I will say we've had more luggage "problems" with a car in Europe than on a train. I've never understood the concern about luggage on a train. There may not be room right at your seat, but there certainly will be room at the end of the car (which is easier than trying to get it clear down the aisle anyway). And if there are two of you, can't one hand the luggage up to the other on the train if it's too hard to lift up the steps?