Virgin Australia's tough new baggage rules amid carry-on crackdown
Updated . First published
The big baggage crackdown happening across the world has officially reached Australia, as Virgin Australia's new rules for carry-on luggage kick in across the country.
From today, February 2, economy fliers will only be able to bring one carry-on bag aboard of up to 8kg.
Previously, Virgin Australia's carry-on rules for passengers allowed for a total weight of 7kg, which could be split across two items.
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The move is to "improve overhead space availability to reduce delays" among other things. Getty
The airline, which flies around Australia as well as overseas, claimed the move aims to "improve overhead space availability, to reduce delays, enhance safety, and create a smoother travel experience".
Virgin Australia Chief Operations Officer, Chris Snook, said the changes are "based on team member and guest feedback."
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The airline hopes it will solve the issue of not being able to stash your bag above you because the bins are too crammed.
"We want your bag, where you sit," Chris said when the changes were first announced in October.
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Virgin Australia has announced a clampdown coming next year. Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia new carry on rules explained
Aside from only being allowed one carry-on per person, passengers are allowed a 'small personal item' such as a handbag, laptop bag, or backpack that can fit under the seat in front.
'Small' is defined as maximum L45cm x W33cm x H20cm.
The weight limit is 1kg heavier than before but, as mentioned, the airline is removing the option to spread the previous 7kg allowance across two bags.
It's also stopping the option to bring one standard piece and one suit bag totalling 7kg, which will impact business travellers.
The old rules also allowed one personal item on top of that.
Under new rules, Business Class, Gold, Forever Gold, Platinum, and Platinum Plus Velocity members, and Economy X guests can bring up to two carry-on bags with a total of up to 14kg.
One piece may weigh up to 8kg.
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The airline says it checked around 13 million bags in 2024. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Top fliers are also allowed one small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack that can fit under the seat in front.
Adults travelling with infants may bring one extra small personal item, like a nappy bag.
A collapsible stroller counts as one standard carry-on item and must fit within L56cm x W36cm x H23cm. But guests with infants can still check in up to three infant items free.
Airlines have been progressively cracking down on baggage limits around the world.
Airlines around the world have been cracking down on carry on baggage. Getty
Air Canada's announcement to start charging for carry-on larger than a small handbag or backpack sparked outrage earlier this year.
US airline United has a basic economy fare that only includes a small carry-on bag such as a shoulder bag, backpack or laptop bag.
Finnair's lowest "superlight" fares, launched in 2023, include only a small under-seat bag – similar to the likes of Ryanair and Wizz.
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