+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 status. If you’re planning your next trip, knowing how to avoid these extra costs can save you hundreds.
You can avoid Delta bag fees by leveraging elite status, choosing the right fare, using eligible credit cards, or joining loyalty programs. Read on to learn practical, expert-backed tips for your next Delta flight booking.
Let’s face it hidden costs are frustrating. You find a great deal on a Delta flight, but then comes the baggage fee at checkout. Depending on the route, Delta Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second on domestic flights. For international travel, fees vary by destination and cabin class.
For families, frequent travelers, or even occasional fliers, these costs quickly escalate. What was a $300 flight can easily turn into $360 or more per person.
This growing concern has led many savvy travelers to search for ways to avoid baggage fees without compromising comfort or convenience.
Imagine this: You’ve booked a Delta flight for your family of four. Everything fits your budget until you realize you’ll be paying an extra $240 round trip just for luggage. Suddenly, your trip costs spiral, and budgeting for meals, tours, and accommodation gets tight.
Worse, the policies can be confusing. Some fare classes include bags, some don’t. Your coworker tells you they got their first bag free, but you didn’t. Why? The answer lies in understanding Delta’s fare system, credit card partnerships, and SkyMiles membership benefits.
If you’re not informed, you could be spending money you didn’t have to.
Proven Ways to Avoid Bag Fees on Delta Airlines
Delta doesn’t advertise all the ways you can save on baggage costs—but they’re there. These are the most effective, expert-recommended strategies:
One of the simplest ways to avoid bag fees is by using a Delta SkyMiles credit card.
Eligible Cards:
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Benefit: Cardholders (and up to 8 companions on the same reservation) receive the first checked bag free on Delta-operated flights.
Tip: You must use the card when booking the flight for the benefit to apply.
Delta’s Basic Economy fares do not include free checked bags. But the next fare tier, Main Cabin, typically allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free (no checked baggage).
If you book Delta Comfort+, First Class, or Delta One, at least one checked bag is included sometimes more.
Evaluate: Sometimes paying slightly more upfront can save more than paying bag fees separately.
Delta’s frequent flyer program offers escalating benefits based on Medallion Status:
Silver Medallion: 1 free checked bag
Gold Medallion: 2 free checked bags
Platinum Medallion: 2 free checked bags
Diamond Medallion: 3 free checked bags
These benefits apply regardless of fare class, as long as you’re flying Delta or a SkyTeam partner.
Pro Tip: You can earn status faster through partner promotions and co-branded card spend thresholds.
Sometimes when redeeming SkyMiles or applying a Medallion Upgrade Certificate, Delta includes one or more free checked bags, depending on the fare class you’re upgraded to.
Strategy: Use points not just for seat upgrades, but for fare classes that offer baggage perks.
If you don't want to mess with loyalty programs or credit cards, consider this travel hack: pack light.
Delta allows:
One carry-on bag
One personal item
If you pack strategically, you can avoid checked bags altogether.
Tip: Use a soft-sided carry-on and a roomy backpack. Invest in travel-sized essentials and compressible packing cubes.
Active-duty U.S. military members traveling on orders are allowed:
Up to 5 free checked bags (limit of 100 lbs each)
If traveling for personal reasons:
Up to 2 free checked bags in Basic Economy
Up to 3 in other fare classes
Have your military ID and orders ready at check-in.
If you're flying internationally on a Delta-operated segment but booked through a partner (like Air France or KLM), you may be subject to their baggage policies, which sometimes include more free bags.
Always double-check the baggage allowance based on both the operating and marketing carrier.
Sometimes the easiest way to clarify your options is to talk to a live Delta agent. They can explain fare differences, confirm baggage allowances, and even suggest alternatives.
Delta Airlines Customer Support:
Call: +1-833-654-7126 or +1-888-80-31-162
They can also help apply your SkyMiles, check for promo fares, or confirm military benefits.
Q: How much does Delta charge for bags?
A: Domestic flights typically cost $30 for the first checked bag, and $40 for the second. International routes vary by destination and fare class.
Q: Does Basic Economy include any bags on Delta?
A: Basic Economy includes only a carry-on and personal item. Checked bags must be paid for separately.
Q: What’s the best credit card to avoid Delta baggage fees?
A: The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is a solid choice for most travelers looking to avoid the first bag fee.
Q: How do I know if my flight includes a free bag?
A: Check the fare class during booking or call Delta customer service at +1-833-654-7126 for confirmation.
Q: Can I get free baggage through SkyMiles without elite status?
A: Not directly. But redeeming miles for higher fare classes may include baggage.
Baggage fees don’t have to be an unavoidable cost when flying with Delta Airlines. With a bit of planning and knowledge, you can travel smarter saving money and reducing stress. Whether it’s through the right credit card, a SkyMiles membership, or strategic packing, these tips can keep your next flight budget-friendly.
For questions about your specific flight or to get help booking a fare that includes baggage, contact Delta at **+1-833-654-7126 or +1-888-80-31-162.