Flight Baggage Allowances for Australian Airlines

Traveloka Team
24 Jan 2025 - 7 min read

Packing for your next adventure in Australia? Knowing your baggage allowance is key to a smooth and stress-free journey. Navigating the rules of different airlines can be tricky, especially when it comes to baggage. From checked luggage limits and carry-on restrictions to fees and special allowances, understanding the specifics is crucial.

Traveloka will guide you with a clear overview of flight baggage allowances for Australian Airlines, helping you pack smart and avoid unexpected costs at the airport. We'll learn the intricacies of baggage allowances for both checked and carry-on luggage. You can confidently plan your trip and ensure a seamless travel experience. But first, let’s get to know what are the Australian Airlines.

What are the Australian Airlines?

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1. Qantas Airways

If you're looking for a premium travel experience, Qantas is the way to go. Australia's flagship carrier offers a world-class service, from spacious cabins and delicious meals to exceptional customer care. Whether you're flying domestically or internationally, Qantas consistently delivers a high-quality travel experience. With its iconic kangaroo logo, Qantas offers premium services and a wide range of travel classes to suit every traveller.

2. Virgin Australia

Virgin Australia has carved a niche as a customer-focused airline, offering both budget-friendly and premium travel experiences. Known for its stylish branding and excellent service, the airline operates a robust domestic network and international routes to destinations in the Pacific and Asia. Virgin Australia focuses on providing value without compromising comfort.

3. Jetstar Airways

Jetstar is the budget-conscious traveller's friend. This Qantas subsidiary focuses on keeping fares low and making air travel accessible to more people. While you might not expect the same level of luxury as on full-service airlines, Jetstar gets you where you need to go efficiently and affordably. They operate a wide network of domestic and international routes, primarily within Australia and throughout Asia and the Pacific.

4. Rex Airlines (Regional Express)

Connecting regional Australia is what Rex does best. Rex Airlines is the backbone of regional air travel in Australia. Catering to smaller cities and towns, Rex offers vital connectivity for residents and businesses in remote areas. With a focus on practical travel, Rex Airlines provides straightforward services tailored to regional needs.

5. Airnorth

Airnorth specializes in connecting northern Australia with other regions. Known for its focus on regional and remote areas, Airnorth operates smaller aircraft and ensures essential transport links for communities across the Northern Territory, Queensland, and beyond.

The Baggage Allowances for Australian Airlines

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1. Qantas Airways Baggage Allowance

Qantas, known for its high-quality service, generally offers a generous baggage allowance, especially for Business and First Class travellers. Whether you're exploring the Australian outback or jetting off to a far-flung destination, Qantas ensures you have ample space for your belongings.

Carry-on:

Economy passengers can bring one cabin bag (up to 7kg) and one personal item, such as a laptop bag or handbag.
Business and first-class passengers are allowed two cabin bags, each up to 7kg.

Checked Baggage:

Economy: 1 piece, up to 23kg.
Premium Economy: 2 pieces, up to 23kg each.
Business: 2 pieces, up to 32kg each.
First: 3 pieces, up to 32kg each.

2. Virgin Australia Baggage Allowance

Virgin Australia strives to make travel comfortable and convenient, and this extends to their baggage policy. With a focus on customer experience, Virgin Australia aims to ensure your baggage travels smoothly alongside you.

Carry-on:

Economy passengers are allowed one cabin bag up to 7kg and one personal item.
Business passengers can bring two cabin bags with a combined weight of 14kg.

Checked Baggage:

Economy Lite fares include no checked baggage, but standard economy allows one piece up to 23kg.
Business class includes two pieces, up to 32kg each.

3. Jetstar Airways Baggage Allowance

As a budget airline, Jetstar's baggage allowance is more streamlined. Checked baggage is not included in the base fare and must be purchased separately. While checked baggage comes at an extra cost, Jetstar keeps carry-on allowances reasonable, allowing you to bring the essentials on board without breaking the bank.

Carry-on:

All passengers are allowed one main item (up to 7kg) and one small item. Additional carry-on weight (up to 14kg) can be purchased.

Checked Baggage:

Jetstar tickets do not include checked baggage as standard. Travelers can purchase allowances ranging from 15kg to 40kg depending on their needs.

4. Rex Airlines Baggage Allowance

Rex is a regional airline which offers a practical baggage allowance for domestic travel within Australia. With a focus on regional connectivity, Rex ensures you can comfortably travel with your luggage within Australia.

Carry-on:

Passengers are allowed one cabin bag up to 7kg.

Checked Baggage:

Economy: 1 piece, up to 23kg.
Flex fares allow up to 32kg.

5. Airnorth Baggage Allowance

Airnorth, which specialises in flights within Northern Australia, offers a practical baggage allowance for travellers exploring this unique region.

Carry-on:

Passengers can bring one piece up to 4kg and a personal item such as a laptop bag.

Checked Baggage:

Economy Saver: 1 piece, up to 13kg.
Flexible Fares: 1 piece, up to 23kg.

Extra Additional Baggage for Australian Airlines

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Travel plans can often require more luggage than initially expected, whether it’s souvenirs from a holiday or essentials for a business trip. Most Australian airlines offer options to purchase additional baggage or accommodate excess weight, but these come with varying fees depending on the airline and route.

Qantas Airways

The amount and cost of additional baggage purchased online vary depending on your destination, Qantas Frequent Flyer tier, and the cabin you're travelling in.

