Qantas Implements Significant Changes to Baggage Fees

In April, Qantas is introducing several significant changes. These include a new tier for Classic Plus Flight Rewards, increased Qantas Club membership costs, and additional legroom charges for Row 4. However, the most notable change is the substantial increase in the cost of checked bags on domestic flights, which is likely to have the biggest impact on passengers.

Beginning on 18 April, the airport will significantly increase the price of each additional bag from $100 to $130. This charge increase applies only to domestic flights; overseas flights are unaffected.

The price hike continues beyond the airport; extra baggage purchased online in advance will incur a $15 increase, from $50 to $65 each. One 23-kilogram checked bag is included in Qantas’s standard domestic prices, whereas two 32-kilogram bags each are offered in business class. Members of Qantas’s frequent flyer programme are eligible for an enhanced baggage allowance, with Silver members receiving one 32-kilogram bag and Platinum and Platinum One members receiving up to three 32-kilogram bags.

On the other hand, Virgin Australia’s excess baggage prices change according to the length of the journey. Take, for example, the $130 excess cost on Qantas and the $120 fee on Virgin Australia for a journey from Sydney to Melbourne that takes just over 1.5 hours. Compared to Qantas, Virgin’s fees balloon over $170 for lengthier trips, such as those from Sydney or Melbourne to Perth or Melbourne to Cairns.

Rex Airlines prices are different for domestic and regional destinations. The structure can become more cost-effective as time goes on, with fees increasing every 5 kg. While a regional flight from Sydney to Griffith costs $20 for 5 kg, domestic travel from Sydney to Gold Coast costs $10 per 5 kg when booked online. Payment at the airport at the last minute is $5.50/kg, or $110 for a 20-kilogram bag.

These numbers show that Qantas is the most expensive choice for overage bags on flights less than three hours. Nevertheless, Qantas emerges as the more economical option compared to Virgin for trips longer than three hours.

Now that these fees have been implemented, travellers must prepare ahead of time and familiarise themselves with each airline’s luggage policy to prevent surprises and make the most of their journey.