Jetstar passengers will soon have to pay extra to store a carry-on bag in the overhead locker, with the budget airline overhauling its cabin baggage policy from next year.
From 2 February 2027, all Jetstar fares will include one small bag that fits underneath the seat, such as a backpack, handbag or laptop bag.
Travellers wanting to bring a larger carry-on bag for the overhead locker will need to purchase the airline’s new Priority Carry-on option.
The new add-on starts at $25 one-way on selected routes, but prices vary depending on the destination.
For Newcastle travellers, Priority Carry-on costs from $32 to Melbourne and $33 to Brisbane.
Some Perth services exceed $60, while flights to Bali can cost between $48 and $84.
Jetstar said the changes would simplify travel by removing the current seven-kilogram carry-on weight limit.
Instead of routinely weighing bags at the gate, passengers will be asked to keep their carry-on to around 10 kilograms so they can safely lift it into the overhead locker themselves.
The airline said the new model followed customer and crew feedback, which found having bags weighed at the gate and struggling to find overhead locker space were among the most stressful parts of the airport experience.
Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully said the changes would make packing easier while helping flights leave on time.
“We know that weighing carry-on bags at the gate can be frustrating for our customers and for our crew,” Ms 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.”
She said giving passengers a free under-seat bag, with the option to purchase Priority Carry-on, would make better use of overhead locker space.
“Our new carry-on baggage model provides more choice to customers while helping to keep our fares low,” Ms Tully said.
“You only pay for what you need – travelling with less means paying less, and you can always add more if you need.”
There are no changes to Jetstar’s checked baggage allowance, which can still be purchased for up to 40 kilograms per passenger.
Passengers with bookings made before the announcement for travel on or after 2 February 2027 will automatically receive the new Priority Carry-on option at no additional cost.
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