The ‘One-Bag’ Cabin Rule Is Here to Stay
The most significant shift in recent times has been the strict enforcement of the 'one-bag rule' by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). For economy class passengers on nearly all domestic airlines—including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara—this
means you are permitted one piece of cabin baggage weighing a maximum of 7 kg. Additionally, you can carry one small personal item, like a handbag or a laptop bag, which should typically weigh no more than 3 kg and must fit under the seat in front of you. Gate agents are now actively enforcing this, meaning that laptop bag you used to carry separately might need to be consolidated into your main cabin bag if you're over the limit.
Checked Baggage: The 15 kg Economy Standard
For domestic economy travellers, the standard free checked baggage allowance has largely settled at 15 kg for a single piece of luggage. This is the norm for low-cost carriers like IndiGo and SpiceJet. However, a major change has come from Air India, which has unbundled its domestic fares. Their 'Economy Value' and 'Comfort' tiers now also offer a 15 kg allowance, a reduction from their previously more generous limits. Passengers who book 'Flex' fares get a higher allowance of 25 kg. Vistara also follows a similar model, with its 'Economy Lite' fares offering 15 kg. It is crucial to check your fare type while booking, as this now directly determines your baggage allowance.
A Snapshot of Major Airline Policies
To avoid confusion, here’s a quick breakdown of the standard domestic economy allowances for major carriers: Air India: Checked baggage is now fare-dependent, starting at 15 kg for 'Value' fares and going up to 25 kg for 'Flex' fares. Cabin allowance is typically 7-8 kg. IndiGo: Strictly one checked bag at 15 kg and one cabin bag at 7 kg, plus a small personal item. The airline is also stringent about the 'one piece' rule for checked luggage; a second bag, even if your total weight is under 15 kg, will attract a fee. Vistara: Economy Lite and Standard fares offer a 15 kg checked baggage allowance, while Economy Flexi allows 20 kg. Cabin baggage is 7 kg for economy. SpiceJet: Allows 15 kg of free checked baggage and 7 kg of hand baggage. They also offer a 'Carry More On-board' service, allowing passengers to purchase an additional 5 kg for their cabin bag, bringing the total to 12 kg.
The High Cost of Excess Baggage
Getting caught with overweight luggage at the airport check-in counter can be a painful expense. Airlines typically charge high rates for every extra kilogram. For most domestic carriers, this fee can range from ₹500 to ₹600 per kg, plus applicable taxes. For example, an extra 5 kg on a flight could cost you an additional ₹3,000. The smarter, cheaper alternative is to pre-purchase extra baggage online. Airlines offer discounted rates for pre-booked excess luggage, which can be bought in slabs (e.g., 3 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg). This can save you a significant amount compared to the steep charges at the airport counter.
Tips for Smarter Packing
The best way to deal with baggage rules is to pack smart from the start. First, invest in a lightweight suitcase. A bag that weighs 3 kg when empty uses up a huge portion of your 7 kg cabin allowance before you've even packed anything. Second, use a portable digital luggage scale at home to weigh your bags before you leave for the airport. This simple tool can save you from any nasty surprises. Third, wear your heaviest items, such as jackets, boots, or heavy jeans, on the plane instead of packing them. Finally, remember that certain items like power banks are strictly prohibited in checked baggage and must be carried in your cabin bag.
