Brits on holidag in France given 'luggage fine' advice (2025)

Tourists who decide to opt for the environmentally friendly option and take the train could find themselves out of pocket if they don't follow the rules

Brits who are planning a trip to France, and will be taking public transport, are being warned that a luggage crackdown could leave them paying a fine.

Many Brits who travel to France by Eurostar or plane will make their onwards journey by rail. SNCF run France's railways, including the high speed TGV line, which runs from Paris to popular destinations such as Bordeaux in the south west to ski resorts in the south east.

Not only does train travel save you the hassle of driving, it allows you to enjoy the French scenery as you zoom along. Some TGV trains are even double decker, meaning you can get an even better view by reserving a seat on the upper deck.

However, what many Brits don't realise is that the rules around luggage on trains in France can differ from the UK. Firstly, there are baggage restrictions on certain lines, especially those popular with tourists.

The TGV INOUI service, which connects Paris with many European cities, has luggage restrictions. Their website states: "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)."

Another requirement is that you "you must be able to carry all your luggage at once". So, if you're planning to arrive in France by Eurostar or boat, you should check that the luggage you bring will fit the requirements and that you can transport it all yourself.

Those arriving by plane will be bound by their airline's luggage restrictions, which are generally smaller than TGV, although you may want to measure your baggage just in case.

Their website also sets out the fines that can be incurred for not following the rules: "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)."

And if you're hoping to catch the end of the ski season in Easter, make sure you count your skis and equipment as part of your luggage. Skis can be carried onboard TGV trains as your hand luggage, but you are limited to one pair and they must be bagged and tagged.

If you're planning to take any outsized or unusually shaped items, it's always best to book space for them before you travel, so you can avoid missing your train due to luggage issues.

Another rule that many travellers are unaware of is that you can be fined for leaving luggage behind. Losing your luggage is a big inconvenience when you're on holiday, but it could potentially get worse if you're also slapped with a fine.

New laws in France aimed at increasing security on trains have seen fines ramped up for abandoning luggage. While some of them cover people deliberately leaving items in public places, even an "involuntary abandonment" could see you hit with a €72. Fines on SNCF for abandoned luggage can run up to €150, while on the RATP - Paris' bus network - fines can range from €150 to €375 for leaving a bag behind.

France was revealed as the world's top tourist destination in 2024, bringing in 100 million visitors a year. The cities of Paris, Nice, and Lyon were the biggest draws, followed by the French Riviera.