All-in-One Guide to Luggage Storage on European Trains for Easy Travel

Aussies travelling to Europe typically like to knock several dream destinations off their list with one trip. If you’re looking for an affordable and convenient way of getting around one city and its popular attractions to another, the Eurail Global Pass is just what you need.

The Eurail Pass provides you a single pass that can be used to board the train several times as you travel throughout Europe. You won’t need to stress out about booking multiple different train tickets with this inclusive pass which you can use multiple times within a set period of time, ranging from four days to two months. All you’ll have to do is focus on sightseeing!

If it’s your first time travelling by train in Europe, you might have some questions about train luggage. Similar to aeroplane travel, there are luggage guidelines on European train travel—read on to learn more. 

Yes, of course! Some trains require passengers to label their luggage with their first name and surname. Although this doesn’t apply to all trains, it’s generally a good idea to label your bags with your name and a noticeable bag tag just in case. Unlike airline luggage, train luggage doesn’t have to be checked in as there isn’t a difference between carry-on’s and checked baggage. 

In terms of what you can and can’t  bring onto trains, the rules are quite lax since there are no liquid and food restrictions, so you’ll be able to pack full-sized essentials and have easy access to them. However, there are some restrictions on items such as firearms, explosives, gas canisters, and long knife blades; all of these are prohibited from being inside your train luggage and being brought onto the train. Some stations in certain countries will scan your baggage before boarding, so it’s best not to test the rules.

Trains in mainland Europe don’t have strict size and weight limits on train luggage, but it depends on the train operator, so it’s best to check on their website if you wanna be extra sure. Eurostar only allows two bags (up to 85 cm) and one hand luggage per adult. As a general rule, only bring and carry as much as you can because there usually aren’t any carts or employees to help you with your bags.

Because train luggage isn’t checked in, most European trains don't have a separate baggage car either. You can store your baggage on the floor-standing racks located at the end of the carriage, in the overhead rack, under your seat, in front of your seat, or even right next to you—if you have enough room. The last two options are more feasible for passengers with first-class seats as they’ll have extra space. Want to know more about your options for Eurail Passes? This guide details all the types of passes available. 

If you get to your train station early and want to explore before heading out, larger European train stations will have lockers for passengers to store their luggage while they wait for their train. 

Have we caught your interest with this incredible pass yet? Find out more details with this Eurail Pass guide.