Qantas Luggage Size Guide (2026): Carry-On & Checked Baggage Rules
If you're flying with Qantas, understanding the airline’s luggage size and weight limits can help you avoid excess baggage fees and choose the right suitcase for your trip.
Qantas is more generous than most airlines, with included checked baggage on most fares and flexible carry-on allowances depending on your cabin class.
Qantas Baggage Allowance at a Glance
| Rule | Qantas Limit |
|---|---|
| Carry-on size | 56 × 36 × 23 cm |
| Carry-on weight | 7-14 kg |
| Economy checked baggage | 23 kg |
| Business checked baggage | 32 kg |
| Max bag size | 158 cm total dimensions |
Qantas Carry-On Luggage Size
Across most Qantas flights, your carry-on suitcase must not exceed:
56 × 36 × 23 cm (including wheels and handles)
You can also bring one personal item, such as:
- Handbag
- Laptop bag
- Small backpack
- Camera bag
Qantas Carry-On Allowance by Cabin Class
Economy (International)
- 1 carry-on bag
- Maximum weight: 7 kg
- 1 personal item
Premium Economy, Business & First
- Option 1: 1 bag up to 10 kg
- Option 2: 2 bags up to 14 kg total
- Garment bag allowed
Domestic Flights (Australia)
- 2 items total
- Combined weight: 14 kg
- Max 10 kg per item
Domestic Qantas flights are among the most generous in Australia for carry-on.
What Fits in Qantas Carry-On?
Economy (7 kg)
You can typically pack:
- 2–3 outfits
- Toiletry bag
- Laptop or tablet
- Lightweight shoes
Premium Cabins (Up to 14 kg)
You can comfortably bring:
- 4–6 outfits
- Shoes and a jacket
- Work gear or electronics
A lightweight carry-on suitcase gives you more usable weight for packing.
Qantas Checked Baggage Rules
For checked luggage, Qantas uses:
- Weight-based allowances for most routes
- Piece system for Americas routes
Each checked bag must:
- Be under 32 kg
- Stay within 158 cm total dimensions
Qantas Domestic Checked Baggage
Economy (Domestic)
- 1 bag
- Up to 23 kg
Business (Domestic)
- 2 bags
- Up to 32 kg each
Qantas International Checked Baggage
Economy
- 1 bag
- Up to 23 kg
Premium Economy
- 2 bags
- 23 kg each
Business
- 2 bags
- 32 kg each
First Class
- 3 bags
- 32 kg each
Baggage Rules for USA & South America Flights
Flights to/from the Americas use a piece system:
| Cabin | Bags | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | 2 | 23 kg each |
| Premium Economy | 2 | 32 kg each |
| Business | 2 | 32 kg each |
| First | 3 | 32 kg each |
Best Suitcase Sizes for Qantas Flights
Choosing the right suitcase helps you maximise your included baggage.
Carry-On Only (1–3 Days)
- Cabin suitcase (under 56 cm)
- Ideal for short trips or business travel
3–7 Day Trips
- Medium suitcase (60–70 cm)
- Perfect for 23 kg checked allowance
1–2 Week Trips
- Large suitcase (70–80 cm)
- Ideal for international travel
Long Trips (2+ Weeks)
- Large or extra-large suitcase
- Often paired with a second checked bag
Choosing the Right Qantas Suitcase Size
Below is a simple guide to common suitcase sizes in Australia and how they align with Qantas baggage rules.
| Suitcase Type | Typical Size | Qantas Guidelines | Best For | Shop Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underseat Personal Item | Small compact bag | Best used as a personal item under the seat, within your carry-on allowance | Essentials, tech, travel documents | Under Seat Luggage |
| Carry-On Cabin Suitcase | Up to 56 × 36 × 23 cm | Matches Qantas cabin baggage size limits for most flights | Weekend breaks, overnight trips | Carry-On Luggage · Lightweight Carry-On Luggage |
| Medium Checked Suitcase | Around 65–70 cm tall | A practical choice for travellers using the standard 23 kg checked baggage allowance | 3–7 day travel | Medium Suitcases · Medium Lightweight Suitcases |
| Large Checked Suitcase | Around 75–80 cm | Great for making the most of Qantas’ included checked baggage on longer trips | 1–2 week holidays | Large Suitcases · Large Lightweight Suitcases |
Qantas’ included baggage makes larger suitcases more practical than on budget airlines.