No single piece of baggage can exceed 32 kilograms, and any piece exceeding 23 kilograms (may incur a hefty charge at the airport. Fees for eligible routes are displayed during the online pre-purchase process.

Virgin Australia

You can pre-purchase up to two additional bags online or through their Guest Contact Center. For more than two bags, you may request them at the airport, but availability is not guaranteed. Remember that the additional baggage per piece is a maximum 23kg, and fees may vary depending on the routes.

Jetstar Airways

Jetstar allows passengers to buy additional baggage, and the maximum weight is depending on the class. Starter Plus can purchase up to an additional 20kg if you need it, Starter Max can purchase up to 10kg additional baggage, and Flex can purchase up to 40kg.

Rex Airlines

You can pre-purchase baggage when you book your fares, and purchasing Additional Baggage is cheaper than paying for excess baggage at the airport. So, it’s important to know exactly how much you bring inside the trunk. Additional Baggage of Rex Airlines can be purchased in bundles of 5kg for $20 per 5kg.

Airnorth

If you need a bit extra baggage while flying with Airnorth, you can pre-purchase your additional baggage up to 24 hours prior to your flight's departure time, so that you can save on the excess baggage prices at the airport. To purchase Excess Baggage, they insist on contacting their reservations team on 1800 627 474.

Please note that for precise and up-to-date details is recommended to visit the airlines' official websites. Knowing the accurate costs and policies for extra baggage in advance can help you plan better and avoid unexpected charges at the airport.\

Checked Baggage 101: Important Things to Note

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Flying can be a thrilling experience, but navigating the world of checked baggage can sometimes feel like a minefield. From weight restrictions and size limits to fragile items and prohibited goods, understanding the rules is crucial for a stress-free journey. Let’s learn all you need to prepare for a smooth journey:

1. Know Your Limits

Weight Restrictions: Airlines have strict weight limits for checked baggage. Exceeding these limits can result in hefty overweight baggage fees. Always check the specific weight restrictions for your airline and route before packing.

Size Restrictions: There are also size limitations for checked bags. Ensure your luggage doesn't exceed the maximum dimensions allowed by the airline. Oversized bags may be subject to extra fees or may not be accepted at all.

2. Pack Smart

Distribute Weight Evenly: Avoid packing heavy items in one bag. Distribute the weight evenly between your checked bags to prevent them from becoming unbalanced and difficult to handle.

Protect Fragile Items: Wrap fragile items carefully in bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or clothing. Consider using a sturdy suitcase with internal braces for added protection.

Lock Your Luggage: Use a TSA-approved lock to secure your belongings. This will deter theft and provide peace of mind during your travels.

3. Prohibited Items

Be Aware of Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited items. This typically includes items that are hazardous, flammable, or pose a security risk.

Check Airline Regulations: Prohibited items can vary by airline, so always check the specific regulations of the airline you are flying with.

Declare Restricted Items: Some items, such as sporting equipment or musical instruments, may require special handling or incur additional fees. Be sure to declare these items to the airline in advance.

4. Prepare for Delays

Pack Essentials in Your Carry-on: Always pack essential items such as medications, valuables, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag. This will ensure you have access to these items in case your checked baggage is delayed or lost.

Keep Track of Your Baggage: Note down the baggage tag number of your checked bags. This will be helpful if you need to file a claim for lost or damaged luggage.

5. Insurance is Key

Consider Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that includes baggage coverage. This will provide financial protection in case your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and may not be applicable to all situations. So it’s recommended to always refer to the specific terms and conditions of your airline for the most up-to-date information on baggage allowances and restrictions.

Flight to Melbourne

Thu, 8 May 2025

Jetstar

Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

Start from AU$77.68

Wed, 7 May 2025

Jetstar

Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)

Start from AU$96.56

Sat, 24 May 2025

Jetstar

Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)

Start from AU$103.85

So, are you ready to plan your next adventure? Look no further than Traveloka! As Southeast Asia's leading travel booking platform, Traveloka simplifies your travel planning by offering flight bookings from various airlines, both domestic and international. Traveloka also allows you to seamlessly book hotels, and even purchase tickets to popular tourist attractions, all in one convenient place.

In This Article

• What are the Australian Airlines?
• 1. Qantas Airways
• 2. Virgin Australia
• 3. Jetstar Airways
• 4. Rex Airlines (Regional Express)
• 5. Airnorth
• The Baggage Allowances for Australian Airlines
• 1. Qantas Airways Baggage Allowance
• 2. Virgin Australia Baggage Allowance
• 3. Jetstar Airways Baggage Allowance
• 4. Rex Airlines Baggage Allowance
• 5. Airnorth Baggage Allowance
• Extra Additional Baggage for Australian Airlines
• Qantas Airways
• Virgin Australia
• Jetstar Airways
• Rex Airlines
• Airnorth
• Checked Baggage 101: Important Things to Note
• 1. Know Your Limits
• 2. Pack Smart
• 3. Prohibited Items
• 4. Prepare for Delays
• 5. Insurance is Key

Flights Featured in This Article

Thu, 8 May 2025
Jetstar
Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)
Start from AU$77.68
Book Now
Wed, 7 May 2025
Jetstar
Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)
Start from AU$96.56
Book Now
Sat, 24 May 2025
Jetstar
Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)
Start from AU$103.85
Book Now
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