RS France Railpass

Hi Cecily, ,I don't think there is such a thing as a Rick Steves rail pass. There are rail passes, and you may purchase them through RS ,, but they are sales agents only, they will not say " Rick Steves " anywhere on them.
So, lets just assume you mean a Eurorail pass, of which there are many different types.

Your first question was a good one, I do think the 4 days are in a months period ie: July 12 to August 12th, but you of course must confirm that .

If you buy an expensive pass, they the insurance might be worth it, I don't think I would bother for only a four day pass myself. Wear it in your money belt , thats free insurance right there!! LOL

As for reserving seats this is not for most trains, only overnighters, and certain specail trains ( high speed ones for instance, and Eurostar) that you will need to reserve and often pay an extra fee, you can avoid them by planning your route. Some routes may be busy in the summer, so for some routes it may be a good idea.

anyways,, you should contact the RS rail department, I emailed them some questions and they got right back to me,, ask all your questions, I do not believe they would mislead you .

The rail pass usable days are good for any 30 days from the first day you validate it at the train station (not just 1st-30th of the month). I think you have to use it within a 6 month period - but your 30 days can start anytime. The Rail Pass from RS gives you a few extras like a map and some good how-to docs, and also 20% coupon if you need a bag etc. Other than that its the same. The insurance is cheap - but remeber that it only helps you get a refund when you return - not a free-ticket there at the time. You have to file for a refund (as the documents explain this). If its an expensive pass then $10 is cheap - but keep it in your money belt anyways.

One thought. Be careful of the "30 day limit" if that is what the pass is limited to. I see several references to "July 12 to August 12" in previous comments. If the first day of use is July 12th, then the 30th day would be August 10th.

Enjoy your trip.

Cecily; we bought our Britrail/Eurail passes through RSteves (he's just the 'broker') and the one's we got are the same ones you'd get if you bought through RailEurope (also a 'broker'). After receiving the passes we made the necessary reservations (fast trains/sleepers) through our local travel agent (who deal through RailEurope) and a week later received the actual tickets (including the reservations) for the fast trains/sleepers. On the short, inter-city routes in the countries we're visiting, where reservations not necessary or, in some cases, even possible, we'll just hop on the trains & use the passes. Most (all??) of the discounts you'll get whether you order passes through RailEurope or RSteves, but he also offers discounts on his RS's travel 'stuff'. I like dealing with RS for the passes because with any problems, you've got a 'helpline' to call (or email) and get advice quickly and from knowledgeable people. You'll find most answers to questions on RS or RE websites.

Many thanks for all of your helpful replies.