Carry-On Bags & Cabin Luggage for Travel
Getting your carry-on right is one of the most important travel decisions you'll make. The right bag means no checked baggage fees, no waiting at the carousel, and no risk of your luggage going to a different city. Whether you're after carry-on suitcases, carry-on backpacks, or a softside bag with exterior pockets, our range covers every style of traveller — from the weekend business traveller to the carry-on-only long-hauler.
Australian Airline Carry-On Size Limits (2026)
| Airline |
Max Dimensions (L x W x H) |
Max Weight |
Notes |
| Qantas |
56 x 36 x 23cm |
7kg |
Plus 1 small personal item |
| Virgin Australia |
56 x 36 x 23cm |
7kg |
Plus 1 small personal item |
| Jetstar |
56 x 36 x 23cm |
7kg |
Strictly enforced at the gate |
| Rex |
48 x 34 x 20cm |
7kg |
Smaller allowance on regional routes |
| Air New Zealand |
55 x 40 x 20cm |
7kg |
Check route-specific rules |
The safest carry-on dimensions for all Australian airlines are 56 x 36 x 23cm or smaller. All bags in this collection meet these requirements. Use a luggage scale to check weight before you leave home.
Types of Carry-On Bags for Travel
Carry-On Suitcases
The most popular choice for carry-on travel. Hard-shell polycarbonate suitcases offer excellent protection and are easy to wipe clean. Soft-side carry-on luggage is more flexible — useful if overhead lockers are tight or you need to squeeze in a few extra items. Both styles come with spinner wheels for effortless movement through airports. Secure with a TSA-approved travel lock for peace of mind.
Carry-On Backpacks
Ideal for business travellers, backpackers, and anyone who wants hands-free carry-on travel. A good carry-on backpack fits within airline dimensions, has a dedicated laptop compartment, and sits comfortably on your back through long terminals. For added security, consider an anti-theft carry-on backpack.
Softside Carry-On Bags
Softside carry-on luggage offers flexibility that hard-shell cases can't match. Exterior pockets give quick access to documents, devices, and in-flight essentials. The soft-side construction compresses slightly to fit tight overhead lockers — a real advantage on smaller regional aircraft.
Hardside vs Softside – Which is Right for You?
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Hardside: Better protection for fragile items, lighter in polycarbonate or ABS shell, easier to wipe clean, fixed shape
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Softside: Flexible construction, exterior pockets for quick access, can compress slightly into tight overhead lockers, can be overpacked slightly if needed
💡 Need more space? Browse Check-In Luggage →
Maximise your carry-on space with packing cubes and secure your bag with a TSA travel lock.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size carry-on bags are allowed on Qantas?
Qantas allows one carry-on bag up to 56 x 36 x 23cm and 7kg in economy, plus one small personal item. All bags in this collection meet Qantas carry-on size requirements.
Is Jetstar strict about carry-on size?
Yes — Jetstar regularly measures and weighs bags at the gate. If your bag exceeds 56 x 36 x 23cm or 7kg, you will be charged to check it in. Always weigh your packed bag with a portable luggage scale before leaving home.
Can I take a carry-on and a personal item on Australian flights?
Yes — Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar all allow one carry-on bag plus one small personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.
Are carry-on backpacks allowed as cabin luggage?
Yes — as long as they meet your airline's size and weight limits. Browse our carry-on approved backpacks specifically designed to comply with Australian airline cabin luggage requirements.
Is hardside or softside better for carry-on travel?
Hardside is generally better for protection and weight — modern polycarbonate shells are thin and light. Softside is better if you need exterior pockets for quick access or travel on smaller aircraft with tighter overhead lockers.
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