The One-Hand-Bag Rule Is Now Strictly Enforced
The most significant change for travellers departing from Indian airports is the strict enforcement of the 'one-hand-bag' rule by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). While the rule itself has existed for years, airlines and security personnel
are now applying it with far more consistency to reduce congestion and speed up boarding. For most economy class passengers on domestic flights, this means you are permitted one primary cabin bag weighing up to 7 kg. Any additional bags, including laptop bags or large purses that were previously overlooked, may now be required to be consolidated into your single cabin bag or checked in.
What Counts as a 'Personal Item'?
While the 'one-bag' rule sounds absolute, there is an important exception: the personal item. In addition to your main 7 kg cabin bag, most airlines allow one small personal item. This could be a ladies' handbag, a slim laptop sleeve, a small backpack, or a camera bag. The key conditions are that this item must be small, typically weighing no more than 3 kg, and it must fit completely under the seat in front of you. An overcoat, a blanket, or a reasonable amount of reading material for the flight generally do not count toward your allowance. However, if your personal item is bulky, you may be asked to check it in.
Checked Baggage: It Varies by Airline
Unlike the standardized cabin baggage rules, checked luggage allowances remain highly variable and are set by individual airlines. For domestic economy travel, the standard allowance on most budget carriers like IndiGo and SpiceJet remains 15 kg. However, full-service carriers like Air India have introduced a fare-based system. An 'Economy Value' ticket might get you 15 kg, while an 'Economy Flex' ticket on the same route could include 25 kg. It is crucial to check the specific allowance tied to your ticket at the time of booking, as assuming a standard weight can lead to significant excess baggage fees. A single piece of checked luggage cannot exceed 32 kg on any airline for safety reasons.
The Unchanged Liquid and Power Bank Rules
Some rules have not changed but are being enforced more strictly. The universal 100 ml rule for liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) in cabin baggage remains firmly in place. All such items must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed within a single, transparent, resealable one-litre plastic bag. A half-full 200 ml bottle is not permitted. Similarly, power banks and spare lithium batteries are strictly forbidden in checked luggage and must be carried in your cabin bag. Most airlines cap power banks at 100Wh, and you should declare them at security.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Airport Experience
To navigate these rules smoothly, preparation is key. First, weigh your bags at home to avoid surprises. A portable digital luggage scale is a worthwhile investment. Second, if you know you will need more than the standard checked baggage allowance, pre-book your extra luggage online. It is almost always significantly cheaper than paying excess fees at the airport counter. Third, consolidate your belongings. Try using a cabin bag that has a dedicated laptop compartment to comply easily with the one-bag rule. Finally, always double-check the specific baggage policy on your airline's website before heading to the airport, as rules can differ between carriers and even routes.
New Customs Rules for International Arrivals
For those arriving in India from international destinations, there have been some welcome changes to customs rules. The Baggage Rules, 2026, increased the general duty-free allowance for Indian residents from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. Furthermore, a separate duty-free allowance for gold jewellery has been introduced, allowing female passengers to bring up to 40 grams and male passengers up to 20 grams without paying duty. Passengers aged 18 and over can also bring one new laptop duty-free, over and above the general allowance.
