Check-in Baggage: The Weight Game
For domestic travel within India, the check-in baggage allowance has become fairly standard, but it's crucial to know the details. Most low-cost carriers like IndiGo and SpiceJet offer a free checked-in baggage allowance of one piece weighing up to 15
kg for standard economy fares. Full-service carriers such as Air India may offer a higher allowance, sometimes up to 25 kg depending on the fare category. International baggage allowances are more complex and vary significantly based on your destination and the airline. For flights to the US and Canada, many airlines use a 'piece concept', often allowing two bags of up to 23 kg each in Economy Class. For other international destinations like Europe or Southeast Asia, it might be a single bag of 23 kg. The golden rule is that no single piece of baggage can weigh more than 32 kg for safety reasons. Always check your ticket confirmation, as it will state the exact allowance for your specific flight.
Cabin Baggage: The One-Bag Rule
The rules for what you can carry into the cabin have been tightened. Across all Indian airlines, the standard is now one main piece of cabin baggage plus one personal item. For most economy class travelers, the main cabin bag must not exceed 7 kg in weight. The dimensions are also strict, typically around 55cm x 35cm x 25cm, though this can vary slightly between airlines like Air India, which uses a 55cm x 40cm x 20cm limit. In addition to your main bag, you are permitted one small personal item, such as a ladies' handbag, a small laptop bag, or a purse, which should typically weigh no more than 3 kg and must fit under the seat in front of you. Airport staff have become stricter in enforcing this 'one-plus-one' rule to reduce cabin congestion, so don't be surprised if you are asked to consolidate your items at the gate.
The Power Bank Puzzle
This is one of the most common points of confusion for travelers. As per regulations from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), power banks and any spare lithium-ion batteries are strictly forbidden in checked-in luggage. They must be carried in your cabin baggage only. This is a critical safety measure, as the crew can quickly address any potential fire hazard in the cabin. There are also limits on capacity. Most airlines permit power banks up to 100 Watt-hours (Wh) without needing special permission. This covers most standard power banks up to 20,000mAh. Some airlines may allow up to two spare batteries or power banks per person. It is also important to note that you are not permitted to use power banks to charge your devices during the flight.
Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs)
The rule for carrying liquids in your hand baggage is universal for flights departing from India, whether domestic or international. Each liquid must be in a container that is 100 ml or smaller. All of these small containers must fit comfortably inside a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 litre. It’s the size of the container that matters, not how much liquid is inside; a half-full 200 ml shampoo bottle will not be allowed. While enforcement on domestic flights can sometimes appear more relaxed, the rule is the same, and it's best to pack as if you're flying internationally to be safe. Exemptions are made for prescription medicines and baby food, which you should declare to security staff.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
For the safety of all passengers, certain items are completely banned from aircraft, including explosives like fireworks, flammable liquids such as lighter fluid and paint, and corrosive materials. Other items are restricted. Sharp objects like knives and scissors with long blades must be packed securely in your checked luggage and are not allowed in the cabin. Sports equipment like cricket bats and golf clubs also have to be checked in. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are another tricky item; while they must be carried in your cabin baggage, their use is prohibited on board. Items like lighters and matchboxes are generally forbidden. When in doubt, it is always best to check the airline's specific list of prohibited and restricted items on their website before you pack.
