Getting on the train is a bit like an airport. There's security checks and metal detectors as well as U.K. and French border control. I would recommend arriving at least an hour in advance, so you can do all that. Also make sure you don't wear any metal jewellery, belts or zippers before going on (more tips here).
Luggage allowance. Travelling with Eurostar is all about comfort and convenience. That means no last-minute panic over toiletries or trying to predict the weather. There's no weight limit on your luggage, meaning you can bring every little essential with you.
With Eurostar, border and luggage checks take place before departure, so we ask our passengers to arrive at the station early enough to complete them. These timings are just for guidance and can sometimes change.
Eurostar passengers require a valid passport or identity card. You will pass through UK, French, Dutch or Belgian customs depending on the journey you are undertaking.
Knives with a blade shorter than 3 are fine, for example small penknives. E-scooters & hoverboards are also not carried. You're allowed to take your own wine or beer on board, but Eurostar may confiscate any 'excessive' alcohol, for example if you look as if you're going to cause trouble.
French knife laws are strict when it comes to carrying knives. Certain types of knives, such as those with a locking blade or a blade length exceeding a reasonable size, are considered illegal to carry without a valid reason. French law also prohibits the use of knives for self-defence purposes.
Traveling by Rail and BusRail travel is very restrictive of knife carry. Amtrak, for example, bans knives completely. They are not allowed on your person, in your carry-on, or in stowed luggage.
Eurostar is not registered as a carrier of pets and therefore, we're unfortunately unable to make any exceptions. We do, however, allow guide and assistance dogs to travel with their owners and request that customers contact us at least 48 hours in advance of travel to make a request.
But basically you can carry anything except offensive weapons/firearms/explosives. No restrictions on liquids or tweezers and scissors. You have to put your bags through an x-ray machine and walk through a metal detector after you check in.
Any quantity of inflammable substances, including empty canisters e.g. petrol, methylated spirits, paint thinners. Don't worry though, you can take nail polish and hairspray. Firelighters and lighter fuel. All flick knives, gravity knives and daggers.
The check-in procedure for Eurostar train journeys takes roughly 20 minutes from start to finish, and depending on the class you're travelling in, it's recommended that you arrive at least 90 minutes before your Eurostar train leaves.
Passports are required for all passengers travelling to the UK, including children. Your passport doesn't need to be valid for a minimum number of months to travel, as long as it's valid for the length of your stay in the UK.