Decoding Baggage Allowances
The most common surprise for flyers is the baggage allowance. For domestic economy travel, most Indian airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air offer a standard checked baggage allowance of 15 kg and a cabin bag of 7 kg. Air India is often slightly
more generous, with its allowance for economy fares on some routes starting at 15 kg but going up to 20 kg or 25 kg depending on the fare type booked. The real cost comes from excess baggage. Airlines charge hefty fees for every kilogram over the limit, and these charges are significantly higher at the airport than if you pre-book extra weight online. For instance, a 'Lite' fare on some carriers might not include any checked baggage at all, forcing you to purchase it separately. Before you book, always check the airline’s specific policy for your fare type. If you know you'll be carrying more than 15 kg, it's often cheaper to book a ticket on a full-service carrier or purchase a fare that includes a higher allowance from the start.
The Layover Gamble: Choosing Smart Connections
A cheap flight with a tight connection can be a recipe for disaster. When booking a journey with a layover, it's crucial to understand who is responsible if you miss the second flight. If you book both legs on a single ticket (one PNR), the airline is responsible for getting you to your final destination, even if your first flight is delayed. However, if you book two separate tickets, this is a 'self-transfer,' and you are on your own if you miss the connection. The minimum connecting time (MCT) varies by airport. While some airports with a single integrated terminal like Hyderabad might have an MCT of just 45 minutes for domestic transfers, larger airports with multiple terminals like Delhi or Mumbai require more time. A safe bet for a domestic-to-domestic connection at a major hub is at least 90 minutes. This gives you a buffer for potential delays, deplaning, and going through security again, which is often required even for domestic transfers. Rushing through an airport is a stressful way to travel, so a slightly longer, protected layover is almost always worth it.
The New Rules of Rebooking and Cancellation
Plans change, and so do flight schedules. Understanding an airline's rebooking and cancellation policy is more important than ever. Thanks to new DGCA rules effective from March 2026, passengers have more flexibility. Airlines must now offer a 48-hour 'look-in' period after booking, allowing you to cancel or amend your ticket without paying airline fees, as long as the flight is at least seven days away for domestic travel. You would only pay the fare difference if you amend the booking. Beyond this window, the costs are dictated by your fare type. 'Flexi' fares, while more expensive upfront, often allow changes or cancellations with minimal or no fees, whereas 'Saver' fares have high penalties. For example, a cancellation on a saver fare could cost between ₹3,000 and ₹3,500, while a flexi fare might have zero cancellation fees if done well in advance. In case of an airline-initiated cancellation with less than two weeks' notice, the DGCA mandates that the airline must offer you a choice between an alternate flight or a full refund, along with potential compensation.
Your Pre-Booking Smart Checklist
Before you click the 'pay' button, run through this quick mental checklist to ensure you’re getting the best overall value, not just the lowest upfront price. First, check the baggage allowance included with your fare. If you need more, calculate whether it’s cheaper to buy a higher fare or pre-purchase extra baggage online. Second, for connecting flights, confirm it's on a single ticket and that the layover time is realistic for the airport – aim for 90 minutes at major hubs. Third, review the fare rules for cancellation and changes. If your plans are not set in stone, paying a little extra for a 'flexi' fare can save you a lot of money and stress later. Finally, remember the 48-hour free look-in period for bookings made at least a week in advance, giving you a safety net to correct any mistakes or make changes without penalty. A few minutes of diligence here can transform your entire travel experience.
