JAL (Japan Airlines) international flights have several important baggage rules you should check before departure, including the free checked baggage allowance, carry-on limits, weight restrictions, and power bank regulations.
Compared with many airlines, especially low-cost carriers (LCCs), JAL offers a generous free checked baggage allowance. However, its rules regarding carry-on baggage size, weight limits, and prohibited items are strictly enforced.
To avoid delays and unnecessary stress at the airport, it's important to understand the baggage rules before you travel.
Key Takeaways
- Economy Class and Premium Economy passengers may check up to two bags free of charge, while Business Class and First Class passengers may check up to three bags free of charge.
- Carry-on baggage is limited to one personal item plus one carry-on bag (two items in total).
- The combined weight of all carry-on baggage must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
- Power banks must be carried in your carry-on baggage and are not permitted in checked baggage.
- Power banks rated over 100 Wh and up to 160 Wh are limited to two per passenger.
- Power banks exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.
In this guide, we'll explain JAL international baggage rules in detail, including carry-on baggage, checked baggage, size restrictions, excess baggage fees, power bank regulations, and prohibited items, so you can travel with confidence—even if it's your first international flight.
Contents
- 1 JAL International Carry-on Baggage Rules: Size, Weight & Number of Items
- 2 Common Items with Carry-on Restrictions
- 3 JAL International Flight Power Bank Rules
- 4 Rules for Carrying Liquids on JAL International Flights
- 5 JAL International Checked Baggage Rules (Size, Weight & Free Allowance)
- 6 How to Check Your Baggage & Important Travel Tips
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8 Best Hotels in Tokyo for JAL International Travelers
- 9 Stay Connected in Japan with a Reliable eSIM
- 10 JAL International Baggage Rules Summary
- 11 Related Articles
JAL International Carry-on Baggage Rules: Size, Weight & Number of Items
Carry-on Size, Quantity, and Weight Limits
JAL international flights have specific rules regarding the size, weight, and number of carry-on items you may bring into the cabin.
| Item | 🎒 Carry-on Baggage Rules |
|---|---|
| 📏 Size | Up to 55 × 40 × 25 cm (total dimensions not exceeding 115 cm) |
| 🛍️ Number of Items | Up to two items: one carry-on bag plus one personal item (such as a handbag or shoulder bag) |
| ⚖️ Weight | The combined weight must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs) |
* Wheels, handles, exterior pockets, and other protruding parts are included when measuring baggage dimensions.
* Depending on the aircraft type or available overhead bin space, even carry-on baggage that meets the size limits may need to be checked at the boarding gate.
JAL's international carry-on baggage rules are simple to follow. However, international flights have additional restrictions on items such as liquids and power banks.
Any baggage exceeding the permitted size or weight limits must be checked into the cargo hold.
Important Carry-on Restrictions
- The combined weight of all carry-on baggage must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
- Bags larger than 55 × 40 × 25 cm may need to be checked.
- Power banks must be carried in your carry-on baggage and are not permitted in checked baggage.
- You may carry up to two power banks rated over 100 Wh and up to 160 Wh.
- Liquids must be in containers of 100 mL (3.4 fl oz) or less and placed inside a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 L.
- Your carry-on baggage must be small and light enough for you to place it in the overhead compartment without assistance from airline staff.
- If overhead bin space is limited, you may be asked to check your carry-on baggage at the boarding gate.
A Personal Travel Experience: The Small Eyebrow Scissors That Were Confiscated at Kathmandu Airport
Key takeaway: Airport security rules vary by country, and exceptions don't exist.
"A tiny pair of eyebrow scissors should be fine at any airport, right?"
That's exactly what I thought—until my assumption was proven wrong at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The same small eyebrow scissors had passed security checks at airports across Japan and many other countries without any problems.
"You have scissors in your bag. Please take them out."
I replied,
"They're only tiny eyebrow scissors. I've carried them through security at many airports before without any issues."
"No. In Kathmandu, all bladed items are prohibited, regardless of size."
The scissors were immediately confiscated and discarded.
▼ What I Learned
- "It was allowed at another airport" is never a valid argument.
- Airport security rules can vary significantly from one country to another.
- If you're unsure, only carry items that you can afford to lose.
Always check the latest baggage and security regulations before you travel, especially when flying internationally.
The cheapest fare isn't always the lowest total price
Compare Total Airfare Prices for JAL, ANA, Peach & Jetstar
Low-cost carriers often become much more expensive once baggage fees are added. Compare the total price before booking to avoid unexpected costs.
