Baggage Limits
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Delta Air Lines Baggage Policy

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About Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines is a major U.S. legacy carrier and a founding SkyTeam member, operating a broad domestic and international network. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The airline is a member of SkyTeam.

Carry-on Baggage

Carry-on Bag

Dimensions 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm)
Weight No specific weight limit (domestic US); must fit overhead bin
Must fit in overhead bin.

Personal Item

Dimensions 17 x 13 x 8 inches (43 x 33 x 20 cm)
Weight Not specified
Must fit completely under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Class First Bag Second Bag Weight Dimensions
Economy $30 (domestic), Varies (international) $40 (domestic), Varies (international) 50 pounds (23 kg) 62 linear inches (158 cm)
First/Business Free Free 70 pounds (32 kg) 62 linear inches (158 cm)

Additional Bags & Notes

Additional bags: $150+ each

💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Delta Air Lines baggage page before traveling.

Example Baggage Scenarios

Atlanta → London (Economy)

Carry-on: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm), No specific weight limit (domestic... max
Checked bag: 1 piece 50 pounds (23 kg) — $30 (domestic), Varies (international)
2nd bag: $40 (domestic), Varies (international)
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport

Atlanta → Paris (Business Class)

Carry-on: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm), No specific weight limit (domestic... max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 70 pounds (32 kg) — Included free
Priority: Business class bags tagged priority for faster delivery
Lounge: Complimentary lounge access with extra bag storage

⚠️ These are typical examples. Actual fees depend on fare type, route, booking date, and frequent flyer status.

Excess Baggage Fees

Fee Type Amount Notes
Extra Bag / Per Kg $15 per kg (varies by route) Varies by route and booking time
Prepaid Discount Save up to 50% when prepaying online Book online before departure to save
Overweight (23-32kg) $100-200 for bags over 50 lbs Per bag exceeding standard weight

💰 Pro tip: Always prepay for extra baggage online. Airport fees can be 20-40% higher.

Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees

  • Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving. Most overweight fees start at $50-100 per bag.
  • Prepay online: Book extra baggage through Delta Air Lines's website to save 10-20% vs airport prices.
  • Wear heavy items: Boots, coats, and heavy clothing don't count toward luggage weight.
  • Use compression bags: Vacuum bags reduce clothing volume by up to 75%.
  • Check credit card perks: Premium cards often include free checked bags on select airlines.
  • Join SkyMiles: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.

Special Items & Equipment

Delta Air Lines accepts various special items with specific conditions. Advance booking is required for most special items. Contact the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.

Important: All special items require advance reservation. Airport acceptance is not guaranteed without pre-booking. Fees shown are estimates — actual prices vary by route, season, and availability.

Strollers and child car seats: Free to check

Strollers and pushchairs gate-checked free.

Size No size restrictions
Fee Free of charge
Booking 48-72h ahead

Compact strollers may be allowed in overhead bin

Military personnel: Special allowances

Contact airline for specific requirements.

Size Varies
Fee Contact airline
Booking 48-72h ahead

Pre-booking recommended

Sports equipment: Special handling fees may apply

Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.

Size Max 300cm linear (L+W+H)
Fee €50-150 per item
Booking 48-72h ahead

Must be properly packed in protective bag/case

Musical Instruments & Sports Equipment — Quick Reference

Musical Instruments

  • Cabin: Guitars, violins if overhead space permits
  • Extra seat: Cellos, French horns (€100-300)
  • Checked: Hard case mandatory, max 32kg
  • Booking: Contact airline 72h before flight

Sports Equipment

  • Golf: €30-80/bag, max 15kg
  • Ski/Snowboard: €40-100/set, max 23kg
  • Bicycle: €60-150, must be boxed
  • Surfboard: €75-200, depends on length

Hub Airports

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does checked baggage cost on Delta Air Lines?
On Delta Air Lines, Economy class first checked bag costs $30 (domestic), Varies (international) (max 50 pounds (23 kg), 62 linear inches (158 cm)). Second bag: $40 (domestic), Varies (international). Business Class: first bag Free (max 70 pounds (32 kg)). Save up to 50% when prepaying online.
What are the carry-on size limits for Delta Air Lines?
Carry-on bags on Delta Air Lines must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm). Weight limit is No specific weight limit (domestic US); must fit overhead bin. In addition, you can bring one personal item (max 17 x 13 x 8 inches (43 x 33 x 20 cm)) that fits under the seat. Oversized bags will need to be checked at the gate.
Can I bring a personal item in addition to carry-on?
Yes, Delta Air Lines allows one personal item (handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack) in addition to your main carry-on. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you, typically max dimensions of 17 x 13 x 8 inches (43 x 33 x 20 cm).
What liquids can I bring in my carry-on?
Following international aviation rules, liquids in carry-on must be in containers of 100ml or less, all fitting in a single transparent 1-liter resealable bag. This includes gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols. Exceptions apply for baby food, medications, and duty-free purchases in sealed bags.
How do I avoid excess baggage fees?
Tips to avoid extra fees on Delta Air Lines: Weigh your bags at home before departure. Save up to 50% when prepaying online. Wear heavy items like coats and boots. Use compression bags for clothes. Join SkyMiles for elite baggage benefits.
Can I bring sports equipment or musical instruments?
Delta Air Lines accepts sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, surfboards, bicycles) and musical instruments as checked or cabin baggage with special conditions. Large instruments may require a separate seat purchase. Contact Delta Air Lines directly at least 48 hours before departure to arrange transport and confirm fees.
What items are prohibited in checked baggage?
Prohibited items in Delta Air Lines checked baggage include: lithium batteries over 100Wh, flammable liquids, explosives, compressed gases, and valuable items (jewelry, electronics, cash, important documents). These should be carried in your cabin bag or left at home. Check Delta Air Lines's dangerous goods policy for the complete list.

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