Can I bring oversize luggage on a train?

Yes, Amtrak allows two carry-ons (50 lbs each) and two checked bags (50 lbs each) free. Oversize fees apply for excess.

  • Carry-on dimensions: 28" x 22" x 14" (standard suitcase fits)
  • Checked baggage: available on most long-distance routes, not all Northeast Corridor trains
  • Oversize (over 70 linear inches): $20 fee per bag
  • Skis, snowboards, golf clubs: count as one checked bag, no oversize fee
  • Buses (Greyhound, Megabus): strict 50 lb limit, oversize often rejected

Official resource: Amtrak Baggage Policy

Traveling soon? See our Travel Essentials page.

Want a deeper dive? ↓

Detailed Answer

How It Works

Train baggage rules vary significantly by operator and route. Amtrak is the most lenient of the major carriers. Most long-distance Amtrak routes allow checked baggage at staffed stations. Shorter regional routes like the Northeast Corridor do not. You store carry-ons yourself in overhead racks or at the end of the car.

Buses are stricter. Greyhound and Megabus enforce size and weight limits more firmly than trains. Oversize bags are frequently rejected at the door. There is no guarantee of space even for standard luggage on busy routes.

International trains operate differently again. European and Asian rail networks rarely allow checked baggage. You carry everything on board yourself. Space in overhead racks and vestibule areas is limited, especially on high-speed services.

What You Need to Know

  • Amtrak carry-on limit: 28" x 22" x 14", two bags, 50 lbs each
  • Amtrak checked baggage: two bags free, 50 lbs each, available at staffed stations only
  • Oversize bags on Amtrak: $20 fee per bag over 70 linear inches
  • Bikes, skis, snowboards, golf clubs: accepted as one checked bag, no oversize fee
  • Greyhound: two bags checked free (50 lbs each), carry-on must fit overhead
  • Megabus: one bag under the bus, one carry-on, strict enforcement
  • European trains: no checked baggage, bring only what you can carry and store yourself
  • Always check your specific route, rules differ between train types on the same network

By Operator at a Glance

  • Amtrak (USA): most flexible, checked baggage available on long-distance routes
  • Greyhound (USA): moderate, two free checked bags, oversize may be refused
  • Megabus (USA/UK): strictest, one bag under bus, one carry-on, no exceptions
  • Eurostar/TGV/ICE (Europe): no checked baggage, overhead storage only
  • VIA Rail (Canada): similar to Amtrak, checked baggage on most routes
  • Japan Rail (Shinkansen): no checked baggage, large bags need advance reservation

Real Traveler Experiences

"Took an oversized duffel on the California Zephyr. No one checked dimensions. Staff helped me find space in the vestibule."  Reddit r/Amtrak

"Tried to board a Megabus with a large suitcase and a backpack. They made me check the suitcase and charged me $5 at the door."  Travel forum

"On the Eurostar from London to Paris with two big bags. No issues but I had to wrestle them into the overhead myself. No staff help."  TripAdvisor

Pro Tips

  • Book checked baggage on Amtrak when you buy your ticket, not at the station
  • Arrive at least 45 minutes early if checking bags, staffed counters close before departure
  • On European trains, book a seat near the door vestibule where large bags can stand upright
  • Shipping luggage ahead via services like Luggage Forward is often cheaper than oversize fees on multiple legs
  • Japan Rail requires advance reservation for bags over 160cm total dimensions, book online before travel
  • Always weigh your bag before arriving, overweight fees at the station are avoidable

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