Common Items with Carry-on Restrictions
Items You Can Bring, but with Restrictions
| Item | ⚠️ Carry-on Rules & Restrictions |
|---|---|
| 🔥 Lighters & Matches | One per passenger. A lighter or a book of safety matches must be carried on your person and cannot be packed in checked baggage. |
| 🔋 Power Banks | Must be carried in your carry-on baggage. Power banks are not permitted in checked baggage. Batteries rated over 100 Wh and up to 160 Wh are limited to two per passenger. Power banks exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited. |
| 🧴 Liquids (Drinks, Cosmetics, etc.) | On international flights, each container must hold 100 mL (3.4 fl oz) or less. All containers must fit inside one transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 L. Each passenger may carry one such bag. |
| 💻 Laptops & Tablets | These devices may be carried on or checked. However, carrying them in your carry-on baggage is recommended. If placed in checked baggage, they should be powered off and protected from accidental damage. |
| 🚨 Fireworks, Party Poppers & Gas Canisters | Prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. These items are classified as dangerous goods and are prohibited under international aviation safety regulations. |
JAL International Flight Power Bank Rules
Most Important Rule
JAL does not allow power banks in checked baggage.
Because lithium-ion batteries pose a potential fire risk, all power banks must be carried in your carry-on baggage.
Power banks are prohibited in checked baggage. If one is found inside your checked suitcase, you may be asked to remove it before your baggage can be accepted.
Power Bank Carry-on Rules
- Power banks rated 100 Wh or less may be carried for personal use.
- Power banks rated over 100 Wh and up to 160 Wh are limited to two per passenger.
- Power banks exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited.
- Power banks must always be carried in your carry-on baggage.
- Keep power banks with you at your seat and do not store them in the overhead compartment.
- During the flight, do not charge a power bank or use it to charge other electronic devices.
- Protect the battery terminals to help prevent short circuits.
Why Are the Rules So Strict?
In recent years, several onboard incidents involving lithium-ion batteries have been reported worldwide. As a result, airlines have strengthened their rules for transporting power banks and other lithium battery devices.
To reduce the risk of fire, power banks and removable batteries from smart luggage must not be packed in checked baggage.
Always carry them in your carry-on baggage.
Before traveling, check your power bank's capacity to make sure it complies with JAL's carry-on battery regulations.
Security inspections may be especially strict during peak travel periods, such as summer holidays and other busy international travel seasons.
Bringing a power bank that complies with airline regulations will help ensure a smoother airport experience.
Rules for Carrying Liquids on JAL International Flights
- JAL international flights have restrictions on liquids carried in your carry-on baggage.
- Liquids such as beverages, cosmetics, perfume, gels, and creams must be in containers of 100 mL (3.4 fl oz) or less each.
- If you are carrying multiple liquid items, they must fit inside one transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter (1 quart).
- Each passenger may carry one transparent plastic bag.
- Duty-free liquids purchased after passing through airport security or onboard may be carried if they comply with the regulations of your departure and transit airports.
- Alcoholic beverages containing more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume may be carried, up to a total of 5 liters per passenger.
💡 Travel Tip from Our Editor
Liquid restrictions on international flights are much stricter than those on domestic flights.
These rules apply not only to flights departing from Japan but also at overseas airports and during international connections, so it's important to prepare in advance.
One common surprise is that toothpaste is considered a liquid. Standard-size tubes often exceed the 100 mL limit and may be confiscated during security screening. (I've experienced this myself.)
If you plan to carry liquids onboard, make sure every container complies with the 100 mL limit before you travel.
I recommend buying travel-size toothpaste, which is inexpensive and widely available at discount stores, pharmacies, and travel shops.
Medications and Baby Formula
Permitted in Carry-on Baggage
- Medications required during the flight may be carried onboard.
- If you are traveling with an infant, baby formula and baby food are exempt from the 100 mL liquid restriction when needed during the journey.
- Medically necessary items, such as diabetes medication and CPAP equipment, are also permitted.
- Prescription medications, syringes, and similar medical items may be inspected during security screening.
- To make the process smoother, it is recommended to carry a doctor's note or prescription, preferably in English, if applicable.
Please note that JAL does not provide onboard refrigeration for medications or baby formula.
If your medication requires temperature control during a long flight, it is recommended to bring an insulated cooler bag with ice packs.
JAL International Checked Baggage Rules (Size, Weight & Free Allowance)
Checked Baggage Size, Weight & Free Allowance
On JAL international flights, your free checked baggage allowance depends on your travel class.
