Japan Airlines was certified as a SKYTRAX 5-Star Airline for 8 consecutive years in 2025, meaning those long-haul flights, especially on popular routes like Dallas to Haneda, are a seriously comfortable experience. But before you kick back in their premium cabin, let’s check the Japan Airlines baggage allowance rules. Don't let an oversized or overstuffed suitcase slow you down. We’ve got the lowdown on Japan Airlines baggage rules (for carry-on, personal items, and checked bags), so you can pack smarter for your next journey.

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Japan Airlines Overview

Planning a trip to Japan? You’ve chosen wisely by flying with Japan Airlines. Photo by Thoughts on Adobe Stock

Ready for a flight where every detail is simply perfect? As the flag carrier of Japan, Japan Airlines sets the benchmark for omotenashi (sincere Japanese hospitality) across its extensive network. The airline is also dedicated to comfort and quality: a four-time winner of the Best Economy Class Airline Seat and the current holder of the World's Best Premium Economy Class (SKYTRAX 2024). JAL offers four cabin options: First, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. The carrier also considers passengers’ comfort before they even board with a generous Japan Airlines baggage policy. Passengers can bring one carry-on plus a personal item (≤10 kg), and 2-3 checked bags depending on their travel class. This makes packing easier and more enjoyable, without the stress of squeezing everything into tight limits.

Japan Airlines Carry-On Allowance

Japan Airlines' luggage size and weight restrictions.

How many carry-on bags are allowed on Japan Airlines? On Japan Airlines, passengers of all classes can bring one carry-on and one personal item free of charge. The combined weight of these two items must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs). Your main bag must fit within 55 x 40 x 25 cm, and the carry-on luggage size cannot exceed 115 cm when adding up all the sides. 

*773(777)/359/789/788/767/738(73H) aircrafts

**E70/E90/DH4/AT4/AT7 aircrafts

On the other hand, acceptable personal items on Japan Airlines include handbags, shopping bags, small purses, camera cases, souvenirs purchased at the airport, etc.

Whilst the airline doesn't disclose specific size limits, always ensure your personal item is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

You may want to check this TSA list of carry-on no-gos before your next flight.

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Japan Airlines Checked Baggage

Before you pack, double-check the rules, as the Japan Airlines international baggage allowance differs from that for domestic flights, which can affect how much you can bring.

Japan Airlines Checked Baggage - On Domestic Flights

If you’re flying with Japan Airlines domestically, things are pretty straightforward. The airline will let you check up to 20 kg of luggage free of charge for most ticket classes. If you're flying First Class, however, this allowance jumps to a generous 45 kg. There's no limit on the number of bags you can bring, as long as they stay within your weight limit. Last but not least, don't go overboard with luggage size. Keep each bag within 50 x 60 x 120 cm so it doesn’t get flagged as oversized luggage.

Japan Airlines Checked Baggage - On International Flights

Do you get free checked bags with Japan Airlines on international routes? Yes, for Japan Airlines' checked baggage allowance, JAL keeps it quite generous for those flying internationally. 

If you're flying Economy or Premium Economy, you can enjoy 2 free checked bags, each up to 23 kg (50 lbs). For Business and First Class travellers, the allowance goes up to 3 checked bags, at 32 kg each. Just keep each bag under 203 cm (79.9 inches) in total size to avoid extra fees. The table below shows what to expect as your standard Japan Airlines baggage allowance international:

Pop your hand luggage into the sizer to see if it fits. Photo Credit: AKIRAWU

Japan Airlines Excess Baggage Fees

Be aware that if your luggage exceeds the weight or the piece count limit, Japan Airlines baggage fees will apply. The excess baggage charges aren't one-size-fits-all but will depend on your route and the type of excess luggage.

CABINZERO’s tips: 

• Watch the weight. As you can see, fees for bags over 32 kg jump significantly. So, it’s best to weigh your luggage before you leave home.

• JAL includes the first few checked bags for free, so the steep fees for additional baggage are understandable. Even in the Economy, excess baggage starts with the third bag, and higher classes allow even more. To avoid unexpected charges, always ensure your bags stay within the permitted piece count and weight limits.

