The 'One-Handbag' Rule Explained
The most significant recent change is the strict enforcement of the 'one-handbag' rule by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) for all flights departing from India. Previously, passengers often carried a cabin bag plus a separate laptop bag or handbag.
Now, you are permitted only one primary piece of cabin luggage. Your handbag, purse, or laptop bag must be consolidated into this single bag before you reach the security checkpoint. This rule was tightened to reduce congestion at security and speed up the boarding process, which had become a major issue at busy Indian airports.
Cabin Baggage: Know Your Limits
For most domestic airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, the cabin baggage allowance for economy class is one piece weighing up to 7 kg. Air India is slightly more generous, often allowing 8 kg for economy class on domestic routes. For business or first class, this limit can increase to 10 kg or 12 kg depending on the airline. The standard dimensions for this bag are typically around 55cm (height) x 40cm (length) x 20cm (width). While the rules have been in place, enforcement with bag sizers and random weight checks at the gate is now much more common. Some airlines may permit a small personal item like a slim laptop sleeve or small purse, but this is at the discretion of airline staff and it must fit under the seat in front of you.
Checked Baggage: The 15 kg Standard
For domestic economy travel within India, the standard checked baggage allowance is 15 kg for most low-cost carriers, including IndiGo and SpiceJet. It's crucial to check your ticket, as some of the cheapest fares may not include any free checked baggage at all. Air India operates on a fare-based system; a budget 'Value' fare might offer 15 kg, while a 'Flex' fare could provide 25 kg of checked luggage. For most airlines, a single checked bag cannot weigh more than 32 kg for safety reasons. If you know you'll have more luggage, it is always significantly cheaper to pre-book additional baggage online rather than paying excess fees at the airport counter.
Power Banks and Electronics: Carry-On Only
This is a critical safety rule that often catches passengers by surprise. All power banks and spare lithium batteries must be carried in your cabin baggage only. They are strictly prohibited in checked luggage due to fire risk in the cargo hold. Most power banks with a capacity of up to 100 Wh (approximately 27,000 mAh) are permitted without special approval. Anything larger, between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, requires airline permission, and power banks over 160 Wh are banned from passenger aircraft entirely. Laptops, cameras, and other electronic devices should also preferably be in your cabin bag.
Prohibited vs. Restricted: What Not to Pack
Some items are completely banned from the aircraft, in both cabin and checked bags. This includes explosives like fireworks, flammable liquids such as lighter fluid and paint, and compressed gases. Other items are restricted. Sharp objects like knives and scissors with blades longer than 6 cm must be placed in your checked luggage. Liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) in your cabin bag must be in containers of 100 ml or less, all fitting into a single transparent, resealable plastic bag. Items like sporting equipment (cricket bats, hockey sticks) must also be checked in.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Baggage Experience
To avoid stress at the airport, always weigh your bags at home before you leave. A portable digital luggage scale is a worthwhile investment. When booking, pay close attention to the baggage allowance included with your fare. If you're a student, some airlines like Alliance Air and Vistara offer an extra baggage allowance upon showing a valid ID. For international travel, allowances are generally more generous but vary wildly by destination and airline, so always check the carrier’s specific policy. For instance, flights to the USA on Air India often include two checked bags of 23 kg each in economy. Finally, pack valuables, medications, and essential documents in your cabin bag, never in your checked luggage.
