UK travellers heading to France told of luggage fines risk | Europe | Travel

Brits planning French getaways are being warned to read up on the rules about taking their luggage on public transport, due to the potential for getting hit with fines. 

Scores of UK holidaymakers heading to France often choose the convenience of the Eurostar or flights before transferring to the nation’s rail system for the final leg of their journey. SNCF, France’s national railway operator, offers an extensive network in the country, including the speedy TGV line.

This service links Paris with other must-visit spots, ranging from Bordeaux’s vineyards to Alpine ski retreats.

Opting for train travel doesn’t just eliminate the trials of navigating foreign roads, it also allows you to sit back and soak up the picturesque French countryside as you zip by. You can even snag a spot on the TGV’s upper deck on some trains and indulge in panoramic views unrivalled by any road trip.

Yet, it’s the lesser-known details about luggage rules on French trains that could catch British tourists unaware. Unlike the relatively lenient UK, France imposes baggage restrictions on various routes, specifically during busy tourist seasons.

Take the TGV INOUI service that stretches from Paris to numerous European urban gems; passengers are limited to what they can haul. According to their official webpage: « You can take up to 2 pieces of luggage per person, labelled to a maximum size of 70 x 90 x 50 cm (suitcase, large backpack, hiking bag, sports bag) and 1 piece of hand luggage labelled to a maximum size of 40 x 30 x 15 cm (backpack, shopping bag, computer bag). »

The rule on TGV INOUI trains is that travellers should be able to carry all their luggage at once. If you’ve flown into France, this should be easy enough, but those travelling by Eurostar or ferry may have packed more than they can carry alone. It’s also worth double checking that your suitcase fits the size requirements.

The TGV INOUI website details the penalties for non-compliance with their baggage policy: « Failure to comply with the baggage policy on board TGV INOUI trains may result in the payment of a minimum of €50 per item of non-conforming or excess baggage (maximum €150). »

For those planning to hit the slopes during the Easter ski season, remember to include your skis and equipment in your luggage count. Skis can be taken onboard as hand luggage, but only one pair is allowed, and they must be bagged and tagged.

If you intend to bring any oversized or unusually shaped items, it’s recommended to reserve space for them in advance to avoid missing your train due to luggage issues.

Another lesser-known rule is the potential fine for leaving luggage behind. Not only can lost luggage cause significant disruption to your holiday, but it could also result in an unexpected fine.

France has introduced stringent new laws to improve train security, with fines for abandoned luggage soaring. Even an accidental case of « involuntary abandonment » could land you a €72 penalty.

On the SNCF network, fines for forgotten bags can escalate to €150, and if you’re travelling on Paris’ RATP bus system, you might face charges between €150 and €375 for leaving a bag behind. 

France has clinched the title of the world’s most popular tourist hotspot for 2024, attracting a staggering 100 million visitors annually. The cities of Paris, Nice, and Lyon top the list of places visited, closely followed by the sun-drenched French Riviera.