Delta raised checked bag fees on April 8, 2026, for many domestic and short-haul international routes. The first checked bag is now generally $45, the second checked bag is $55, and the third checked bag is $200 on many eligible routes.
The good news: Delta’s carry-on policy did not change. Delta still allows one free carry-on bag and one free personal item on every fare, including Delta Main Basic, formerly called Basic Economy.
This guide explains Delta Airlines baggage fees, carry-on size rules, checked bag weight limits, free bag eligibility, and ways to avoid paying more than necessary.
Last checked: July 2026
Sources reviewed:
Important note:
Delta baggage rules can vary by route, ticket purchase date, fare type, Medallion status, credit card benefit, military status, partner-airline booking, and international market. Always confirm your exact baggage allowance on delta.com before payment.
Delta Baggage Policy 2026: Quick Overview
| Bag Type | Delta Rule |
|---|---|
| Carry-on bag | 1 free carry-on on Delta-operated flights |
| Personal item | 1 free personal item |
| Carry-on size | 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles |
| First checked bag | Generally $45 on many domestic and short-haul routes |
| Second checked bag | Generally $55 on many domestic and short-haul routes |
| Third checked bag | Generally $200 on many eligible routes |
| Economy checked bag weight | 50 lbs / 23 kg |
| Delta First / Delta One checked bag weight | 70 lbs / 32 kg |
| Standard checked bag size | 62 linear inches |
What Changed in Delta Baggage Fees in 2026?
Delta increased checked bag fees for many domestic and short-haul international bookings from April 8, 2026.
The main fee changes were:
| Checked Bag | Previous Fee | 2026 Fee |
| First checked bag | $35 | $45 |
| Second checked bag | $45 | $55 |
| Third checked bag | $150 | $200 |
These changes apply mainly to tickets bought on or after April 8, 2026, on domestic and select short-haul international routes. Long-haul international baggage rules can be different, and some routes may still include checked bags depending on fare type and destination.
Delta Checked Baggage Fees 2026
| Bag | Domestic & Short-Haul Routes | Long-Haul International |
| First checked bag | Generally $45 | Often varies by route and fare |
| Second checked bag | Generally $55 | Varies by route and fare |
| Third checked bag | Generally $200 | Often $200 or route-specific |
| Economy weight limit | 50 lbs / 23 kg | 50 lbs / 23 kg |
| Delta First / Delta One weight limit | 70 lbs / 32 kg | 70 lbs / 32 kg |
| Standard size limit | 62 linear inches | 62 linear inches |
Seating classes like Delta Main, Comfort, and Premium Select passengers generally follow the 50 lb checked bag limit. Delta First and One passengers may receive a higher 70 lb allowance depending on route and fare.
Delta Carry-On Baggage Policy 2026
The Airlines allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge on Delta-operated flights.
| Item | Maximum Size | Cost |
| Carry-on bag | 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles | Free |
| Personal item | Must fit under the seat in front of you | Free |
Common personal items include:
- Purse
- Briefcase
- Small backpack
- Laptop bag
- Camera bag
- Diaper bag
- Similar small item that fits under the seat
Delta does not publish one fixed personal item size in the same way it does for carry-ons. The practical rule is simple: your personal item must fit safely under the seat in front of you.
If you are comparing low-cost airlines, our Avelo Airlines baggage policy guide explains how paid carry-ons and checked bags can affect the real ticket cost.
Does Delta Main Basic Include a Carry-On?
Yes. Delta Main Basic, formerly called Basic Economy, includes one free carry-on bag and one free personal item.
However, Delta Main Basic passengers usually board later than other fare classes. Because overhead bin space can fill up, it is smart to keep medicines, documents, chargers, valuables, and one change of essentials in your personal item.
Delta Carry-On Size Limit
Delta’s carry-on size limit is:
22 x 14 x 9 inches
This includes:
- Wheels
- Handles
- Side pockets
- External attachments
Delta also states that total carry-on dimensions must not exceed 45 linear inches. If your bag is too large or the flight is short on overhead bin space, Delta staff may check it at the gate.
