Jetstar Charges Up to A$52 for Overhead Bags From February 2027

Jetstar will start charging passengers A$25 to A$52 for overhead baggage storage from February 2, 2027, marking a major shift in how the budget carrier monetises services once included in ticket prices. All bookings will include one small under-seat bag, but anything larger requires a paid Priority Carry-on option. The airline scrapped its 7kg weight limit in favour of size restrictions, claiming the change speeds up boarding and reduces gate delays.

What the new fees cover

From February 2, 2027, every Jetstar booking includes one personal item fitting under the seat, such as a backpack, handbag or laptop bag with maximum dimensions of 40cm by 30cm by 20cm. Passengers wanting a second or larger cabin bag measuring up to 56cm by 36cm by 23cm must purchase a Priority Carry-on option. Fees vary by route, starting at A$25 one-way, with charges reaching A$33 between Sydney and Melbourne, A$39 between Perth and Bali, and A$52 between Cairns and Tokyo.

Why Jetstar says it made the change

Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said the new model removes the stress of having bags weighed at gates and competing for overhead locker space. The airline claims extensive research showed customers and crew identified gate weighing as stressful. The 7kg weight limit is scrapped in favour of size limits, with individual bags now permitted up to 10kg. Jetstar says the changes help flights depart on time and make better use of overhead locker space.

Consumer advocates call it a revenue grab

Choice campaigns director Andy Kelly says the new policy is “just an easy cash grab”. He noted that Jetstar already charges over A$20 for seat selection, around A$50 for cancellation rights, and A$50 to join its loyalty program. Consumer expert Graeme Hughes from Griffith University warns the fees obscure the true checkout price, making it harder for travellers to compare fares with other airlines. The practice follows global low-cost carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet and Wizz Air, which charge for overhead baggage as standard.

Industry trend amid rising costs

Airlines worldwide are monetising previously free services to offset rising fuel prices. Qantas, Jetstar’s parent company, earlier this year began charging more for extra legroom through Economy Plus seats offering priority boarding and overhead locker access. Virgin Australia launched a similar Economy X offering in 2017. Travel commentator Adele Eliseo said the move makes commercial sense for price-sensitive budget travellers willing to pay separately for optional extras if headline fares stay low.

Final Thoughts

Jetstar’s overhead baggage fees reflect a broader industry shift toward unbundled pricing. Passengers now face a choice between lower headline fares and higher total costs if they need overhead space. The change takes effect February 2, 2027.

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