Sports equipment and CPAP

Bringing surfboards and windsurfing equipment? Keep in mind that they’ll have a special fee and do not count towards your free baggage allowance. Budget JPY5,500 (tax included) for these sports gear on domestic flights, and between JPY10,000 - JPY20,000 for international routes. 

All other sports equipment will be treated as your standard checked baggage. And like with any other checked baggage, if your sports items exceed JAL's limits, excess baggage fees will apply. In addition, you must pack your fishing rods, golf clubs, and bicycles in protective cases for safer transport.

CPAP is medical equipment, so it won’t count towards your Japan Airline baggage allowance. If you're flying on domestic routes, you cannot use your device in-flight since power outlets are not available on these trips. On international flights, CPAP can be used thanks to the in-flight computer power supply. However, you should contact the airline to confirm your CPAP model's compatibility in advance, as the cabin electricity is limited.

How To Book and Check In With Japan Airlines?

Smooth travel starts with knowing the basics, so here's how to book your ticket and check in with Japan Airlines.

How To Book Your Flight With Japan Airlines?

Screenshot from the Japan Airlines website

How to Book Your Flight on JAL's official website:

You can follow these simple steps to book your first flight with Japan Airlines:

Step 1: Go to the JAL Website and select the correct region/language

Step 2: Select your trip type (whether it's a round-trip, one-way, multi-city trip, etc.)

Step 3: Enter flight details:

• Departure airport + arrival airport (you can use airport codes)

• Outbound and return dates

• Choose your preferred cabin class (Economy/Premium Economy/Business/First).

Step 4: Click the “Search Flights”

Step 5: Review the available results

• The results show basic info, including the flight’s schedule, price, layovers, and baggage allowance. 

• You can also use filters (time, nonstop, fare type) to refine your options. 

• After choosing your flight, select a specific fare type. Each fare will come with particular Japan Airlines baggage rules, cancellation, and mileage accrual policies. So, review carefully before proceeding to the next step.

Step 6: Log in or continue as a guest.

• If you are a JAL Mileage Bank (JMB) member, log in to check the member fares and earn your miles.

• Provide information exactly as it appears on the passport

Step 7: Choose your seat and other add-ons: You can choose your seat, purchase extra baggage or choose meals at this stage.

Step 8: Follow the prompts on the screen to complete your payment.

Step 9: Save confirmation & e-ticket: 

• Once payment is processed, you'll receive an e-ticket and booking reference.

• Be sure to keep this email handy. It's your key to managing your booking, checking in, and changing your flight details.

Other platforms to book a flight with Japan Airlines

You can also book JAL tickets through other channels, each with distinct trade-offs.

Travel agencies or online travel platforms: Convenient for comparing various airlines and prices simultaneously. However, they normally include service fees and have stricter change and cancellation policies than direct booking with Japan Airlines.

JAL Reservation Office: A great option if your itinerary is a bit complex or you have special requests that you need to inform the airline in advance. That said, the call centre might not be available 24/7.

Airport Ticket Counter: You’ll get face-to-face, reliable support and immediate ticketing. However, you might miss out on the discounts and promotions available online, which means more expensive tickets. 

How To Check In With Japan Airlines?

1. Online Check-In (Highly Recommended)

You can check in starting 24 hours to 1 hour before your flight departs when flying with Japan Airlines.

Have your passport, boarding pass and flight details ready. Photo by May Chanikran on Adobe Stock

Step 1: Visit the Japan Airlines official website or open their app on your smartphone

Step 2: Log in with your booking code, e-ticket number or JMB membership number (if available).

Step 3: Review your flight details, choose/change seats and complete the check-in process.

Step 4: You can either save a mobile boarding pass or print a paper copy at home.

Step 5: Check your bag (if any) before heading to the security checkpoint.

2. Self-Service Check-in Kiosk

You can also check in at the self-service kiosks at the airport. There are three main functions you can do on the kiosk. First, select your seat from the seat map. Second, you can check in with your JMB card or JALCARD to record your miles. And finally, collect your boarding pass, even if you have checked baggage.

3. Airport Counter

If you're flying JAL and have anything tricky going on, the airport counter will be a better option. The agent can help you out with verifying international paperwork, checking in special items (like cumbersome sports gear) or arranging special care. Just remember: special circumstance means special attention from a human.

