Jetstar is halving economy-class passengers’ carry-on item allowances to a single bag while introducing paid priority access for overhead bin space, according to airline announcements. The budget carrier plans to charge fees starting at $25 one-way for guaranteed overhead compartment storage, mirroring low-cost European models like Ryanair and easyJet to speed up boarding times and reduce delays.
Jetstar Overhauls Carry-On Baggage Rules and Overhead Bin Fees
Economy passengers will see their permitted carry-on items drop from two to one starting in February, according to Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully. Handbags, laptops, coats, and umbrellas must now fit inside that single main bag. To offset the reduced item count, Jetstar is increasing the weight limit for that single cabin bag from seven kilograms to 10 kilograms, according to airline details.
Travelers wanting guaranteed space in the overhead lockers must purchase a priority carry-on add-on. According to Jetstar, fees start at $25 one-way on selected flights, such as Launceston to Sydney, and scale up to $52 for flights like Cairns to Tokyo. Passengers who pay the fee board the aircraft first. Travelers who decline the extra charge keep access to overhead bins only after priority passengers finish stowing their luggage, the airline stated.
Why Jetstar Is Charging for Overhead Locker Space
The operational shift adapts a revenue model used by European budget airlines such as easyJet, Wizz Air, and Ryanair. Ancillary fees—including baggage charges and seat selection—generated nearly a third of Ryanair’s €15.54 billion ($25.5 billion) revenue in the past financial year, according to company financial records. Parent company Qantas also relies on Jetstar’s financial performance, with the budget carrier’s domestic network delivering underlying pre-tax earnings of $462 million and a 16 per cent pre-tax margin in 2025, driven by strong leisure demand and ancillary revenue.
Jetstar stated that the luggage policy update aims to fix boarding delays that cascade into other issues. According to the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics, Jetstar ranked as the nation’s lowest airline for on-time departures in June 2026, recording an on-time score of 75 per cent. By comparison, Virgin scored 80.8 per cent and Qantas reached 87.8 per cent during the same reporting period. “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,” Tully said.
Impact on Existing Bookings and Timeline
Passengers holding existing bookings that include two carry-on items for flights departing before February 2, 2027, face no changes to their baggage allowance, according to the airline. For flights departing after February 2, 2027, customers on those fares receive the priority carry-on option.
Pro Tip for Jetstar Flyers
To avoid unexpected fees under the new policy, pack all personal items—including laptops and handbags—inside your single 10-kilogram carry-on bag, and ensure any small personal items fit comfortably under the seat ahead of you. If overhead bin space is essential for your trip, buy the priority add-on during initial booking rather than at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many carry-on bags are allowed on Jetstar economy flights under the new rules?
Economy passengers are allowed one single carry-on bag weighing up to 10 kilograms, and Jetstar will require passengers to store the free item under the seat in front of them, according to Jetstar.
How much does Jetstar charge for priority overhead bin space?
Priority carry-on fees start at $25 one-way for flights like Launceston to Sydney and range up to $52 for flights like Cairns to Tokyo, according to the airline.
When do the new Jetstar carry-on rules take effect?
The new baggage limits and priority overhead locker fees begin in February, though existing bookings for flights departing before February 2, 2027, keep their current allowances.
What happens if I don’t pay for priority carry-on access?
Passengers who do not purchase priority access can still use overhead bins, but only after travelers who paid for priority have finished stowing their luggage, according to Jetstar.
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