December 19th 2024.
As the holiday season approaches, the train company is reminding passengers to pack wisely when embarking on their travels. With Christmas being one of the busiest times for travel, millions of people will be journeying across the UK to visit their loved ones, carrying gifts and luggage along with them.
In light of this, one train company has requested that their customers opt for airline-style bags rather than oversized suitcases when travelling on their services during this festive period. Great Western Railway (GWR) is urging passengers to consider bringing sensible-sized luggage to avoid overcrowding and ensure that aisles, exits, and seats remain clear for everyone's comfort and safety.
With a surge of people expected to take to the railways, GWR is appealing to passengers to show a little Christmas spirit and consideration for others. According to the National Rail Conditions of Travel, passengers are typically allowed to bring up to three pieces of luggage. However, with an increase in travellers during this time of year, GWR anticipates that trains will be busier than usual, and therefore encourages passengers to be mindful of their luggage size.
A spokesperson from GWR expressed their concerns, stating that they have noticed an increasing number of passengers struggling with oversized suitcases on station stairways and attempting to board trains. This not only blocks the aisles, exits, and seats but also causes inconvenience for other passengers. Instead, the train company is asking passengers to consider bringing a standard-sized suitcase that can easily fit in the boot of a car or be stored in the luggage racks at the end of carriages. Better yet, opting for a couple of cabin-style bags that can be placed in overhead racks or under seats would be ideal.
The issue of bulky luggage on trains has been a topic of frustration for many passengers, who have taken to social media to voice their concerns. Many have reported being unable to find a seat due to large suitcases taking up space, resulting in them having to stand for long journeys. This has also caused difficulties for disabled passengers who require access to designated wheelchair spaces.
One passenger, @nattatouillez, shared their experience on a GWR train last Christmas, where they paid a hefty price for a standing spot surrounded by suitcases. Another passenger, @flickhwilliams, shared an image of a woman occupying the wheelchair space on a train with multiple suitcases, causing inconvenience for other passengers.
Meanwhile, on TikTok, a UK rail passenger @nicksherrard shared a video of three suitcases blocking the entrance to a train carriage, prompting the question of what to call people who leave their bags like this. While some commenters expressed concern over potential fire hazards, others pointed out the lack of storage space on trains.
In response to these issues, GWR has released new research showing that a majority of travellers have encountered problems due to their or other passengers' luggage. These include discomfort, arguments, delays, and even being forced to stand during their journey.
To avoid such inconveniences, GWR advises customers to think carefully about what they need for their trip. They have also provided a list of what is allowed and what is not allowed on their trains. While there is ample space for hand luggage, laptop bags, and handbags under seats and in overhead racks, larger standard-sized suitcases can be stored in the luggage rack at the end of each carriage. However, it is recommended not to bring more than three pieces of luggage, and oversized bags that are difficult to manoeuvre are not advisable.
The research conducted by GWR also revealed that many passengers are not aware of the rules and regulations when it comes to travelling with luggage. A quarter of respondents were unsure of the luggage policy, while others believed there were no limits or thought they could bring as much as they liked within reason.
In light of these findings, GWR has introduced measures to improve the situation. Over a third of those surveyed support the idea of implementing airline-style excess luggage charges on trains, and nearly two-thirds want rail companies to prioritize passenger seating over luggage storage space.
So, as you pack for your Christmas train journey, keep in mind the advice from GWR and be mindful of your luggage size to ensure a comfortable and pleasant journey for yourself and your fellow passengers. Do you have a similar experience to share? Get in touch by emailing us.
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