Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has issued a clear reminder to passengers regarding the luggage policy on Indian Railways. The minister confirmed that travellers must pay additional charges for carrying baggage that exceeds the stipulated free allowance limits.
What Are The Free Luggage Allowance Dimensions?
According to the minister's statement, passengers are permitted to carry specific items as personal luggage inside the coach compartments without incurring any extra cost. The key specification is the size of the luggage. Trunks, suitcases, and boxes with external measurements not exceeding 100 cm in length, 60 cm in breadth, and 25 cm in height are allowed free of charge. This dimension (100cm x 60cm x 25cm) defines the standard free baggage allowance for travellers in most classes.
Understanding The Excess Baggage Charges
The clarification underscores a long-standing rule that is often overlooked by passengers. Any item that surpasses the mentioned size limits is considered beyond the free allowance. For such excess luggage, passengers are required to pay prescribed charges. These rules are in place to ensure safety, prevent overcrowding in compartments, and manage the load on trains efficiently.
The announcement, made on 17 December 2025, serves as an official directive from the Ministry of Railways. It aims to standardise the implementation of luggage rules across the vast network and inform the public to avoid disputes or inconvenience during their journey.
Key Takeaways for Passengers
Passengers planning rail travel should carefully note the following points:
- The free luggage allowance is defined by a maximum size of 100 cm x 60 cm x 25 cm.
- Common items like trunks, suitcases, and boxes fall under this rule.
- Luggage exceeding these dimensions will attract extra fees, which must be paid at the station.
- This policy is applicable to luggage carried in the passenger compartments.
This move by the Railways is expected to bring more clarity and uniformity in how luggage rules are enforced, ensuring a smoother travel experience for everyone. Passengers are advised to measure their baggage before heading to the station to comply with the regulations and avoid last-minute surprises.
