Understanding Delta Baggage Fees: What You Need to Know

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3 hours ago
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When traveling with Delta, understanding Delta Baggage Fees can help you avoid surprises and extra charges at the airport. With different rules for carry-on and checked luggage, overweight or oversized bags, and international flights, having a clear picture of Delta’s baggage policy can save you money and stress.

Quick Overview

Here’s a quick snapshot: Delta allows one free carry-on plus a personal item on most itineraries. For checked bags, domestic flyers typically pay for the first and second bag, depending on fare class. Fees may vary by route, weight, and membership status. Below, we dive into the full Delta Airlines baggage fees, rules, and how to manage them.

Delta Baggage Policy Breakdown

To understand Delta’s baggage policy fully, let’s break it down into key segments.

Carry-On Baggage

Delta permits one carry-on bag plus one personal item (like a laptop bag) per passenger on most ticket types.
The carry-on size limit is typically 22 × 14 × 9 inches (including handles and wheels).
There is no additional fee for standard carry-on, but you must abide by their size rules.

Checked Baggage Fees

The Delta Checked Baggage Fee applies to many domestic routes. For U.S. domestic mainline flights, the fee for the first checked bag is around $30, and for the second bag, about $40, though rates may vary.
Overweight bags (between 51 lb and 70 lb) incur an overweight fee (usually $100–$200). Bags over 70 lb may be refused or incur very steep fees.
Oversized bags (linear dimensions over 62 inches) also have surcharges.

International Baggage

On many international flights, Delta includes one or two free checked bags, depending on fare class and destination.
For international routes, weight limits can differ: e.g., 50 lb or 70 lb maximum per checked bag, depending on the itinerary.

Elite and Special Allowances

SkyMiles Medallion members (Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond) often enjoy free first checked bag.
Military personnel may have special baggage allowances.
Infants traveling on a lap sometimes get a free checked bag for a stroller or car seat.

Special Items

Sports equipment (e.g., skis, golf clubs) may be accepted, but fees vary.
Musical instruments too: If in a standard checked bag, it follows regular fees; in cabin (if under size) may be free; if oversized, additional charges apply.

Comparison Table: Delta vs Other Major U.S. Airlines

Airline	First Checked Bag (domestic)	Second Checked Bag	Overweight / Oversize Fees	Carry-On Included?
Delta	~$30	~$40	~$100–$200	Yes
United Airlines	~$35	~$45	~$100–$200	Yes
American Airlines	~$30	~$40	~$100–$200	Yes
Southwest Airlines	Free (no checked bag fees)	Free	~$75 (if oversized)	Yes

(Fees approximate and vary by route/fare.)

Guidelines to Save on Delta Baggage Fees

Pre-pay baggage online: Buy your checked bag during booking or before check-in to get lower rates.
Know your fare class: Basic economy may not include free bags, but standard economy or higher may.
Use elite status benefits: If you're a SkyMiles Medallion member, use your free first checked bag.
Stick to weight limits: Pack smart to avoid overweight fees.
Measure your bags: Confirm your bag is within size limits to avoid oversize charges.
Consider shipping: For heavy or bulky items, it may be cheaper to ship them ahead of travel.
Be strategic for international flights: Use fare classes that include checked bags for long-haul to avoid fees.
Call Delta support: If in doubt, call customer service at +1 (866) 558-3017 before flying.Checked bag fees (most domestic flights)
First checked bag: $35
Second checked bag: $45
Third checked bag: $150

Other checked bag fees

Overweight bags: Fees range from $100 for 51-70 lbs to $200 for 71-100 lbs. Bags over 100 lbs are not permitted.
Oversized bags: A fee of at least $200 applies to bags that exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). Bags larger than 80 inches are not permitted.
International flights: Fees vary significantly by route, with examples including a $75 fee for the first bag to Europe and a $70 fee for the first bag to some South American destinations.

How to potentially avoid fees

Carry-on only: A standard carry-on bag and a personal item are free as long as they meet Delta's size requirements.
Travel status: Some Medallion members and eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express cardholders receive free checked bags.
Fare type: Different fare classes may have different baggage allowances.

Important notes

Baggage fees can change, so it's best to check Delta's website or use the Delta baggage calculator for the most accurate and up-to-date information for your specific flight.
The fees mentioned above may not apply to all tickets, especially those purchased before March 5, 2024.
Fees vary by route, so be sure to check the specific requirements for your tri

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Delta’s checked baggage fees?
Delta’s checked baggage fees usually start at $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second on U.S. domestic flights, but exact rates depend on route and fare class.
Does Delta allow a free carry-on?
Yes, Delta permits one carry-on bag plus a personal item, as long as they meet the size restrictions.
What is Delta’s weight limit for checked bags?
The weight limit for most checked bags is 50 lb (23 kg), though you may pay extra for bags between 51–70 lb.
How much is the overweight baggage fee on Delta?
Overweight bags (51–70 lb) typically cost around $100–$200, depending on route. Bags over 70 lb may be refused or charged even more.
How does Delta’s policy work for oversized bags?
If your bag’s linear dimensions exceed 62 inches, Delta may charge an oversize fee.
Are there free checked bags for international flights?
Yes, many international flights include one or two free checked bags depending on fare class and destination.
Does elite status affect Delta baggage fees?
Yes, SkyMiles Medallion members often get at least one free checked bag depending on status level.
Can I check sports equipment or musical instruments?
Yes, but these items may incur special fees depending on weight and size.
What happens if I pay for baggage after booking?
You can often pay for your checked baggage during online check-in to avoid higher airport fees. Alternatively, call +1 (866) 558-3017 for assistance.
How do I contact Delta about my baggage charges?
You can reach Delta’s baggage customer service at +1 (866) 558-3017 to ask questions, resolve fee issues, or request waivers.

Policies to Watch (Delta Baggage Policy)

Delta enforces strict size and weight limits for both carry-on and checked luggage.
Fees for checked bags may vary widely based on route, fare class, and timing of payment.
Overweight and oversized bags incur additional charges; very heavy bags may be rejected.
For international flights, free baggage allowance depends on the fare class and destination.
Special items (e.g., sports gear) are accepted but may cost extra.
Fee waivers or reductions may apply for frequent flyers, Medallion members, or military travelers.
Delta reserves the right to refuse baggage that is unsafe or overweight beyond their allowed limits.

Conclusion

Navigating Delta Baggage Fees doesn’t have to be a headache. By understanding Delta’s baggage policy—including size, weight limits, and fee structure—you can travel smarter and avoid unexpected costs. Whether you're flying domestically or internationally, planning ahead, measuring your luggage, and using your benefits as a SkyMiles Medallion member can help you minimize or even eliminate your Delta Checked Baggage Fee. If you ever need help or want to confirm exact fee amounts for your specific itinerary, don’t hesitate to call Delta’s customer service at +1 (866) 558-3017.