Jetstar announce major change impacting millions of Australians as they force customers to pay extra for baggage

Published: 22:28, 4 August 2026 | Updated: 22:55, 4 August 2026 Jetstar passengers will soon have to fork out extra cash to store their carry-on bags in overhead lockers. From February 2, Jetstar's standard fares will only include one small bag that fits under the seat, weighing up to 10kg.  Anyone wanting overhead locker space will have to pay a 'Priority Carry-on' fee, costing between $9 and $25 on domestic flights and up to $52 on international flights.  Those who pay for 'priority carry-on' will also be able to board early. If staff suspect a bag weighs more than 10kg, they will weigh it and additional fees will apply, as they do now. The airline is also replacing gate scales with bag-sizing frames and will only weigh bags if they appear to exceed the 10kg limit.  Jetstar CEO Steph Tully said she expected the change would make boarding and disembarking faster, as the majority of passengers would choose the base fare. '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,' she said. Jetstar passengers will have to fork out extra cash to store carry-on bags in overhead lockers A  'priority carry-on' fee of between $25 and $9 on domestic flights and up to $52 for international flights will be added to the total ticket price '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.' Carry-on rules differ between Australia's major airlines. Qantas allows up to 14kg across multiple bags on most domestic flights. Virgin Australia now permits one 8kg carry-on bag and one personal item after changing its rules earlier this year.  What you need to know about the new rules  From February 2, standard tickets will only include one small bag that fits under the seat. Passengers who want to store a carry-on suitcase in the overhead locker will have to pay extra.  What bag is included with every ticket?  One underseat bag, such as a backpack, handbag or laptop bag, weighing up to 10kg.  Anyone wanting to bring a standard carry-on suitcase that goes in the overhead locker. Priority Carry-on starts from $23, with prices varying depending on the route and demand. What do you get with Priority Carry-on?  Access to the overhead locker and early boarding after business class passengers.  What happens if I take an extra bag on without paying?  If it doesn't fit the size limits or appears to weigh more than 10kg, it may be checked. If it's oversized at the gate, you'll have to pay a fee to check it into the aircraft's hold.