Delta Baggage Policy: Complete Guide to Fees, Carry-On Size & Rules (2025)

Traveling with Delta Air Lines in 2025 means navigating a baggage policy designed to balance convenience, safety, and flexibility for a diverse global clientele. Whether you’re a business traveler packing light, a family embarking on an international adventure, or a frequent flyer looking to maximize perks, understanding the latest rules and strategies can save both money and stress. This comprehensive guide distills the latest Delta baggage policy updates, provides real-world scenarios, and offers expert advice for every type of traveler.

Overview of Delta’s Baggage Policy

Delta’s 2025 baggage policy is structured to be transparent yet adaptive, reflecting both evolving travel trends and operational realities. The airline maintains clear tiers based on fare class, route, elite status, and special circumstances. Notable for 2025, Delta has updated several fees and refined its digital tools, enhancing both the booking process and baggage tracking for app users.

This guide is meticulously tailored for all travelers—first-timers, families, business flyers, and those with accessibility needs. It spotlights new changes and provides practical solutions to common baggage dilemmas, from maximizing allowances to dealing with the unexpected.

Carry-On Baggage: Allowance, Size & Restrictions

Delta’s carry-on policy remains generous compared to many U.S. competitors. Each passenger is permitted:

• One carry-on bag (max. 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm, including handles and wheels)
• One personal item (such as a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack; must fit under the seat)

There is no published weight limit for carry-ons on domestic U.S. flights, but international routes may enforce a 15 lb (7 kg) restriction—always verify for your specific itinerary.

Examples of allowed personal items: camera bags, diaper bags, briefcases, small musical instruments.

Restrictions and Prohibitions:

• “Smart bags” with non-removable lithium batteries are not allowed as carry-ons or checked baggage.
• All liquids in carry-ons must comply with TSA’s 3-1-1 rule: containers no larger than 3.4 oz (100 ml), all in a single quart-sized bag.

Differences by Fare Class or Status:

All passengers, regardless of fare, are entitled to the standard carry-on. However, Basic Economy travelers should note limited overhead space and earlier boarding groups fill up bins quickly.

Quick Reference Table:

Item	Size Limit (inches/cm)	Weight Limit (lbs/kg)	Notes
Carry-on Bag	22x14x9 / 56x36x23	None (USA); 15/7 int.	Must fit overhead; wheels/handles included
Personal Item	Fits under seat	None	Purse, backpack, laptop bag, etc.

Checked Baggage: Fees, Size, and Weight Limits

Standard Allowance:

• Domestic (Main Cabin/Economy): $35 for the first checked bag (up to 50 lbs/23 kg; 62 linear inches/157 cm), $45 for the second.
• International: Often the first checked bag is free; always check your route.
• Premium Cabins (Delta One/First): Typically includes at least two free checked bags.
• Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members: Free checked baggage benefits, escalating with status (Silver: 1 free, Gold: 2 free, Platinum/Diamond: 3 free).
• Delta Credit Card Holders (e.g., Delta SkyMiles® Gold): First checked bag free for the cardholder and up to 8 companions on the same reservation.

Extra Bags, Oversize/Overweight Fees (2025):

• Second Bag (domestic): $45
• Overweight (51–70 lbs / 23–32 kg): $100 per bag
• Oversize (63–80 in / 160–203 cm): $200 per bag
• Maximum: No bag over 100 lbs (45 kg) or 80 inches (203 cm) accepted

Tips for Avoiding Fees:

• Use a luggage scale at home; even 1 lb over incurs the full overweight fee.
• Pack strategically: layering, compression bags, and weighing in advance prevent surprises.
• Consider shipping large items ahead—sometimes cheaper than excess bag fees.

Table: Checked Baggage Fees by Route/Class (Sample for 2025):

Route/Class	1st Bag	2nd Bag	Overweight	Oversize
Domestic Main Cabin	$35	$45	$100	$200
Int’l Economy (Europe)	Free	$100	$100	$200
Delta One/First	Free x2	Varies	$100	$200

Oversized & Overweight Baggage

Delta defines baggage over 62 linear inches (157 cm) as “oversize,” and any bag over 50 lbs (23 kg) as “overweight.”

• Overweight Fee (51–70 lbs/23–32 kg): $100 per bag
• Oversize Fee (63–80 inches/160–203 cm): $200 per bag
• Bags over 100 lbs or 80 inches are not accepted under any circumstances.

Practical Example:

A traveler checking a 65-lb golf bag measuring 72 inches pays both the overweight ($100) and oversize ($200) fees, plus the standard checked bag fee if applicable.

Always check the specific limits for your route and class, as exceptions exist for international and elite fares.

Special Items & Exceptions

Sports Equipment

Most sports gear—golf clubs, skis, bicycles—can be checked as regular baggage within size/weight limits. Excess fees apply if over. Bicycles must be packed in hard-sided cases.

Musical Instruments

Small instruments can be carried on if they fit overhead or under the seat. Larger instruments may require a seat purchase or must be checked. Delta recommends hard cases and advises on liability limits.

Medical Devices & Mobility Aids

Mobility aids (wheelchairs, CPAP machines) are transported free of charge and given priority handling. Inform Delta in advance for assistance.

