How Many Bags Can I Carry on a Plane? A Complete Guide for Indian Travellers

Air travel rules can be confusing, especially about baggage. One common question travelers ask before flying is:

“How many bags can I carry on a plane?”

The answer depends on your airline, ticket type, where you're flying (domestic or international), and whether it's cabin luggage or check-in luggage. Carrying extra bags or bags that are too big can mean high fees or stress at the airport.

This guide explains how many bags you can take on a plane, airline rules in India, cabin and check-in limits, and how to choose the right travel bags to avoid problems.

We have many blogs about bags. StuffMyBags also has a collection of good bags that suit your needs.

Understanding the Two Types of Baggage

Before counting bags, it’s important to understand the two main baggage categories:

1. Cabin Baggage (Hand Luggage)

This is the bag you carry with you inside the aircraft cabin.

2. Check-In Baggage

This is the bag you hand over at the airline counter before security.

Each has different rules.

How Many Bags Can You Carry in the Cabin?

Domestic Flights in India

Most Indian airlines allow:

• 1 cabin bag

• 1 personal item

What Counts as a Personal Item?

• Laptop bag

• Small backpack

• Ladies handbag

• Camera bag

⚠️ The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.

Typical Cabin Bag Weight Limit

• 7 kg (most airlines)

• Some airlines allow up to 8 kg

Cabin Bag Size (General Rule)

• Approx. 55 x 40 x 20 cm

If your bag exceeds size or weight limits, it may be forced into check-in.

How Many Bags Can You Check In?

Domestic Flights (India)

Most airlines allow:

• 1 check-in bag

• Weight limit: 15 kg

Some premium tickets allow 20–25 kg.

International Flights

Rules vary by airline and destination, but common allowances include:

• 1 or 2 check-in bags

• Each bag weighing 20–23 kg

• Some airlines allow 30 kg total

Always check your airline’s baggage policy before flying internationally.

Can You Carry More Than One Bag in the Cabin?

Yes—but only if:

• One is a cabin trolley/backpack

• The other is a small personal item

You cannot carry:

• Two large backpacks

• Cabin bag + shopping bags

• Cabin bag + extra loose luggage

Airlines check this strictly at security.

What Happens If You Carry Extra Bags?

If you exceed baggage limits:

• You may be asked to check in the extra bag

• You may be charged extra baggage fees

• In some cases, you may need to repack at the airport

Extra baggage fees are often expensive, so it’s better to pack smart.

Special Rules for Women, Kids & Families

Ladies Handbags

Most airlines allow:

• One handbag in addition to a cabin bag

• Must be small and lightweight

Travelling with Kids

Parents are often allowed:

• Diaper bag (subject to airline discretion)

• Stroller (usually checked in for free)

Always confirm with the airline in advance.

What Bags Are Best for Air Travel?

Choosing the right bag helps avoid airline issues.

Best Cabin Bags

• Small trolley bags

• Compact backpacks

• Lightweight duffle bags

Best Check-In Bags

• Medium or large trolley bags

• Durable travel duffles

On StuffMyBags, look for:

• Cabin-size trolley bags

• Lightweight backpacks

• Travel duffle bags

• Secure zipper designs

These are designed to meet airline requirements.

Tips to Pack Smart and Avoid Extra Charges

✔ Weigh your bag at home
✔ Use a luggage scale
✔ Wear heavy shoes or jackets
✔ Carry electronics in cabin bag
✔ Avoid unnecessary items
✔ Choose lightweight luggage

Smart packing can save money and stress.

Can You Carry Shopping Bags on a Plane?

This depends on:

• Airline rules

• Size of the shopping bag

Duty-free shopping bags are usually allowed, but regular shopping bags may be counted as an extra item.

To be safe, pack shopping items inside your main bag.

Baggage Rules for Budget Airlines

Low-cost airlines are stricter:

• Smaller cabin allowance

• Lower weight limits

• Higher excess baggage fees

If you fly budget airlines often, invest in:

• Lightweight cabin trolley

• Compact backpack

This makes frequent travel easier.

Common Mistakes Travellers Make

• Carrying oversized cabin bags

• Ignoring weight limits

• Bringing extra loose bags

• Not checking airline rules in advance

Avoiding these mistakes saves time at check-in and boarding.

Quick Summary: How Many Bags Can You Carry on a Plane?

---

Final Thoughts

So, how many bags can you carry on a plane?

For most travelers, you can carry one cabin bag, one small personal item, and one check-in bag—if they are within the size and weight limits.

The easiest way to avoid airport problems is to choose the right travel bags. Light cabin trolleys, backpacks, and strong check-in luggage make flying easier and less stressful.