Also, I will bring two big suitcases, do you think the SBB will allow them or have sufficient storage space on the train.
I may plan to take the taxi from Airport to Neuchatel in case the train does allow me to bring large luggage, but the cost seems too high. Any advice for the alternatives.
My husband and I each had 2 suitcases when we took the train from Geneva to Neuchatel and we didnt have a problem. Just try and get on quickly when it arrives.
I am new to the Swiss Pass, just received my half fare card, but the coupon looks real...Just make sure that you have your Swiss Pass when traveling. They will ask for you to show it.
Geneva Airport? If so the train that leaves at 5 minutes after the hour (to Zürich) is direct to Neuchatel. Those are the Bombardier tilting trains and they have some places for baggage storage or, if they fit, the bags can go between the seatbacks. Have a look at travelling in First Class, there will less demand for the baggage storage areas. If the train is not full the conductor will let you get away with bags in front of the seat. If it is full s/he may ask you to pay for the seats.
Otherwise you will have to change at Geneva, Morges or Lausanne. Morges is OK as it is just across the platform (or the same track) and usually just a few minutes, Geneva and Lausanne means you have to go up down stairs. There are some escalators and ramps. Try and avoid rush hours.
2nd class without a discount is CHF 48; first is CHF84. Half that with the demi-tariff.
That's a new one, for me. I've never heard of a conductor asking a passenger to pay for the seat on which the passenger has placed a suitcase. It sounds fair, when I think about it, I've just never experienced it.
I've hardly ever encountered problems with luggage, mine or that of others. It's a question of being considerate. So, OP, you'll be fine as long as you are quick to move your luggage to wherever it will obstruct other people the least. Even if you are not physically strong, you will find that - if you ask - others will willingly help you.
Some carriages have a luggage rack or alcove at the beginning/end of the carriage. If you sit facing that, you'll be able to keep an eye on your suitcases. Some carriages have gaps, as someone mentioned, between the seat backrests. Others have overhead luggage racks, usually suitable for smaller items.
Welcome to Switzerland, and I hope you have happy landings, and wish you well as you settle in.
Me either, but I did hear a conductor say she could charge the fare, so the passenger moved it to the rack.
However be cautious with your bags. Your train will have at least three stops and bags have gone missing. Considering the number of trains it is low risk, but not no risk.
That rule has been around for a few years now. I only seen being applied once on a rush hour train. Mind you that passenger was German and was being very arrogant, which might have influenced her decision to apply the rule!