Delta Connection Carry-On Rules
On Delta Connection flights, especially aircraft with 50 seats or fewer, overhead bin space may be limited. In those cases, passengers may only be allowed to bring personal items onboard, while larger carry-ons are tagged and gate-checked for free.
These bags are usually returned after landing when you deplane. Keep important items such as medication, passports, electronics, and valuables in your personal item, not in the larger carry-on.
Delta Carry-On Weight Limit
Delta does not apply a standard carry-on weight limit on most routes. However, your bag must be light enough for you to place it safely in the overhead bin.
Delta notes that some international airports may apply carry-on weight limits. For example, select routes involving Singapore, Beijing, or Shanghai may have carry-on weight restrictions. Always check your specific route before travel.
If you are comparing low-cost fares, check our American Airlines carry-on baggage rules and Southwest baggage policy 2026 before choosing the cheapest ticket.
Delta Overweight and Oversized Bag Fees
Delta charges extra when checked bags exceed standard weight or size limits.
| Situation | Fee |
| Bag weighing 51–70 lbs | Generally $100 |
| Bag weighing 71–<100 lbs | Generally $200 |
| Bag weighing 100 lbs or more | Not accepted on many routes |
| Oversized bag 63–80 linear inches | Generally $200 |
| Bag larger than 80 linear inches | Not accepted on many routes |
International overweight and oversized rules may vary. Some routes do not accept checked bags above 70 lbs, especially on certain Europe, South Africa, UAE, Australia, and New Zealand routes.
Who Gets Free Checked Bags on Delta?
Some passengers can avoid Delta checked bag fees based on status, cabin, card benefits, or military eligibility.
| Passenger Type | Free Checked Bag Benefit |
| Delta Medallion members | First checked bag waived, with possible additional bags depending on status and fare |
| Delta SkyMiles American Express cardholders | Eligible cardholders can receive free checked bag benefits |
| Delta First / Delta One passengers | Often receive free checked bags with higher weight limits |
| Delta Premium Select passengers | May receive free checked bags depending on route |
| Active duty U.S. military | Free checked bags based on travel purpose and eligibility |
| Some international passengers | Free checked bag may apply depending on route and fare |
From June 4, 2026, eligible Delta SkyMiles Gold, Platinum, and Reserve Card Members also receive a complimentary second checked bag on domestic Delta-operated flights, according to Delta’s official card benefit update.
How to Avoid Delta Baggage Fees
1. Travel carry-on only
Delta includes one carry-on bag and one personal item free on Delta-operated flights. If your trip is short, this is the simplest way to avoid checked bag fees.
2. Use an eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card
Eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express cardholders can receive checked bag benefits. For frequent Delta travelers, this can reduce baggage costs across multiple trips.
3. Earn Delta Medallion status
Delta Medallion members receive checked bag benefits. The exact allowance depends on status level, cabin, route, and whether companions are on the same reservation.
4. Book Delta First, Delta One, or eligible premium cabins
Premium cabin tickets often include free checked bags and higher weight allowances. Compare the total trip cost before booking, especially if you plan to check multiple bags.
5. Use Delta’s baggage calculator before booking
Delta’s baggage calculator can help estimate your baggage cost for a specific route, fare, and traveler profile. This is better than assuming one baggage fee applies to every trip.
Sports Equipment and Special Items on Delta
Delta handles many sports and special items as checked baggage if they meet standard size and weight limits.
Common special items include:
- Golf clubs
- Skis
- Snowboards
- Fishing equipment
- Musical instruments
- Strollers
- Child safety seats
- Medical devices
- Mobility devices
Fees may apply if an item is overweight, oversized, fragile, or requires special handling. Some items may also have route-specific rules or seasonal restrictions.
