On the subway, baggage that is too big can get you a fine.

The case began with a post that went viral on social media: a 24-year-old Parisian woman was fined €150 for carrying a plant deemed too bulky on the metro. Reported in the media, the story revealed a strict, but little-known, rule in the RATP's internal regulations: the maximum size allowed for luggage on the metro is subject to strict rules.

RATP reiterates the rules

RATP took advantage of this unexpected media coverage to officially reiterate the rules. Passengers can only carry suitcases, bags, or packages with no dimensions exceeding 75 centimeters. This limit roughly corresponds to a standard cabin suitcase, the one accepted at no extra charge by most airlines. For long objects, such as skis, a tolerance exists provided they do not exceed two meters in height and twenty centimeters in width, and only if they are held vertically for the entire journey. Strollers are allowed, but they are asked to be folded whenever possible, especially on buses and trams where the rules are even stricter.

According to the RATP, this is a matter of fairness and safety. The application of the rule leaves no room for arbitrariness: agents must penalize any breach, regardless of the nature of the item being transported. This ensures the comfort and safety of all passengers, in often crowded trains where every centimeter counts.

What are the consequences for passengers?

In concrete terms, any suitcase exceeding 75 centimeters, whether in height, width, or depth, is now prohibited on the metro. Passengers should favor small luggage (although there is no specification on the number of these bags allowed per person), which is easy to carry and fit, or risk being fined heavily. The fact remains that in practice, the regulation, which is not actually new, is very rarely applied. This is because the rule poses a serious problem for travelers passing through the city's major train stations and airports.

In summary

• Only luggage with no dimensions exceeding 75 cm is permitted on Parisian public transport.
• Long objects (up to 2 m high and 20 cm wide) are tolerated if held vertically.
• Any violation is subject to a fine of €150, without exception.