Depending where you come from in the world, train railways may not be your primary way of traveling contrary to Europe where it is the most common way to get around cities.
Whether you are a first time train rider or you generally wonder about a few practical things, here are the answers to all the most frequently asked questions about travelling by train in Europe.
How do you use a train for the first time ?
First things first…How to get around a train station. Almost all train or metro stations in Europe are organised the same way:
· Hall : it is the same than Terminal for Airports. When a train station is quite a big hub, it is common that buildings or area are split into “Halls”. They are indicated by sign, just look up and follow the sign.
· Platform : The platform is the number of the railway your train will be departing from. Platform number usually comes in Letter or Number.
Prefer to enter a train station by the main entrance. To know where you should head to, your train reservation should indicate a train identification number. (note: it is different than your booking number). This train number is the most reliable information you’ll need to make sure you hope in the right wagon.
Once you know what your train number is, look up and locate the “arrival & departure numeric board” that all station have. This board will list all train arriving and departing from the station.
Once it is done, you may see next to your booked train number, a different destination than where you wish to stop at the end of your journey. The city displayed on the “departure” board, usually indicates the final destination of the train and may not display the different stops it will do to get there. So nothing to worry about.
What if the train is not yet displayed on the board ?
1) Reason number 1 : You came in too early. Usually, trains are on the “big departure boards” one hour prior departure. So you may have to wait a little longer to see it.
2) Reason number 2 : Your train is 30min away from departing and you can’t locate it. You have plenty of time, make sure then that you are in the right “Hall” of departure. If yes, check your booking to ensure dates and train stations are correct (very frequent mistakes…). Please note: some cities have two train stations, you may want to make sure you are in the right one. If yes, check the “departure board” and look for a train leaving the exact same hour than yours and go ask an agent if it is the one you are looking for. By then, you should know which train is yours. If not, go check again with a Train Station Agent for help.
Before entering the train, you will need to look at the wagon number and the seat number. The wagon number is usually indicated at each door of the train. It is quite easy to identify.
Note : sometimes, rarely though…Wagon number are not in logical suite. You may pass wagon 1 and jump to wagon 4 and have the wagon 2 at the very end of the tail.
What if you can’t find your seat numer of wagon number ?
If you are sure about your train, destination and dates, two options can explain why you wan’t find your seat or wagon : a wagon has been changed last minute and wagon doesn’t match the booking (it happens….) or the company has overbooked the train. Go see an agent right away, they know exactly what to do and they’ll find you empty seats to go to.
How long in advance should I go to the train station ?
Train station are very quick to get into. We recommend you get to the station 25min before departure on your booking. You will be able to pass the gates of the train maximum 5min before departure to jump in.
What should I take on a train ?
On a train it is recommend you bring some practical stuff with you if the journey is quite long. If the journey is short, then no special recommendation applies. If your journey is more than 2 hours, it is recommended to have in hand basic medicine (headache, stomach-ache or such), a bottle of water (especially during summer, you never know…Train issue may lead to long wait), a portable battery charger (all train don’t have one) and as little items as possible to travel light.
For women, don’t forget the hygienic items you may need.
What not to take on a train ?
You can remotely bring anything in the train except illegal substances or inflammable ones. It is essentially the same regulation that applies than for aircraft. Now, being practical, make sure to avoid carrying very “large” items. Not only, you may get denied at entrance but you may not find space to store it. Practical sense must apply on what to bring on not in a train.
What are 3 things that you must not do when travelling by train?
First, when you wish to enter the train, make space between you and the platform and anticipate space for people to get out.
Secondly, do not put your shoes on the seats and be mindful of the people after you. Keep your aera clean.
Thirdly, use the dedicated luggage racks as much as possible. Space is limited in some wagon, being clutered with suitcases and bags all around for hours can be dreadful.
How do you stay safe alone on a train?
Generally speaking, you are safe in a train, no doubt. Now, if you are travelling alone or a family travelling with young kids, here are the main rules I recommend to follow:
1) Avoid travelling by late train (after 10pm). Randoms and unpleasant (not necessarily dangerous ones) encounters happen at night.
2) For late train, jump in wagons with the maximum number of passengers to ensure not being alone at all time.
3) Do not sleep in a train, except if your belongings are locked and secured to you AND there is many people surrounding you. You want to be aware of your environment at all time.
4) Avoid peak hours (applying for metros mostly but can apply for regional trains) as they may get very crowded. Getting on or off the train may be difficult (especially for kids) and proximity with other may overheat or overwhelmed some people.
Can you check bags on trains in France or in Europe ?
There is no “checking bags” in European train. Travelers using the train, must accompany their luggage all the way through, except if they use a Luggage transport Company like Alfred, to ship their bags to their destination. If you travel with bags exceeding basic allowances, you may face an extra cost or a refusal by the company to enter the train. Make sure to plan ahead your journey and booking.
Do they check bags on trains in Europe?
Security check may happen depending where you travel in Europe (custom police for instance) and which train company you ride with.
French companies usually do not make any safety check on the bags. Security checks are randomly organised by the police. Companies like Thalys, will have an Xray before entering the train in some cities. Eurostar will also have a Xray check before entering the train. It must be noted however than restriction is much lighter than aircraft.
Where do people put their luggage while Travelling in a train?
People will put their luggage in the dedicated luggage racks at disposal in all wagons of the train. For small items, you can put them under your seats and upper heads. If you plan on travelling with 2 large suitcases per person. Make sure your booking allowance is fit for your journey, that you are “fit” to lift these belongings thought stairs and up to the racks and hope, the train is not overbooked.
