Carrying your musical instrument on the train... A headache for many musicians performing all over the country. And with good reason: the SNCF regulates the transport of bulky luggage, for reasons of safety and passenger comfort. So, for the musicians reading this, which instruments are allowed on the TGV and which are forbidden?
SNCF is very clear on the subject. In TGV and Ouigo trains, only bulky objects measuring 90 x 130 cm maximum are allowed. This excludes harps, tubas and, in theory, double basses, although the latter will be authorized this summer as part of an experiment on Inoui TGVs.
SNCF: how do you transport a double bass on a TGV?
With the SNCF experimenting with the carriage of double basses for musicians on its TGV Inoui trains this summer, following a complaint from musicians, what is the procedure for taking a double bass on board the train? What procedures need to be followed? Are there any restrictions? We take a look! [Read more]
On the other hand, anything below these dimensions is permitted, as are cellos, bass viols, large Baroque lutes, guitars and other bulky wind or percussion instruments. Of course, pianos cannot be transported by train (but who's going to transport a piano on a TGV, you might ask...).
Regarding the transport of bulky baggage in general, SNCF explains:"The transport of baggage is conditional on the need to guarantee the safety and circulation conditions of passengers and our on-board staff. Luggage must not, under any circumstances, impede movement in corridors or access to compartments. These safety rules apply to all baggage, whether for business or pleasure".
The general terms and conditions of sale also provide details on the transport of objects:"Suitcases, travel bags and backpacks are accepted as hand luggage, if their packaging, closure, volume and weight allow them to be carried and placed without difficulty or risk to passenger safety or risk of damage, in the spaces provided for luggage in passenger carriages". No problem for small instruments, then.
Note that these rules do not apply to TER trains, as the SNCF explains on its website:"there is no maximum size imposed on board our TER trains for luggage", it says. There are two exceptions, however:"you must be able to handle your luggage yourself and fit into the spaces provided on our regional trains", and"your belongings [...] must in no case present a danger to other passengers or our staff". A short-term solution for musicians, pending a change in the transport company's regulations.
SNCF: how do you transport a double bass on a TGV?
