Traveling through Florida on the Brightline is sleek, fast, and comfortable, but nothing ruins a smooth trip faster than unexpected luggage fees or having your bag rejected at the gate.
Whether you are commuting between Miami and West Palm Beach or taking the long-haul trip to Orlando, Brightline has specific rules regarding what you can carry, what you must check, and how much it costs.
At a Glance: Brightline Baggage Allowance
Before diving into the fine print, here is a quick summary of what you are allowed to bring based on your ticket class.
| Item Type | Allowance | Size Limit | Weight Limit | SMART Fare | PREMIUM Fare |
| Personal Item | 1 per guest | 17” x 13” x 8” | N/A | FREE | FREE |
| Carry-On Bag | 2 per guest | 24” x 16” x 10” | 50 lbs (22 kg) | FREE | FREE |
| Standard Checked Bag | 0 included | 29” x 20” x 13” | 50 lbs (22 kg) | $30 | 1 FREE |
| Large Checked Bag | 0 included | 33” x 22” x 15” | 70 lbs (32 kg) | $60 | $60* |
*Premium guests pay a $30 upcharge if their first free checked bag is oversized.
Free Carry-On Allowance: What You Can Bring
Unlike many budget airlines, Brightline is generous with carry-on luggage. Every ticket, regardless of whether you book SMART or PREMIUM, includes the same carry-on allowance.
The “Two Bag” Rule
Every passenger is permitted to bring two (2) carry-on items plus one (1) personal item free of charge.
- Personal Item: This includes a purse, laptop bag, backpack, or briefcase. It must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Carry-On Bags: These must fit in the overhead compartment or the luggage towers located in each coach.
Dimensions and Weight
To qualify as a carry-on, your bag must not exceed 50 lbs (22 kg). The maximum dimensions are 24” x 16” x 10”.
If you cannot lift your bag into the overhead bin safely, or if it exceeds these measurements, you will be required to check it.
Checked Baggage Policy & Fees
If you are traveling with larger suitcases, you will likely need to check them. Brightline operates a checked bag system similar to an airline, but with specific station restrictions.
Where Can You Check Bags?
Crucial Rule: Checked baggage service is ONLY available at:
- MiamiCentral
- Fort Lauderdale
- West Palm Beach
- Orlando
Checked baggage is NOT available at Aventura or Boca Raton stations. (See the “Overflow Baggage” section below if you are traveling to/from these stops).
Checked Bag Fees (2026 Rates)
Fees are charged per bag and vary based on size:
- Standard Checked Bag: $30 (Free for Premium Class)
- Size: Up to 29” x 20” x 13”
- Weight: Up to 50 lbs
- Large / Overweight Bag: $60
- Size: Up to 33” x 22” x 15”
- Weight: 51 lbs – 70 lbs
Bag Drop-Off Times
Do not arrive at the last minute. You must check your bags at the Guest Services counter:
- Miami & Orlando: At least 30 minutes prior to departure.
- Fort Lauderdale & West Palm Beach: At least 20 minutes prior to departure.
Note: Bags will not be accepted earlier than 4 hours before your train leaves.
The “Overflow Baggage” Rule (Aventura & Boca Raton)
This is the most confusing part of the policy for new travelers. Because Aventura and Boca Raton stations do not have checked baggage facilities, you cannot strictly “check” a bag there.
However, if you have a large bag, you can still bring it, but it falls under the Overflow Baggage policy.
- How it works: You pay a fee to bring the large bag on the train yourself. You are responsible for carrying it onboard and stowing it in the luggage tower.
- The Fees:
- Standard size overflow: $20 (Free for Premium)
- Large size overflow: $40
This rule also applies if the checked luggage compartment on your specific train is full.
Special Items: Strollers, Sports Gear & Instruments
Brightline accommodates more than just suitcases, but restrictions apply.
Strollers and Car Seats
Families can travel easily. Strollers, car seats, and booster seats do not count toward your carry-on limit. They can be brought on board for free but must be stowed in the baggage tower, not in the aisles.
Bicycles and Scooters
- Fully Assembled Bikes: NOT PERMITTED. Brightline trains cannot accommodate full-size, assembled bicycles.
- Folding Bikes & Scooters: Allowed as a carry-on if they fold down to under 48” x 30”. They must be stowed in the baggage tower.
- Motorcycles/E-Bikes: Large E-bikes and motorcycles are strictly prohibited.
Golf Clubs
Florida is the golf capital of the world, so clubs are welcome. However, they are considered Large Checked Baggage.
- Fee: $60 (or $20 if transported as “Overflow” carry-on where available).
- Packing: Must be in a hard-sided or padded travel case with a hood covering the club heads.
Musical Instruments
Instruments can be carried on if they fit in the luggage tower or overhead bin. They must not exceed 64 inches in height.
Traveling with Pets
Brightline is pet-friendly, but you must add your pet to your reservation in advance.
Carry-On Pets
- Limit: One pet per passenger.
- Carrier: Must be a leak-proof, ventilated carrier (max size 17” x 10” x 10”). The carrier must fit under your seat or on your lap.
- Fees:
- Short trips (South Florida): $10
- Long trips (Orlando): $45
Service Animals
Service dogs trained to perform specific tasks for a disability travel for free. They do not require a carrier but must remain on the floor at your feet or on your lap.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are considered pets and are subject to the standard pet fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring food and drinks on Brightline?
Yes. You may bring non-alcoholic beverages and food on board. However, alcoholic beverages consumed on board must be purchased from Brightline (either at the station Mary Mary bar or the onboard trolley).
What happens if my bag is over 70 lbs?
Brightline has a strict safety limit. Bags weighing more than 70 lbs (32 kg) or exceeding 70 linear inches will not be accepted for transport, even for a fee. You will need to ship these items separately via a different service.
Is the Premium lounge baggage storage secure?
If you are a Premium guest, you can leave your bags with the attendant in the lounge while you wait. However, keep valuables like passports, jewelry, and electronics with you in a personal bag at all times.
Can I pay for bags with cash at the station?
No. Brightline is a cashless operation. You must pay for baggage fees using a credit or debit card at the Guest Services counter or via the app when booking.
Do I need to remove liquids from my bag like at the airport?
No. While there is a security screening (x-ray) before you board, you do not need to remove liquids, laptops, or shoes. You can bring full-size toiletries and water bottles on board.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
The Brightline baggage policy for 2026 is designed to be faster and less stressful than flying, but it is not a free-for-all. To avoid stress at the station:
- Measure your bags: Ensure your carry-on is under 24” x 16” x 10”.
- Book Premium for value: If you plan to check a bag on the Orlando route, the $30 bag fee waiver helps offset the cost of the Premium ticket upgrade.
- Arrive early: If you are checking a bag, hitting that 30-minute cutoff is mandatory.
Always check the official Brightline Terms of Service before you travel, as specific fee amounts can change during peak holiday seasons.
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
