Delta Air Lines Carry-On Baggage Policy Explained

When planning a flight with Delta Air Lines, understanding the carry-on baggage policy is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. As of August 2023, Delta does not charge for carry-on baggage for most passengers, allowing them to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for no additional cost. However, it is essential to note the size restrictions that apply to these items.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Carry-on Baggage Policy: Most Delta passengers are entitled to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a backpack, purse, or laptop bag without incurring any baggage charges. This policy applies across most flights and fare classes.

Size Restrictions

Carry-on Bag: Carry-on bags must fit within the overhead compartment. Standard dimensions are typically 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. Check with Delta for any specific size limits that may apply to your particular flight.

Personal Item: Personal items like purses and laptop bags should fit under the seat in front of you. The typical size for these items is 11.5 inches from front to back, 16 inches from side to side, and 6.5 inches high.

Basic Economy Fares and Exceptions

It's important to check the fare class for your flight as some basic economy fares may have restrictions on carry-on baggage. You should always review the specific fare rules and any updated policies to avoid unexpected charges or complications during your journey.

Baggage Allowances for Basic Economy Fares

Delta's basic economy fare classes typically have limited baggage allowances. While the core policy of one carry-on bag and one personal item still applies, there may be additional restrictions or surcharges if your bag exceeds the size limits or if it is too heavy.

Beyond Free Carry-on Allowance

For passengers who wish to bring more than one carry-on or a larger item, here are the charges that apply:

Additional Carry-on Bags

Weight and Cost: Delta does not charge for the first carry-on bag if it fits the size restrictions. However, if your carry-on exceeds the weight limit of 2 pounds per pound up to 35 pounds (11.75 kg), the cost per additional pound increases. For example, if your bag weighs 40 pounds, the additional 5 pounds would cost you 40 pounds * $9 per pound $360. This can be quite expensive, especially for oversized or overweight bags.

Over-Sized Bags: If your carry-on size exceeds 1.5 feet x 5 feet x 0.8 feet (45 cm x 150 cm x 20 cm), a special charge of $22.96 is applied. This is an additional charge beyond the weight-based cost, and it can be significantly higher. Note that for flights to international destinations, the surcharge is double. For flights to Australia, the surcharge is 16 Euros per 4 kg.

Second Bag Allowance

Baggage Allowance: Beyond the first carry-on, the second bag allowance is based on the type of case and the number of wheels it has. As a general rule, the second bag is approximately twice the size and cost of the first bag based on the type and specifications of the case.

Delta recommends using soft-sided bags for ease of checking and to avoid potential surcharges for overweight or oversized bags.

Conclusion

Understanding Delta's carry-on baggage policy is vital to ensure a hassle-free travel experience. While most passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free, it is always a good idea to check specific fare class details and updated policies to avoid any surprises during your flight. Happy travels!