Musician Luke Hart was fined £40 for carrying a guitar on a Lumo train while travelling to London for a gig. He has urged others to avoid falling foul of the policy, which he called a 'stupid rule' in social media posts.
Fine issued mid-journey
Luke, an independent artist who promotes his music on TikTok, was midway through his journey when a ticket attendant issued the fine. He posted a video asking followers: 'Is this a real rule, because what the heck?'
Many followers confirmed that 'large instruments' are listed as prohibited items on the Lumo website. Guitars are not the only objects banned by the train operator.
Lumo's baggage policy
Lumo, launched in 2021, runs five direct services a day from London King's Cross to destinations including Newcastle, Edinburgh, and Stevenage. It is often called the 'Ryanair of the rails' on social media but receives relatively positive customer service reviews, though customers regularly comment on its 'strict baggage allowances'.
According to Lumo's terms and conditions, customers can bring a maximum of one small bag or small holdall and one medium suitcase (63 x 41 x 27cm) onboard. Golf clubs and large musical instruments are not permitted.
The company states that passengers whose luggage exceeds these limits may face a £40 charge or be refused travel if items cannot be safely stored on busy services.
TikTok users defend musician
TikTok users rushed to Luke's defence. @cat wrote: 'That's such a strange policy, it seems as if it's just a way to squeeze money out of people.' @lilzi noted: 'I've literally taken a pair of skis from Cornwall to London in a roller bag, how is a guitar not allowed?!'
@Jackieinthenorth added: 'So many bands I've worked with have travelled by train in the past. This is lunacy! I'll let everyone know about this stupid rule so they don't get caught out too.'
The incident follows a similar viral video involving Wizz Air, where a passenger discovered neck pillows are not considered a 'separate free item' and must fit in a cabin bag or incur a £55 fine.
In a further video, Luke addressed Prime Minister Andy Burnham directly: 'This has got to change. Bit of a Hail Mary, Andy Burnham – I don't know if you're going to see this video. But if you somehow do, what the hell? £40 is not disposable to me.'
