The Canadian train also offers so-called "open sections" as sleeping accommodations...these disappeared off of U.S. trains even before Amtrak in 1971. Open sections have an upper and lower berth, available for sale separately, with the upper being the least expensive sleeping accommodation on the train (no window from the upper berth). During the daytime, the beds are up and seats on the floor level face one-another, with a big window. If no one purchases the other accommodation, one person has the whole area to him- or herself. There is a shared shower nearby, and a shared restroom area (typically there are 3 sets of open sections sharing this area). Heavy curtains block off the sleeping area from the corridor, and there's a ladder to the top bunk.

Beyond these less-popular accommodations, there are of course roomettes with fixed doors and toilets/sinks for one person, and bedrooms typically occupied by two persons. More recently, another range of more luxurious accommodations is being offered.

For a one-time trip all the way across Canada, perhaps the roomette might make more sense, but an economy-minded person would be advised to take a look at the lower berth, which still comes with all meals included in the dining car.