Qantas vs Jetstar Baggage Rules
Many travellers compare Qantas with budget airlines like Jetstar.
| Feature | Qantas | Jetstar |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-on weight | 7–14 kg | 7 kg |
| Checked baggage | Included | Extra cost |
| Flexibility | High | Low |
Qantas is better suited for longer trips or travellers who prefer fewer restrictions.
Common Qantas Baggage Mistakes to Avoid
Even with generous allowances, mistakes can still be costly.
- Assuming all tickets include the same baggage
- Exceeding the 32 kg per bag limit
- Ignoring the 158 cm total size rule
- Overpacking carry-on on international economy fares
Bags over 32 kg are not accepted and must be repacked.
Should You Upgrade Your Baggage?
Upgrading your baggage allowance can be worthwhile if:
- You’re travelling long-haul
- You plan to shop overseas
- You’re sharing luggage with another traveller
Booking extra baggage online is usually cheaper than paying at the airport.
Which Qantas Fares Include Baggage?
Most Qantas fares include checked baggage, but amounts vary:
- Domestic Economy → 23 kg
- International Economy → 23 kg
- Premium Economy → 2 × 23 kg
- Business → 2 × 32 kg
Always check your ticket, as some sale fares may differ.
How to Measure Your Suitcase
To ensure your luggage meets Qantas rules:
- Measure height, width, and depth
- Include wheels and handles
- Add all dimensions for checked bags
- Weigh your suitcase after packing
FAQs About Qantas Luggage Rules
Does Qantas include wheels in luggage measurements?
Yes, all external parts including wheels, handles, and front pockets are included in the total measurement.
Is Qantas strict with carry-on weight?
Qantas is generally less strict than budget airlines, but carry-on limits still apply and oversized or overweight bags may need to be checked in.
What happens if my bag exceeds 32 kg?
Any checked bag over 32 kg will not be accepted and must be repacked before check-in.
Can I bring a backpack and a carry-on suitcase?
Yes, provided the backpack counts as your personal item and you remain within the total carry-on weight allowance for your ticket.
Are domestic and international baggage rules different?
Yes. Domestic flights often allow more flexible carry-on totals, while international economy fares are usually stricter on cabin baggage weight.
Does Qantas checked baggage come included in every fare?
Most Qantas fares include checked baggage, but the exact allowance can vary by route, fare type, and cabin class.
Can I add extra baggage after booking?
Yes, you can usually purchase additional checked baggage after booking, and it is often cheaper to do this online before arriving at the airport.
What size suitcase is best for Qantas economy travellers?
For most Qantas economy travellers, a medium suitcase works well for shorter trips, while a large suitcase is often better for international travel using the included 23 kg checked baggage allowance.
Can I check two bags in economy on Qantas?
That depends on your route and fare. Many economy fares include one checked bag, while some international routes or fare types may allow more.
What is the maximum size for checked luggage on Qantas?
Checked luggage should generally not exceed 158 cm in total dimensions when you add the height, width, and depth together.
Can I bring a garment bag on Qantas?
Yes, some premium cabin passengers may bring a garment bag as part of their carry-on allowance, provided it fits within Qantas guidelines.
Does Qantas weigh carry-on bags at the gate?
Qantas may weigh carry-on bags during check-in or at the gate, especially if your luggage appears oversized or heavy.
Related Luggage Guides
If you're comparing airlines or choosing the right suitcase size for your trip, these guides can help you plan more effectively.
For a complete overview of suitcase sizes used across Australia, including carry-on, medium, and large luggage, see our luggage and suitcase size guide . This guide explains how different suitcase sizes compare and which one is best for your travel needs.
Flying with a budget airline? You may also want to read our Jetstar luggage size guide , which covers stricter carry-on limits, checked baggage options, and tips to avoid extra fees.
Comparing baggage rules across airlines can help you choose the right luggage and avoid unexpected costs when travelling.