Planning a domestic trip with Air India? There's nothing worse than reaching the airport only to find out your luggage doesn't meet requirements. We get it. Packing can be stressful, especially when you're unsure about the rules. Here's everything you need to know about Air India baggage allowance to travel without last-minute surprises.
Understanding Air India Hand Baggage Rules for 2026
Let's start with what you can bring into the cabin. Air India's hand baggage rules are pretty straightforward, but details matter here.
For both economy and premium economy passengers, you're allowed one piece of carry-on baggage plus one small personal item (like a crossbody bag or laptop sleeve). The key is staying within the weight and size limits.
Hand Baggage Allowance Breakdown
|
Class |
Weight |
Dimensions (Height × Length × Width) |
|
Economy & Premium Economy |
7 kg (15 lb) |
55 cm × 40 cm × 20 cm / 21 in × 15 in × 7 in |
|
First & Business Class |
10 kg (22 lb) |
The same dimensions apply |
The total dimension sum shouldn't exceed 115 cm (45 inches). This means your bag needs to fit snugly in the overhead bin. Think of it like fitting puzzle pieces. You need the right shape, not just the right weight.
Air India Checked Baggage Limit
Now for the checked baggage. This is where you get more flexibility, but still within limits. Air India's checked baggage limit typically allows:
- One piece in economy class (sometimes two for frequent flyers)
- Maximum weight: 20 kg per piece
- Combined dimensions: Not exceeding 272 cm (107 inches) across all pieces
- Individual piece limit: Each bag shouldn't exceed 157 cm (62 inches)
The best part? Checked baggage is included in your ticket price. You're not paying extra unless you go beyond these limits.
What Happens When You Exceed the Air India Domestic Baggage Limit?
Extra baggage charges range from approximately INR 400 to INR 750 per kilogram on domestic flights. That's why weighing your bags at home before heading to the airport is crucial.
The Critical Details About Air India Cabin Bag Dimensions
Here's where precision counts. Air India cabin bag dimensions create strict boundaries to ensure proper storage and safety.
Your cabin baggage must fit within these dimensions:
- Height: 55 cm (21.6 inches)
- Length: 40 cm (15.7 inches)
- Width: 20 cm (7.8 inches)
Pro tip: Bags marketed as carry-on compliant usually work, but always verify with your specific bag's measurements. A bag that's 2 cm too long won't make it through.
Size isn't the only thing. The design of your bag matters too. A well-organized cabin bag with compartments lets you pack smarter. Quick-access pockets mean you're not fumbling through your entire bag at security or boarding. That's thoughtful design solving real travel problems.
Liquid Limits for Air India Flights
When packing toiletries and liquids, remember the LAG (Liquids, Aerosols, Gels) rule:
- Each container must be 100 ml or smaller
- All containers fit in one 1-liter transparent bag
- Medicine and baby food exceptions apply (bring proof)
- Duty-free liquids purchased at the airport need special STEB bags
What's Not Allowed in Your Cabin Baggage in Air India Flights
Certain items are strictly prohibited onboard:
- Sharp objects (scissors, knives, razor, excluding safety razors)
- Tools of any kind
- Flammable items
- Sports equipment with sharp edges
- Realistic toy firearms
- Lithium battery-powered devices (like e-scooters)
- Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices
Check Air India's official restricted items list before packing. A few minutes of verification beats checking in and discovering problems later.
Smart Packing Tips for Air India Flights
Ready to pack? Here's how to make your baggage work harder for you.
Use Organizational Design
A trolley bag with multiple compartments means you can separate valuables, documents, and daily essentials. Quick-access pockets prevent the frustration of unpacking everything to find your phone or travel documents.
The Transit cabin bags and Aisle collection are specifically designed for the Indian traveler's needs. Their interior organizational system means you pack less but bring what matters most.
Distribute Weight Evenly
Heavier items go near the wheels of trolley bags. This creates a better balance and easier maneuvering through crowded airport terminals.
Compress Strategically
Rolling clothes instead of folding saves space. Packing cubes help keep items organized without using unnecessary space.
Remember the 30-day trial advantage. When you find a bag that clicks with how you travel, that relationship matters. The Mokobara 30-day trial lets you test your luggage on actual trips before committing. It's risk-free travel.
Your Air India Baggage Policy Checklist
Before heading to the airport:
- Weigh checked luggage at home
- Verify cabin bag dimensions against your bag
- Pack liquids in a transparent 1-liter bag with 100 ml containers
- Remove prohibited items
- Keep valuables in carry-on only
- Arrive 2-3 hours early for domestic flights
- Have your booking reference ready
Ready to Go Places?
Understanding Air India baggage policy requirements removes travel anxiety. When you know the rules, you pack with confidence. Your luggage works for you instead of against you.
The next time you book with Air India, remember that smart packing isn't about fitting more. It's about fitting right. That's what purposeful travel gear design delivers.
Ready to find your perfect travel partner? Try Mokobara's cabin-compatible bags for 30 days risk-free. If it's not your match, we take it back. No questions. Because when you are #GoingPlaces, you deserve luggage that works with how you move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I carry two pieces of hand baggage on Air India?
No. Air India strictly allows one piece of cabin baggage plus one small personal item. The one-hand-baggage rule is mandated by Indian security regulations.
Q. What if my checked baggage is 21 kg?
You'll pay excess charges. The first kg over the 20 kg limit costs approximately INR 400-750, depending on your route. Weigh at home to avoid surprises.
Q. Are laptop bags counted as personal items?
Yes. Your laptop bag counts as the personal item allowance. Your carry-on bag is separate. You can't bring both as full-sized pieces.
Q. Can I carry medicine beyond the 100 ml limit?
Yes, if necessary for your journey, and you have a prescription. Carry the original packaging and medical proof for security screening.
Q. Is a roller bag or a backpack better for cabin baggage?
It depends on your journey type. Roller bags work when you're moving between airports frequently. Backpacks offer flexibility if you're doing city exploration between flights. Choose what fits your travel pattern.
Q. What's included in baggage: shoes, belts, accessories?
Personal items you wear don't count toward baggage limits. Shoes on your feet, belt around your waist: those are separate. Items packed inside count toward your totals.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.