Can you eat and drink on French trains?

Navigating French Rails: A New Era of Eating and Drinking on Trains

For many, train travel evokes images of leisurely journeys, punctuated by scenic landscapes and accompanied by a thoughtfully packed picnic basket or a steaming cup of coffee. However, those romantic notions are currently undergoing a significant shift on French railways. A new regulation, implemented on January 24th, is changing the way passengers experience long-distance travel within France, particularly regarding the consumption of food and beverages.

Gone are the days of enjoying a baguette and cheese while watching the French countryside whiz by on a TGV INOUI. The new rules strictly prohibit eating and drinking on board TGV INOUI, OUIGO, and other major train lines throughout the country. This blanket ban applies to all passengers, regardless of the length of their journey. Whether you’re embarking on a multi-hour trip across the country or a shorter hop between cities, the rule remains the same: no eating or drinking allowed.

This may come as a surprise to seasoned travelers accustomed to the freedoms typically associated with train travel. The reasons behind this change haven’t been explicitly laid out, leaving many to speculate. Possible motivations could range from hygiene concerns and minimizing mess to enforcing mask-wearing compliance and potentially simplifying the cleaning process between journeys.

While the new regulation is largely unwavering, there are a few carefully defined exceptions. Recognizing the needs of vulnerable passengers, the policy acknowledges the importance of hydration, especially for young children and those with specific vulnerabilities. In these limited circumstances, drinking is permitted. However, it’s crucial to understand that this is an exception based on necessity, not a general allowance for leisurely refreshment.

This new reality presents a few challenges for travelers. Planning ahead becomes even more essential. Passengers are now encouraged to consume their meals and drinks before boarding the train or to wait until they reach their destination. This may require adjusting travel schedules and factoring in time for a meal at the station.

So, what does this mean for your next trip on a French train?

• Plan Ahead: Pack snacks for pre-boarding consumption.
• Hydrate Responsibly: If you fall under the limited exception for hydration needs, pack appropriate drinks.
• Utilize Station Amenities: Take advantage of the cafes and restaurants at train stations before and after your journey.
• Be Prepared: Acknowledge the regulations and be prepared to adhere to them.

Navigating the French railways now requires a different approach, one that emphasizes planning and awareness. While the new regulations may require some adjustments to travel habits, understanding and respecting them is key to ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. The era of unrestricted eating and drinking on French trains might be over, but with careful preparation, travelers can still enjoy the beauty and convenience of rail travel across France.