviews and do a quick Google search. Be aware of scams!
• Travelling with a friend can make carpools easier and safer.
4.
This rideshare service is growing in popularity, and I cannot wait to try it.
Things to know
• They offer seven and fifteen seater vans.
• There are no bathrooms on board, but they usually do two bathroom stops along the way.
• Door to door pickup and drop off at the terminal is available and is an extra cost.
• Price point is $46 with the door to door service.
•&²Ô²ú²õ±è;Dogs are free if they can sit on your lap.
5.
I have not used this myself, but if you are flying with Air Canada, you can book the Air Canada shuttle.
Things to know
• The website lists ticket prices as competitive. It was free up until January 2026. You can only book this service if you are travelling with Air Canada.
• There are two daily shuttles, which are hard to connect with most flights.
• You can leave your car at the Kingston end for a fee.
• They tag your luggage in Kingston for your flight, but you still need to check in and complete bag drop at the airport.
Final tips
• Book as early as possible. Prices rise fast.
• Factor in the cost and time of getting to the airport. Cheap flights aren’t always cheaper once transit is added or a hotel stay is needed.
• Build in buffer time when connections matter, especially in winter.
• If you travel even once or twice a year, discount programs are worth it, but only available on VIA Rail.
Grad school is exhausting enough. Travel doesn’t need to make it worse. Keep your eyes open for Part 2 for more travel tips.
Bon Voyage!