Delta Airlines Baggage Policy +1–866–666–0215

When planning a trip, especially by air, one of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects is the Delta Airlines Baggage Policy. Knowing what you can bring, how much it costs, and what restrictions apply can save you time, money, and stress. If you're flying with Delta Air Lines, it's essential to understand their baggage rules and how they apply to your specific itinerary. In this article, we'll break down Delta Airlines’ baggage policy in simple terms so you can board with confidence.

Why Baggage Policies Matter

While baggage policies might seem like fine print details, they directly impact your travel experience. Excess baggage fees, confusion at check-in, or restrictions at security checkpoints can derail even the best-laid travel plans. That’s why knowing Delta’s specific guidelines will help you avoid unexpected charges and ensure a smoother airport experience.

Carry-On Baggage: What's Included for Free?

Delta allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard at no additional charge. Your personal item can be a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or a diaper bag. The carry-on bag must meet the following size requirements:

• Maximum dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels
  
  
• Weight restrictions: Delta does not impose a weight limit for carry-on bags on domestic flights, but some international routes may have specific restrictions.
  
  

Carry-on items must fit in the overhead bin, while personal items should fit under the seat in front of you. It's worth noting that assistive devices and outerwear (like coats or umbrellas) do not count against your baggage allowance.

Pro tip: Overhead bin space can be limited, especially on full flights. Boarding early helps ensure you’ll have space for your carry-on, or consider checking your bag if it exceeds allowed dimensions.

Checked Baggage Policy: Fees and Allowances

Delta’s checked baggage policy varies depending on your ticket type, route, and frequent flyer status. Here's a general breakdown for most domestic and international flights in the Main Cabin:

For Domestic Flights (e.g., U.S. to U.S.)

• First checked bag: $30
  
  
• Second checked bag: $40
  
  
• Additional bags: Prices vary, usually escalating with each extra bag.
  
  

For International Flights

Some international routes may include one or two checked bags for free, depending on the destination and fare class. However, basic economy passengers often have to pay for checked baggage unless otherwise stated.

Baggage Size and Weight Limits

Regardless of your route, each checked bag must meet the following size and weight limits:

• Maximum weight: 50 pounds (23 kg) for Economy; 70 pounds (32 kg) for First Class, Delta One, and Premium Select
  
  
• Maximum dimensions: 62 linear inches (157 cm), including length + width + height
  
  

Overweight or oversized bags incur additional fees, which can range from $100 to $300 per bag depending on the weight and destination. Always check your fare details or use Delta’s baggage calculator tool to confirm your allowance.

Exceptions and Special Items

Delta has provisions for special baggage and equipment such as:

• Sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, bikes)
  
  
• Musical instruments
  
  
• Medical devices
  
  
• Strollers and car seats (free when traveling with children)
  
  

Many of these items are counted as regular checked bags, though some may require special handling or incur extra charges. Make sure to notify Delta in advance if you're bringing something unusual or fragile.

Basic Economy vs. Main Cabin: Baggage Differences

One common point of confusion arises from Delta’s Basic Economy fare class. While these tickets offer a lower price, they come with restrictions—including baggage limitations.

• Carry-on: Permitted (same as Main Cabin)
  
  
• Checked bags: Not included; fees apply
  
  
• Seat selection: Not included
  
  
• No changes allowed: Tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable
  
  

If you're traveling with more luggage or value flexibility, the slightly higher fare for Main Cabin may be worth the investment.

Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Credit Card Holders

Delta offers special baggage perks for its SkyMiles Medallion members and select Delta SkyMiles credit card holders. Here's how the benefits typically apply:

Medallion Status Members

Depending on your tier (Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond), you may receive:

• Free checked bags (up to 3)
  
  
• Priority baggage handling
  
  
• Additional weight allowances
  
  

Credit Card Perks

Holders of eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards can get:

• First checked bag free for the cardholder and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation
  
  

These benefits can add up quickly, especially for frequent flyers or families traveling together.

Traveling with Children: What’s Included?

Delta allows certain items to be checked free of charge when traveling with an infant or small child. These typically include:

• One stroller
  
  
• One car seat
  
  
• One diaper bag (often considered a personal item)
  
  

Lap infants (under 2 years old) traveling domestically do not require a ticket, but international routes usually require taxes and fees, even if the infant does not occupy a seat. Always check ahead to confirm what’s allowed based on your specific flight.

Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Bags

While most bags arrive on time and intact, there are occasions when luggage is delayed, lost, or damaged. Delta provides a process for handling these situations:

• Delayed bags: File a report at the airport or online. Delta may provide reimbursement for essential items if your bag is delayed.
  
  
• Lost bags: If your bag is not found within a specific timeframe (usually 21 days), Delta considers it lost and compensates accordingly.
  
  
• Damaged bags: Report damage immediately after your flight. Delta may offer repair, replacement, or reimbursement depending on the extent of damage.
  
  

Proactively labeling your bags inside and out with your contact information can speed up recovery in case of mishandling.

Tips for Navigating Delta’s Baggage Policy

1. Weigh your bags at home to avoid overweight charges.
   
   
2. Download the Fly Delta app for real-time baggage tracking.
   
   
3. Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space.
   
   
4. Consider shipping bulky items in advance if baggage fees are too high.
   
   
5. Keep valuables and essentials (medications, electronics, documents) in your carry-on.
   
   

Final Thoughts

Delta Airlines' baggage policy is relatively straightforward once you break it down by fare type, route, and traveler status. While fees can add up—especially for checked and oversized bags—knowing the rules ahead of time will help you make smart packing choices. Whether you're a casual traveler or a frequent flyer, understanding Delta’s baggage guidelines ensures you board prepared, with fewer surprises and a smoother journey ahead.