Can I Add Extra Luggage or Special Requests When Booking Train Tickets?

 When booking train tickets online, many travelers often have additional requirements beyond just securing their seat. These can include adding extra luggage, special requests for accessibility, or selecting specific services like meals or Wi-Fi. While the process can vary depending on the train operator or booking platform, most train companies provide options to accommodate these needs.

In this blog, we’ll explore the options available for adding extra luggage, special requests, and other services when booking train tickets, so you can ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey.

---

1. Adding Extra Luggage When Booking Train Tickets

Most train companies allow passengers to bring luggage on board, but the rules for extra luggage or large items may vary based on the operator, the train route, and the class of service. Here’s what you should know about adding extra luggage when booking your ticket.

General Luggage Allowance

• Standard Allowance: On most trains, passengers are allowed to bring a certain amount of luggage for free. This generally includes one or two pieces of luggage, such as a suitcase or bag, within specified weight limits. The exact allowance can differ depending on the train operator.

• Overhead Storage and Under-Seat Storage: Most trains provide overhead racks or spaces under the seats for storing small or medium-sized luggage. However, large or heavy items may need to be stored in designated luggage areas.

Extra Luggage Fees

If you need to bring more luggage than the free allowance, you may be required to pay an additional fee. Some train operators allow you to pre-book additional luggage space, while others may charge a fee at the station.

Here are some examples:

• Eurostar: The Eurostar allows passengers to carry one bag and one smaller item for free. Additional luggage (such as a second suitcase or oversized items) may incur a charge, and you may need to reserve extra luggage space in advance.

• SNCF (France): SNCF offers free luggage space for up to two pieces of luggage, but oversized luggage (such as a bike or a large suitcase) can be reserved for an extra fee. Passengers may need to select a luggage option when booking their tickets to guarantee space.

• Deutsche Bahn (Germany): Deutsche Bahn offers free luggage allowance with the option to book additional space for large items like bicycles or extra bags. Some trains, especially high-speed ones, may require you to pre-book luggage space in advance.

• Amtrak (USA): Amtrak typically allows two checked bags for free on long-distance routes, but passengers can purchase additional luggage services if they need to carry more.

Booking Extra Luggage Online

When booking train tickets online, most websites (including operator websites and third-party platforms) will give you the option to add extra luggage or special items to your ticket. For example:

• Look for the Luggage Section: During the booking process, check for an option that allows you to add extra luggage. This could be a checkbox or a specific luggage section where you can select the amount of luggage you’ll bring.

• Select the Type of Luggage: Some operators may offer different categories for oversized luggage, such as bikes, musical instruments, or large suitcases. You may be able to select these options when purchasing your tickets.

• Payment for Extra Luggage: Once you select the extra luggage option, you will be prompted to pay the additional fee. Depending on the operator, the fee may vary based on size, weight, and destination.

---

2. Special Requests During the Booking Process

Aside from luggage, there are other special requests you might need to make when booking your train journey. These requests can include accessible services, meal preferences, or additional comfort options. Many train companies allow you to make such requests during the booking process or in the days leading up to your journey.

Accessibility Requests

For passengers with reduced mobility, train operators typically provide accessible facilities, including wheelchair spaces, assistance with boarding, and accessible restrooms. It’s essential to inform the train company of your needs in advance.

• Booking Accessible Seats: When booking a train ticket, most operators allow you to select wheelchair-accessible seats. You may also have the option to choose seats with extra legroom or spaces for mobility aids.

• Assistance at Stations: Many train companies provide assistance for passengers with mobility issues, including help with boarding, disembarking, or navigating the station. To ensure these services are available, you will need to inform the operator ahead of time, usually during the booking process or by calling the customer service center.

• Special Equipment: Some train operators allow passengers to bring mobility aids (such as wheelchairs or scooters) for free, but they may need to be booked in advance. If you need to bring a specific type of mobility aid, be sure to check the operator’s policy and reserve the necessary space.

Meal Preferences and Special Diets

If you are traveling on a long journey, you may want to request a meal on board, especially if you have specific dietary preferences. While not all trains offer meal service, many trains, especially on high-speed or overnight routes, provide food and drink options.

• Booking Meals: On trains that offer catering services, you may be able to pre-order a meal during the booking process. Some operators, like Eurostar and Thalys, allow you to select a meal when purchasing your ticket.

• Special Dietary Requests: Many train operators allow you to request meals for specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or halal meals. Be sure to mention your dietary requirements during the booking process or contact the train operator in advance to ensure your needs are met.

Other Special Requests

In addition to accessibility and meal preferences, there may be other special requests you can make during the booking process:

• Seat Preferences: Some train services allow passengers to select a specific seat or request features like extra legroom, window seats, or seats in quiet zones. If this is important to you, look for an option to choose your seat when booking your ticket.

• Pets: If you are traveling with a pet, some trains allow you to add your pet to your booking during the ticket purchase. Depending on the train operator, there may be a fee or certain requirements (e.g., small pets must travel in carriers). Be sure to review the pet policy and add this request if necessary.

• Bicycles and Large Items: If you are traveling with a bicycle, some trains allow you to book bike space when booking your ticket. You may also be able to request space for other large items, like surfboards or musical instruments.

---

3. How to Add Extra Luggage or Special Requests During Booking

When booking online, most train companies make it easy to add extra luggage or special requests to your booking. Here’s a general step-by-step guide on how to add these requests:

1. Select Your Train and Seat: First, choose your train and select your seat, as you would with a regular booking. This is the first step before adding any extra services.

2. Look for Luggage or Special Request Options: During the booking process, look for a section where you can add extra luggage or special requests. This section may be called “Additional Services,” “Add-ons,” or “Extras.” This is where you can select items like additional luggage, meals, or accessible seating.

3. Choose the Additional Options: Once you’ve found the appropriate section, choose the services that you need. This could include selecting extra luggage, requesting accessible seating, choosing a meal, or selecting other special services.

4. Pay for Additional Services: After selecting your extra luggage or special requests, you will be prompted to pay any additional fees. Payment methods are typically the same as the one used for the ticket booking.

5. Confirm Your Booking: After completing your booking and selecting any additional services, confirm all the details. You’ll receive a confirmation email with a summary of your booking, including the extra luggage or special requests you made.

6. Follow Up with Customer Service (if Needed): If you have any special needs or requests that weren’t available during the booking process, don’t hesitate to contact the train operator’s customer service. They may be able to accommodate additional requests or make changes to your reservation.

---

4. Final Thoughts

Booking train tickets online gives you the convenience of choosing extra luggage, special requests, and additional services to ensure a comfortable journey. Whether it’s adding extra bags, selecting meals, or requesting accessible seating, most train operators provide an easy process for customizing your travel needs.

By taking the time to check the available options and confirm your extra luggage or special requests during the booking process, you can ensure that your journey is smooth and stress-free. Always check the terms and fees for additional services, and reach out to the train operator if you have any specific requirements that you can’t easily add to your booking online.