If you are planning to take the train for your next vacation, it is in your best interest to leave with as little luggage as possible. Because recently, the SNCF has implemented a completely new policy… The number and the new dimensions to remember.
On trains, there is often one point that annoys users, apart from delays, cancellations or poor wifi connection: the lack of space to store luggage. The problem usually arises for the last travelers to board and who are desperately looking for space to store their suitcase, in vain. Then, there are also those who travel with bulky luggage, which cannot be placed under a seat or even in the areas provided for this purpose, if indeed they are already loaded with bags or suitcases. If this is your case, know that from now on, you will have to limit the number of bags you take with you.
Indeed, since February 15, the SNCF has implemented a new policy, which was until then used by the company OuiGo, concerning the number of bags authorized on the TGV Inoui and Intercités trains. These new rules apply to all users, as well as families who take a stroller with them, or people who travel with their scooters or skis. Gone are the days when you traveled with all your belongings, without limits.
The railway company now allows you to take, per person, up to 2 suitcases measuring 70 x 90 x 50 cm, as well as a small piece of hand luggage measuring 40 x 30 x 15 cm. “The basic principle has not changed: you must always be able to transport your luggage yourself, in one go. But this rule could be open to interpretation. We explain it, with more objective and more precise criteria”, justified a representative of the SNCF to our colleagues atUFC-Que Choisir.
The regulations are slightly more complicated for certain users who also have special baggage with them. This includes strollers, folded scooters, musical instruments, skis, wakeboards or snowboards. These must respect precise dimensions, namely 90 x 130 cm. If your stroller or scooter is larger, you have a good chance of being checked. For the moment, a tolerance period is applied, but from September 15, in the event of non-compliance, you risk a fine of 50 euros. And don’t think you’ll escape the gaze of SNCF staff, because the company ensures that the number and dimensions of luggage will be checked before boarding the train.