You’ve done everything right. Picked your travel dates, secured the flight, and maybe even bookmarked a café in Kyoto. Your suitcase is half packed, your excitement is full, and then it hits you.
How much luggage can I actually bring?
It’s a question too many travelers ask after arriving at the airport, standing at the check-in counter with fingers crossed. But if you’re flying Japan Airlines from Singapore, the rules are more forgiving than you’d expect, as long as you know what to expect.
Let’s walk through it together.
Check out Flyco’s ultra-lightweight luggage sets. They’re designed for airlines like Japan Airlines where weight matters, and they give you more room to pack without wasting kilos on heavy suitcases.
Flying Economy? You’re Better Off Than You Think
Japan Airlines is not one of those budget carriers that gives you a tiny weight limit and then charges you for everything else. If you’re flying internationally on a standard Economy ticket, you’re entitled to two checked bags. Not one, but two.
Each bag can weigh up to 23 kilograms.
So if you’ve got shopping plans in Tokyo or plan to bring home boxes of mochi, you’ve got some breathing room. The total combined weight for Economy travelers is a generous 46 kilograms.
For Premium Economy, the allowance is exactly the same. Two bags, each up to 23 kilograms.
If you’ve chosen Business Class, the airline gives you three checked bags, and each of those can weigh up to 32 kilograms. That’s a massive 96 kilograms in total, which means you could pack like you’re relocating.
And if you’re flying First Class, you’re allowed three checked bags, also up to 32 kilograms each. That’s 96 kilograms in total. At that point, you might as well bring your massage chair from home.
What About Carry-On Bags?
This is where people usually get caught.
Japan Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item. Personal items could be a handbag, camera bag, or laptop case. The total weight for both of these must not go over 10 kilograms.
A lot of people assume that’s 10 kilograms each. It’s not. It’s 10 kilograms total.
Your main carry-on bag should also fit within 55 centimeters in height, 40 centimeters in width, and 25 centimeters in depth. If your luggage looks like it could double as a cabin cupboard, you might need to check it in instead.
What If You Go Over the Limit?
This is the part you never want to experience in person.
If your bag is overweight or if you’re bringing an extra piece, Japan Airlines charges for that. The fees vary depending on your destination, but here are a few rough estimates:
Bringing one more bag than your allowance could cost you around 200 US dollars. If your existing bag is overweight, you could be paying an extra 100 to 200 US dollars just for the extra kilos.
Weigh your bags at home. Even if it’s just using a bathroom scale, it’s better to find out there than in front of a line of impatient travelers.
A lighter suitcase gives you more flexibility and less drama. Flyco’s featherlight hardcase designs are worth a look if you plan on using every kilo allowed without going over.
Traveling with a Baby?
Even infants get their own baggage allowance. If your baby is under two years old and not occupying a separate seat, Japan Airlines allows one checked bag for them up to 23 kilograms.
And that’s not all. You can also check in a baby stroller, a car seat, or a portable crib at no extra charge.
I’ve seen parents pack enough baby gear to open a nursery. As long as each item is within a reasonable size and properly packed, JAL is usually quite understanding.
Tips to Travel Smarter with JAL
If you’re someone who shops a lot when traveling, consider packing a foldable bag inside your main suitcase. On your return flight, you can use it as your second checked bag. Japan Airlines allows it, and it saves you from sitting on your luggage trying to zip it shut.
Also, don’t forget to factor in the weight of the suitcase itself. Some hard-shell suitcases can weigh five kilograms even when empty. Lightweight luggage is worth the investment, especially if you’re trying to avoid unnecessary fees. And that’s what we offer at FlyCo.
Final Thoughts and a Quick Disclaimer
Flying with Japan Airlines from Singapore is usually a pleasant experience. The staff are polite, the service is smooth, and the baggage policy is straightforward. But policies can change.
If you’ve got a trip coming up, consider this your reminder to weigh your bags, pack with intention, and leave a little room for those Tokyo souvenirs. Want cabin luggage that fits JAL’s weight limits perfectly? Check out these smart carry-ons made for just that.
Your future self, the one at the check-in counter, will thank you.
Safe travels. Japan is waiting.
Disclaimer: While all the information here is accurate at the time of writing, it’s always best to double-check directly with Japan Airlines or on their official website before your trip. This guide is meant to help, not to replace official airline information.