Baggage rules confuse even frequent flyers. Domestic and international flights have different allowances, and every airline has its own policy. This guide breaks it all down.
Cabin Baggage (Carry-On) Rules
Checked Baggage — Domestic Flights
Checked Baggage — International Flights
- Air India: 30-40kg depending on route and class
- IndiGo: 20-30kg depending on fare type and route
- Emirates: 30kg economy, 40kg business
- Singapore Airlines: 30kg economy
- Note: International rules are usually by WEIGHT (India) or PIECE (USA routes)
Key Differences: Domestic vs International
- Domestic LCCs: No free checked baggage on base fares — add baggage during booking
- International: Almost all airlines include checked baggage (20-40kg)
- Liquids: Both domestic and international have the 100ml/bottle, 1-liter bag rule for carry-on
- Excess fees: International excess baggage is MUCH more expensive (Rs. 500-2,000/kg)
- Pre-book is cheaper: Adding baggage online is always cheaper than at the airport counter
Smart Packing Tips
- Weigh bags at home: Invest in a Rs. 500 luggage scale — saves surprises at check-in
- Wear heavy items: Jacket, boots count as "wearing" not "baggage"
- Laptop bag: Most airlines allow 1 carry-on + 1 laptop bag/purse
- Pre-book baggage online: 30-50% cheaper than buying at airport counter