Carry-On vs Check-In Luggage Size: Bag Size Chart & Guide

I’ve seen it all at Indian airports—someone arguing with the airline staff because their “cabin bag” could double as a steel almirah, or the uncle dragging a giant check-in suitcase that looks like it’s carrying his entire home furniture set. These situations are avoidable if you actually know your carry-on vs check-in luggage size limits.

Yes, different airlines tweak their rules a bit, but the basic principle is the same: if it’s small enough, it comes with you into the cabin; if it’s big, it goes into the belly of the aircraft. Understanding this saves you from paying extra fees or standing at the gate while the crew slaps a “check-in” tag on your bag with zero sympathy.

What is Carry-On Luggage?

Carry-on luggage (or cabin baggage, as most Indian airlines call it) is the bag you’re allowed to take into the aircraft with you. It sits in the overhead bin or under the seat in front, keeping your valuables and travel essentials within reach. But that “within reach” privilege comes with size and weight limits.

Carry-On Luggage Dimensions

Most Indian airlines—including IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and SpiceJet—stick to a 55 x 35 x 25 cm limit for cabin bags, wheels and handles included. That’s roughly 22 x 14 x 10 inches for those who think in imperial units.

Domestic flights in India usually allow 7 kg for your cabin bag, while some international flights might let you carry up to 10 kg. Go beyond that and the staff will happily send it to the hold, usually with a smug smile.

Carry-On Luggage Capacity

On average, a carry-on holds 35–45 liters. That’s enough for 2–4 days if you pack sensibly, or one day if you’re the type who carries six kurta options for a weekend wedding.

Best for: Short domestic trips, light international travel, and avoiding baggage claim delays.

What is Check-In Luggage?

Check-in luggage is the bigger bag you hand over at the airline counter before security. You won’t see it again until you’re standing at the baggage belt, praying it didn’t take a beating from the loaders.

Check-In Luggage Dimensions

Most airlines have a 158 cm total size limit for checked bags (that’s length + width + height). For a large suitcase, this usually translates to 28–30 inches tall, while medium ones are around 24–26 inches.

Large vs Medium Check-In

• Medium Check-In: About 60–75 liters, good for 4–7 days.
  
  

• Large Check-In: 90–120 liters, ideal for trips longer than a week or when you’re packing for multiple people.
  
  

Airline Weight Limits

Economy passengers on most Indian and international routes get 15–25 kg included in their ticket. Premium tickets and certain international flights can go up to 30–32 kg. Go over the limit and be ready to pay by the kilo—it’s not cheap.

Check-In Luggage Capacity

These bags give you space, but too much space can be a trap. Overpack and you’ll either pay extra or need a gym membership to lift it.

Best for: Long trips, destination weddings, family travel, or carrying bulky winter clothes.

 

Carry-On vs Check-In Luggage Size Chart

Here’s a quick look at the carry-on vs check-in luggage size comparison:

 

Airline Rules for Carry-On and Check-In Luggage in India

• IndiGo: Cabin bag max 7 kg, 55 x 35 x 25 cm. Check-in bag 15–30 kg depending on fare.
  
  

• Air India: Cabin bag max 8 kg, 55 x 35 x 25 cm. Check-in up to 25 kg on most domestic routes, higher for international.
  
  

• Vistara: Cabin bag max 7 kg for economy, 12 kg for business. Check-in 15–32 kg depending on class.
  
  

• SpiceJet: Cabin bag max 7 kg, check-in allowance usually 15 kg for domestic.
  
  

International rules vary, but the 7 kg carry-on limit is pretty common for flights leaving India.

 

How to Choose Between Carry-On and Check-In

I keep it simple:

Trip Duration

Two to three days? Carry-on. A week or more? Check-in.

Airline Fees

Some budget carriers make you feel like you’re buying real estate when you pay for extra baggage. Sometimes it’s cheaper to book a fare that already includes a check-in bag.

Packing Habits

If you’re happy repeating outfits, a carry-on works fine. If you change clothes twice a day or need heavy items, go for check-in.

 

Tips for Maximizing Space

Packing Cubes

I used to think they were just fancy zippered pouches. Then I used them. Now I can find my socks without digging through my T-shirts.

Rolling vs Folding

Rolling saves space and reduces wrinkles. Folding is fine if you’re the type who enjoys neat stacks. I roll until I lose patience, then start stuffing.

Outer Compartments

Use these for documents, chargers, and anything you’ll need quickly. Don’t put valuables here unless you like living dangerously.

 

FAQs on Luggage Size

What is the largest carry-on size allowed in India?

Most airlines allow up to 55 x 35 x 25 cm, 7 kg for economy.

How many liters is a standard carry-on?

Usually 35–45 liters.

Can I take two carry-on bags?

Most airlines allow one cabin bag and one personal item like a laptop bag or handbag. Two full-sized carry-ons? Not happening.

What is the standard check-in luggage size?

Up to 158 cm total (length + width + height) and 15–25 kg for economy tickets.

 

Conclusion

Carry-ons are perfect for quick domestic trips and for avoiding the baggage belt. Check-in bags handle bigger trips and bulkier loads—but they also come with weight checks and the risk of rough handling.

My advice? Match your bag to your trip and your tolerance for carrying stuff around airports.

And if you’re still figuring out what works for you, Plicksy has a full range—from mini trolley luggage bags perfect for weekend getaways to full-sized check-in suitcases built for serious travel. Whatever your travel style, there’s a Plicksy bag that can keep up.