Baggage Weight and Size Limits
Limited
Domestic economy tickets include 15kg checked and 7kg cabin allowance unless airline offers more.
Quick answer
Airlines use weight and size limits to keep ground operations predictable and fuel costs in check. Overweight or oversized bags slow belts, injure staff, and incur fines from regulators.
Low-cost carriers (IndiGo, SpiceJet, Akasa) sell add-on baggage slabs online that are far cheaper than airport counter rates. Buy extra weight 6â12 hours before departure if you know youâll exceed limits.
Cabin enforcement is stricter post-2023. Expect sizers near gates and random weight checks. Soft-sided bags pass more easily because they compress to fit overhead bins.
Before leaving home
- âWeigh bags with a handheld scale (target 1kg below allowance).
- âMeasure linear dimensions; oversize items need prior approval.
- âBuy extra baggage online if youâre carrying gifts or heavy gear.
At the airport
- âDistribute heavy items between passengers to avoid one overweight bag.
- âKeep valuables and medicines in cabinâeven if checked bags are overweight.
- âUse the baggage drop scale to validate weight before sealing the tag.
Sample airline allowances (economy domestic)
| Airline | Checked | Cabin |
|---|---|---|
| IndiGo/SpiceJet/Akasa | 15kg | 7kg + personal item |
| Vistara/Air India | 15â25kg depending on fare | 7â8kg |
| Student fare | 25kg (varies) | 7kg |
Do this
- â Use compression cubes to stay within size limits without cramming.
- â Carry a foldable duffel; move items into it if the main bag exceeds allowance.
- â Photograph bag weight on the home scale to contest disputes politely.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât stack dense items (books, metals) at the topâredistribute weight evenly.
- â ď¸ Donât assume international allowances apply to domestic legs on separate tickets.
- â ď¸ Avoid overstuffing cabin bagsâif they bulge, staff may insist you check them.
FAQ
Q. Are wheels and handles included in size measurements?
Yes. Airlines measure the longest points including wheels, handles, and pockets.
Q. Can two passengers pool allowances?
Some airlines allow pooling for checked baggage when you arrive together at the counter. Cabin allowances remain individual.
Q. Do infants get baggage allowance?
Lap infants typically get only a 7kg diaper bag allowance. If they have a seat, adult limits apply.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Use luggage with built-in scales to avoid surprises.
- âď¸ Tie a bright ribbon to heavy bags so they are easy to spot at arrival even if rerouted for weight balancing.
- âď¸ Screenshot the fare rules from your booking email and keep them offline.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines â simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.