The 'One-Bag' Rule Is Here to Stay
The most significant change for Indian flyers isn't a new law, but the strict enforcement of an existing one. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) now mandates a 'one-bag rule' for cabin luggage on all domestic and international flights departing
from India. Previously, many travellers could carry a small suitcase plus a separate laptop bag or handbag. That is no longer the case. Now, any additional items like a purse, laptop case, or shopping bag must fit inside your single designated cabin bag. This is being consistently enforced at security checkpoints by the CISF to reduce congestion and speed up boarding.
Cabin Baggage: Know Your Limits
For economy class passengers on most domestic airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, the cabin baggage allowance remains 7 kg. Air India is slightly more generous, allowing up to 8 kg in economy. The standard dimensions for this bag are typically around 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm. While these weight and size limits aren't new, enforcement has become much stricter, with random checks at boarding gates now common. If your bag is found to be overweight, it will be moved to check-in luggage, and you will have to pay applicable fees. It is also critical to remember that power banks are strictly prohibited in check-in luggage and must be carried in your cabin bag.
What About a Personal Item?
While the 'one-bag rule' sounds absolute, there is some nuance. Most airlines permit one small personal item in addition to your main cabin bag. This can be a small handbag, a slim laptop sleeve, or a briefcase that can fit under the seat in front of you. However, a bulky backpack will not be considered a personal item and will be counted as your one piece of cabin luggage. The key is that the personal item should be genuinely small. This rule aims to prevent passengers from bringing two full-sized bags into the cabin.
Check-In Luggage: The 15 kg Standard
For domestic economy travel in India, the standard free check-in baggage allowance is 15 kg per passenger for most private airlines. Air India is the main exception, offering a more generous 25 kg allowance for domestic flyers on many routes. It's crucial to note that this allowance can vary based on the fare you purchase. For example, some airlines offer 'Lite' fares that may not include any free check-in baggage at all, requiring you to pay extra. Always verify the allowance printed on your ticket before you start packing.
The High Cost of Excess Baggage
Exceeding your free baggage allowance can be a costly mistake. If you show up at the airport with extra weight, airlines typically charge between ₹500 and ₹700 per additional kilogram, plus GST. This means an extra 5 kg could cost you upwards of ₹3,000 at the counter. To save money, it is highly recommended to pre-purchase any required excess baggage online. Airlines sell extra baggage in slabs (e.g., 5 kg, 10 kg) at a significant discount compared to airport rates. For instance, IndiGo recently hiked its charges, making pre-booking more essential than ever to avoid steep fees.
