+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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
While it’s a bigger upfront expense, sometimes booking Comfort+ or First Class includes more baggage and other perks, offsetting the cost.
Many Delta international routes include at least one free checked bag, even in economy. Always check the route-specific baggage allowance before booking.
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.
Booking your trip as a package through Delta Vacations may qualify you for added baggage perks, depending on the destination and promo.
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.
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.