France has introduced a new luggage limit on its train services that could see holidaymakers fined over £40.
High-speed passenger trains (TGVs) will have a limit of two pieces of luggage per person in a new effort to avoid overcrowding. In welcome news for Brits travelling across the Channel this summer, however, the new rules will not come into effect until September 5.
The new fine – which will be €50 (£42.70) for each item over the limit – will apply to TGVs and trains managed by Intercités. Passengers will now have to take a max of two large suitcases and one piece of hand luggage – although some have said they were having their freedoms “reduced” and suggested they would be less likely to use the service as a result.
The SNCF, France’s state-owned railway company, has stated passengers must be “able to carry their luggage themselves”.
The company says it wants “greater comfort and safety”.
It adds that it is clarifying an existing rule, which reads: “You must be able to carry all your baggage yourself at once.”
For those travelling with a pushchair, skis or a musical instrument, you can take one suitcase and one piece of hand luggage alongside, but no more.
However, several customers have said they will be less inclined to use the trains as a result.
One passenger Marianne told FranceTV: “These are freedoms that are being denied and reduced.
“If we want to go somewhere for a month, what do we do? Do we buy things locally?”
Another told the outlet: “I don’t mind them controlling the number of pieces of luggage, because some people take advantage, and it’s true that often, even me with a small suitcase, I don’t have enough room.
“But we also have to remember that there are people who can move house by train, so we still have to give people the freedom to come with lots of luggage, even if they have to pay extra.”
SNCF has announced a “period of adaptation” until 15 September, after which the fine will be in place.
The company has stated that checks will be systematic but, will be carried out fairly. Leaflets will be distributed in stations to inform passengers.
