If you’ve ever found yourself anxiously watching your carry-on being weighed at the boarding gate, Jetstar’s latest announcement could make your next trip a little less stressful.
The airline has revealed it will scrap its long-standing 7kg carry-on baggage weight limit from February 2nd 2027, replacing it with a simpler, size-based model aimed at streamlining boarding and making travel easier for passengers.
Under the new system, every Jetstar Airways booking will include one underseat bag, like a backpack, handbag or laptop bag, at no extra cost. Passengers wanting additional cabin baggage can purchase Priority Carry-on, which includes a second, larger bag stored in the overhead locker, along with priority boarding.
Jetstar says the changes come after extensive feedback from both customers and cabin crew, who consistently identified gate baggage weighing and limited overhead locker space as two of the most frustrating parts of flying.
“We know that weighing carry-on bags at the gate can be frustrating for our customers and for our crew,” shared Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully. “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.”
From February, Jetstar will no longer routinely weigh cabin bags. Instead, passengers will simply need to ensure their luggage fits within the required dimensions and can be safely lifted into the overhead lockers themselves. The airline is asking customers to keep overhead bags to around 10kg for safe handling.
Under the new policy, the included underseat bag must measure no more than 40cm x 30cm x 20cm. Those purchasing Priority Carry-on can also bring an overhead cabin bag measuring up to 56cm x 36cm x 23cm.
Priority Carry-on will start from $25 one-way on selected domestic flights, with prices varying depending on the route. Adelaide travellers, for example, can add the option from $26 one-way on selected flights to Brisbane.
Families travelling with infants will also benefit, with parents able to bring an additional underseat bag for baby essentials at no extra charge.
The airline confirmed there are no changes to its checked baggage allowances, with checked luggage continuing to be available for purchase up to 40kg per passenger.
“By giving customers an underseat bag with the option to add Priority Carry-on, we can make better use of overhead locker space, streamline boarding and help more flights depart on time,” said Stephanie.
“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 changes apply to all Jetstar Airways (JQ) flights departing from February 2nd 2027, excluding group bookings of 10 or more passengers. Customers who have already booked travel after that date will automatically receive Priority Carry-on at no additional cost.
