I'm working out my itinerary for a trip to Switzerland this September, and I have a question about storing luggage in train stations. We're based out of Bern and I have a couple of overnighters planned where I thought we could stop in one town, like Murten, spend some time there, then continue on to Gruyere for an overnight. I know I only need a small bag for an overnight, but I'd prefer not to lug it around all day with me and my daypack and stuff. I found on the SBB site that a lot of train stations have lockers, but limited numbers. What do most travelers do with their bags in a situation like this? Just pack super light and take it all along? Thanks!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
You covered it pretty well. Generally the lockers have a 24 hr time limit so the turn over is pretty good. The very few times we have needed lockers they were always available but hard to forecast. Personally, I think you would be OK in September because of lower demand. But no promises.
Posted by
Cramerton, NC, USA
71 posts
We've used lockers in several cities and have never had a problem finding one available IF they had lockers at all. The problem is some small stations don't have any lockers. Also, in some areas, especially Italy, lockers are being replaced by a staffed luggage counter -- the problem with this is that they are not always staffed 24 hours a day and sometimes the staffer leaves his post and you have to wait -- I've never missed a connection waiting, but it could happen. Bottom line: you likely won't have a problem, but it wouldn't hurt to ask questions in advance.
Enjoy!
Duane
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9110 posts
Most all stations in Switzerland that have lockers, also have manned luggage hold counters, so if all the lockers are full, just use the counter. But in three trips to Switzerland I have yet to encounter a station that had all lockers full.
With Swiss Rail you can also send your bags ahead for pickup at your final destination, and for an additional fee they will even deliver it directly to your hotel. If you drop your bag off early enough it will arrive later the same day-I'm not sure what the cutoff time is.