People really are paying for Jetstar’s 10kg hand luggage
Better than being slugged $60 at the gate.
In September last year, Jetstar introduced a new 10kg carry-on baggage option. You had to pay $13 for the privilege of being allowed to take 10kg on board (rather than the regulation 7kg).
While annoying to professional luggage cheapskates like me, that was still a lot cheaper than being forced to check your baggage by Jetstar's gate staff, who do their best to weigh every bag before it goes on board.
Tigerair has long offered a similar deal, Cabin+. I was curious as to whether this would see major uptake, or whether it would simply be ignored by passengers. It turns out we're actually quite keen on the idea.
In its quarterly financial update, Jetstar's parent company Qantas singled out the new luggage choice as having helped increase Jetstar's revenues during the quarter:
The broader Jetstar Group saw an 8 per cent increase in ancillary revenue per passenger in the third quarter, supported by new luggage options and Club Jetstar membership.
An 8% rise suggests a decent number of passengers are taking up the extra option. It's certainly better doing that than paying the last-minute check-in fees, which start from $60 for domestic flights. That said, it's worth considering whether paying for checked baggage when you book is a better choice, since the cost is similar and the weight allowance is more generous.
Me, I'm still addicted to the challenge of keeping my luggage under 7kg, so unless I'm flying a long way overseas I'll always aim to be carry-on only with no extra fees. But it is useful to have another choice if I need it.
Angus Kidman's Findings column looks at new developments and research that help you save money, make wise decisions and enjoy your life more. It appears regularly on Finder.
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