5 Europe Train Travel Mistakes to Avoid (2025 Guide)
Avoiding these mistakes leads to cheaper, smoother travel experiences. Here are the top errors travelers make.
1. Buying a Pass Without Validating
Never buy a Eurail Pass just because it sounds easy. Calculate the cost of individual tickets first. You might overpay by hundreds.
2. Ignoring Reservation Fees
A "free" travel day isn't free if you have to pay €30 for a TGV reservation. Always check the reservation ("R") status.
3. Overpacking
Train stations have stairs. Lots of them. If you can't lift your bag over your head or carry it up two flights of stairs, you've packed too much.
4. Assuming All Trains Are Covered
Local metros, trams, and some private scenic lines (like in Switzerland) are not covered by Eurail.
5. Booking Too Late
Point-to-point ticket prices skyrocket close to the date. Booking 2 months out saves up to 60%.