When flying with Delta Air Lines, it’s essential to understand their baggage policy to avoid confusion and additional fees. Delta offers a range of baggage options for both checked luggage and carry-on bags, allowing passengers to pack for their trip with ease. In this article, we’ll explore how many pieces of luggage Delta allows, what the size limits are for checked baggage, and important details regarding checked luggage. Let’s dive into the baggage policies of Delta Air Lines to make sure you’re well-prepared for your next journey.
Delta Air Lines Baggage Policy Overview
Delta Air Lines, one of the leading airlines in the United States, has a comprehensive baggage policy that ensures passengers can carry their belongings without hassle. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, knowing the limits for your luggage is key to a smooth travel experience. Delta Air Lines’ baggage policy covers both carry-on luggage and checked baggage, with different allowances based on your ticket type, frequent flyer status, and destination.
Delta Air Lines allows passengers to bring a variety of baggage items, but each piece must meet specific weight and size requirements. The number of luggage pieces you can check depends on the class of service you’re flying, as well as whether you have purchased extra baggage options. Let’s break down the essentials for Delta’s baggage allowances.
Carry-On Luggage Allowance
Delta Air Lines offers passengers the ability to bring a carry-on bag onboard their flight. This is an excellent option for those who want to keep essentials close by during their flight. When you board with Delta, your carry-on luggage should meet the following requirements:
Carry-On Bag: Delta allows one carry-on bag per passenger. This bag must fit in the overhead compartment. The size limits for a carry-on bag are 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches (56 cm x 35 cm x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.
Personal Item: In addition to your carry-on bag, you are allowed to bring one personal item, such as a backpack, purse, or laptop bag. This item must fit under the seat in front of you. There are no specific size restrictions for personal items, but they should be small enough to fit in the available space under the seat.
Passengers traveling on Delta Air Lines are allowed to carry one carry-on and one personal item for free, so you can make sure you have everything you need for the flight.
Checked Baggage Allowance
For travelers who need to bring larger items or more belongings, Delta Air Lines also allows checked baggage. Checked luggage is stored in the airplane’s cargo hold, and passengers are typically allowed a certain number of bags depending on their flight and ticket class. Here are the key points for Delta’s checked baggage policy:
Basic Economy Class: Passengers flying in Basic Economy class generally do not have checked baggage included in their fare. If you wish to check luggage, you will need to pay an additional fee. The fee varies depending on the route and other factors.
Main Cabin, Comfort+, and First Class: For passengers flying in Main Cabin, Comfort+, or First Class, Delta typically allows at least one checked bag free of charge. The maximum number of free checked bags depends on your route and ticket type, but one bag is commonly permitted for most domestic and international flights.
Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members: If you are a Medallion member with Delta’s frequent flyer program, you may receive additional checked luggage allowances. The number of free checked bags increases depending on your Medallion tier. For example, Silver, Gold, and Platinum members often receive one to two free checked bags, while Diamond Medallion members may be allowed up to three free checked bags.
Size Limits for Checked Luggage
Delta Air Lines has specific size requirements for checked luggage, which are crucial for ensuring your bags fit into the airline’s cargo hold. If your bag exceeds the allowed dimensions, you may incur additional fees. Here are the size guidelines for checked luggage:
Standard Checked Luggage Size: The maximum size for a checked bag is 62 inches (158 cm), which is the total of the bag’s length, width, and height. For example, a typical checked bag might be 27 inches x 19 inches x 16 inches (69 cm x 48 cm x 41 cm). This size includes the wheels and handles.
Excess Size and Weight: If your bag exceeds the 62-inch limit or weighs more than 50 pounds (23 kg), you will be charged an overweight and/or oversized baggage fee. The extra charges depend on the weight and size of your luggage, so it’s important to measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport.
Fees for Additional Luggage
If you have more bags than your allowance or need to check oversized or overweight items, Delta charges additional fees. Here is a breakdown of some common luggage fees for Delta passengers:
Extra Baggage Fees
First Extra Bag: For most passengers, the first extra checked bag will incur a fee of approximately $30 to $35 for domestic flights. The cost for additional bags increases for international flights, with fees typically ranging between $50 to $75.
Second Extra Bag: The second checked bag costs around $40 to $45 for domestic flights. International flights may have slightly higher fees.
Additional Bags: Additional checked bags beyond the second one will usually cost between $150 to $200 depending on the route and destination.
Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Overweight Bag: If your checked bag exceeds the 50-pound limit but weighs up to 70 pounds (32 kg), the additional fee is approximately $100.
Heavy and Oversized Bags: If your bag weighs more than 70 pounds (32 kg) or exceeds the maximum size of 62 inches, fees can reach $200 or higher. Be sure to measure and weigh your bags to avoid this extra cost.
Special Luggage Items
Delta Air Lines also accommodates special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets. These items have their own specific baggage policies, which may differ from regular luggage allowances.
Sports Equipment
Golf Bags: Delta allows golf bags as checked luggage, with specific dimensions and weight limits. Golf bags typically count as one checked item, but if they exceed the size or weight restrictions, extra fees may apply.
Bicycles: Bicycles are also accepted, but they must be properly packed in a box or case. Depending on the size, they may incur oversized baggage fees.
Musical Instruments
Musical Instruments: Delta allows passengers to bring musical instruments as part of their checked baggage allowance, though there are certain size restrictions. Smaller instruments like violins or cellos can be brought as carry-on items, while larger instruments may require special handling and a separate fee.
Pets
Pets in the Cabin: Delta permits small pets to travel in the cabin for a fee. The pet must be kept in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you.
Pets as Checked Luggage: Larger pets can be checked as luggage, but they must travel in an IATA-approved pet carrier. Fees for checked pets vary depending on the destination and size of the animal.
Tips for Packing Your Luggage
Packing your luggage carefully and according to Delta’s guidelines can save you both time and money. Here are a few tips to help ensure you pack correctly for your flight:
Check Weight Limits: Always weigh your bags before heading to the airport to avoid overweight luggage fees.
Use Compression Bags: If you’re trying to save space, use compression bags to reduce the volume of clothing and other items.
Label Your Bags: Make sure your luggage is properly tagged with your name and contact information in case it gets lost or misplaced.
Pack Smart: Be mindful of what you pack in your carry-on versus checked luggage to avoid having to pay for extra bags. Essentials like medications, electronics, and valuable items should go in your carry-on.
Conclusion
Delta Air Lines offers a clear and structured baggage policy, making it easy for passengers to understand their allowances for checked luggage and carry-on bags. Whether you’re flying in the Main Cabin, Comfort+, or First Class, it’s important to know how many pieces of luggage Delta allows and the specific size and weight limits for each bag. Always be sure to check Delta’s baggage guidelines before your flight to ensure a smooth travel experience.
