We're renting from AirBnB and we can't check in until 4pm in both cities, but are arriving at 7am from plane and train. I'd rather not haul our luggage around from place to place for almost the entire day. Are there lockers that are really big somewhere? Pete
Hi Pete. There is luggage storage at the major London rail stations.... http://www.left-baggage.co.uk/locations.php Enjoy your trip!
Bob, thanks for the solution. That's definitely an option--only problem is that the shortest time frame is one day and we'll end up paying $60-$75 for six hours which seems a bit excessive to me.
Why is leaving at the hotel not an option?
Hotels will generally let you store your bags there until check-in. That is the best way because you don't have to double back to the airport to pick up your bags.
(Since we're staying in private homes it's not really an option to drop off the luggage early--i.e., we can't drop off the luggage at the neighbor. The previous guest will most likely still be there that early in the morning.)
In London, left luggage rates at the Victoria coach station are cheaper than at National Rail stations. Deposits up to 2 hours: £2 / No weight consideration Deposits 2-24 hours: £3.50 / Under 20 kg
Deposits 2-24 hours: £5.50 / Over 20 kg In Venice, your best option probably is using the facilities at the Santa Lucia train station.
If ping off early at your loging isn't a possibility, you're probably stuck with storage at the train stations. I'll add another gratuitious plug for packing light, my rule is everyone gets one carry-on - no exceptions. While there is usually some complaining prior to the trip, once we're on the road, no one complains about lugging less. My wife is really the only one who complains. Her clothes are so much smaller than mine, she usually packs twice as many items, doesn't wear some, and complains that she doesn't have something she should have packed. I don't say anything, but really it's about spending some time going over your list BEFORE you pack for the trip.
And keep in mind since you are on the move no one will notice if you wear the same thing more than once.
Peter Since you are renting from AirBnB, ask the owner if he has any ideas. The can't be the first time they have come across this issue. Espcially with Americans who often arrive early in the AM. Good luck Bobbie
yes ask the owners of where you are staying---I have the same issue..as we are arriving around 10AM and check in is not till 3 or 4 and we are staying at an apt...the owners said they would hold on to our luggage and it is not a problem...its worth asking i agree..