Economy Class and Premium Economy Class passengers may check up to two bags free of charge, while Business Class and First Class passengers may check up to three bags free of charge.
| Item | 🧳 Checked Baggage Allowance |
|---|---|
| 📏 Maximum Size | Total dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 203 cm (80 inches) per bag. |
| 📦 Free Checked Bags | Economy Class / Premium Economy Class: Up to 2 bags Business Class / First Class: Up to 3 bags |
| ⚖️ Maximum Weight | Economy Class / Premium Economy Class: Up to 23 kg (50 lb) per bag Business Class / First Class: Up to 32 kg (70 lb) per bag |
| 💰 Excess Baggage | Additional charges apply if your baggage exceeds the free allowance for the number of bags, size, or weight. |
Important Notes About Excess Baggage
- Exceeding your free baggage allowance will result in excess baggage charges.
- Separate charges may apply for additional bags, overweight baggage, and oversized baggage.
- Bags weighing more than 45 kg (99 lb) cannot be accepted as checked baggage.
- Fees vary depending on your route and destination.
- Checking your baggage size and weight before leaving for the airport can help you avoid unexpected charges.
Oversized Items, Sports Equipment & Musical Instruments
- Golf bags, surfboards, skis, diving equipment, bicycles, and similar sporting equipment may be checked.
- Baggage exceeding 203 cm (80 inches) in total dimensions should be confirmed with JAL in advance.
- Large musical instruments weighing more than 32 kg (70 lb), such as cellos and double basses, require advance arrangements.
- Some aircraft may not be able to accommodate oversized baggage.
- Acceptance is subject to aircraft type, available cargo space, and operational conditions.
Even in Economy Class, JAL allows passengers to check up to two bags free of charge. This generous baggage allowance makes JAL an excellent choice for long vacations, study abroad, business trips, and travelers carrying extra luggage.
Baggage Services & Special Items
| Service / Item | ✨ Details |
|---|---|
| ⚖️ Excess Baggage | Charges apply when your baggage exceeds the free allowance for the number of bags, weight, or size. |
| 🏄 Sports Equipment | Golf bags, surfboards, skis, bicycles, diving equipment, and similar sporting equipment may be checked. Advance confirmation may be required depending on size and weight. |
| 🎻 Musical Instruments | Musical instruments may be checked if they can be safely loaded into the cargo hold. Larger instruments may require advance arrangements or special handling. |
| 👶 Strollers & Child Seats | Checked free of charge when used by the passenger. |
| 🐶 Pets | Pets may be accepted if they comply with the destination country's import and quarantine regulations. Advance reservation is required. |
How Excess Baggage Fees Are Calculated
Excess baggage charges apply whenever your baggage exceeds JAL's free baggage allowance.
Fees vary depending on:
- The number of additional bags
- The amount of excess weight
- The amount of excess size
- Your route and destination
JAL calculates excess baggage charges by route. On long-haul international flights, the fees can be substantial, so checking your baggage before leaving for the airport can help you avoid unexpected costs.
Budget airlines aren't always the cheapest after baggage fees
Compare Total Airfare Including Baggage Fees
Low-cost carriers often advertise cheap fares, but baggage fees can quickly increase the total cost.
Compare the final price before booking to find the best overall value.
How to Check Your Baggage & Important Travel Tips
Where to Check Your Baggage
On JAL international flights, you can check your baggage at either a staffed check-in counter or a Self-service Baggage Drop facility at participating airports.
- Self-service Baggage Drop
- JAL check-in counter
Oversized baggage exceeding 203 cm (80 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height), as well as special baggage such as musical instruments and surfboards, may not be accepted at Self-service Baggage Drop facilities.
Baggage weighing more than 32 kg (70 lb) and other special items also require advance arrangements. Please check these items at a staffed JAL counter.
What to Do if Your Baggage Is Damaged or Lost
If your baggage is damaged:
- Report the damage to a JAL staff member before leaving the airport.
- If you discover the damage after leaving the airport, contact the arrival airport within 7 days from the day after receiving your baggage.
- You can also report damage through JAL's online baggage damage inquiry form for JAL-operated international flights.
- You may be asked to provide proof of purchase or documents showing the item's value for compensation purposes.
If your baggage is missing:
- Report it immediately to the Baggage Service Counter upon arrival.
- Having your baggage claim tag ready will help speed up the process.
- JAL may provide baggage tracing services to help locate your luggage.
