Catching the Eurostar is a little different from catching a normal train, as you’ll have to pass through customs before you can board. With that in mind, we’d always recommend you giving yourself extra time to allow for any hold ups.


To check in, you’ll need –

  • When you arrive at the ticket gates, simply scan the barcode on your paper ticket or on your mobile. You need to scan each ticket individually – even the kids’. 
  • A valid passport or identity card – even children and babies will need one.  

You don’t need to check in luggage, so long as you’re within the allowance and can carry it yourself.  

When does check in for Eurostar open?

Check in opens between one and one and a half hours before departure and closes 30 minutes before departure. But, you must be there 45 minutes before departure to make sure you get through customs and pass the necessary checks before boarding. If you turn up within 30 minutes of departure (10 minutes if you hold a Eurostar card or Business Premier Flexi ticket), you might not be allowed to board.
 

At the weekend or peak holiday times customs at all stations can be busier, we’d strongly recommend getting to the station at least an hour before departure too. It’s never nice to feel rushed, so the more time you have to spare, the more relaxed a journey you’ll have.