Have you booked your flight ticket with Delta Airlines to your next international destination, but are worried about baggage allowances? If so, you don’t have to worry anymore, you are at the right place. Understanding the baggage allowances is necessary to enjoy hassle-free and pocket-friendly travel.
Before navigating to catch your flight, ensure to pack your bags and know all the crucial aspects of Delta Airlines International Baggage Fees and allowances. Explore this blog till the end and get insights into Delta baggage allowances, fees, and more to enjoy a comfortable journey.
New Delta Baggage Rules (2025 Update)
As per new updates regarding the Delta Airlines baggage policy 2025, there are some new strict rules regarding the baggage drop-off timings, baggage fees, size allowances, and so on. Have a look at the following aspects to have a better understanding of the new rules:
Domestic Flights – 45 Minute Bag Drop-Off Deadline
The new baggage rule of Delta Airlines mentions that the airline has imposed a new strict rule of 45 45-minute baggage drop-off deadline for travellers flying on domestic flights. Check out the following points as well:
For domestic flight travellers, they need to drop off their baggage at the airport at least 45 minutes before the flight departure time.
However, for the Delta baggage policy on international flights and at busier airports, travellers need to drop off their bags at least 60 minutes before the flight departure time.
Recent Increase in Delta Checked Bag Fees
Recently, Delta airline has slightly increased its checked baggage fees for domestic flights. The new fee structure is as follows:
First checked baggage: $35 (increase of $5)
Second checked baggage: $45 (increase of $5)
Some travellers can avoid paying these extra charges through some options, like Delta SkyMiles credit cards, Medallion status members, and passengers flying in premium cabin fare classes.
Updated Policies on Oversized & Special Items
As per the Delta baggage policy, oversized and special baggage, like musical instruments or sports equipment, remains subject to strict rules with additional charges applicable based on the item’s weight and size. Take a look at the insights below:
Oversized baggage: Bags measuring between 63 and 80 linear inches typically incur an additional fee of $200 for domestic flights.
Overweight baggage: Bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds will incur an additional charge of $100. Additionally, the bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds will cost an extra $200.
However, the charges and allowance for some items, such as sports gear, might vary. It is advisable that travellers must directly get in touch with an Airline executive to get permission in advance.
What is Delta Airlines Baggage Policy for 2025
Delta airline baggage policy and allowance depend on multiple factors like flight fare, flight route, travel class and much more. As per the Delta baggage policy, the airline allows all travellers to carry one carry-on bag and one personal item for free, regardless of their destination and ticket type. Take a look at the aspects below related to baggage allowance as per domestic and international flights:
Delta Domestic Baggage Policy
Take a look at the rules given below that are applicable to the flights flying within the United States, which includes Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands:
Carry-on Bag
The travellers are allowed to travel with one personal item such as a laptop bag, a small backpack, or a purse. Just ensure that the personal item can easily fit under the seat in front of you.
The airline also allows travellers to fly with one carry-on bag for free. However, the dimension of the bag must not exceed 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 in) or 115 centimetres (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including the handles and wheels.
Checked Baggage
For passengers flying in main cabin fares, the charge for the first checked baggage is $35, and the second bag is $45.
Th standard weight limit is 23 kg (50 pounds) per bag.
The bags weighing between 24 and 32 kg (51 to 70 pounds) will cost an additional charge of $100.
Additionally, for the bags weighing between 33 and 46 kg (71 to 100 pounds), an extra $200 will be charged.
The bags of size measuring between 63 to 115 linear inches will charge $200.
The airline allows travellers to check in up to 10 bags.
Delta Airlines International Baggage Policy
As per Delta international baggage allowance, the rules vary depending upon the destinations. For various routes like Asia, the travellers can carry up to 2 checked bags for free. However, there are some specific allowances that apply to some regions, like Europe, Mexico, and Central America. Take a look at the following important aspects related to Delta’s international baggage rules:
Carry-on Bag
Travellers on international Delta flights are allowed to bring one personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack, that fits under the seat in front of them. In addition, one carry-on bag is permitted free of charge. The bag’s total dimensions must not exceed 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 in) or 115 cm (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Some international airports may apply weight limits of 7–10 kg (15–22 lb) for carry-on items, so travellers should check local regulations before departure.
