New Luggage Rules on French Railways: Restrictions and Fines

By Ivan PetrenkoSep 17, 2024 18:35 PMNews
Share:
SNCF train at a railway station platform
Passengers must now follow new luggage restrictions on SNCF trains. Source: unsplash

Starting this Monday, the French national railway company SNCF introduced new luggage regulations, which have caught some passengers off guard. Travelers now need to pay close attention to the number and size of their bags, or they risk fines of up to €50 for exceeding the limit.

Changes Regarding Luggage

According to the new rules, each passenger is allowed to bring no more than two large suitcases, each up to 90 cm in height, and one piece of hand luggage. Exceptions are made for those traveling with musical instruments, scooters, strollers, skis, or surfboards—they are permitted one large suitcase and one hand luggage item. Violating these guidelines will result in a €50 fine per extra piece of luggage, and if the luggage poses a danger or causes inconvenience onboard, the fine can increase to €150.

SNCF recommends on its official website that passengers bring only what they can carry in a single trip. This change is aimed at enhancing convenience and safety, especially during peak travel seasons like holidays.

Passenger Reactions

Some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with the new restrictions, viewing them as a way for the company to increase revenue. One passenger remarked, "I find it unfair that we have to pay for extra luggage when there's plenty of room on the trains, both in the overhead racks and under the seats. It seems more like a profit-driven move than a real necessity."

However, SNCF maintains that its luggage policy is still far more lenient compared to airlines. With the growing popularity of trains, particularly during the holiday season, the company aims to improve service and make travel more comfortable for all passengers.

The introduction of these new rules may influence tourists who prefer train travel in France. The strict limits may encourage travelers to plan their trips more carefully, avoiding excess baggage and potential fines. On the other hand, it could also lead to improved conditions onboard, reducing overcrowded luggage areas and aisles.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Traveler relaxing in an airport lounge while watching a plane take off

New Privium Lounge Enhances Travel at Eindhoven Airport

Mar 12, 2025 12:32 PM
Empty train platform with an RFI train in the background, marked with warning signs against crossing the tracks

Milan-Novara Train Suspensions Impact Travel Plans

Mar 12, 2025 10:46 AM

Best Destinations to Explore in July, August and September

Mar 12, 2025 08:29 AM

Enhanced Train Services for Wales v Kazakhstan Match

Mar 12, 2025 06:33 AM
A modern moving walkway at an airport, covered with a glass roof and surrounded by sleek metal railings

Stuttgart Airport Expands Dining Options for Travelers

Mar 12, 2025 04:49 AM
Colorful historic buildings line the waterfront of Porto, Portugal, with traditional boats floating on the Douro River under a bright blue sky

Portugal Enhances Tourism with Accessibility Certification

Mar 12, 2025 02:27 AM
Three people pointing at a laptop screen while browsing online

Hidden Costs in Travel and How Booking Websites Charge You More

Mar 12, 2025 00:31 AM
A vintage steam locomotive emitting smoke while pulling historic green passenger carriages at Swanage Railway

Historic Steam Event to Feature Six Classic Locomotives

Mar 11, 2025 23:46 PM
Aer Lingus aircraft taxiing at Dublin Airport with multiple airline tails in the background

Passenger Traffic Shifts in Ireland’s Airports Amid St Patrick’s Festivities

Mar 11, 2025 21:23 PM

Unveiling Jutland as a Fresh Perspective on Scandinavian Travel

Mar 11, 2025 19:38 PM

Rotterdam The Hague Airport to See Big Renovation for Passenger Comfort

Mar 11, 2025 17:56 PM
Aerial view of a tropical island resort in the Maldives with a speedboat approaching the shore

Football Camp in the Maldives Offers a New Experience for Traveling Families

Mar 10, 2025 22:24 PM
American Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft in flight against a gradient sky

American Airlines Enhances Dining for Travelers with Expanded Menu

Mar 10, 2025 20:49 PM
Registan Square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, featuring historic madrassahs with intricate tilework and turquoise domes

Uzbekistan Strengthens Legal Protections for Tourists

Mar 10, 2025 18:31 PM
Vietjet aircraft taking off from an international airport, showcasing its red and white livery

Vietjet’s Hanoi-Shanghai Route Expands Travel Opportunities

Mar 10, 2025 16:25 PM

Travel Disruptions Ahead as Cambrian Line Undergoes Major Upgrades

Mar 10, 2025 14:48 PM

AirAsia Announces Lower Fares for 2025 Travelers

Mar 10, 2025 12:32 PM
A person shines a blue beam of light into the starry sky over Mauna Kea, Hawaii, with the Milky Way visible in the background

New Stargazing Destinations in Hawaii Transform Nighttime Travel

Mar 9, 2025 20:48 PM
AirAsia aircraft taking off against a blue sky with clouds

AirAsia Philippines Expands Affordable Travel Options

Mar 9, 2025 16:36 PM
A group of racehorses and jockeys competing on a dirt track, kicking up dust as they round a bend

Cheltenham Festival 2025 Travel Guide for Adventurous Visitors

Mar 8, 2025 23:26 PM
A Delta Air Lines airplane taking off against a cloudy sky

Delta Expands Service to Green Bay with More Flights

Mar 8, 2025 21:32 PM
Rows of European Union flags waving in front of a modern glass building

EU Introduces New Border Procedures Impacting Travelers

Mar 8, 2025 19:55 PM

Air Canada Expands Culinary Offerings on Japan Routes

Mar 7, 2025 23:22 PM

Marriott Expands in Caribbean & Latin America

Mar 7, 2025 21:49 PM
Emirates Boeing 777 aircraft landing at an airport during sunset

Emirates and Trip.com Strengthen Partnership to Enhance Travel Experience

Mar 7, 2025 19:34 PM
TransPennine Express train at a station platform, heading to Manchester Airport

TransPennine Express Introduces Cost-Effective Travel Deals

Mar 7, 2025 17:48 PM