- If your baggage is found, it will normally be delivered after customs clearance.
Damage That May Not Be Covered
Although JAL takes every reasonable precaution when handling baggage, compensation may not apply in the following situations:
- Minor scratches, scuffs, or dirt resulting from normal baggage handling
- Damage caused by normal wear and tear
- Damage resulting from the baggage's material or structural characteristics
- Damage to protruding parts such as wheels, handles, or straps
- Damage to items packed inside the baggage
- Damage to fragile items such as musical instruments, sports equipment, ceramics, glassware, or bottles of alcohol
- Damage to electronic devices such as laptops, cameras, or tablets
If you're checking musical instruments, golf bags, bicycles, surfboards, bottles of alcohol, or electronic devices, make sure they are securely packed to withstand air transportation.
Items That Cannot Be Checked
Under international aviation safety regulations, the following dangerous goods are prohibited in checked baggage:
- Power banks (spare lithium-ion batteries)
- Lithium-ion batteries exceeding 160 Wh
- Lithium metal batteries containing more than 2 g of lithium
- Fireworks and party poppers
- Gas cylinders and gas canisters
- Hazardous chemicals such as pesticides and insecticides
- Self-heating meal boxes (with heating packs)
- Fuel, gasoline, and other flammable liquids
- Explosives and combustible substances
- Other dangerous goods prohibited under aviation safety regulations
Power banks are not permitted in checked baggage. Always carry them in your carry-on baggage.Lithium-ion batteries exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much carry-on baggage can I bring on a JAL international flight?
On JAL international flights, you may bring one carry-on bag and one personal item, for a total of two carry-on items.
The combined weight of all carry-on baggage must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
Your carry-on bag must also fit within the following size limit:
55 cm × 40 cm × 25 cm (total dimensions of 115 cm or less).
What size power bank can I bring on a JAL international flight?
JAL allows power banks with a capacity of up to 160Wh in carry-on baggage.
- Up to 100Wh: Permitted in carry-on baggage (no airline approval required)
- Over 100Wh to 160Wh: Up to two power banks per passenger
- Over 160Wh: Prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage
Power banks are not permitted in checked baggage.
Can I bring a suitcase as carry-on baggage on a JAL international flight?
Yes. You may bring a suitcase into the cabin provided it meets JAL's carry-on baggage requirements.
- Size: 55 cm × 40 cm × 25 cm (total dimensions within 115 cm)
- Quantity: One carry-on bag plus one personal item
- Weight: Combined weight must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs)
If your baggage exceeds these limits, it must be checked.
How many checked bags are free on JAL international flights?
For most passengers, the complimentary checked baggage allowance is:
- Economy Class / Premium Economy Class: Up to 2 checked bags
- Business Class / First Class: Up to 3 checked bags
Baggage allowances may vary depending on your route or fare type, so always check the baggage allowance shown when booking your flight.
Can I check golf bags or ski equipment on JAL international flights?
Yes. Sports equipment such as golf bags, skis, snowboards, bicycles, and surfboards can usually be checked.
Oversized or overweight equipment may be subject to excess baggage charges, and some aircraft have size limitations. If you're traveling with large sports equipment, it's best to contact JAL before your departure.
Can I check musical instruments on JAL international flights?
Yes. Musical instruments may be checked as baggage.
However, large instruments such as cellos and double basses may require advance arrangements. Proper protective packaging is strongly recommended.
Can I bring drinks on board a JAL international flight?
Yes, but international liquid restrictions apply.
- Each liquid container must hold no more than 100 mL (3.4 oz).
- All containers must fit into a single transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter (1 quart).
- Each passenger may carry one plastic bag.
Beverages and duty-free purchases made after passing through airport security may generally be brought onboard, subject to the regulations of your departure and transit airports.
Can I bring a lighter on a JAL international flight?
Yes. You may carry one small cigarette lighter or one book of safety matches per passenger.
However, they cannot be packed in checked baggage.
Please note that some countries and regions prohibit carrying lighters, so always check the regulations at your departure and destination airports.
Can I use a power bank during a JAL international flight?
For safety reasons, JAL requires passengers to follow these guidelines:
- Do not use a power bank to charge electronic devices during the flight.
- Do not recharge the power bank itself while onboard.
- Do not store your power bank in the overhead compartment.
- Keep it with you at your seat throughout the flight.
Keeping your power bank within easy reach allows you to respond quickly in the unlikely event of overheating or smoke.