People travelling in groups with a large suitwase of 25kg or more per person, may want to investigate luggage shipping instead of travelling with it by train. Contact Alfred for more info, it may be the same costs as additional luggage allowances at the end.
Do all trains have luggage?
No, not all trains have luggage racks. Some trains, such as high-speed trains or commuter trains, may not have luggage racks because they are designed to carry fewer passengers and their luggage. In these cases, passengers are typically expected to stow their luggage under their seats or in overhead compartments. However, most trains do have luggage racks, and they are typically located above the seats or in the vestibules between cars. The size and number of luggage racks on a train will vary depending on the type of train and the number of passengers it is designed to carry.
Here are some examples of trains that do have luggage racks:
- Intercity trains
- Long-distance trains
- Sleeper trains
- Freight trains
If you are planning to travel by train, it is a good idea to check the specific train you will be taking to see if it has luggage racks. This will help you to decide how much luggage you can bring with you and where you will need to stow it.
Here are some tips for stowing your luggage on a train:
- Pack your luggage in soft-sided bags that are easy to stow.
- Label your luggage with your name and contact information.
- Do not pack any fragile items in your luggage.
- If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, consider checking it at the train station
What if I miss my luggage in train?
If you miss your train, you may be able to book another one with little cost or none at all. Male sure upon booking to choose your ticket according to the travel hazard you may face with timing. The extra cost is usually quite competitive. Most of bookings can be made online and changed as well. If you did not subscribe a flexible tickets, expect from 15 to 100€ extra cost per person, depending on how full next train is.
Is a backpack a carry-on train?
Yes, a backpack in most cases is considered a carry-on train if it meets the size and weight requirements of the train company. However, some train companies may have specific rules about the size and weight of backpacks that are allowed as carry-ons.
Here are some tips for determining if your backpack is a carry-on train:
Here are some tips for determining if your backpack is a carry-on train:
- Check the train company's website or call their customer service line to find out their carry-on luggage requirements.
- Measure your backpack to make sure it meets the size requirements.
- Weigh your backpack to make sure it meets the weight requirements.
- If your backpack is too large or too heavy, you may need to check it as luggage.
What can I carry-on a train?
In most companies, you can carry one large suitcase, and a back-pack or laptop bag like size. Some other companies will allow you more luggage against a higher fee.
The amount of luggage you are allowed on the train will be specified at booking, make sure to have a look before travelling.
Can I bring water on a train?
Yes, you can bring water on a train. It is actually advised you carry at least one bottle with you, in case of any problems in the supply chain in the train, especially during summer time.
How do you pack for a train?
You can pack for a train the same way you pack for a plane, applying the same “save space” methodology and making sure you don’t carry any prohibited items with you.
How do you wear on a train?
In trains, it is recommended you wear comfortable outfits as the trip may take a few hours. Note that you will have to dress “decently” meaning, no swimsuits or shirtless travel. Most train will have air conditioning, so depending on the season of your travel, make sure to have sufficient clothes to cover yourselves in case it is cooler than expected.
How many bags can you take on a train?
Usually, you are allowed 1 large suitcase and 2 carry-on fitting under the seats or stored overhead. For Parents, strollers are free. If you wish to travel with a Bike or a dog or multiple suitcases, you will need to ask the company if it is possible and if so, buy the extra bags allowances. If the train company cannot accommodate, you can contact companies like Alfred, to transport your luggage.
Do you have to pay for bags on trains?
Generally, you are allowed with your ticket one large back and a carry-on. For more bags, some companies may not allow you to travel with more and other will ask for a higher price.
Is it OK to eat on the train?
In general, it is okay to eat on the train. However, there are some things to keep in mind:
- Be mindful of your fellow passengers. If you are eating something that is smelly or that could make a mess, try to eat it in a way that doesn't disturb others.
- Be respectful of the train's rules. If the train company has any restrictions on food, be sure to follow them.
- Clean up after yourself. If you make a mess, be sure to clean it up so that the next person doesn't have to deal with it.
Some train companies may have specific rules about what kind of food you can eat on board. For example, some companies may ban hot food or food that is smelly. It is always a good idea to check the train company's website or call their customer service line to find out their specific policies about food on board.
What is the best food to carry in train?
As a general rule, the best food to carry in a train are “cleaned” food, you can eat without making a mess around you, with tons of trash to throw away or nasty smell for the other passengers (like boiled eggs). Here are some examples of food that you can bring on a train:
- Sandwiches
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Snacks
- Bottled drinks
Here are some examples of food that you should avoid bringing on a train:
- Smelly food
- Food that makes a mess (plates with sauce or induce large amount of trashes like pizza boxe)
Do you get blankets in train?
Whether or not you get blankets in a train depends on the train company and the type of train you are taking. Some train companies, such as Amtrak in the United States, provide blankets and pillows to all passengers. Other train companies, such as Indian Railways, only provide blankets and pillows to passengers who have reserved seats. If you are unsure whether or not you will get a blanket on your train, it is always a good idea to pack one yourself. This is especially important if you are traveling during the winter or if you are sensitive to the cold. Here are some tips for packing a blanket for your train journey:
- Choose a blanket that is lightweight and easy to pack.
- Make sure the blanket is big enough to keep you warm.
- Pack the blanket in a way that it doesn't take up too much space in your luggage.
If you do not want to pack a blanket, you can usually purchase one at the train station. However, these blankets are often more expensive than packing your own.
