Traveling by Train

0. The €49 Germany-Ticket

This subscription-only ticket lets you travel nationwide on local transport (2nd class) including buses, trams, S- and U-Bahn, and regional trains. Dog allowances vary by network—e.g., in Berlin/Brandenburg a dog travels free. Bicycles and children aged 6+ require separate tickets.

Not valid on long-distance EC, IC, ICE, or non-local bus services. Since this guide focuses on long-distance travel, the Germany-Ticket is only briefly mentioned here.

1. How much luggage can I bring?

You may carry hand luggage plus one larger item or object, provided you can handle it personally.

2. What are the maximum suitcase dimensions?

There is no formal size limit—baggage must simply be manageable by one person. However, train storage is limited: luggage racks are designed for large suitcases (approx. 700×500×300 mm).

3. Where to store luggage on the train?

Small items (purses, laptop bags, backpacks) fit under seats or on overhead racks. Medium suitcases fit between seat backs or in racks in open-plan cars (dimensions ~700×500×300 mm). Compartments only offer overhead racks.

Always keep an eye on your luggage; reserve seats near storage areas if needed. Shop carry-on luggagein our online store

4. What items are allowed?

Non-hazardous items follow the Dangerous Goods Act (GGVSEB). Personal-use matches, lighters, aerosols, electronics, phones, laptops, and drones with <100 Wh batteries are permitted. Spare batteries max 100 Wh. No weight or liquid volume limits.

5. Traveling with children

Train travel is comfortable and affordable for families. You can bring food and drinks freely. ICE and most IC/EC trains have family or toddler zones near the bistro car. Weekend child care is free on select routes, and children’s menus are available on board.

Children under 6 travel free in Germany; older kids receive discounts depending on country. Family seat reservations cost €9 per group. Solo child travel rules vary by country; check in advance.

6. Accessibility for reduced mobility

Not all trains and stations are fully accessible. Contact DB Mobility Service Center (MSZ) for assistance with boarding, lifts, and time required for transfers. Book at least by 8 pm the day before (48 h for international).

Service dogs and assistants travel free when noted in your disability ID (SGB IX).

7. Are pets allowed?

Small pets in carriers travel free (under-seat or overhead). Large dogs pay half fare with a dog ticket; leashes and muzzles required. Service animals travel free without muzzle requirement.

8. Baggage service—send luggage ahead

Use DB’s Hermes partnership to ship luggage in advance. Avoid lugging heavy bags—ideal for families, ski trips, or long stays. Standard luggage up to 25 kg/120×60×60 cm costs €13.90 per direction at a parcel shop. Home pick-up: €17.90 (max 31.5 kg). Sports gear €27.90. Bikes €49.90 (no e-bikes).

Book with your Germany-train ticket; delivery takes 2–3 days. Shop luggagein our online store

9. Sports gear & bicycle transport

Golf bags and sports equipment within weight limits travel free. Bicycles require a Fernverkehr bike ticket plus reservation on IC/EC and select ICE routes—book up to 6 months ahead. Call a Bike rentals available in 80+ cities.

10. Money-saving tips

• Book early—Super-Saver fares start at €17.90. Groups (6+) from €9.80 each with reservation (non-refundable).
• Avoid peak times (holidays, weekends). Off-peak travel often yields cheaper fares.
• Kids under 6 free; up to 4 children (up to 14) free when listed on adult ticket.
• Bring your own food—onboard prices start at €3.20 for drinks.
• Use City Mobil for local transit connections—often included for journeys >100 km.
• IC instead of ICE—disable “fastest route” filter to compare savings.
• BahnCard for frequent travelers—saves on fares, parking, Call a Bike, and Railplus (until end 2025).

11. Lost luggage—what to do?

Report missing items over €15 via DB Lost & Found. It can take up to 2 days to appear in the system. Recovered items are held at the station’s lost & found for 7 days, then sent to Wuppertal. Act quickly and label your bags.

12. Onboard amenities & services

Bistro cars offer meals and drinks (€3.20+). 1st class ICE portal allows direct seat orders; 2nd class bistro service is occasional. Free Wi-Fi on many ICE/IC trains—speeds vary. Stream offline content instead.

Through the ICE portal, access movies, series, audiobooks, podcasts, and magazines (monthly rotation). 1st class passengers get complimentary daily newspapers.

Connect via Wi-Fi hotspot “WIFIonICE” or “WIFI@DB” and go to iceportal.de.

The Hauptstadtkoffer team wishes you a pleasant journey

Note: We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee information is up to date. Always confirm current rules with Deutsche Bahn before departure.

Found an error? Let us know here. For ticket options see fare offers and for luggage service see DB baggage service.