When traveling with Qantas Airways, understanding the airline's baggage policy can help you avoid unexpected fees, delays, or confusion at the airport. Whether you're packing for a short domestic trip or an extended international journey, the Qantas Airways baggage policy outlines everything you need to know about carry-on allowances, checked baggage limits, excess baggage fees, special item handling, and more.
In this detailed guide, we break down the Qantas baggage rules to help you travel smarter and more confidently.
Qantas Airways provides generous carry-on allowances, depending on your class of service and destination.
Economy Class: 1 x 7kg bag + 1 small personal item (e.g., handbag, laptop)
Business Class: 2 x 7kg bags or 1 x 10kg bag + 1 personal item
Economy Class: 1 x 7kg bag + 1 small item
Premium Economy/Business/First Class: 2 pieces with a combined weight of up to 14kg (no single bag over 10kg)
Carry-on baggage must not exceed 56cm x 36cm x 23cm, and items like duty-free purchases, jackets, and umbrellas are generally excluded from the weight count. Laptops must be removed at security checkpoints.
The Qantas Airways baggage policy allows travelers to check bags for free on most routes, depending on fare class and frequent flyer status.
Economy (Saver/Value): 1 piece up to 23kg
Flex/Business Class: 2 pieces up to 32kg each
Economy: 2 pieces, 23kg each
Premium Economy: 2 pieces, 23kg each
Business/First Class: 2 or 3 pieces, 32kg each
Weight-based system:
Economy: 30kg
Premium Economy: 40kg
Business: 40kg
First: 50kg
Each checked bag must not exceed 32kg in weight and 158cm in total linear dimensions. Items over these limits must be shipped as cargo.
If your luggage exceeds Qantas' free baggage allowance, excess baggage fees will apply. The cost depends on whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, and whether you're exceeding by weight or number of bags.
Pre- paid excess: AUD 36 per 5kg block
Airport purchase: Higher rates, starting around AUD 100 per piece
You can save money by purchasing additional baggage online in advance rather than paying at the airport.
Qantas Frequent Flyers and one world alliance status members enjoy additional baggage privileges.
Silver members: +1 additional checked piece or +10kg (depending on the route)
Gold members: +1 additional piece or +15kg
Platinum/Platinum One: +1 additional piece or +20kg
one world Emerald/Sapphire: Similar benefits to Qantas elite tiers
These added allowances apply automatically when booking under your frequent flyer profile.
Traveling with young children? Qantas allows the following for infants (under 2 years):
Carry-on: 1 small bag up to 7kg
Checked baggage: 1 piece up to 10kg (on certain fares)
Extras: 3 infant items (stroller, bassinet, car seat) for free
Children (2–11 years) have the same baggage allowance as adults based on the class of service and fare type.
Qantas understands that passengers may need to travel with more than just suitcases. Their policy covers special items such as:
Sporting Equipment: Surfboards, golf bags, skis, and bicycles are generally included in the free baggage allowance if within size and weight limits. Bicycles must be packed in a bike box.
Musical Instruments: Small instruments may be carried in the cabin if they fit the overhead compartment. Larger ones must be checked or may require a separate seat.
Medical Equipment: Approved medical devices are permitted, and some may not count toward baggage limits with prior notification.
Mobility Aids: Wheelchairs and walkers are transported free of charge.
Always contact Qantas in advance for oversized or non-standard baggage to ensure proper handling and approval.
If your baggage is delayed or lost, Qantas provides support through its Baggage Services team. Passengers must report any missing or damaged luggage within:
Domestic Flights: Within 3 days of arrival
International Flights: Within 7 days (for damaged items) or 21 days (for delayed)
Compensation may be offered based on the Montreal or Warsaw Conventions, depending on your destination.
Passengers should keep receipts for any emergency purchases while baggage is delayed, as Qantas may reimburse reasonable expenses.
Here are some helpful suggestions to stay within Qantas' baggage rules:
Weigh luggage at home to avoid surprises
Use soft-shell bags for better compression
Pack heavy items in your carry-on (if within weight limits)
Distribute weight evenly between checked bags
Use vacuum-seal bags for clothing to save space
Also, be mindful of the Qantas list of prohibited items including lithium batteries, flammable liquids, sharp objects, and some aerosols.
While most of Qantas' baggage policy remains unchanged post-pandemic, travelers should still check for:
Temporary route restrictions
Airport check-in time adjustments
Limited baggage handling in some international locations
Using online check-in and baggage drop kiosks is encouraged to reduce contact.
The is designed to be fair and traveler-friendly, but it’s essential to understand the fine print to avoid unexpected costs or delays. From generous checked baggage on international flights to flexible allowances for infants and elite members, Qantas offers a comprehensive system that caters to all types of travelers.
By familiarizing yourself with size, weight, and item limitations, and planning ahead for special or excess baggage, you can enjoy a stress-free journey from check-in to arrival. Whether you're a casual holidaymaker, business traveler, or family on the go, Qantas ensures that your luggage is as well taken care of as you are.