Airlines slash carry-on limits—here’s how to avoid costly surprises at the gate
Airlines worldwide, including united airlines, delta airlines, southwest airlines, and alaska airlines, are tightening carry-on baggage rules, leading to confusion for passengers. Even on the same route or aircraft, policies now differ significantly between carriers. The changes come as airlines adjust to weight limits and operational needs.
In Australia, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) oversees baggage rules but allows airlines to set their own limits. Each plane has a maximum take-off weight, covering the aircraft, fuel, passengers and luggage. To simplify calculations, regulators use average passenger weights for larger flights.
Jetstar currently permits up to 7kg of carry-on luggage, split across two items. Qantas offers more flexibility, allowing either one standard piece (up to 10kg) plus a small item, two smaller pieces (up to 14kg total), or a garment bag combination. From February 2, 2026, virgin australia will restrict economy passengers to one standard cabin bag (up to 8kg) and one small personal item.
Overseas, air canada has gone further, limiting basic fare passengers to just one personal article on flights across north and central america. The current australian standard remains 7kg per passenger, but individual airlines can seek approval for different rules.
The shifting policies mean travellers must now check their airline's specific rules before packing. Differences in allowances—even on identical flights—could catch passengers off guard. With weight limits playing a key role, carriers are likely to keep adjusting their baggage terms.
