Brits planning a trip to France are being warned about the country's strict luggage rules on public transport, which could see them slapped with fines.
Many UK holidaymakers heading to France often opt for 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 connects Paris with other must-visit spots, from Bordeaux's vineyards to Alpine ski retreats.
Choosing train travel not only eliminates the stress of navigating foreign roads but also allows you to sit back and enjoy the stunning French countryside. However, it's the lesser-known details about luggage rules on French trains that could catch British tourists out, reports the Express.
Unlike the relatively lenient UK, France imposes baggage restrictions on various routes, particularly during busy tourist seasons.
Passengers on the TGV INOUI service, which whisks travellers from Paris to various European hotspots, have to be mindful of their baggage. As stated on their official website: "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 ethos on these trains is that one should manage all their bags at once, particularly straightforward for those flying into France, albeit potentially challenging for folks arriving via Eurostar or ferry possibly laden with extra gear. It's also a savvy move to ensure your suitcase doesn't exceed the size restrictions.
Referring to the issue of excess or oversized luggage, the TGV INOUI website warns about fines: "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)."
Ski enthusiasts eyeing an Easter adventure, take heed: your snowy escapades mean skiing equipment counts towards your luggage quota. Skis are permitted as hand luggage, but limited to one pair secured in a suitable bag.
For those with bulky or oddly-shaped cargo, booking ahead is advisable for peace of mind and swift departure when embarking on your journey.
Tourists beware: leaving your luggage unattended in France could hit your wallet as hard as it hits your holiday plans. Under new laws aimed at ramping up train security, fines for lost luggage have skyrocketed.
A simple mistake of "involuntary abandonment" might see you slapped with a €72 fine.
On the SNCF rail service, the cost for overlooked bags can leap to €150. Meanwhile, forgetful travellers on Paris' RATP bus network risk fines ranging from €150 to €375 if they leave their bag behind.
Despite these pitfalls, France remains the globe's top tourist draw for 2024, luring an astonishing 100 million visitors each year. Leading the charge are Paris, Nice, and Lyon, with the sunny French Riviera not far behind in allure.
