How Much Luggage Can You Bring on French Trains? TGV INOUI, INTERCITÉS & TER Rules
Traveling by train is one of the easiest ways to get around France, but luggage rules can vary depending on the type of train you take.
If you're traveling with SNCF, the rules are different for TGV INOUI, INTERCITÉS, and TER. Some trains have specific luggage limits for the number and size of bags, while others are more flexible.
So, how much luggage can you bring on French trains? Can you take a large suitcase, and are there any weight limits?
Here's what you need to know before your journey.
TGV INOUI: Up to 2 Suitcases + 1 Carry-On Bag
If you're traveling on a TGV INOUI, SNCF currently allows passengers to bring one of the following combinations:
- 2 suitcases + 1 item of hand luggage
- 1 suitcase + 1 special item of luggage + 1 item of hand luggage
You must be able to carry all of your luggage yourself in one go.
Special luggage can include items such as musical instruments, covered bicycles, folded bicycles, scooters, and folding wheelchairs. Some sports equipment, such as skis, has separate rules.
Is there a weight limit on TGV INOUI?
For standard suitcases, SNCF does not set a fixed weight limit like an airline's checked-baggage allowance.
Instead, the key requirement is that you must be able to carry all of your luggage yourself at the same time. SNCF also provides designated luggage storage areas throughout the train.
So while there isn't a simple “20 kg per suitcase” rule, you still need to make sure your luggage is manageable.
What happens if your luggage exceeds the limit?
Don't assume that oversized luggage will always be ignored.SNCF currently states that passengers may be charged:
- €50 for 1 excess or non-compliant item
- €100 for 2 items
- €150 for 3 or more items
All luggage must also be properly labeled and remains the passenger's responsibility.
INTERCITÉS: Similar Luggage Rules to TGV INOUI
INTERCITÉS is another major SNCF train service in France.Its current luggage rules are essentially the same as TGV INOUI.You can bring either:
- 2 suitcases + 1 item of hand luggage
- 1 suitcase + 1 special item + 1 item of hand luggage
The maximum dimensions are:
You must be able to carry all your luggage yourself, and all luggage must be labeled.
The same SNCF excess-luggage charges can also apply:
- €50 for 1 excess or non-compliant item
- €100 for 2
- €150 for 3 or more
TER: No General Size Limit for Luggage
TER trains are France's regional trains.
Unlike TGV INOUI and OUIGO, TER does not use the same fixed suitcase-size allowance.
SNCF currently states that there is no size limit for luggage on TER trains. However, you must be able to handle your luggage yourself and store it properly in the designated areas.
Your luggage must not create a danger or inconvenience for other passengers or train staff.
This means you should not simply apply the TGV INOUI “2 suitcases + 1 carry-on” rule to TER.
For very large items, bicycles, or special equipment, check the rules that apply to your specific TER service or region.
So, How Much Luggage Can You Bring on a French Train?
The answer depends on the train:
- TGV INOUI: 2 suitcases + 1 hand luggage, subject to size limits
- INTERCITÉS: similar luggage rules to TGV INOUI
- TER: no general size limit, but luggage must be safely stored
If you're traveling with a large suitcase, check the luggage rules for your specific train before departure, especially when carrying special or oversized items.
Luggage policies may change, so always check the latest SNCF rules before traveling.