Having your luggage stored while traveling: storage facilities and other solutions

When you travel, you often find yourself encumbered by your luggage or purchases: while waiting for a train or plane, during a stopover or before being able to access your accommodation. Fortunately, several solutions exist to temporarily get rid of your suitcases and fully enjoy your day or evening. Here is a complete guide to discover the different options available all over the world, to relieve you of your backpack, your stroller, your jacket, your purchases of the day or any other bulky luggage.

Having your luggage looked after while travelling

Between the different solutions for lockers, changing rooms and concierge services, here is what you need to know to travel with your hands in your pockets whenever you want!

Luggage storage at train stations and airports

Train stations and international airports often offer luggage storage and cloakrooms for a fee. These areas are secure so you can leave your suitcases, bulky clothes or shopping bags in complete confidence.

Advantages : They are located in the immediate vicinity of transport locations, which is convenient for departures or arrivals. Some lockers, such as those of the SNCF, may include services such as luggage delivery to the station.

2. Luggage storage at the hotel

If you are already a guest of a hotel or rented accommodation, it is often possible to leave your luggage and bulky items at the reception, before or after your check-in/check-out. Do not hesitate to ask your accommodation provider directly if this possibility is included.

Disadvantages : This option is only available if you are a resident of the establishment concerned. This solution does not work if you are staying with a private individual (such as Airbnb). Security is limited to a relationship of trust because no official receipt will be given to you and the complaint can be an obstacle course in the event of a problem.

3. Private locker services

For greater freedom, platforms like Nannybag offer luggage storage available in partner businesses, such as cafes, boutiques or hotels, all over the world.

Disadvantages : Some partner stores have restricted hours, with closures during lunch breaks for example. In the event of a deposit extended over several days, the rate is not reduced.

4. Automatic luggage lockers

In some major cities, companies like City Locker in France offer 24-hour automatic lockers. These modern lockers are often located near tourist attractions. Some cities have their own automatic locker system, such as the “Valyse” system in Tours or “Keepcase” in Aix-en-Provence.

Advantages : Completely autonomous process. Usually close to train stations or tourist sites. The size of the lockers sometimes allows for 4 cabin suitcases. The rate is around €4 to €10 per day depending on the size of the locker.

5. Tourist office instructions

Although this solution remains rare , some tourist offices offer a luggage storage service, allowing travelers to fully enjoy their day without being encumbered.

These services, often overlooked, are particularly practical if you are visiting a small town without left luggage. Dropping off your bags in an ODT allows you to unclutter yourself for a few hours, to visit the city, a museum or go hiking .

This type of service is often available in tourist destinations where there are many visitors passing through. For example, some tourist offices in small towns or popular regions, such as those located near hiking trails or heritage areas, have implemented this solution to encourage travelers to explore more easily. However, these initiatives remain limited in number and are not standardized.

Advantages  : These lockers are sometimes free or offered at a reasonable rate (around €1 per hour), depending on local policy.

Disadvantages  : This service is subject to the opening hours of the tourist office. The maximum period of storage of luggage is generally one day.

6. How much does a luggage storage facility cost?

Tourist offices can apply low rates, such as the Hérault Tourist Office which charges €2 per bag for a maximum of one day. In large train stations and airports, such as those in Paris or major European cities, automatic luggage lockers can cost €15 to €20 for a full day . Rates are generally reduced if you need to have luggage stored for several days .