Children & Infants

Strollers and car seats are checked free for each child. Diaper bags count as personal items. Lap infants (under 2 years) do not receive a baggage allowance unless a seat is purchased.

Pets

Small pets may travel in-cabin for $95 each way within the U.S.; size and carrier restrictions apply. Larger pets travel as cargo with advance arrangements.

Other Exceptions

Delicate and valuable items (wedding dresses, artwork) should be hand-carried or require special handling. Contact Delta in advance for guidance.

Special Items Chart:

Item	Fee	Details
Stroller/Car Seat	Free	One per child
In-cabin Pet	$95/way	Carrier size and weight limits apply
Sports Equipment	Standard/Overlimit fees	Must meet size/weight or pay extra
Musical Instrument	Varies	Carry-on if fits, else seat or checked
Wheelchair/CPAP	Free	Priority handling, advance notice advised

Baggage Policy by Route & Fare Class

Delta’s policies can differ significantly by route and class. For example:

• Domestic Basic Economy: No checked bags included, $35+ fee applies.
• Transatlantic Main Cabin: First checked bag complimentary.
• Delta One/First Class: Two checked bags included on all routes.
• Code-share Flights: Delta’s policy applies only if Delta is the marketing carrier on the first flight; otherwise, the operating airline’s rules prevail.

Real-World Example:

A Main Cabin traveler flying Atlanta–Paris on Delta has one free checked bag, but on a code-share with Air France as the first segment, Air France’s policy may apply.

How & When to Pay for Baggage

Baggage fees may be paid:

• At Booking: Add bags during the online booking process for possible savings.
• Online Check-In: Up to 24 hours before departure, often the easiest.
• Delta App: Track, pay, and get mobile receipts.
• At the Airport: At kiosks or counters (can be more expensive).

Step-by-Step (Delta App Example):

1. Open the Delta app, tap your trip, select “Add Bags.”
2. Confirm number and type of bags; pay via card or wallet.
3. Bag tags can be printed at the airport kiosk or counter.

Refunds/Credits:

If you cancel or rebook, Delta usually refunds prepaid bag fees automatically, but check your email for confirmation.

Baggage Tracking & Mobile Tools

Delta’s mobile app allows real-time tracking of checked bags, push notifications for bag status, and digital bag tags at select airports.

• If your bag is delayed/lost: File a claim via the app or at a Delta baggage office. Compensation is available for essentials—keep receipts. Delta aims to return delayed bags within 24 hours on domestic routes.
• Damaged bags: Report damage immediately at the airport or within 24 hours for domestic, 7 days for international.

Customer service is available via in-app chat, phone (1-800-325-8224), or airport counters.

Delta vs. Other Airlines: Comparison Table

Airline	Carry-On	1st Checked Bag	Overweight Fee	Oversize Fee	Pet Fee (Cabin)
Delta	Free	$35 (domestic)	$100	$200	$95
United	Free	$35	$100	$200	$125
American	Free	$35	$100	$200	$125
Southwest	Free	Free x2	$75	$125	$95
JetBlue	Free	$35	$150	$150	$125
Delta stands out for app-based tracking and elite perks, though Southwest leads with two free checked bags.

Accessibility & Sustainable Travel

Delta is committed to accessible travel. Services include:

• Priority boarding, wheelchair assistance, and accessible lavatories on most aircraft.
• Service animal accommodations and special handling for medical equipment.

Sustainability Initiatives:

Delta uses recycled materials for bag tags, offers digital receipts, and is piloting carbon-neutral baggage handling at select hubs. Travelers are encouraged to use reusable luggage tags and minimize single-use plastics in packing.

Pro Tips: Saving Money & Avoiding Baggage Surprises

• Join SkyMiles or use a Delta credit card for free bags on many itineraries.
• Pack multi-purpose clothing and use compression cubes to fit more in less space.
• Weigh your bag at home: Avoid costly surprises at the airport.
• Traveling with kids? Car seats and strollers are always free—check them at the gate for convenience.
• If connecting on partners: Double-check which airline’s baggage policy applies to avoid unexpected fees.

Case Study:

A family of four flying to Orlando used a Delta SkyMiles Gold Card for one free checked bag each, saving $280 round-trip compared to paying at the airport.

FAQs

Resources & Downloads

• Printable baggage size/fee chart: Download PDF
• Delta baggage calculator: Link
• Delta app download: iOS | Android
• Official baggage policy: Delta.com
• Baggage service phone: 1-800-325-8224

Last Updated & Policy Change Alerts

Last updated: October 2025

New for 2025: Overweight/oversize fees increased by $10; app-based baggage tracking now at all U.S. hubs.

Final Tips & Contact Info

Before departure, double-check your bag’s weight and dimensions, confirm your route’s baggage rules, and download the Delta app for seamless tracking. For any questions or to report baggage issues, contact Delta at 1-800-325-8224 or via the app chat.

Have experiences or tips to share? Comment below to help fellow travelers navigate Delta’s baggage policy with confidence.

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By understanding Delta’s baggage rules and leveraging loyalty perks, you can travel smarter and avoid unnecessary fees—ensuring a smoother journey, every time.