Things To Know When Flying With Japan Airlines

JAL offers some standout perks, but also a few rules worth noting, from Premium Economy upgrade, maximising your miles, and non-negotiable payment rules.

Premium Economy Class - Extra Yen is Definitely Worth the Upgrade

If you’re tackling a long-haul overnight, a premium seat means real sleep and more room to stretch. Photo by Michi on Adobe Stock

On a long-haul flight that stretches overnight or past 12 hours, JAL’s Premium Economy is a game-changer. Your upgrade will transform the entire journey into a far more enjoyable one. You'll get bigger seats and serious legroom. In addition, there are also premium perks like priority check-in and sweet airport lounge access (hello, massage chairs in the Tokyo Sakura Lounge). You'll even snag more miles with this class. Yes, the extra yen is absolutely worth the upgrade.

Earn & Redeem on Qantas and Japan Airlines

While JAL offers its own Mileage Bank to join, Qantas Frequent Flyers can still earn Qantas Points and Status Credits on their JAL flights. Plus, if you're a Qantas Silver member, remember that you're entitled to free exit row and bulkhead seat selections on economy flights.

No Prepayment Option for Excess Luggage

Unfortunately, you can't prepay for any excess luggage when flying with Japan Airlines. All charges must be paid at the airport during check-in. You have three options for paying: cash, credit card, or JMB miles. One thing to remember: if you're paying for one single excess bag, you cannot combine your miles with cash or a credit card.

FAQs

We’ve also gathered all the key questions about Japan Airlines baggage allowance. From excess charges to tricky carry-on rules, we cover everything to keep your trip hassle-free, from packing to arrival.

1. Does 7kg carry-on include handbag?

Forget that 7 kg rumour, Japan Airlines gives you up to 10 kg of carry-on allowance. Their rules are pretty clear: the airlines allow 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (such as a handbag or laptop bag). The combined weight of these two items should not exceed 10kg. So, yes, your handbag is part of the 10 kg total allowance.

2. What happens if my JAL bag is oversized?

Your bag will be considered oversized if the total dimensions (length + width + height) exceed 203 cm (80 in) (handles and wheels included). The fee is around $200 USD or ¥20,000 JPY (Yen), depending on your route.

3. What is the baggage allowance for economy on Japan Airlines?

Economy passengers on JAL will get two checked bags up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each, and a carry-on plus a personal item together weighing 10 kg (22 lbs).

4. Does a backpack count as carry-on?

Here's the rule of thumb: If your backpack slides under the seat, it’s a personal item. Anything bigger? If your bag does not exceed 55 × 40 × 25 cm (and fits in the overhead cabin), it can fly as a carry-on. If your luggage is particularly bulky, you’d better check it into the hold. The good news is that Japan Airlines offers a generous checked baggage allowance. So, make use of your allowance, and avoid cramming the overhead bins.

5. What is the JAL baggage allowance for infants?

If you have a little one flying on your lap, they get the same baggage allowance as you. However, keep in mind that the maximum total dimensions for each bag are still  203 cm (79.9 in). You can also check a child seat or stroller for free, and no reservation is needed.

6. Does a stroller count as checked baggage?

You can check your baby stroller, carriage, or child seat without any extra fees. Just make sure it’s for your little one. As with most airlines, JAL doesn’t count this item towards your standard checked bag allowance. 

7. How strict is JAL with luggage weight?

Japan Airlines is a big stickler for the rules, just like the Japanese themselves. Checked bags on most flights are normally weighed, and carry-on bags may also be weighed, depending on the airport and gate staff. 

So, instead of expecting any wiggle room, you'd better stay within the line. It's always a good idea to weigh your bags before arriving at the airport. If you're close to the limit, keep valuables or heavy items in your carry-on and use your allowance wisely.

Check In With Confidence, Not Fees

Japan Airlines provides a traveller-friendly baggage allowance, with an accommodating checked baggage policy and a standard 10kg cabin luggage limit. To make the most of your Japan Airlines baggage allowance and avoid unexpected airport fees, your luggage choice is important. 

For a truly hassle-free boarding experience, once again, we recommend choosing a compliant bag, such as CABINZERO 28L, which is perfectly sized to fit Japan Airline baggage policy. And if this guide helped streamline your travel prep, please show your support by liking and sharing this post. See you in our next post!

KELSEY