+1-833-654-7126 Do I Get a Free Checked Bag on Delta Airlines?

+1-833-654-7126 Do I Get a Free Checked Bag on Delta Airlines?

+1-833-654-7126 Do I Get a Free Checked Bag on Delta Airlines?


Wondering whether you’ll need to pay extra for a checked bag on your Delta flight? The short answer: it depends. Factors like your fare type, destination, frequent flyer status, and even your credit card can influence whether you get a free checked bag. Keep reading to find out how you can save money and avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.

When booking a flight, one of the most confusing aspects for travelers is baggage fees. It’s not always clear whether your checked bag is included or if you’ll be hit with an extra charge at the counter. With Delta Airlines, this uncertainty can be frustrating especially if you’re a frequent traveler, family vacationer, or someone on a budget. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Delta’s checked baggage policy, so you can travel smarter and save money.

Understanding Delta Airlines’ Baggage Policy

Delta Airlines, one of the major U.S. carriers, offers a range of baggage options depending on the type of fare, route, and loyalty status. The airline is known for its transparent policies, but the intricacies of checked baggage fees can still catch travelers off guard.

Here’s a general overview:

  • Basic Economy: No free checked bags (domestic and most international flights).

  • Main Cabin (Economy): Typically no free checked bags on domestic routes, but some international routes may include one.

  • Delta Comfort+®, First Class, Delta Premium Select, Delta One®: Often include at least one or more free checked bags.

  • SkyMiles Medallion® Members: May receive free checked baggage benefits based on status level.

  • Delta Co-branded Credit Card Holders: Eligible for one free checked bag.


Why This Matters: The Cost of Checked Bags Can Add Up

The Hidden Travel Expense

Airlines generate billions in ancillary revenue from baggage fees. For travelers, this means a seemingly affordable ticket can become significantly more expensive after adding checked bags often $30–$60 per bag each way on Delta flights. Multiply that for round-trip travel and multiple passengers, and the cost becomes substantial.

Real Example:

A family of four flying round-trip with one checked bag each could pay up to $480 in baggage fees if no free bags are included. That’s money you could spend on meals, excursions, or upgrades.


When Do You Get a Free Checked Bag on Delta?

1. Cabin Class & Fare Type

Delta’s free checked baggage allowance depends heavily on the type of fare and cabin class you book.

  • First Class, Delta Premium Select, Delta One®:
    ✓ 2 free checked bags (up to 70 lbs each)

  • Delta Comfort+® and Main Cabin (select international):
    ✓ 1 free checked bag (up to 50 lbs) on many international routes.

  • Basic Economy (all routes):
    ✗ No free checked bags. You’ll pay $30+ per bag.


2. Frequent Flyer Status (SkyMiles Medallion® Program)

Delta rewards loyal customers with perks like free baggage.

  • Silver Medallion: 1 free checked bag

  • Gold Medallion: 2 free checked bags

  • Platinum & Diamond Medallion: 3 free checked bags

Status is applied per person on the reservation. So if you’re a Gold Medallion member flying with your family, they may still have to pay unless they have their own status.

3. Delta Credit Card Holders

Having an eligible Delta SkyMiles® credit card offers a significant benefit:

  • 1 free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation.

Eligible Cards Include:

  • Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Note: The card must be used to book the flight to activate the benefit.

Need help booking with your credit card benefit? Call ‪**+1-833-654-7126‬ or ‪+1-888-80-31-162**‬ for direct assistance.


Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees on Delta Flights

1. Use a Delta Co-Branded Credit Card

Simply having the right credit card can eliminate checked bag fees. If you fly Delta more than once per year, the savings can be substantial.

2. Earn or Maintain SkyMiles Medallion Status

If you’re a frequent flyer, working your way up the loyalty tiers can result in multiple baggage perks and not just on Delta, but also its SkyTeam® partners.

3. Book a Higher Cabin Class

While it’s a bigger upfront expense, sometimes booking Comfort+ or First Class includes more baggage and other perks, offsetting the cost.

