TGV direction of travel: anticipate the direction of your seat before departure
If you hate traveling facing backwards, I probably have a solution for you… or at least a reliable way to plan ahead. Once you know your seat number, you can check in advance whether you'll be facing the train or with your back to it.
The key is called Sensdelamarche.fr A free web service that runs entirely in your browser. No account, no ad tracking, just a quick calculation that uses the official seat alternation rules on Duplex trains. TGV INOUI et Ouigo.
Direction of travel on the TGV: how does Sensdelamarche.fr work?
The principle is based on four pieces of information already present on your ticket: departure and arrival stations, carriage number, seat number, and floor (lower tier up to seat 39, upper tier from seat 40 onwards). By combining this data, the algorithm automatically determines whether the seat will be do what ou of the on the walk.
Everything happens client-side: the JavaScript script runs locally and sends no data to an external server. The project creator even publishes the source code as open access, demonstrating a transparent and independent approach.
OUIGO vs INOUI: what are the differences when choosing your seat?
Speaking on Ouigo selecting a specific seat is a paid optionAt the time of booking, you can pay €3 for a standard seat or €7 for a single seat; the system will then display the assigned number before payment. With this number, simply open Sensdelamarche.fr to immediately verify the TGV direction of travel and decide if the option is really worth the cost.
As for TGV INOUI Seat selection is included in the ticket price. You will therefore see your seat location as soon as your order is confirmed on SNCF Connect. You can then check your orientation via Sensdelamarche.fr and, if necessary, modify your reservation within the limits of the ticket exchange conditions.
Step by step: check the direction of your parking space
The TGC website is fairly intuitive, but here's how to find out if your seat is facing the direction of travel on your TGV INOUI or OUIGO train:
First step: go to Sensdelamarche.fr on your smartphone or computer. No installation is required and it's 100% free.
Second step: enter your departure and arrival stations and then fill in the car number indicated on the ticket.
Third step: enter the seat numberThe result is displayed in less than a second in the form of a pictogram. “Facing the march” ou “Back to the march”It's up to you to decide whether you keep the spot or negotiate a friendly exchange with a neighbor.
Reliability, limitations and special cases
The tool claims an accuracy of over 98% for standard Duplex trains. The few errors arise from occasional train reversals, special train arrangements or a last-minute train replacementThe developer therefore recommends a quick visual check on the platform to dispel any doubt.
Another limitation: Sensdelamarche.fr only covers TGV Duplex trains operated by TGV INOUI and OUIGO. TGV POS, Intercités, and TER trains do not have the same seat orientation; therefore, the algorithm will not apply.
Practical tips for a comfortable journey
- Book early The earlier you buy your ticket, the wider the choice of seats, especially on INOUI where seat allocation is free.
- Check before you pay : on OUIGO test the orientation in a second tab before confirming the paid option to choose your seat.
- Choose the upper room If you like the panoramic view, the lower level is preferable if you are looking for stability and faster boarding.
- Travel light : a spontaneous seat exchange is all the easier when you are not encumbered by large suitcases.
Finally, remember to save Sensdelamarche.fr to your favorites: the address stays in mind and the service works even with a fluctuating 4G connection.
Your next journey will no longer be a surprise: thanks to this little online tool you will know in advance if your seat is in the direction of travel All you'll have to do is admire the scenery without ever having to turn around.
