Cabin Bag Count and Dimensions
Limited
Domestic airlines allow one cabin bag up to 7kg plus one personal item (handbag or laptop bag).
Quick answer
Cabin weight isnât just about overhead bins. Airlines tally total cabin load to ensure exits remain clear during evacuation. Thatâs why they weigh random bags even after security.
Personal items must fit under the seat. Think slim backpacks, laptop sleeves, or tote bags. If your âpersonalâ item looks like a second suitcase, staff will tag it for gate-checking.
Families with infants usually get an extra diaper bag; medical equipment (CPAP, wheelchairs) doesnât count toward the allowance. Know your fare class because premium and flex fares often include 10kg cabin weight.
Packing smart
- âUse soft-shell cabin bagsâthey squeeze into sizers better than hard cases.
- âKeep heavy electronics (laptops, cameras) in the personal item so main cabin bag stays under 7kg.
- âPack essentials (meds, documents) where you can access them without unpacking everything.
At boarding
- âPlace the cabin bag wheels-first in overhead bins; personal item under the seat.
- âIf staff ask to gate-check, remove electronics and valuables immediately.
- âUse available sizers if youâre unsureâthe gauge outside the gate tells you instantly.
Cabin bag allowances (indicative)
| Airline | Max weight | Personal item |
|---|---|---|
| IndiGo/SpiceJet | 7kg | Laptop bag/handbag |
| Vistara/Air India (economy) | 7â8kg | Yes |
| Premium/Economy Flex | 8â10kg | Yes |
Do this
- â Use packing cubes by category so you can pull one cube during secondary screening instead of unpacking everything.
- â Keep a digital luggage scale clipped to your bag for quick checks.
- â Wear heavier jackets or boots to shift weight off your baggage allowance.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât hang shopping bags on your suitcase handleâairlines count them as extra items.
- â ď¸ Donât wait until the gate to move items; re-pack before security if your bag feels heavy.
- â ď¸ Avoid storing power banks in the overhead bin; keep them accessible per safety rules.
FAQ
Q. Are duty-free bags counted?
Usually no, but keep them reasonable. Oversized duty-free parcels may be tagged.
Q. Can I carry a camera bag plus laptop?
Only if the airline allows two personal items (rare). Otherwise combine them into one sling or backpack.
Q. What if my cabin bag weighs 8kg but dimensions are fine?
Airlines can still ask you to check it. Buy extra cabin allowance or redistribute weight.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Use compression straps inside the bag to slim the profile for sizers.
- âď¸ Keep toiletries at the top so you can remove the liquids pouch quickly during screening.
- âď¸ Add a luggage tag with contact info even for cabin bagsâgate checks happen unexpectedly.
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.