Yes, airlines generally charge for extra weight, often starting with a per-kilogram fee for anything over your allowance, and these fees are significantly higher at the airport than if you pay online in advance. While some leeway might exist, especially for carry-ons, airlines apply strict rules for checked bags, charging substantial amounts (e.g., $15 to $80+ USD/kg) depending on the route and airline, and often have weight limits per bag (usually 23kg or 32kg) before extra charges kick in or the item must be sent as cargo.
If your bag is over 23kg (50lbs) but under 32kg (70lbs), you'll likely pay an overweight fee, as airlines charge extra for heavy items to protect baggage handlers, but it's usually allowed as long as it's under the 32kg limit; however, bags over 32kg (70lbs) often aren't permitted as checked luggage and must go via cargo, so check your airline's specific rules, as costs and policies vary.
Charges on Australian domestic flights
A$130 for each extra piece of baggage beyond your allowance. A$50 heavy charge for each piece weighing over 23kg (50lbs).
Short haul flights - £14 or €16 per kilogram. Mid haul flights - £14 or €16 per kilogram. Long haul flights - £18 or €21 or $25 per kilogram. Just so you know, charges may vary depending on whether you're travelling in the summer or winter season.
If your Check-in Bag exceeds your baggage weight allowance (10kg, 20kg or 23kg), you will be charged an additional excess weight fee per extra kilo at the airport. See our Table of Fees.
Only one bag weighing not more than 8 kgs. *Disclaimer: In addition to the one piece of Hand Baggage permitted to be carried in accordance with the above, IndiGo will permit a Customer to carry one additional personal article such as ladies' purse or a small bag containing laptop not weighing more than 3 kgs.
Yes, for budget airlines like Jetstar, a handbag (or personal item like a laptop bag) is generally included in the 7kg carry-on allowance, meaning the total weight of both your main carry-on and your small item must not exceed 7kg. Some full-service airlines, like Air New Zealand, offer a 7kg allowance for Economy but often permit an additional small personal item (like a handbag) on top of that, depending on your fare and status, but always check your specific airline's rules.
Paying for checked bags
Customers may purchase up to two pre-paid checked bags per person (see fare options to confirm). If you would like to check a third bag, it must be checked at the airport. Pay for first bag: Online or at airport kiosk during check in.
Jetstar extra baggage costs vary significantly, being cheapest when added during booking and most expensive at the airport, with fees for checked bags increasing with weight and date of purchase, and high charges for exceeding carry-on limits at the gate (e.g., AUD $125+ at the gate for domestic). Expect to pay more for overweight bags and any extra weight beyond your purchased allowance, with options to pre-pay for weight (up to 40kg) or extra carry-on (+7kg) to save money.
If the baggage allowance on your ticket is based on the number of pieces, you can purchase additional pieces online, at any of our offices, or at the airport.
The maximum weight in Premium and Economy is 23kg per bag. If yours are heavier than that, you'll need to pay an overweight baggage fee at the airport. In Upper Class the maximum weight is 32kg per bag.
Why Overweight Luggage Happens
A 'Heavy Charge' is also applicable for items over your specified weight limit. Heavy charges range from $50 to $80 for each piece over 23kgs. Qantas offers the option of purchasing an Additional Baggage Allowance prior to your flight, either online (slightly cheaper) or at the airport.
Pay for your excess baggage in advance and save up to *20%
Adding Baggage Online Around Booking Time or Shortly Afterward. Still cheaper than paying for baggage at the airport. Airlines often apply discounts for early online purchases.
For contactless travel we recommend to place it under the seat in front, on board. Additional Piece(s): Charges at the airport – Additional pieces of baggage will be chargeable at a rate of INR 1000 per piece. Please note: This amount covers only the service fee.
It's typically cheaper to book extra hold luggage in advance rather than pay excess baggage fees at the airport.
If you arrive at the boarding gate with more than your carry-on baggage allowance, you must either pay the excess carry-on baggage fee and your bag will be checked in, or purchase +7kg Extra Carry-On Baggage at the boarding gate price, to take up to 14kg onboard (conditions apply).
You can also take one small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag or backpack, as long as it fits under the seat in front of you (maximum 40 x 30 x 20 cm). If you're travelling with a child under 2, they won't have a hand luggage allowance.
For most tickets, you can carry a personal item in addition to your carry-on bag. Due to the size restrictions, personal items tend to be backpacks, laptop bags, purses, smaller duffels, bookbags, or camera bags.
In most cases, you can fit 6–8 outfits into a cabin bag 7kg, depending on the fabrics. Lightweight summer pieces take up less room, while winter clothes need careful planning.
India's Bureau of Civil Aviation Security introduces a new 'one cabin bag' rule starting May 2024, to boost airport security and streamline operations. Passengers are limited to a single 7 kg hand luggage with specific dimensions.