Flying to Japan is an exciting experience, often celebrated for the exceptional hospitality (Omotenashi) of carriers like Japan Airlines (JAL).
However, nothing disrupts the zen of travel quite like unexpected baggage fees or being forced to check a carry-on at the gate.
Whether you are heading to Tokyo for sushi or Niseko for skiing, understanding the rules before you pack is essential.
JAL is known for being generous with allowances but strict with enforcement.
Quick Summary: JAL Baggage Allowance Table
If you are flying internationally, here is the cheat sheet for what you can bring free of charge.
| Cabin Class | Carry-On Allowance | Checked Baggage Allowance | Max Weight Per Checked Bag |
| Economy | 1 Bag + 1 Personal Item (10kg/22lbs total) | 2 Bags | 23kg (50lbs) |
| Premium Economy | 1 Bag + 1 Personal Item (10kg/22lbs total) | 2 Bags | 23kg (50lbs) |
| Business Class | 1 Bag + 1 Personal Item (10kg/22lbs total) | 3 Bags | 32kg (70lbs) |
| First Class | 1 Bag + 1 Personal Item (10kg/22lbs total) | 3 Bags | 32kg (70lbs) |
Note: JAL Mileage Bank (JMB) Fly On members and JGC members may be entitled to additional baggage allowances.
Carry-On Baggage Rules
Japan Airlines is stricter regarding carry-on weight than many U.S. or European carriers. They frequently weigh bags at the check-in counter and the gate.
Weight and Quantity
Regardless of your cabin class, you are allowed one standard carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack).
Crucial Rule: The combined weight of both items must not exceed 10kg (22lbs).
Size Dimensions
Your standard carry-on must fit in the overhead bin and meet these dimensions:
- Dimensions: 55cm × 40cm × 25cm (22in x 16in x 10in)
- Linear Total: Maximum 115cm (45in) (Height + Width + Depth)
The “100 Seats” Rule (Domestic Flights)
If you are connecting to a domestic flight within Japan, the aircraft size matters.
- Planes with 100+ seats: Standard international carry-on size applies (55cm x 40cm x 25cm).
- Planes with fewer than 100 seats: The limit shrinks to 45cm x 35cm x 20cm.
Always check your aircraft type if you are flying to smaller regional airports like Yakushima or remote islands in Okinawa.
Checked Baggage Details
JAL offers one of the most generous economy class allowances in the industry, allowing two bags where many competitors only allow one.
Weight Limits
- Economy / Premium Economy: 50lbs (23kg) per bag.
- Business / First: 70lbs (32kg) per bag.
If a single bag weighs more than 32kg (70lbs), it will generally not be accepted as checked luggage and must be shipped as cargo.
Dimensions
The total linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) for any checked bag must not exceed 203cm (80in), including wheels and handles.
This is generous enough to accommodate most large suitcases and even some sporting equipment.
Codeshare Flights
If your flight is operated by a partner airline (like American Airlines or British Airways) but booked with a JAL flight number, the baggage rules of the operating carrier usually apply.
Always check your ticket confirmation to see which airline’s rules govern your journey.
Excess Baggage Fees
Unlike some airlines that allow you to prepay for bags online at a discount, JAL typically processes excess baggage fees at the airport counter.
Additional Bags
If you exceed your free allowance (e.g., a 3rd bag in Economy), fees are charged per piece based on your route.
- Japan to/from North America, Europe, Oceania: ~20,000 JPY (approx. $130-$150 USD) per bag.
- Japan to/from Asia (China, Korea, etc.): ~10,000 JPY per bag.
Overweight Fees
If your bag is heavier than your allowance but under 32kg (70lbs):
- Fees: Typically range from 6,000 JPY to 20,000 JPY ($40–$130 USD) depending on the route.
- Tip: It is often cheaper to check an additional bag than to pay the overweight fee on a single heavy bag.
Oversized Fees
If your bag exceeds 203cm (linear dimensions):
- Fees: Approximately 20,000 JPY ($130 USD) per bag for long-haul flights.
- Hard Limit: Bags exceeding standard cargo limits may be refused entirely.
Traveling with Special Items
JAL accommodates various special items, often counting them as part of your standard allowance rather than charging immediate fees.
Strollers and Child Seats
- Allowance: You can check a stroller and a car seat free of charge for an infant or child. This does not count against your adult baggage limit.
- Onboard: Some collapsible strollers can be brought onboard if they fold within carry-on dimensions, but they must be stowed in the overhead bin.
Sports Equipment (Skis, Golf Clubs, Surfboards)
JAL does not usually charge a specific “sports fee.” Instead, your equipment counts as one piece of your checked luggage.
- Surfers: Surfboards are accepted if they are within the size limits, but you may be asked to sign a limited liability release.
- Skiers/Golfers: A ski bag or golf bag counts as one piece of luggage.
- Fees: If the item puts you over your total bag count (e.g., suitcase + suitcase + skis), you will pay the standard excess baggage fee.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments (violins, flutes) can be brought onboard if they fit within carry-on limits. For larger instruments (guitars, cellos):
- You may check them (hard case required).
- Alternatively, you can purchase an extra seat for the instrument to keep it in the cabin.
4 Pro Tips for Stress-Free JAL Travel
Use “Takkyubin” (Luggage Delivery)
In Japan, it is standard practice to forward luggage from the airport to your hotel, or between hotels.
Services like Yamato Transport are affordable (approx. $15-$20 USD per bag) and save you from hauling bags on crowded trains.
Leave Room for Souvenirs
If you are flying Economy, pack one suitcase inside another. You have a two-bag allowance, use it on the way back to bring home Japanese snacks and ceramics.
Weigh Your Carry-On
We cannot stress this enough. If your backpack + purse weighs 12kg, JAL staff will likely make you remove items or check the bag.
Check JGC Status
If you have Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status (via American Airlines or British Airways), you are entitled to extra baggage benefits on JAL. Bring your physical or digital membership card to the counter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepay for extra baggage on Japan Airlines?
Generally, no. JAL does not offer an online prepaid baggage option for most international itineraries. You typically pay excess fees at the airport check-in counter in the local currency.
Is JAL strict about carry-on size?
Yes. While they may not measure every single bag, they are very attentive to bags that look bulky or heavy. If your bag looks large, expect to have it weighed and sized.
What is the liquid limit for carry-on bags?
For international flights, liquids must be in containers of 100ml (3.4oz) or less, placed in a single, clear, resealable plastic bag (max 1 liter capacity).
Domestic flights within Japan allow slightly larger liquids (up to 0.5 liters) for beverages like tea.
Can I bring food into Japan?
You can bring snacks on the plane, but be careful with fresh produce, meats, or dairy when entering Japan. Japan has strict quarantine laws. Processed and packaged snacks are generally fine.
Final Words
To ensure a smooth journey, weigh your bags at home, plan for your return souvenirs, and consider using Japan’s excellent luggage forwarding services once you land.
Policies can change without notice. Always verify the latest details on the official JAL website before you fly.
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
