Luggage

Luggage on Trains: Everything You Need to Know

Rules, prices and tips for suitcases, backpacks, bicycles and special luggage on ICE, IC and regional trains.

Taking luggage on trains is generally free and straightforward. We explain the rules, what is free and what you need to pay for.

Luggage on Trains: Key Facts

  • Regular luggage: Free, as much as you can carry
  • Bicycle: 9 EUR, reservation required
  • Luggage racks: Available in every carriage
  • No weight limit: As much as you can carry

1. Luggage Types and Prices

Hand Luggage

Free
  • As much as you can carry
  • Keep at your seat
  • No weight limit
  • No piece limit

Large Luggage

Free
  • Place on luggage racks
  • Do not block the aisle
  • Do not block emergency exits
  • Label with your name (recommended)

Bicycle

9 EUR
  • Reservation required
  • Limited spaces
  • E-bikes reserved separately
  • Bicycle must be roadworthy

Skis & Snowboard

9 EUR
  • Reservation required
  • Packed in ski bags
  • Max. 2 pairs of skis per person
  • Only on certain trains

2. Luggage on ICE and IC Trains

Luggage Racks

Every ICE and IC carriage has luggage racks at the entrance. You can store larger suitcases and bags here. The racks are secured with nets to hold the luggage in place during the journey.

Overhead Storage

Smaller luggage (backpack, handbag, small suitcase) can be taken to your seat. Place it under the seat or in the overhead compartment above you.

3. Taking Bicycles

Regular Bicycle

  • Price: 9 EUR per journey
  • Reservation: Required (limited spaces)
  • Availability: ICE, IC, regional trains
  • Requirement: Bicycle must be roadworthy

E-Bike & Cargo Bike

  • Price: 9 EUR per journey
  • Reservation: Required (separate spaces)
  • Battery: Must be removed and carried with you
  • Availability: Not possible on all trains

Tip: Book your bicycle early, especially during peak times and weekends. Spaces are limited and often fully booked.

4. Tips for Luggage on Trains

Label your luggage

Put your name and contact details on your luggage. If it gets lost, it can be returned to you.

Keep valuables with you

Valuable items (laptop, camera, money) should always be kept with you, not left on luggage racks.

Consider the weight

Even though there is no official weight limit: heavy luggage is hard to transport. Pack practically.

Use luggage racks

Place larger suitcases on the luggage rack, not in the aisle. This way you will not obstruct other passengers.

Keep an eye on your luggage

Watch your luggage, especially at intermediate stops. Take it with you when changing trains.

Book early

For bicycles and special luggage, you should book early as spaces are limited.

5. What is Not Allowed?

  • Luggage in the aisle: Do not block aisles or emergency exits with your luggage.
  • Dangerous items: Explosives, weapons, toxic substances are prohibited.
  • Oversized luggage: Very large items (e.g. furniture) cannot be taken on trains.
  • Bicycle without reservation: Bicycles can only be taken with a valid reservation.

6. Luggage Lockers at Stations

Larger train stations have luggage lockers available. These are practical if you want to spend time in the city before or after your train journey.

Small Locker

2-3 EUR

Backpack, handbag

Medium Locker

3-4 EUR

Suitcase, travel bag

Large Locker

4-5 EUR

Large suitcase, bicycle

Note: Prices vary by station. Lockers are usually available 24 hours. Additional fees apply if you exceed the time limit.

Notice: All information is provided without guarantee. Schedules and availability may change at any time. For current and binding information, please visit the official provider websites. This website is not affiliated with Deutsche Bahn AG or other railway companies.

Sources & More Information:

Frequently Asked Questions

How much luggage can I take for free?

You can take as much hand luggage as you can carry yourself. There is no weight or piece limit for regular travel luggage.

Does luggage cost extra on trains?

Regular travel luggage (suitcases, backpacks, bags) is free. Only bicycles, e-bikes, skis and other special items incur fees.

Where do I put my luggage on the train?

In ICE and IC trains there are luggage racks at the entrance of each carriage. You can place larger suitcases there. Keep hand luggage with you at your seat.

Can I take a bicycle on the train?

Yes, bicycles can be taken for a fee of 9 EUR. A reservation is required as spaces are limited. E-bikes require a separate reservation.

Are there luggage lockers at stations?

Larger train stations have luggage lockers available. Prices vary depending on size and duration (approximately 2-5 EUR per day).

What should I consider for valuable luggage?

Keep valuable luggage with you at all times. Deutsche Bahn has limited liability for lost or damaged luggage. Insure valuable items separately.

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