The 'One Cabin Bag' Rule Explained
The single biggest change for travellers is the strict enforcement of the 'one cabin bag' policy by India's Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). This rule applies to all flights—domestic and international—departing from any airport in India. Previously,
passengers might have carried a rolling suitcase, a separate laptop bag, and a handbag. That is no longer the case. The new directive means that every personal item, including purses, laptop bags, and items bought at the airport, must fit inside your single piece of cabin luggage. The primary goal of this enforcement is to reduce congestion at security checkpoints and speed up the boarding process.
Cabin Baggage: Weight and Size Limits
While the one-bag rule is new, the weight and size limits are familiar, but now they are being checked more rigorously. For most domestic airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, the Economy class cabin bag allowance is 7 kg. Air India may allow up to 8 kg on certain flights. Passengers in Business or First Class typically have a higher allowance of 10 kg to 12 kg. Dimensions are just as important. Your bag should generally not exceed 55 cm in height, 35-40 cm in length, and 20-25 cm in width. Airlines are conducting random weight and size checks at boarding gates, so it's wise to measure and weigh your bag at home.
Check-In Luggage: The 15 kg Standard
For domestic travel in Economy, the standard check-in baggage allowance on most Indian carriers remains 15 kg for a single piece. Certain flexible or premium domestic fares may offer a higher allowance of 20 kg or 25 kg. For international flights, the allowance varies significantly based on the destination and airline, often starting at 23 kg. A crucial tip for saving money is to always pre-purchase any extra baggage allowance online. Buying it at the airport counter is significantly more expensive.
Power Banks and Electronics: In the Cabin Only
This is a critical safety rule that often confuses passengers. All power banks and spare lithium-ion batteries are strictly forbidden in your check-in luggage. They must be carried inside your cabin bag. This is due to the fire risk associated with these batteries in the cargo hold. Laptops and other personal electronic devices should also preferably be in your cabin luggage to prevent damage and for security screening purposes. Remember that e-cigarettes and vapes are banned entirely in India and cannot be carried at all.
Prohibited Items: What to Leave Out of Your Handbag
To get through security smoothly, ensure your cabin bag is free of prohibited items. This includes any liquids, aerosols, or gels in containers larger than 100 ml. Sharp objects like knives, large scissors, and tools such as screwdrivers are also banned. Sporting goods like cricket bats, golf clubs, and hockey sticks must be checked in. Lighters and matchboxes are generally not allowed in the cabin. If you are unsure about an item, it is always safer to place it in your check-in baggage.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey
To navigate these rules effectively, first, invest in a compliant cabin bag and a digital luggage scale. Knowing your bag’s weight before you leave home can save you from stress and high fees. Second, consolidate your belongings into one cabin bag before you reach the security line. Third, for international arrivals, be aware that India’s customs rules were updated in February 2026. The duty-free allowance for Indian residents has been increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000, and passengers over 18 can now bring in one new laptop duty-free on top of this allowance.
