If you are used to travel in the United States, you know the drill. On airplanes, you can’t bring liquids through security. On city subways or buses, eating is often frowned upon, and cracking open a beer is a fast way to get a fine.
So, when Americans arrive in Europe, they often ask: “Can I bring a bottle of wine on the train? What about my own sandwich? Or do I have to buy the expensive food on board?”
Here is the good news: Europe train travel is freedom.
In almost all cases, yes, you can bring your own food and alcohol on board. In fact, it is not just allowed; it is a beloved travel tradition. Here is how to do it right, and the few strict exceptions you need to know about.
The “Train Picnic”: The Ultimate Budget Hack
Dining cars on European trains (like the Bordbistro on German ICE trains or the bar car on the TGV) are convenient, but they can be pricey. A simple sandwich might cost you €8 ($9), and a coffee could be €4.
The smartest travelers skip the dining car and head to a local supermarket or bakery near the station before they board.
What to pack for a European Train Picnic:
- Fresh Bread: Grab a baguette in France or a pretzel in Germany.
- Local Cheese and Meats: Prosciutto, Brie, Gouda—whatever the local specialty is.
- Snacks: Chips, chocolate, and fruit.
- Drinks: This is where it gets fun.
You are completely free to spread out your meal on your tray table. It is one of the best ways to enjoy the passing scenery—eating local food while watching the countryside roll by, all for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant meal.
Alcohol: Can I Really Drink Wine on the Train?
For many Americans, this feels illegal, but in Europe, it is standard culture. Yes, you can bring your own alcohol on the train.
Imagine leaving Florence for Rome. You bought a nice bottle of Chianti for €10 at a shop. You can absolutely bring that bottle on the train, open it at your seat, and drink it out of plastic cups (or travel wine glasses if you are fancy).
The Unspoken Rules:
While it is legal, there is an etiquette.
- Don’t be rowdy: Enjoying a beer or wine is fine. Getting wasted and loud is not. Conductors can and will kick you off if you are disturbing other passengers.
- No “Messy” Food: Avoid bringing smelly foods (like strong fish) or things that are likely to spill everywhere.
- Clean up: Always take your trash with you or put it in the bins at the end of the car.
The Important Exceptions (Read This!)
While 95% of trains have an “anything goes” policy, there are a few specific routes where the rules are stricter.
1. The Eurostar (London to Paris/Brussels/Amsterdam)
Because the Eurostar travels through the Channel Tunnel and involves border security (like an airport), they have tightened their rules recently.
- Alcohol Limits: You are limited to 1 bottle of wine OR 4 cans of beer per person.
- Hard Liquor: You are not allowed to bring spirits (vodka, whiskey, gin) on board. If security finds a bottle of Jack Daniels in your bag, they will confiscate it.
2. Night Trains (Sleeper Cars)
Night trains are experiencing a renaissance in Europe, but the rules can be tricky.
- The Rule: On many night trains (like the OBB Nightjet or the Caledonian Sleeper), you are officially not allowed to consume your own alcohol inside the sleeping compartments.
- The Reason: They want to prevent rowdy parties in small, enclosed spaces where people are trying to sleep. Plus, they want you to buy drinks from the train bar.
- The Reality: If you are having a quiet glass of wine in your private cabin, the staff rarely minds. But if you are in a shared couchette with strangers, keep the alcohol packed away.
3. Specific Sporting Events
Occasionally, if there is a massive soccer (football) match and thousands of fans are traveling between cities, the train company might issue a temporary “dry train” ban to prevent hooliganism. This is rare, but it happens.
A Note on Water
Unlike in US restaurants, water is rarely free in Europe.
- Tap Water: Do not drink the water from the bathroom tap on the train. It will usually have a sign saying Eau non potable (Not drinking water).
- Bring Your Own: Always buy a large bottle of water at the station before you board. You will stay hydrated and save money compared to buying small bottles in the dining car.
Summary
So, can you turn your 4-hour train ride into a rolling wine and cheese tasting? Absolutely. Just head to the grocery store, grab a bottle of red and a baguette, and enjoy the ride. It’s the most civilized way to travel! 🍷🥖🚂
