Switzerland’s trains are fast, clean, and famously efficient — but they’re not built with big luggage in mind.
Whether you’re gliding through the Alps on the Glacier Express or taking a scenic ride between lakeside towns, packing light can make a huge difference in comfort and convenience.
Travelers who overpack often struggle to find space for their bags, especially during peak hours or on regional trains with limited storage.
With just some planning, you can enjoy the ride without the stress of managing oversized suitcases.
Best Luggage Types & Sizes for Swiss Trains
The ideal luggage for Swiss trains is a medium-sized suitcase (65–70 cm / 25–27 inches – measured on the DIAGONAL). This size is small enough to fit between or below most seats in the main compartments and sometimes in the designated luggage storage shelves at the ends of some train car.
Consider using a soft-sided duffel bag or a sturdy travel backpack for even more flexibility. These are easier to carry upstairs (some stations still lack elevators), easier to store in tight compartments, and less likely to cause issues in crowded trains.
Avoid large, hard-shell cases unless necessary — they can be tough to store, especially when traveling at busy times or on popular scenic routes.
You could also travel with your case and add on a small travel day pack for your personal belongings as you need to carry
- train tickets & passport
- layers for the variable weather and temperatures in the mountains
- sunglasses, hat, sunscreen
- snacks & lunch for your day out
- water bottle for filling local (free) water in Swiss fountains
How to Pack Light for a Medium Case
Packing light doesn’t mean compromising on what you need — it just means choosing items that are versatile, compact, and essential.
- Dress in layers: Swiss weather can vary dramatically, especially if you’re moving between mountain and valley regions. Rather than one bulky coat, bring items like a waterproof shell, a warm fleece or puffer, and lightweight base layers you can mix and match.
- Minimize shoes: Shoes take up a lot of space. One pair of comfortable walking shoes and one lighter pair (like flats, sandals, or clean sneakers for dinners or cities) is typically more than enough.
- Use packing cubes or compression bags: These help you organize your clothes and fit more into your suitcase while keeping it tidy.
- Toiletries: Most hotels and guesthouses in Switzerland provide basics like shampoo, soap, and towels. Just bring the essentials in travel sizes, especially if you’re flying carry-on only.
- Technology: Don’t forget a Swiss-compatible power adapter (Type J) and a small portable charger — great for long train rides or when you’re away from outlets during the day.
Train Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
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Board early if possible: While trains are rarely overcrowded in Switzerland, luggage racks are first-come, first-served. Arriving a few minutes early can help you find a convenient spot for your bag without stress.
Use station lockers: Major train stations (like Zurich HB, Bern, Lucerne, Interlaken, and Geneva) have self-service lockers or luggage rooms. These are perfect for storing bags if you’re on a day trip and don’t want to carry everything with you.
👉👉 More on LUGGAGE LOCKERS
Consider luggage shipping: The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) offers luggage forwarding services. You can send your bags ahead to your hotel or next destination — incredibly helpful if you’re moving between cities or staying in car-free zones like Zermatt or Wengen.
Travel light = travel flexible: With fewer bags, you can hop off for spontaneous photo stops, easily change trains, and enjoy stress-free movement through stations and city centers.
👉👉 Make your life easy with: My EASY TRAIN TRAVEL GUIDE 🚂
Quick Packing Checklist
- Medium suitcase or flexible backpack
- Layered clothing for changing weather
- Two pairs of shoes (max)
- Toiletries in travel sizes
- Chargers, portable power bank, and Type J adapter
- Reusable water bottle and daypack
👉👉 More PACKING LIST ideas
Traveling light on Swiss trains means more than just saving space — it gives you the freedom to move easily, enjoy the stunning scenery, and make the most of every stop along your journey.
A bit of smart packing goes a long way toward making your Swiss adventure smooth and memorable.
Plan Your Trip to Switzerland
Accommodation: I always book my hotels via Booking.com. They have some of the best rates, longterm deals, easy cancellation and more 
Transport: Train travel is one of the best ways to explore Switzerland. Buying a Swiss Travel Pass is a great way to save money on travel and museums. 
Car Rental: Having a car gives you flexibility on your travels. I use RentalCars.com and Discover Cars to get the best deals on car rentals in Switzerland. 
Luggage Storage: Find out where you can store your store your luggage while you are visiting various places in Switzerland. 
Trips & Tours:Viator and Get Your Guide are the best places to find local tours and trips for your adventures in Switzerland. 
Packing: Here are my recommendations for what to pack for a trip to Switzerland. As someone who has lived half their life in Switzerland, I have a good idea of what you need to bring! 
