When travelling by train in Europe, it's important to consider the luggage restrictions and policies of the different rail companies. While each company has its own rules below, there are some general guidelines that apply to most trains. It's important to pack wisely and efficiently, as storage space on trains can be limited.
Before you depart on your trip, prepare for a hassle-free experience by knowing how to pack smartly.
There are no weight limits when it comes to your luggage, but just keep in mind that where you go, your luggage goes. Just because travelling by train means you get to bypass the luggage restrictions of airlines, it doesn’t mean you should overpack.
The reality is that you’ll probably be hopping on and off trains regularly. And you’ll walk with whatever luggage you choose to bring more than you think you will. The lighter the better. Also, it’s important to make sure you check your luggage allowances with your airline if you plan on flying at any time during your train holiday.
Travelling through Europe by train is comfortable, convenient, and surprisingly luggage-friendly. In this video, Railbookers shows you exactly what to expect when bringing luggage on European trains. From overhead compartments and luggage racks to dedicated storage areas and space behind your seat, discover the different options available for storing bags during your journey.
With the exception of Eurostar between London, France, and Belgium, there are no size or weight restrictions when it comes to luggage on European trains. However, your luggage is your responsibility. You will need to be able to carry and store your luggage, and it must feature luggage tags with your contact information.
During your journey, your luggage will either be safely stored above you in a luggage rack or at the end of your train car. Unless you check your bags, you’ll be able to access them during your trip as needed. Many train stations in Europe have self-service luggage carts that you can use to transport what you’ve brought with you through the station. As for porter services, only a few stations in Europe offer them.
If your holiday includes a trip on the Eurostar, there are no weight restrictions or liquid restrictions for your bags. But they will be scanned before you board the train as part of the 30-minute check-in process.
Adult passengers are entitled to two large pieces of luggage plus one piece of hand luggage.
Child passengers are entitled to one large piece of luggage plus one piece of hand luggage.
Business Premiere passengers are entitled to bring three large pieces of luggage on board, plus one piece of hand luggage.
What qualifies as a large piece of luggage? Rucksacks, suitcases, and ski equipment that measure up to 85cm. Handbags, laptops, briefcases, backpacks, and smaller bags are allowed to be carried on as hand luggage. At every Eurostar terminal, luggage trolleys are available if needed.
When travelling onboard Amtrak® trains throughout the United States, each passenger is allowed to carry two bags, each weighing up to 50lbs (22.6 kg) and measuring less than 28″ x 22″ x 14″ each (with the exception of the Pacific Surfliner®, Capitol Corridor®, and San Joaquin® trains, where bags must measure less than 28″ x 22″ x 11″).
You will also be able to carry small bags or handbags (no larger than 12″ x 12″ x 12″) and medication separately to this allowance. Items are stored in overhead luggage racks or rails at the end of carriages.
Some trains offer a checked baggage service. You may check up to four bags — two for free and two paid. Please speak with our Rail Experts for more information regarding checking your bags for your journey.
Economy Class passengers are entitled to one personal item (max. 25 lbs. and 17 x 6 x 13 in.) and one large item (max. 50 lbs. (22.6 kg) and 62 linear inches) or two small items (max. 25 lbs. each and 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in.) each. Additional carry-on items: One additional item up to 50 lbs. is allowed, for a fee of $40 (per direction, tax included).
Business Class passengers are entitled to one personal item (max. 25 lbs. and 17 x 6 x 13 in.) and two large items (max. 50 lbs. and 62 linear in.) each. One additional item up to 50 lbs. (22.6 kg) is allowed, for a fee of $40 (per direction, tax included).
Sleeper Plus / Prestige Class passengers are entitled to one personal item (max. 25 lbs. and 17 x 6 x 13 in.) and two small items per cabin (max. 25 lbs. and 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in.) each. No additional carry-on items are allowed. Additional bags must be checked.
Passengers aged 12 to 25 years old are entitled to one personal item (max. 25 lbs. and 17 x 6 x 13 in.) and two large items (max. 50 lbs. and 62 linear in.) each. One additional item up to 50 lbs. (22.6 kg) is allowed, for a fee of $40 (per direction, tax included).
Checked luggage allowance includes two large items (max. 50 lbs. and 62 linear inches). Checked baggage service is available at some stations and on a certain number of trains. Before travelling, make sure that this service is offered on your train. If offered, your baggage must be checked at least 45 minutes before your departure at terminal stations and 30 minutes at intermediate stations.
Travellers are allowed to bring two suitcases per person (total weight not to exceed 66 lbs or 29.9 kg) of checked luggage. No one piece of luggage may weigh more than 50 lbs (22.6 kg). All baggage or articles are accepted and transported subject to Rocky Mountaineer’s luggage policy. Oversized items (i.e. sports equipment) may be subject to a surcharge. Please refer to your travel documents.
