PASSENGERS traveling this month are being warned not to take huge suitcases onboard in an airline-style crackdown.
Great Western Railway has introduced the new rules ahead of Christmas travel, due to fears of overcrowding on trains.
A combination of the expected busy season and a shortage of trains has resulted in the stricter luggage request.
Usually, passengers can take up to three suitcases onto the train with them – two large ones and a smaller one.
This is similar to some airlines, who allow two bags in the hold and one in the overhead lockers.
The National Rail website states: “You’re generally welcome to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage onboard, at no extra cost.
“These items may include satchels, backpacks, suitcases and the like.
“However, some train companies have different luggage policies, so it’s always a good idea to check their website before you travel.”
The new rules are asking passengers to take just one “sensible-sized” suitcase instead.
It is hoped that this will allow more people on the trains by avoiding bags blocking the corridors.
A GWR spokesperson told the Telegraph: “We’re seeing more and more people struggling on station stairways and trying to board trains with unwieldy, super-sized luggage, which can then block aisles, exits and seats.
“Instead, we’re asking them to consider bringing a standard-sized suitcase which fits comfortably in the boot of a car and can be stored in luggage racks at the end of a carriage.
“Or even better, a couple of pieces of cabin-style luggage which can be stored in overhead racks or under seats.”
Both GWR and Heathrow Express have cancelled all trains to and from Paddington between December 27 and 29 due to engineering works.
And train staff are not contracted to work Sundays, with it on a volunteer basis – which can cause last minute cancellations.
They aren’t the only train company to have recently cracked down on luggage.
French train operator SNCF introduced strict new rules back in September.
YOU may be able to get compensation for train journeys that have been delayed or cancelled.
You’ll usually need to apply as you won’t get it automatically.
Train companies have adopted “delay repay”, a national scheme used to compensate you for unexpected delays.
Passengers are entitled to compensation for a delay of 15 minutes or more.
How much you get back depends on how long the delays are and the type of ticket you have.
Compensation ranges from 25% of the ticket price to 100%. You’ll get a full refund if your train was delayed by 120 minutes or longer.
It doesn’t matter which train company you are travelling with – the scheme is nationwide and all firms are part of it.
But how you claim the money back will be up to each train company and you’ll have to apply directly. You can usually do this online.
You’ll probably need a picture of your ticket and information about the train service you were on to claim.
You can find each train line and how to claim at: www.nationalrail.co.uk/travel-information/find-a-train-company/
If your train is delayed or cancelled and you choose not to travel, you can get a refund on the ticket from where you bought it and there are no fees.
Passengers can only take three suitcases onboard, which is two cabin-sized bags and a smaller hand luggage bag.
Each bag must also have the person’s full name on it, with fines of €50 (£42).
