In our younger years we traveled the European rails with backpacks; now with some back issues we have chosen to go with mid-size roller bags witch, of course, still require some lifting, but our concern is; once on the German trains; if there is no space on the overhead rack or the space behind the seats we must then put them on the racks near the doors.

Is it a good idea to use a bicycle-type cable lock to secure the bags to the racks or to each other to prevent theft when at an intermediate stop? Does anybody do that?

We will travel some on the S-Bahn which is unfamiliar to us and we have no idea of the amount of luggage space available.

There are dozens of different train configurations in Germany. I've noticed that the "Doppelstockwagen" or 2-story cars used on some milk-train runs are snug when it comes to luggage space. If these trains aren't full, I normally plop my bag on the seat next to me. If you're in a packed train and just can't find a spot, there is normally a car for bikes and oversized stuff where you can sit on a fold-down seat and/or a standing area near the exits with fold-down seats. I've never seen anyone lock their bag to a rack.

The trouble with bike locks is that you might not have time to unlock them and get the case out of the rack before the doors close and the train departs again. Some station stops can be very short....

Overhead racks are becoming smaller on a number of trains as mentioned. I have gone to a soft-sided bag that can be stuffed just about anywhere. My wife has stuck with an airline-carry-on roller suitcase.

As Russ mentioned, there are often empty seats in which to sit your bag. There is sometimes room under the seat. There are fold-up jump-seats near the entrance of some double-decker cars, an area with limited room for storage. Alas, my wife has had to ride with her bag on her lap on occasion.

We have never used a lock of any sort. You can only carry so much. Germany is a relatively secure country, though exceptions exist everywhere.

Regards, Gary

A bike lock will alert any potential thief that you are transporting the crown jewels or similar and that your bag is of potential interest. I have never seen anyone using a cable lock for their luggage in hundreds and hundreds of train rides. You would certainly receive some attention. And - do you seriously think that a simple bicycle lock could stop a professional?

Of course it is wise to keep your valuables and documents with you all the time.

I can, however, tell you a funny story of a friend of mine who secured her bike from toppling over with the lock on board the commuter train and then found out she did not have the key with her... She entertained the whole transport company that day.

As for train stops being short, you ought to be out of your seats and by the door or in line for the door before your train reaches the station anyway - lock or no lock.