If you’re flying with Qantas, you might be asking just how strict they are with carry-on luggage.
The airline has specific rules regarding size and weight limits, and they do enforce them most of the time.
If your bag doesn’t fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, there’s a good chance you’ll have to check it in possibly with an extra fee.
To help you prepare, I’ve put together this guide covering everything you need to know about Qantas carry-on allowances, what to do if your bag is too big, and some handy tips to make your travel smoother.
Let’s dive in.
TL;DR
- Qantas is slightly strict with its carry-on size and weight, especially on busy flights.
- If your bag is too large or too heavy, you may have to check it in and pay extra fees.
- For domestic flights, most passengers can bring 1 bag up to 10 kg (22 lbs), with a total carry-on limit of 13 kg (30 lbs).
- For international flights economy passengers can bring 1 bag up to 7 kg (15 lbs), while Premium Economy, Business, and First can bring up to 10 kg (22 lbs) with a 13 kg (30 lbs) total allowance.
- You can also bring one personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack.
- Children receive the same carry-on allowance as adults. Infants don’t get a separate allowance, but you can carry baby essentials like nappies and food.
- Small musical instruments are allowed in the cabin if they meet the airline’s size and weight limits.
- If you need more baggage, it’s usually cheaper to buy extra baggage online before your flight rather than at the airport.
- Make sure that you always weigh and measure your bag before heading to the airport to avoid unexpected fees or delays.
How Strict Is Qantas with Carry-on?
Qantas is fairly generous with its baggage policies, but it’s important to stay within the limits to avoid surprises at the airport, but it will depend on the agent you encounter at the airport.
Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Always carry essential medications and prescriptions in your carry-on.
- Keep your bag as light as possible airports can involve a lot of walking, and cabin space is limited.
- Pack fragile or valuable items securely.
- Your bag must fit under the seat in front of you or in an overhead locker.
- Ensure your luggage complies with carry-on size limits (details below).
- Dangerous goods are not allowed unless explicitly permitted.
What Is Qantas Approved Carry-on Luggage?
For domestic Qantas flights (excluding Dash 8 services), passengers can bring:
- One piece up to 10 kg (22 lbs), with a total weight limit of 13 kg (30 lbs).
- Bag size options:
- One bag up to 45 inches total (22 in + 9 in + 14 in), or
- Two smaller bags up to 41 inches total (19 in + 9 in + 13 in each), or
- One 41-inch bag (19 in + 9 in + 13 in) plus a 73-inch garment bag (24 in + 4 in + 45 in).
- Dash 8 services allow only one piece up to 15 lbs (7 kg), with a size limit of 41 inches (19 in + 9 in + 13 in).
What is the Carry-On Allowance for International Flights?
For international flights, the allowances vary by class:
- First, Business & Premium Economy:
- One piece up to 10kg (22 lbs), with a total limit of 13 kg (30 lbs).
- Bag size options:
- One 45-inch bag (22 in + 9 in + 14 in), or
- Two 41-inch bags (19 in + 9 in + 13 in each), or
- One 41-inch bag plus a 73-inch garment bag (24 in + 4 in + 45 in).
- Economy Class:
- One piece up to 7kg (15 lbs).
- Size options:
- One 45-inch bag (22 in + 9 in + 14 in), or
- One 73-inch garment bag (24 in + 4 in + 45 in).
In addition to your main carry-on, you’re allowed a small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop, coat, or small camera.
What Are the Carry-On Rules for Children & Infants?
- Children have the same allowance as adults.
- Infants do not get a separate allowance, but parents can bring necessary food and nappies in addition to their carry-on.
Can You Bring Musical Instruments as Carry-On?
- You can bring a small musical instrument onboard if it weighs 15 lbs (7kg) or less and fits within 56 inches (34 in + 13 in + 9 in).
- Larger instruments (e.g., guitars) must be checked in unless you purchase an extra seat.
What is Qantas Checked Baggage Allowance?
Qantas has different rules for checked baggage, depending on your travel class and route.
Here is a quick breakdown:
International Flights (Excluding the Americas)
- Economy: 30 kg (66 lbs)
- Premium Economy: 40 kg (88 lbs)
- Business & First: 40-50 kg (88-110lbs)
- Frequent Flyers may receive extra allowances.
