Last reviewed: · Prices in Euros (€) are approximate and for orientation only.
Suitcase Size & Weight Limits: Renfe AVE vs Avlo vs Iryo vs Ouigo
Renfe AVE, Alvia, and Euromed allow up to 3 pieces of luggage per passenger (max 85 × 55 × 35 cm for the largest bag, combined weight 25 kg) at no extra cost. Iryo 'Singular' and 'Infinita' fares include 2 cabin bags plus 1 large 85 × 55 × 35 cm suitcase (up to 25 kg), while Iryo 'Inicial' budgets on light hand luggage unless upgraded. Low-cost Avlo and Ouigo include 1 handbag (36 × 27 × 15 cm) plus 1 cabin roller (55 × 35 × 25 cm) in the base fare; larger suitcases up to 85 × 55 × 35 cm or 200 cm linear require a €5–€10 online add-on (€20–€30 if paid at the platform gate!).
Mandatory Station Security Scanners (Control de Equipajes)
Unlike France or Germany, Spain requires every high-speed rail passenger to pass their suitcases and backpacks through airport-style X-ray belts before accessing AVE, Avlo, Iryo, or Ouigo platforms. Liquids over 100 ml (such as wine or olive oil bottles) ARE allowed on Spanish trains, but pocket knives and sharp blades are confiscated. Arrive 25–30 minutes before departure.
Where to Find Station Luggage Lockers (Consignas) in Córdoba, Madrid, Barcelona & Seville
Because post-2004 security rules removed lockers from inside many Renfe platforms, know the exact locations: in Córdoba (popular for Mezquita stopovers), official automated lockers are located directly across the street inside the Córdoba Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses, €4–€6/day). In Barcelona-Sants, staffed consignas operate inside the main concourse (€4.50–€6/day). Around Madrid Atocha, Madrid Chamartín, and Sevilla-Santa Justa, 24/7 keypad locker storefronts (Lock & Be Free, Locker in the City, Bounce) sit within 100 meters of the main exit for €5–€9 per bag/day.
Key Takeaways & Local Tips
- Always add your large suitcase online when booking Avlo or Ouigo—paying €10 online saves the €20–€30 gate penalty.
- Wine, vermut, and olive oil bottles in your suitcase pass through Renfe X-ray scanners without any liquid limit.
- Check your exact suitcase dimensions in our interactive Spain High-Speed Rail Luggage Size Checker (/tools/luggage-size-checker/).
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: