Skip to main content
Solved

What happens if I reserve seat but miss the train?

  • August 16, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 38 views

I am booking a train from Paris to Valence d'Agen, which requires seat reservation, when I arrive at Paris on plane on the same day. 

I am afraid if the flight is delayed then I will not be able to catch the train. Should I:

  1. Book the train and pay for seat reservation now
  2. Do not book the train until flight is confirmed to be on time for the train schedule

I have a feeling that A is a better option, but what if I do miss my train? Will I have to pay for seat reservation again?

Best answer by ralderton

SNCF reservations are refundable up to departure time (in fact, 30 minutes after it), so there’s no harm in booking a couple of trains, and refunding the one you don’t use.

Better to make your reservation through Rail Europe, as it can be a bit fiddly using the Interrail reservations portal.

2 replies

ralderton
Railmaster
Forum|alt.badge.img+9
  • Railmaster
  • Answer
  • August 16, 2026

SNCF reservations are refundable up to departure time (in fact, 30 minutes after it), so there’s no harm in booking a couple of trains, and refunding the one you don’t use.

Better to make your reservation through Rail Europe, as it can be a bit fiddly using the Interrail reservations portal.


Schelte
Full steam ahead
Forum|alt.badge.img+6
  • Full steam ahead
  • August 16, 2026

Seat reservations in France are refundable up to 30 minutes after departure.