Jetstar announces new cabin baggage policy, paid overhead compartment use

Jetstar announced an update to its carry-on baggage policy, which the budget arm of the Qantas Group will start charging for carry-on bags using the overhead compartments. The new policy will take effect in February 2 2027.

Applicable to Jetstar Airways (JQ) flights, the standard 7kg carry-on weight limit will be removed in favor of what Jetstar describes as a simpler, size-based model adopted by other leading budget carriers around the world. All bookings will include one underseat bag without a fee (backpack, handbag, or laptop bag). Customers who require more carry-on baggage or have a bag that does not meet the underseat size requirement will have to purchase a new add-on: Priority Carry-on.

The new Priority Carry-on purchase will allow for a second, larger bag in the overhead compartment. Passengers with the add-on can be among the first to board the aircraft. While Jetstar will no longer routinely use cabin baggage scales, customers are asked to have their carry-on bag weight to be less than 10kg.

Image: Infographic of Jetstar's new cabin baggage policy. Credit: Jetstar 

Jetstar stated the size limits for the free underseat bag is up to 40x30x20cm. The size for the overhead bag with the Priority Carry-on purchase must not exceed 56x36x23cm.

Passengers traveling with an infant will be able to take an extra underseat bag for their baby items.

Addressing the new cabin bag policy Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said: "To make packing easier we’ve decided to remove the 7kg weight limit, so from February, the main thing customers will need to think about is the size of their carry-on."

Tully further stated the new policy can help make better use of the overhead compartment space, streamline boarding, and help more flights depart on time.

“Our new carry-on baggage model provides more choice to customers while helping to keep our fares low. You only pay for what you need - travelling with less means paying less, and you can always add more if you need.”

The newly announced cabin baggage policy does not affect Jetstar’s checked baggage policy. Checked baggage allowance can be purchased for up to 40kg per passenger.

Customers traveling on flights on Jetstar’s Japan-based airline Jetstar Japan (GK) are not covered in this new policy.