Best Hotels in Tokyo for JAL International Travelers
JAL International Flight Sales are extremely popular, and the best flight deals often sell out quickly.
Once you've booked your flight, it's a good idea to reserve your hotel as soon as possible.
During peak travel seasons, hotel prices in Tokyo tend to rise as demand increases. Booking early gives you the best chance of securing lower rates and a wider choice of accommodations.
Below, we've selected some of the top-rated hotels in Tokyo that offer excellent locations, outstanding guest reviews, and convenient access for international travelers.
JAL Traveler's Guide
Top Recommended Hotels for JAL Passengers
Eliminate travel stress regarding transportation and dining in Tokyo. These top-tier, station-adjacent hotels offer stunning views and absolute peace of mind.
💳 Travel Tip: What Happened When My Credit Cards Didn't Work at an Overseas ATM
When I arrived at Don Mueang International Airport in Thailand, I ran into an unexpected problem—none of my credit cards worked at the airport ATM, so I couldn't withdraw any local currency.
Many international flights, especially low-cost carriers (LCCs), arrive late at night. If you don't have cash or a working payment card, finding transportation or paying for basic expenses can quickly become stressful.
Fortunately, my Revolut card worked immediately, allowing me to withdraw cash without any issues.
From this experience, I learned that overseas ATM compatibility can vary depending on the card issuer. Carrying more than one payment card is one of the easiest ways to avoid unnecessary travel stress.
▶ Read my full experience and learn how to avoid ATM problems when traveling abroad
Stay Connected in Japan with a Reliable eSIM
Once you've learned how to check in and board your flight, don't forget to prepare your internet connection before traveling to Japan.
A travel eSIM lets you get online as soon as you arrive—no SIM card swaps or pocket Wi-Fi rental required. With mobile data ready on your smartphone, you can easily use Google Maps, book train tickets, contact your hotel, and stay in touch with family and friends throughout your trip.
Set up your eSIM before departure so you can start exploring Japan the moment you land.
📱 Stay Connected in Japan with a Reliable eSIM
For international travelers, convenient eSIMs that activate directly on your smartphone have become a popular alternative to traditional pocket Wi-Fi rentals and physical tourist SIM cards.
By setting up your eSIM in just 10 minutes before departing for Japan, you can access Google Maps for directions, message your family on WhatsApp, and use ride-hailing apps as soon as you arrive at the airport.
🥇 Holafly
Most Popular ★★★★★
[Unlimited Data] Get 5% OFF Your Holafly Unlimited Japan eSIM
🥈 Ubigi
Best Value
[Prepaid Plans] Book Your Ubigi eSIM Plan at a Discounted Rate
🥉 Airalo
Short-Term Trips
＼ Never Miss out on Cheap Flight Sales & the Lowest Fares! ／
We post real-time daily updates on the latest flash sales from JAL, ANA, and various LCCs on our social media platforms.
*Be the first to get essential travel updates, including exclusive limited-time deals and upcoming sale predictions.
JAL International Baggage Rules Summary
Compared with most low-cost carriers (LCCs), JAL provides a generous complimentary checked baggage allowance. For most international fares, passengers can check up to two bags free of charge, while Business Class and First Class passengers can check up to three bags free of charge.
However, international flights also have important rules regarding carry-on baggage, liquids, and power banks.
Before your trip, remember these three essential rules:
- The combined weight of your carry-on baggage must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
- Power banks are not permitted in checked baggage.
- Liquids carried onboard must be in containers of 100 mL (3.4 oz) or less.
✈️ Key JAL International Baggage Rules
- You may bring one carry-on bag and one personal item (two items in total).
- The combined weight of your carry-on baggage must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
- Your carry-on bag must not exceed 55 cm × 40 cm × 25 cm (115 cm / 45 in total dimensions).
- Most passengers receive a complimentary allowance of two checked bags, while Business Class and First Class passengers may check up to three bags.
- Power banks must be carried in your carry-on baggage.
- Liquids must be in containers of 100 mL (3.4 oz) or less and packed inside a single transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter (1 quart).
- Oversized items such as golf bags, skis, and other sports equipment may also be checked, subject to JAL's baggage rules.
Checking your baggage size, weight, liquid restrictions, and electronic device regulations before leaving for the airport can help you avoid delays and enjoy a smoother check-in experience.
Before your international JAL flight, review both the carry-on and checked baggage rules so you can travel with confidence and enjoy a hassle-free journey.
 JAL (Japan Airlines) international flights have several important baggage rules you sho){kind=link}