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Flying light is about to save you some extra bucks. From February 2027, passengers flying with Qantas's low-cost carrier Jetstar will have to pay to store a larger carry-on bag in the overhead locker, with fees starting from AUD $25 (about SGD $23) per flight.
Under the new policy, only one small personal item that fits beneath the seat – think a backpack, handbag or laptop bag – will be included in the base fare. If you've got a larger carry-on destined for the overhead bin, you'll need to purchase Jetstar's new Priority Carry-on add-on, which also comes with early boarding and removes the airline's current 7kg cabin baggage limit.
According to Jetstar, the new system is aimed at speeding up boarding by reducing gate-side baggage checks and easing competition for overhead locker space.
Still, the change brings Jetstar in line with a growing number of low-cost airlines that charge separately for overhead cabin baggage. The announcement has already drawn criticism online, with some travellers branding it a "cash grab" and questioning whether another travel surcharge is really necessary.
Whichever camp you fall in, here’s the practical takeaway: if you’re flying Jetstar with only a backpack or laptop bag, then this policy costs you nothing. But if you’re the type to max out the overhead bin, then budget in an extra $23 per flight from February 2027 or start checking a bag instead and see if the math works out.
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