Jetstar's overhead locker fee: unwelcome hit or win for light packers?

Jetstar will charge for larger carry-on bags in an "unwelcome" move for travellers already feeling the pinch.

Storing carry-on baggage in overhead lockers on Jetstar flights will cost as much as $52 one-way, as the budget airline announces new charges for passengers.

But while some travellers are sure to look unfavourably at the change, it might not be bad news for everyone.

From February 2, Jetstar will lift its seven kilo carry-on weight limit in favour of a size-based carry-on baggage model.

Passengers will be able to bring one small, under-the-seat bag up to 10kg, but anything larger than a backpack, handbag or laptop bag will incur a charge.

Passengers who want larger carry-on stored in overhead lockers will be charged between $25 and $52 one-way, depending on the flight route, for "limited" priority carry-on.

Priority boarding will be provided for passengers who pay for the carry-on option.

Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully says the changes will streamline boarding and help more flights depart on time.

"Our new carry-on baggage model provides more choice to customers while helping to keep our fares low," Ms Tully said.

"You only pay for what you need - travelling with less means paying less, and you can always add more if you need."

The changes follow "extensive research and feedback from customers and crew" which found frustrations with weighing bags and finding weight in overhead lockers, Jetstar said.

Cabin baggage scales used to weigh passengers carry-on bags before boarding will no longer be "routinely" used, the airline said.

If you're travelling with an infant you can bring an extra under-the-seat bag at no extra cost.

Compare the Market spokesperson Chris Ford says the move will be "unwelcome" for those struggling with the rising cost of travel.

"The cost of everything from accommodation to activities and dining out has increased, so even an extra $25 to $50 can hurt," Ford told Explore.

"For parents travelling with children, the decision could add hundreds of dollars to the cost of a family holiday."

Jetstar isn't the first to introduce charges for overhead baggage, with Ryanair and Easyjet overseas already charging customers to store larger carry-on bags in overhead compartments.

This can offer more choices - and an extra three kilograms - for customers who pack light and can fit their 10 kilograms into a backpack that fits under the seat in front of them. But they won't have the option of putting their bag into the overhead compartment unless they pay.

Passengers will also have to pay if they have two bags, for example a handbag and a backpack.

"Some premium or full-service carriers build these costs into the ticket price without giving passengers the option to opt out," Ford said.

"Jetstar's model does offer travellers some flexibility if they're happy to pack light, but for many consumers, the perception will be that they're being asked to pay more for something that was previously included."

Ford says passengers may become creative to avoid paying a premium, like "bundling a family's belongings into one checked bag, packing even lighter than usual, or layering clothing to maximise what they can bring on board".

Mark Trim, managing director of RoundAbout Travel, doesn't think other Australian airlines will make changes to their policies following this announcement.

"The biggest risk is that our lack of competition in this market means that Jetstar is just going to fill their pockets with additional revenue," he told Explore.

"Branded fares and fare unbundling are making their way all the way up to Business Class cabins on many airlines - without regard for whether consumers actually want this," he said.

"Travellers are sold the benefits of choice and low costs, but airlines continue to adopt aggressive retailing practices with a simple end goal of revenue maximisation above all else. Simply put, it is the 'shrinkflation' of travel."

He thinks Jetstar's new overhead baggage storage fees might be seen as "another point of friction in the travel buying process and it will no doubt steer some away from considering Jetstar in the future".

Adam Ewart, CEO of Send My Bag, said airlines have been charging more while travellers are getting less - and this has been going on for decades.

He said while inflation is blamed, he believes there is a deliberate global strategy by airlines to turn luggage into profit.

"For years, airlines have marketed cheaper headline fares while quietly stripping away what used to be included. First checked baggage, then seat selection, then meals, then priority boarding," Ewart said.

"Now even access to the overhead locker is becoming another opportunity to charge passengers more."

- with Australian Associated Press