What Can You Bring in a Delta Carry-On?
| Item | Allowed in Carry-On? | Notes |
| Liquids, gels, aerosols | Yes | Must follow TSA 3-1-1 rule |
| Laptop and electronics | Yes | Keep accessible for security |
| Medication | Yes | Keep in personal item if needed during travel |
| Solid food | Usually yes | Destination restrictions may apply |
| Power banks | Yes | Carry in cabin, not checked baggage |
| Duty-free items | Yes | Must follow security and sealed-bag rules |
| Jacket or umbrella | Yes | Delta lists these as free carry-on items |
| Stroller / assistive device | Yes, with conditions | May be gate-checked or handled separately |
Delta vs American vs United Carry-On Rules
| Airline | Free Carry-On Included? | Personal Item Included? | Basic Fare Note |
| Delta | Yes | Yes | Delta Main Basic includes a carry-on |
| American Airlines | Yes | Yes | Basic Economy includes a carry-on |
| United Airlines | Usually no on Basic Economy | Yes | Standard carry-on restrictions may apply, with exceptions |
If you are comparing low-cost fares, always check baggage rules before choosing the cheapest ticket. A fare that looks cheaper at first can become more expensive after baggage and seat fees.
Internal links to add here:
- American Airlines carry-on baggage rules
- United Basic Economy carry-on rules
- Airline baggage fees guide
FlyingTip: If you are booking a Delta flight, do not compare fares by ticket price alone. A lower fare may become more expensive after checked bags, seat selection, and route-specific baggage rules.
Need help comparing Delta fares, baggage fees, or total trip cost? Call Flying Getaway at +1 (646) 814-6001 to review available booking options before you confirm your trip.
In a Nutshell
Delta raised checked bag fees in April 2026, but carry-ons are still free. Most Delta passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item without paying extra.
For many domestic and short-haul routes, the first checked bag is generally $45, the second checked bag is $55, and the third checked bag is $200. Standard economy checked bags are usually limited to 50 lbs and 62 linear inches.
Before booking, check your exact route, fare type, card benefits, Medallion status, and baggage allowance on Delta’s official website. If you are unsure which fare gives the best total value, Flying Getaway can help compare the baggage cost before you book.
For Delta booking support or baggage fee questions, call Flying Getaway at +1 (646) 814-6001.
FAQs
1. How much is the first checked bag on Delta in 2026?
For many domestic and short-haul routes booked on or after April 8, 2026, Delta’s first checked bag fee is generally $45. Fees can vary by route, fare type, card benefit, Medallion status, and international market.
2. How much is the second checked bag on Delta?
The second checked bag is generally $55 on many domestic and short-haul routes. Some long-haul international routes may have different rules, so check your exact trip on delta.com before booking.
3. Does Delta charge for carry-on bags?
No. Delta allows one free carry-on bag and one free personal item on Delta-operated flights. This applies to Delta Main Basic, formerly Basic Economy, as well as other fare types.
4. What is Delta’s carry-on size limit?
Delta’s carry-on size limit is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles. The combined length, width, and height must not exceed 45 linear inches.
5. Does Delta have a carry-on weight limit?
Delta does not have a standard carry-on weight limit on most routes. However, some international airports may apply carry-on weight limits, so travelers should check route-specific rules before flying.
6. What is Delta’s checked bag weight limit?
For most Delta Main, Delta Comfort, and Delta Premium Select passengers, checked bags are limited to 50 lbs. Delta First and Delta One passengers may receive a 70 lb checked bag allowance, depending on route and fare.
7. What happens if my Delta bag is overweight?
Delta generally charges $100 for bags weighing 51–70 lbs and $200 for bags weighing 71–<100 lbs on many U.S./Canada rules. Bags of 100 lbs or more are not accepted on many routes.
8. Who gets free checked bags on Delta?
Free checked bags may be available to Delta Medallion members, eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express cardholders, Delta First or Delta One passengers, active duty U.S. military travelers, and some international passengers depending on route and fare.
9. Can Delta Main Basic passengers bring a carry-on?
Yes. Delta Main Basic passengers can bring one free carry-on bag and one free personal item. However, they usually board later, so overhead bin space may be limited.
10. Does Delta charge less if I prepay for bags online?
Delta allows customers to pay for bags during check-in online, in the Fly Delta app, or at airport kiosks, but Delta does not advertise the same standard online prepay discount that some other airlines offer. Use Delta’s baggage calculator to estimate your exact fee before travel.
Patrick Walker is the travel brain behind Flying Getaway. With a knack for spotting flight deals and a passion for exploring new skies, he helps travelers fly smarter and save more with every trip.
