If you’re planning a trip to Europe this summer, a trend among air and rail carriers could help streamline your travel plans while helping the environment.
A number of airlines have teamed up with local rail services to allow travelers to arrange both transit needs in one stop through air and rail packages. Before your flight, you may want to check if your airline offers this option. Here’s how these packages work.
The Rise of Air + Train Packages
I traveled to France from Los Angeles at the invitation of the low-cost, long-haul airline French bee to see how its Train + Air package works. It includes roundtrip airfare, shuttle service from the airport to the train station, and train tickets to one of 15 destinations in France.
With this package, the low-cost airline joins a legion of European carriers aiming to streamline the process of arranging both air and train transit in one-stop, consequently making travel easier for customers while promoting more sustainable travel options.
These packages have become a trend among carriers in Europe, providing the added benefit of potential discounts on the overall fare. For travelers who may be unfamiliar with the train system at their destination, this could alleviate some anxiety associated with navigating the booking process.
The growth of airlines offering these packages stems from more than just convenience. It’s also fueled by a growing appetite among travelers for sustainable travel options that limit their carbon footprint. Encouraging passengers to switch to rail reduces the need for extra flights that generate significantly more carbon emissions compared to taking the train.
Moreover, it helps balance over- and under-tourism by encouraging tourists to explore less crowded destinations and discover other parts of the country eager to welcome visitors.
How an Air + Rail Package Works
French bee’s package includes both a shuttle from the airport and a train ticket to one of 15 destinations including Aix-en-Provence TGV, Angers St. Laud, Avignon TGV, Bordeaux St-John, Champagne-Ardenne TGV, Le Mans, Lille-Europe, Lorraine TGV, Lyon Part-Dieu, Marseille St. Charles, Nantes, Poitiers, Rennes, St. Pierre des Corps, and Strasbourg.
One significant advantage of utilizing this method is that if your flight or train is canceled or delayed, your tickets for the next segment of your itinerary can be rebooked effortlessly.
Other airlines also provide this option, although the logistics may vary. For instance, Air France offers an air + rail package to 18 destinations. Across Europe, major carriers such as Lufthansa, Condor, KLM, Swiss Air and Iberia have also introduced this valuable option.
To leverage one of these packages, selecting it during the booking process with your respective airline is essential. The train fare will subsequently be added to your fare, typically ranging from $60-80 per person; however, the cost may vary based on your chosen destination and travel dates.
As you progress, the specifics of these packages can vary depending on the airline. Some airlines offer a streamlined process where your tickets are sent electronically, while others may require you to pick up your tickets at the station. Therefore, it’s important to read the instructions for how to claim your rail tickets prior to your departure.
Keep in mind that certain packages may have restrictions, such as only allowing you to book rail tickets departing within 24 hours of your flight’s arrival. Additionally, there may be limitations to 2nd class tickets, so checking the terms of the package before you choose it is advisable.
My Thoughts on the Package
I have a fondness for traveling by train. I enjoy watching the charming towns glide by while I take advantage of the complimentary WiFi.
Upon landing in Paris, I experienced a scenic journey of nearly three hours as the French landscape unfolded from the bustling capital to the elegant architecture and rich wines of Bordeaux.
These streamlined packages are particularly useful for those new to train travel in Europe. Given the ongoing issues with airlines and flight cancellations this year, the option to rebook a ticket if your flight is delayed or canceled is an appealing benefit.
The process was quite straightforward; however, seasoned travelers who are comfortable navigating the rail websites of their desired destinations may find aspects like paper tickets and restrictions on ticket classes somewhat frustrating.
For example, the ticket office was not open when we needed to leave Bordeaux for our flight, so we had to collect tickets on the platform. While this was a manageable inconvenience, having the option for an electronic version of the ticket would have been preferable.
Nevertheless, for the average traveler, the convenience of addressing all these travel needs in one-stop is certainly more beneficial than arranging each component separately.
