Getting ready to fly to your dreams is an exciting feeling, but it also comes with a fair bit of preparation. Organising and packing your things will probably be high on your list. Understanding the Australia baggage weight limit and guidelines can help you in this preparation.
Let’s look at the case of Ajay, who recently flew to Australia to pursue a Master’s in Data Analytics. He contacted us without a clue about the luggage weight limit and was confused, just like many of you. We addressed all his concerns from when to travel post-visa approval to what you can (and can’t) pack.
If you are planning a move to Australia for studies, you will also relate to Ajay’s concerns and doubts, so here is a guide with all our responses to his concerns.
Why the Australia Baggage Weight Limit Matters
Australia is known for its world-class universities and it’s a favourite destination for Indian students. Universities like The University of Melbourne, The Australian National University (ANU), and The University of Sydney are popular among Indian students.
The customs guidelines in Australia are very strict regarding the luggage weight limit for international flights, and this is also applicable to students. Understanding the baggage weight limit for international flights for students is important, as excess baggage for students can result in fines.
The Australia baggage weight limit for students usually depends on the airlines that you choose. Many airlines set a baggage weight limit for Indians travelling for studies, especially on student visas.
Most of the airlines allow 30 kg for checked baggage limit and 7 kg of carry on baggage weight limit for students. But some airlines like Air India offer additional allowances under special schemes. Ajay was planning to fly by Air India, but was confused about the Air India weight limit.
Baggage Allowance: What Airlines Offer for Students
Luggage weight limit for international flights changes according to the service provider. Air India allows a maximum baggage weight of 45 kg for the highest ticket class. Also, Air India weight limit for students includes an additional 10 kg of baggage under the students’ scheme, along with the carry on baggage weight limit.
Another popular option is Qantas Airlines, the company offers a premium experience than Air India, and it is also reflected in the cost. The airline usually allows checked baggage up to 32 kg, but students with valid documents have a 40 kg checked baggage allowance. Passengers with a Qantas frequent flyer allowance can even send 70 kg of baggage.
How Early Can I Travel to Australia After Being Granted a Student Visa 500?
You can travel to Australia once your Student Visa (subclass 500) is approved, and this can be up to 90 days before your course starts. This gives you time to settle in, explore accommodation facilities, and complete formalities.
Make sure your baggage limit is within the international baggage allowance, as arriving early with excess luggage can lead to unnecessary costs. Also, before traveling to Australia, make sure you have the necessary documents.
Documents Required at the Airport for International Students in Australia
- Passport with Student Visa
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Offer Letter from the university
- Proof of accommodation
- Financial documents
- Health insurance (OSHC)
Having these documents in hand is necessary to get through immigration and border control.
Know the Prohibited Items in Checked Baggage
This is another area that we had to work in detail with Ajay, as his mother had packed many homemade sweets and snacks for him. Australia is extremely strict about biosecurity. The list of banned items in Australia to take in baggage includes:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Homemade sweets
- Dairy products
- Seeds and plants
- Meat and poultry
Prohibited items in checked baggage in Australia will face strict checking at customs. Airport sniffer dogs are trained to detect even traces of such products. Any failure to declare these may result in hefty fines or even visa issues.
Also, when packing liquids, be mindful of the liquids on international flights guidelines and the baggage regulations in Australia. In your carry-on baggage, you can only carry liquids in containers up to 100 ml, all placed inside a transparent, resealable 1L plastic bag. This includes:
- Lotions
- Shampoos
- Toothpaste
- Perfumes
This rule doesn’t apply to checked baggage, but it’s essential to pack liquids properly to prevent them from leaking.
What Can You Pack Under the Australia Baggage Weight Limit?
While there are many restrictions, here are items typically allowed:
- Clothes and footwear
- Electronics for personal use
- Books
- Kitchen utensils (non-sharp)
- Toiletries (within size limits)
- Packaged food (sealed and labelled)
As per the luggage weight limit for international flights, keep your checked baggage within 30 kg (or as allowed by your airline) and carry-on baggage weight limit within 7 kg. This ensures you comply with the Australia baggage weight limit and avoid delays.
Excess Baggage for Students: How To Manage It
You can avoid your baggage from going over the weight and dimensions limit by following some tips:
- Adopt vacuum bags that can reduce the volume
- Arrange heavy clothes in layers
- Pack the heavy and non-essential items separately
- Negotiate with the shipping companies for student concessions.
- Avoid packing things that can be easily sourced from Australia, such as bedding and cookware.
- Check the baggage weight limit for Indians listed on airline websites.
What Happens if You Exceed the Limit?
Checked baggages that exceed the weight limits set by the airlines will be charged a hefty price. This rate depends on the airlines; for instance, baggage over the Air India weight limit will be charged Rs 3000 per extra kilogram.
Dimensions of the checked baggage are also verified. Checked baggage with dimensions (length + breadth + height) exceeding 200 cm will not be accepted.
These weight and dimension limitations make it challenging for students to take their personal belongings to Australia. Ajay was having the same issue, and here is how we helped him out.
Personal Belongings As Cargo
If your belongings exceed the Australia baggage weight limit, cargo services offer flexibility. Students can ship their personal items to Australia before or after they arrive at the destination. A reputable shipping partner can assist you in the complete process, ensuring that the package is delivered at the specified time and place.
For importing items into Australia, customs duty needs to be paid, but in the case of personal effects, there are allowances provided. Students shifting to Australia can make use of the Unaccompanied Personal Effects scheme to get customs allowances.
Importing personal items can be cost-effective, but only if you have adhered to all the regulations and presented the necessary documents. Otherwise, you will face high customs duties and even penalties in the case of importing prohibited items.
It is highly recommended to partner with a reputable shipping partner with expertise in customs clearance. Connect with our team to know more about importing personal items into Australia.
Benefits of Choosing a Reputable Shipping Partner
Ajay was able to transfer all his personal effects to Australia at a minimal cost. The shipments reached him in Australia after just two weeks of arrival. Just like him, you can also get many benefits by partnering with a reputable shipping partner.
- Assistance in Documentation
- Customs clearance without delays
- Reliable and real-time tracking
- Availability of insurance
- Professional packing and moving
- Door-to-door delivery service
- Knowledge of international baggage allowance
Our experienced team can assist you through every step and create a stress-free shifting experience to Australia.
DTDC Australia offers student-friendly rates and doorstep pickup services tailored to Indian students. For those unsure about the Australia baggage weight limit, contact us for expert advice.
