Train passengers now face additional costs for excess luggage, which can become quite pricey
In a recent update to its policies, FlixTrain, a leading competitor of Deutsche Bahn, has announced that it will now charge an additional fee for larger suitcases or special luggage pieces. This policy is similar to the one implemented by airlines, making travel by train more akin to air travel in terms of luggage fees.
The surcharge will apply to oversized suitcases, strollers, wheelchairs, and bulky additional luggage. However, small pieces of luggage like hand luggage and smaller travel luggage will remain free of charge on FlixTrain. The measurements for hand luggage and smaller travel luggage on FlixTrain are not specified in the provided article.
Passengers are required to register any extra luggage in advance to avoid hefty fines. Luggage pieces weighing up to 30 kg that cannot be accommodated in regular areas on FlixTrain must be booked for an additional seat. From July onwards, suitcases up to 20 kg and external dimensions of 50 cm x 30 cm x 80 cm will incur a surcharge of €5.49 per piece, regardless of the journey length.
Those who haven't registered or booked their luggage accordingly during inspection on FlixTrain will have to pay a fine, which is either double the fare or at least €60. Each passenger may bring one stroller up to 30 kg free of charge on FlixTrain.
However, the policy for strollers, wheelchairs, and sports equipment on FlixTrain is not explicitly stated in its official policy. By general European train standards and related policies, wheelchairs and folded strollers are typically accommodated, whereas oversized sports equipment like golf bags or bicycles usually has defined size limits and may need to be stored separately or require advance notice.
Flix’s general booking system suggests that passengers with special needs (wheelchairs) should make arrangements prior to travel for assistance, which may imply that wheelchairs are accommodated but possibly with a need to contact customer service in advance.
Given the limited information available, it is advisable to consult FlixTrain customer service or their official website for precise rules, including any fees or size limits for such items.
FlixTrain will conduct random luggage checks to ensure compliance with the new policy. Those who don't pay the surcharge and are caught will face a hefty fine.
[1] FlixTrain's General Terms and Conditions of Carriage apply to luggage on FlixTrain. [2] For more information about European train standards and related policies, refer to [Source 2]. [3] For more information about FlixTrain's policy on special needs passengers, refer to [Source 5]. [4] This information is based on the provided bullet points and may be subject to change. Always consult FlixTrain's official website or customer service for the most accurate information.
- The new policy on FlixTrain will also include a fee for larger suitcases, strollers, and special luggage pieces, making the train travel lifestyle more akin to air travel in terms of luggage fees.
- To ensure a smooth travel experience, passengers are advised to consult FlixTrain's customer service or official website for precise rules regarding luggage, especially for special items like strollers, wheelchairs, and sports equipment, as the policy isn't explicitly stated in the general terms and conditions of carriage.
