The 'One Cabin Bag' Rule Is Now Universal
The most significant recent change is the strict enforcement of the 'one cabin bag' policy by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). While the rule has existed on paper, its application is now nearly universal across all Indian airports for both
domestic and international flights. Previously, travellers might have carried a small trolley bag, a laptop bag, and a handbag without issue. Today, you are generally permitted one main cabin bag and one personal item (like a small laptop bag or handbag). However, during busy boarding periods, gate agents may require you to consolidate your personal item into your main cabin bag. This change means it's more important than ever to pack efficiently into a single, compliant piece of luggage.
Cabin Bag Weight and Size Limits
While the number of bags has been tightened, the weight limits remain familiar, but enforcement is stricter. For most domestic airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, the economy class cabin bag limit is 7 kg. Air India is slightly more generous on some routes, allowing 7 kg for domestic economy and up to 8 kg for international economy. Business and First Class passengers typically have a higher allowance of 10-12 kg. Dimensions are also critical. The standard is around 55cm x 35cm x 25cm, but Air India sometimes uses a slightly slimmer 55cm x 40cm x 20cm dimension. It is wise to assume your bag will be checked for both weight and size at the gate.
Check-In Baggage: It Depends on Your Ticket
For check-in luggage, a one-size-fits-all approach no longer applies, especially with full-service carriers. Most budget airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet offer a standard 15 kg allowance for basic domestic economy fares. However, Air India has moved to a fare-based model. An entry-level 'Value' fare may only include 15 kg, while a 'Classic' fare offers 20 kg, and a 'Flex' fare provides 25 kg. This unbundling means you must check the baggage allowance tied to your specific ticket, as assuming a standard weight can lead to significant excess baggage fees at the airport, which are typically around ₹600 per kg.
Power Banks and Electronics: A Key Reminder
The rules around electronics, particularly items with lithium batteries, are consistently enforced for safety reasons. Power banks are absolutely prohibited in check-in luggage and must be carried in your cabin bag. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) specifies a limit, typically allowing power banks up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) without special permission. Most standard power banks fall well within this limit. It is also important to note that using these devices to charge other electronics during the flight is often prohibited. Laptops, while allowed in cabin baggage, may need to be placed in a separate tray during security screening.
International Travel and Customs Updates
For those travelling internationally, there have been some updates to customs rules as of 2026. The duty-free allowance for Indian residents returning after staying abroad was increased, allowing personal goods worth up to ₹75,000, a notable rise from the previous ₹50,000 limit. Additionally, the rules now permit passengers over 18 to bring in one new laptop duty-free, separate from their standard allowance. For check-in baggage on international routes, the allowance is typically more generous, often 23 kg for economy on full-service carriers and even a 'piece concept' (two bags of 23 kg each) for routes to the USA.
