The amount of luggage allowed on a train in India depends on the travel class you have booked. Indian Railways sets specific limits for both free allowance and the maximum quantity of luggage permitted per passenger.
Indian Railways Luggage Allowance Rules
Understanding the luggage rules is crucial for a smooth journey, helping you avoid extra charges or the inconvenience of having your excess baggage offloaded. The allowance varies significantly across different classes.
Here is a breakdown of the luggage limits by travel class:
| Class | Free Allowance | Maximum Quantity Permitted (including free allowance) |
|---|---|---|
| AC 2-Tier Sleeper / First Class | 50 Kgs | 100 Kgs |
| AC 3-Tier Sleeper / AC Chair Car | 40 Kgs | 40 Kgs |
| Sleeper Class | 40 Kgs | 80 Kgs |
| Second Class | 35 Kgs | 70 Kgs |
Important Considerations:
- Free Allowance: This is the weight you can carry without incurring any extra charges.
- Maximum Quantity Permitted: This is the absolute maximum weight allowed per passenger. If your luggage exceeds the free allowance but is within this maximum limit, you will be charged for the excess weight.
- No Extra Luggage for AC 3-Tier Sleeper / AC Chair Car: For these classes, the free allowance and the maximum quantity permitted are the same (40 Kgs). This means that passengers in these classes cannot carry any luggage beyond the free allowance, even by paying extra charges.
- Excess Luggage: Luggage exceeding the maximum quantity permitted for a class is generally not allowed and may have to be booked separately as parcel or goods, or it could be refused carriage.
- Dimensions: While not specified in weight limits, luggage must also be of a size that can be easily stored in the designated luggage spaces within the coach, such as under berths or in overhead racks, without obstructing fellow passengers or the aisle.
It's always advisable to weigh your luggage before your journey to ensure it falls within the permissible limits for your travel class.
