Frequently Asked Questions: Luggage on European Trains

You asked us: How much luggage can I take on my European rail holiday? Read our handy guide! 

If you’ve long been a slave to the weighing, measuring, plastic bags, liquid restrictions, and stringent sizing policies of airline luggage policies, train travel in Europe is sure to be a breath of fresh air! Pack up all your holiday essentials, carry them onto the train and store them in the luggage racks at the end of the carriage or above your head. It’s that simple – all that’s left to do is sit back and enjoy the view!

Size and Weight Limits

When packing your luggage for your rail holiday, the most important thing to consider is how much you're able to carry. Once you’ve packed, you’ll need to be able to get your luggage through the stations and onto your trains. Aside from that, you’re free to take what you like. There are no strict luggage limits on trains in mainland Europe. Eurostar allows each adult two pieces of luggage each, each measuring up to 85cm, so large suitcases are no problem. You’ll also be able to take a piece of hand luggage each, as well as pushchairs and prams at no additional charge. Travelling Business Premier? Take an additional large item of luggage, too. That’s a total of three suitcases per passenger. Eurostar doesn’t currently list any weight limits, but again - remember you will need to be able to carry everything you take.

Liquid Restrictions

Have you ever spent the evening before a holiday pouring shower gel into airline-approved mini bottles, or emptied your makeup bag into a Ziploc bag just before airport security? The realities of train travel make all that a thing of the past. With no liquid restrictions, you’re free to take all your toiletries aboard with you, along with that bottle of wine you picked up in France for the train ride home. You're able to pack food, too - the perfect excuse for a train picnic!

Luggage Storage

Onboard, you’ll be able to store smaller suitcases on luggage racks above your seats or luggage stacks at the end of carriages and in seating areas. Off the train, almost all of Europe’s larger stations will have left luggage lockers or even staffed luggage offices. These are perfect for passengers with long connection times between trains. Drop your bags off, collect your left luggage ticket or key and return to collect your items later. Without heavy bags weighing you down, you’ll be able to explore your temporary surroundings. A top tip – having a few coins in local currency handy means you won’t get caught out with no way to pay at the locker! Luckily, most train stations can be found right in the centre of town with plenty to explore around them!

Railbookers' Reminders

• It is compulsory to label all of your bags when travelling on some trains, including Eurostar and TGVs in France.
• Although luggage policies are lenient, restricted item policies do apply for your safety. Always check with your Travel Consultant or the train company you are travelling with if you are unsure.
• On Eurostar and AVE trains in Spain, your luggage will need to be scanned before boarding. Bear this in mind when planning your route to the station, ensuring to allow plenty of time.
• There are no longer porters in most European stations, although many will still have luggage carts to assist you getting from A to B.
• Speak to your Travel Consultant about arranging luggage transfers for the ultimate ease!

Enjoy your trip!