Eurostar Luggage Rules (2026): Size Limits, How Strict They Are, and Why 65L Beats 90L

Eurostar’s luggage policy looks strict at first glance, but in practice it’s much easier than flying.
There’s usually no weight limit, no “7kg panic,” and no extra fee for normal luggage.

The real problem isn’t “Can I bring it?”
It’s: Can I travel without hating my life?

Here’s the practical guide based on real travel experience—especially if you’re moving cities often.

Quick Answer (If You’re in a Hurry)

• Eurostar luggage rules are lenient (mostly about pieces + max length, not weight).
• A 90L suitcase can be allowed, but it often destroys comfort (stairs, racks, lifting).
• For multi-city trips, 65L + a small day bag is the most reliable setup.

1) Eurostar Luggage Rules Are More Flexible Than Flights

Compared to budget airlines, Eurostar is refreshingly simple:

• No extra fee for normal luggage
• No strict weight limit (as long as you can handle it yourself)
• Rules focus on size and number of items

Security exists (X-ray), but there’s no liquids restriction like airports.
Food and drinks are fine too.

2) Official Allowance: Size and Number of Bags

For most passengers, the basic rule is:

• 2 large bags (each up to 85cm on routes to/from London)
• 1 small item (backpack, tote, laptop bag)

Important detail: 85cm refers to the longest side.
Most standard 65L suitcases fit this without drama.

(Allowance is broadly similar across Standard and Plus. Some premium tickets may offer more, but most travelers follow the 2+1 rule.)

3) Station Flow: What Actually Happens Before Boarding

Typical Eurostar flow at the departure station:

1. Check-in
2. Passport check
3. Exit/entry control (depending on route)
4. X-ray luggage scan

The key point: arrive early.
Eurostar is a train, but the border process makes it feel closer to flying.

4) Onboard Luggage Storage: 3 Real Options

Eurostar storage is simple, but space is finite.

Option A: Large luggage racks at the end of each carriage

• Best for very large suitcases (90L-class)
• First come, first served
• If you board late, you may be separated from your bag

Option B: Overhead rack above seats

• Possible with many 65L suitcases
• You need to be able to lift it safely (this is where 90L fails)

Option C: Under-seat / foot space

• Best for backpacks and small bags
• Plus seats tend to have a bit more legroom

5) The “90L Problem”: Allowed Doesn’t Mean Comfortable

This is where travelers get tricked.

A 90L suitcase is often technically allowed, but it creates a three-part stress combo:

• It doesn’t fit overhead
• You can’t lift it easily
• Rack space can fill fast

If you’re changing cities repeatedly, you will eventually think:
“I picked the wrong suitcase.”

6) Items to Watch: What Can Cause Trouble

Typical problem categories include:

• Flammable gas items
• Knives/tools
• Oversized batteries (high-capacity power banks)

Food is generally fine, but UK border rules can be stricter for certain animal products.
Check the latest guidance if you’re carrying meat/dairy.

7) Best Suitcase Choice for Eurostar Trips: 65L Wins

After repeating real travel moves, the conclusion is boring but correct:

• 65L: best balance of capacity, lifting, stairs, and racks
• 90L: only makes sense for long stays with minimal moving days

If your trip includes multiple transfers, this setup is the most repeatable:

• 65L suitcase: liftable, more likely to fit overhead, less stair pain
• Small day bag: passport/phone/charging “quick access”
• Power + connectivity backup: don’t rely on onboard USB or station Wi-Fi

8) Booking Tools: Reduce Stress with Fast Comparisons

For multi-country travel, speed matters.
A comparison tool can reduce friction across trains/buses/planes—especially when plans change.

Summary: Eurostar Is Easy If You Prepare Like an Adult

• The rules are simple
• The real pain comes from oversized luggage
• For most travelers: 65L + small bag is the safest choice

If this article helps you decide not only “Can I bring it?” but also “What won’t ruin my transfer day?” then it did its job.