Baggage on Indian flights: what to check before you book
Baggage is where a cheap fare most often turns into an expensive trip. A few minutes of checking avoids surprises at the airport.
Typical allowances
On standard domestic economy fares, many Indian carriers commonly include around 15 kg of checked baggage and a single cabin bag of about 7 kg. International allowances vary far more by airline, route and fare family. Always confirm on the airline's site or your booking page — allowances change and differ between fare types.
"Lite", "saver" and hand-baggage-only fares
Lower fare types may include cabin baggage only. They are excellent value if you travel light — and expensive if you then pay for a checked bag at the airport, where rates are usually higher than buying in advance.
Compare fares fairly
- Decide what you need: cabin only, one checked bag, or more.
- For each option, add the cost of any baggage you would need to buy.
- Compare those totals, not the base fares.
Cabin bag tips
- Check both weight and dimensions; size limits are enforced at the gate.
- A small personal item (like a laptop bag) may or may not be allowed in addition — read the rule.
- Power banks and lithium batteries generally must be in the cabin, not checked baggage.
Excess baggage
If you expect to exceed your allowance, pre-purchase extra kilograms online before you fly. It is usually cheaper than paying at the counter.
