British planning their French vacations have been warned to read rules regarding taking luggage on public transport as they could face a fine.
The scores of British holiday makers heading to France often choose Eurostar or flight convenience before moving to the country's railway system for the final leg of the journey. SNCF, a French national railway operator, offers an extensive network in the country, including the speedy TGV line.
The service links Paris with other must-see spots. This ranges from Bordeaux vineyards to Alpine ski retreats.
Choosing a train trip will not only eliminate the tests of sailing foreign roads, but you can also sit and absorb the picturesque countryside. You can also get spots on several trains on the TGV's upper deck, or enjoy unparalleled panoramic views on road trips.
But what is unknown to British tourists is the little-known details about the rules of French train luggage. Unlike the relatively generous UK, France imposes baggage restrictions on various routes, especially during busy tourist seasons.
Take advantage of the TGV Inoui service, which ranges from Paris to gems in many European cities. Passengers are limited to those that can be transported. According to the official web page, “You can use up to two pieces of luggage per person. One piece labeled with the maximum size of 70 x 90 x 50 cm (suitcase, large backpack, hiking bag, sports bag) and the maximum size of label 40 x 30 x 15 cm (backpack, shopping bag, computer bag)
The rules regarding TGV inoui trains are that travelers should be able to carry all their luggage at once. If you jump into France, this should be easy enough, but those traveling by Eurostar or ferry may have packed it more than they could carry on their own. It is also worth double checking that the suitcase meets the size requirements.
The TGV INOUI website provides detailed information on penalties for not violating baggage policies.
Anyone planning on hitting the slopes during Easter ski season should not forget to include skis and gear in your luggage count. Skis can be mounted on board as baggage, but only one pair is permitted, and must be bagged and tagged.
If you bring items with you with oversized or unusually shaped, it is recommended that you reserve space in advance to avoid missing the train due to luggage issues.
Another lesser known rule is fines that can leave your luggage behind. Not only can you cause major confusion on your holiday, but it can also lead to unexpected fines.
France has introduced strict new laws to improve train security. Even an accidental case of “unwilling waiver” could potentially win a penalty of 72 euros.
On the SNCF network, a fine for a forgotten bag could escalate to 150 euros. If you are traveling through the RATP bus system in Paris, leaving your luggage between 150 and 375 euros can face a charge of 375 euros.
France won the world's most popular tourist hotspot title in 2024, attracting an astounding 100 million visitors a year. The cities of Paris, Nice and Lyon top of the list of places visited, closely followed by the sun-drenched French Riviera.