4. Fly Internationally

Many Delta international routes include at least one free checked bag, even in economy. Always check the route-specific baggage allowance before booking.


Exceptions & Special Cases

Military Travelers

Delta honors U.S. active-duty military personnel with an enhanced baggage allowance:

  • On orders: Up to 5 free checked bags (100 lbs each)

  • Leisure travel: Up to 2 free checked bags (50 lbs each) in Main Cabin; 3 in First Class.

Delta Vacations® Bookings

Booking your trip as a package through Delta Vacations may qualify you for added baggage perks, depending on the destination and promo.



FAQs: Free Checked Bags on Delta Airlines

Q1: How much does Delta charge for a checked bag if it’s not free?
A: Typically $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second (domestic). Oversize or overweight bags cost more.

Q2: Is baggage included on Delta Basic Economy tickets?
A: No, Basic Economy fares do not include a free checked bag—unless you're flying an international route where Delta includes baggage by default.

Q3: Can I prepay for my checked baggage?
A: Yes. Delta allows you to pay for checked bags online during or after booking, often at a slightly reduced rate compared to airport pricing.

Q4: Does Delta include a carry-on bag for free?
A: Yes, all Delta fares (even Basic Economy) include one free carry-on and one personal item.

Q5: I booked with miles, do I still get a free bag?
A: Only if your cabin class, SkyMiles status, or credit card qualifies you for the benefit. Using miles alone does not add baggage perks.

Q6: Can I call Delta to confirm baggage allowance?
A: Absolutely. For baggage inquiries or help with flight booking, call Delta Airlines at +1-833-654-7126‬ or +1-888-80-31-162‬.


Conclusion: Know Before You Go - Save on Baggage Fees

Understanding Delta Airlines’ checked baggage policy before booking your flight can save you stress, time, and money. Whether you qualify for a free bag through your fare type, loyalty status, or credit card, it pays to plan ahead.

If you’re unsure about your allowance or want to confirm your eligibility for free checked bags, don’t hesitate to speak to a Delta travel expert. For assistance with flight booking, baggage rules, or managing your reservation, contact Delta directly at +1-833-654-7126‬ or +1-888-80-31-162‬.


    • Related Articles

    • +1-833-654-7126 Delta Airlines Checked Bag Fee

      ‪‪+1-833-654-7126 Delta Airlines Checked Bag Fee TL;DR: Checked baggage fees can significantly impact the total cost of your flight. Understanding Delta Airlines’ checked bag policy before booking can help travelers save time, money, and stress. In ...
    • +1-833-654-7126 How Much Money Does It Cost to Check a Bag on Delta?

      +1-833-654-7126 How Much Money Does It Cost to Check a Bag on Delta? Delta Airlines’ checked bag fees typically start at $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second on domestic flights. However, prices can vary based on route, fare class, frequent ...
    • +1-833-654-7126 How to Avoid Bag Fees on Delta

      +1-833-654-7126 How to Avoid Bag Fees on Delta Airline baggage fees can add up quickly, turning an affordable ticket into an unexpected expense. Delta Airlines, like many carriers, charges for checked bags depending on route, fare class, and loyalty ...
    • +1-833-654-7126 United Airlines Book a Flight: Your Complete Guide to Hassle-Free Travel

      +1-833-654-7126 United Airlines Book a Flight: Your Complete Guide to Hassle-Free Travel Booking a flight can be overwhelming with multiple airlines, pricing confusion, hidden fees, and last-minute changes, travelers often find themselves lost in the ...
    • +1-833-654-7126‬‬‬ Can I Prepay for Checked Bags on Delta?

      +1-833-654-7126‬‬‬ Can I Prepay for Checked Bags on Delta? Air travel comes with a variety of fees, and baggage charges are among the most common. If you're planning a trip with Delta Airlines, you may be wondering: Can I prepay for checked bags on ...