#TrainsBeforePlanes- The Best Way to Travel Europe

Late last year, I embarked on an adventure with Rail Europe to discover why we should consider #TrainsBeforePlanes when travelling Europe. A comparison was drawn by first heading from London to Amsterdam via the Eurostar, before flying from Brussels back to London Heathrow. 

The results? My top 5 things I discovered below speak for themselves.

Trains get you straight to the heart of a city

Central Stations, most commonly used by trains within Europe are just that- central. However the same cannot be said about airports, which are often a fair way out from city centres, creating the need for airport transfers. By travelling directly to a train station no airport transfers are required, meaning extra money saved to spend at your destination and no time wasted transiting between the city and airport. Although the flight time itself may be shorter than that of a train journey, by the time you add on the time taken to transfer between both airports this may no longer be the case. 

Excess Baggage 

As seasoned travellers would know, airlines can often be extremely meticulous when it comes to baggage weight and dimensions. In fact, many airlines throughout Europe do not include baggage in their base fares at all, and if required an extra fee must be paid. This is a stark contrast to train travel. On a standard adult fare, those travelling on the Eurostar are able to bring 2 pieces of luggage up to 85cm long each, as well as a personal item. Keep in mind, though, that you will still need to be able to carry your own bag, as well as lift it on to the train. Once onboard, there is plenty of luggage storage space available. 

Super Speedy

Earlier I mentioned that by arriving in the centre of the city less time is wasted making your way to wherever you may be staying. However, train travel can be quicker in more ways than just this. For a typical international flight, airlines recommend checking in somewhere between 2 and 3 hours prior to departure. Trains require a much smaller check in window. For example, I checked in for my train to Amsterdam in London around an hour prior, and this gave me more than enough time. The trains themselves travel extremely fast, and having your luggage on board means no time wasted at the baggage carousel upon arrival. Delays are also far less common on trains compared to planes. A combination of all of the above is the perfect recipe for more time to explore your final destination. 

Comfort Plus

I am not a tall person by any stretch of the imagination, however even I sometimes gawk at the measly legroom on some aircrafts (especially with budget airlines). Trains such as the Eurostar, however, provide plenty of space- even in second class. On top of the ample legroom, there is lots of room for personal belongings, as well as power outlets and large windows to check out the scenery, with many trains also fitted with free WiFi. 

Kind to our Planet 

Air travel is believed to be one of the biggest contributors to climate change. According to Eco Passenger, CO2 emissions are 90% lower per passenger for a return journey on the Eurostar to Amsterdam compared to on a plane. Train travel already has a smaller impact on our planet when compared to flying, however Eurostar are working towards improving these figures further. In 2020, Eurostar has committed to improve their energy efficiency, sustainability and reduce waste generated onboard.

Although for long-haul journeys you may be better off flying, my opinion is that for countries close to each other trains are 100% the way to go. Convenient, super fast and often cheaper than plane travel, my next Europe trip I’ll definitely be choosing #TrainsBeforePlanes.