Jetstar announced it will begin charging passengers for carry-on bags stored in overhead lockers from February 2027, aiming to streamline boarding and manage locker space more efficiently [1, 2, 3, 4]. Each booking will still include one free small personal item under the seat, such as a backpack, handbag, or laptop bag, within size limits of 40x30x20 cm [1, 3, 4].

Passengers who want to bring a larger bag stored in the overhead locker must pay a Priority Carry-on fee, which varies depending on the route. Fees start at A$25 for domestic or short-haul flights and can reach up to A$52 on longer routes such as Cairns to Tokyo [1, 2, 3]. Jetstar will no longer enforce the previous 7kg weight limit on carry-on bags from February 2027 but encourages customers to keep bags under 10kg to allow safe lifting into lockers [1, 5].

Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said the change responds to extensive research showing that weighing bags at the gate and competition for locker space cause stress for both passengers and staff. "We know that weighing carry-on bags at the gate can be frustrating for our customers and for our crew," she said. Ms Tully added that the new policy will "streamline boarding and help more flights depart on time" by encouraging better use of overhead locker space. "You only pay for what you need – travelling with less means paying less, and you can always add more if you need," she said [1].

Customers travelling with infants will be allowed to bring an extra underseat bag without charge [1]. Overhead locker size limits are up to 56x36x23 cm [1, 3]. Checked baggage allowances remain unchanged, with passengers able to purchase checked bags weighing up to 40kg [1].

The policy change aligns Jetstar's carry-on baggage rules with other leading low-cost carriers globally [1, 3]. However, the announcement sparked strong criticism from some customers and politicians. Opposition Senator Bridget McKenzie called it a "cash grab," and Choice campaign director Andy Kelly described it as "just an easy cash grab, really" [3, 6]. Federal Transport Minister Catherine King’s spokesperson urged airlines to disclose all fees clearly when tickets are purchased to avoid "surprises" at the airport [3].

Jetstar Japan flights will not be affected by the new carry-on baggage policy [4, 7]. The charges and new rules take effect for all other Jetstar flights from February 2, 2027 [4, 7].