- No single piece can exceed 32 kg (70 lbs).
International Flights (To/From the Americas)
- Economy: 2 pieces (23 kg / 50 lbs each)
- Premium Economy & Business: 2-3 pieces (23-32 kg each)
- First Class: Up to 4 pieces (32 kg each)
- Total dimensions must not exceed 405 cm (159 in).
What About Bulky Items & Extra Baggage Allowance?
Can You Carry Bulky Items Onboard?
Bulky items can be carried onboard (except on Dash 8 services) if they:
- Fit within these size limits:
- First Class: 69.8 in total (29 in + 20 in + 20.8 in)
- Business Class: 66.5 in total (28 in + 19.5 in + 19 in)
- Premium Economy & Economy: 62 in total (28 in + 17 in + 17.5 in)
- Weigh no more than 15 lbs (7 kg).
- Have a restraining handle to secure them.
- You notify Qantas in advance and purchase an extra seat.
How Can You Purchase Extra Baggage Allowance?
If you need extra baggage, it’s best to purchase it online at Qantas.com to save on airport fees. Frequent Flyers can also use Qantas Points for discounted rates.
- Domestic Flights: US$36 per piece or 6,000 Qantas Points.
- International Flights: Prices vary by route, starting at US$55 per 5kg.
- Flights to/from the Americas: Extra pieces cost US$95, with an additional US$75 heavy charge for overweight bags.
You can purchase extra baggage when booking your flight or later via Manage Booking on Qantas’ website.
What Items Are Restricted or Prohibited?
For safety reasons, Qantas prohibits certain items in both carry-on and checked bags.
Some of the restricted items include:
- Flammable liquids & gases (e.g., butane, fuel, gas canisters)
- Explosives (e.g., fireworks, gunpowder, flares)
- Toxic substances (e.g., insect sprays, paint stripper, pepper spray)
- Lithium batteries (must comply with airline regulations)
Before packing, always check Qantas’ official list of dangerous goods to avoid any issues at security.
Final Thoughts
While Qantas offers generous baggage allowances, they do emphasize to stay within their luggage size.
If your carry-on exceeds the allowed size or weight, you may need to check it in or pay an excess baggage fee.
Double check your luggage size and weight before you leave for the airport.
You don’t want to deal with any last minute hassle.
Keeping essentials in your carry-on and considering extra baggage options in advance can help make your journey smoother.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
FAQs About Qantas Carry-on Baggage
Does Qantas weigh carry-on bags?
Qantas may weigh your carry-on at check-in or the boarding gate, especially on international flights or busy routes. If it’s over the limit, you may be asked to check it in.
Does Qantas check carry-on size?
If your bag looks too big, staff may ask you to place it in a baggage sizer. If it doesn’t fit, you’ll likely have to check it into the hold.
What happens if my Qantas carry-on is overweight?
If your bag is over the weight limit, Qantas may require you to check it in. If you’ve already used your checked baggage allowance, you could be charged an excess baggage fee.
Can I bring a backpack as my carry-on on Qantas?
A backpack is perfectly fine as your carry-on as long as it stays within Qantas’ size and weight limits.
Does a handbag or laptop bag count as a personal item on Qantas?
You can usually bring a small handbag, laptop bag, or camera bag in addition to your main carry-on, as long as it fits under the seat in front of you.
Can I take liquids in my carry-on on Qantas?
On domestic Australian flights, liquids are generally not restricted. For international flights, you’ll need to follow airport security rules for liquids, aerosols, and gels.
Can I bring a power bank on a Qantas flight?
You will need to pack any power banks in your carry-on bag, not your checked luggage.
Are Qantas and Jetstar carry-on rules the same?
Jetstar is generally stricter with carry-on weight and baggage limits. If part of your trip is on Jetstar, you’ll need to follow Jetstar’s rules for that flight.
Can I bring medical equipment in addition to my carry-on?
Essential medical equipment and mobility aids are generally permitted in addition to your main carry-on. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to check with Qantas before you fly.
You might also like:
- How strict is Jetstar with carry-on baggage?
- How Strict Are Cathay Pacific With Hand Luggage?
- How Strict Is Scoot With Carry-on?
