Flying with Jetstar could soon become a little more expensive if you prefer travelling with a cabin bag.

From February 2, 2027, passengers wanting to store a larger carry-on bag in the overhead lockers will need to pay an additional fee under a major overhaul of the airline’s baggage policy.

Every passenger will still be able to bring one free personal item, such as a handbag, small backpack or laptop bag, provided it fits underneath the seat in front. Those wanting to travel with a standard cabin wheelie bag, however, will need to purchase Jetstar’s new Priority Carry-on option.

The paid upgrade includes access to overhead locker space, priority boarding and a carry-on allowance of up to 10kg. Prices will vary by route, starting at around $25 on some domestic flights and climbing to as much as $52 on longer international services.

Jetstar says the changes are designed to speed up boarding and make travelling less stressful, and as part of the overhaul the airline will also scrap routine carry-on baggage weigh-ins at departure gates, a process that has frustrated many travellers over the years.

According to the airline, customer research found passengers were more concerned about securing space for their cabin bags than the existing weight restrictions.

The policy mirrors the approach taken by several European budget airlines, including Ryanair and easyJet, where only a small under-seat bag is included in the base fare and larger carry-on luggage attracts an additional charge.

Passengers who have already paid for extra carry-on on existing bookings will not miss out. Jetstar says those purchases will be honoured through an equivalent arrangement when the new system begins.

Unsurprisingly, the announcement has divided opinion with some travellers have welcomed the end of baggage weigh-ins and argue those travelling light should not subsidise passengers carrying larger bags. Others see the change as another fee added to the cost of flying, particularly for families and frequent travellers.

For anyone booking a Jetstar flight from next year: if your cabin bag is destined for the overhead locker rather than under the seat, you’ll need to budget for another optional extra.