Checked Baggage
On many international routes, especially to certain parts of Africa and Asia, the airline allows two free checked baggage.
For the flights between the U.S., Canada, and Europe, the first checked baggage is free. However, for the second one, it can cost approximately $100.
The airline usually charges $30 for the first bag and $55 for the second bag for flights to Mexico.
The standard weight limit for the checked baggage is 50 pounds (23 kg).
For the overweight and oversized bags, the charges depend on the destination. However, usually the airline charges approximately between $100 and $200 for the overweight bags.
What Are Delta’s Hidden Baggage Fees?
Actually, there are no “hidden” fees in the Delta baggage policy. However, sometimes the travellers might incur some unexpected costs if they don’t know all the crucial terms and conditions related to baggage allowances and their flight ticket-specific rules. The most common surprise fees come from checking on a Basic Economy flight ticket that exceeds the allowed baggage weight or size, or not adhering to ticket or destination-specific rules.
What is the Baggage Allowance for Overweight Bags?
As mentioned under the Delta baggage policy, the airline has specific rules and allowances for carry-on and checked luggage, depending upon multiple aspects like flight route, fare type, ticket travel class, etc. Go through the aspects to understand the baggage overweight rules:
Delta Carry-on Bag Rules
According to Delta’s carry-on weight allowance rules, the airline does not have any specific weight limit for carry-on bags on most of its flights. The essential thing mentioned by the airline is that the carry-on bag can be lifted up easily and stored in the space in front of the seat or in the overhead bin.
In case any traveller brings a heavyweight or oversized carry-on bag, the airline authority might ask them to put it in the check-in section if there is no space available on the flight. This can also lead to extra charges depending on your flight fare and destination.
Delta Checked Bag Rules
For the overweight checked bags, the airline decided the fees based on your flight route and travel class. However, as per the Delta check-in baggage rules, the airline doesn’t accept any bags weighing more than 100 pounds (46kg). Check out the following aspects related to baggage allowance:
Domestic Flights:
Baggage Weight
Extra Charges
24 kg to 32kg
extra $100 per bag
33 kg to 46kg
extra $200 per bag
International Flight:
Flight Destination
Baggage Weight
Extra Charges
Flights to/from North Africa and Europe
24 kg to 32kg
Extra $200 per bag
Flights to other destinations including Europe
Bags over 32 kgs
Not allowed
What is the Baggage Allowance for Excess Bags?
If you are travelling with extra baggages on your next travel with Delta, you must checkout the allowances and fees to avoid any hassle. As per the airline rules, take a look at the points below to understand the Delta extra baggage charges:
Carry-on Baggage Allowance for Excess Bags
Delta airline allows only one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. In case any passenger needs to travel with extra baggage, they will then have to put that into the check-in section at the airport gates.
Checked Baggage Allowance for Excess Bags
Travel type
Excess Bag
Fee
Domestic
3rd bag
$150
4 to 10 bags
$200
International
3 to 10 bags
$125 – $285
Delta Baggage Allowances for Special Items
Here’s the information regarding the Delta baggage allowance for the special items. If any passenger is travelling with any special item, make sure to check the following aspects:
Checked bags: Most of the sports equipment, such as Skis, golf clubs, or hockey gear, is considered standard checked baggage.
Extra fee: In case the size or weight of these products exceeds the allowance, the traveller will have to pay extra fees.
Bicycles: The items must be in a hard-sided case, and many require extra fees.
Surfboards: Depending on the destination, the airline might charge fees, and rules will apply.
Packaging: Any sports or special items must be properly packed to avoid any damage.
Musical Instruments (Carry-On & Checked Options)
For smaller musical instruments like violins and guitars, they must be carried as a carry-on item and can easily fit into the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
For the fragile or valuable items. Travellers must ensure to buy an extra seat for safety and security purposes. The weight of the instrument must not exceed 165lbs.
Passengers travelling with larger items can put their instruments in the checked baggage section. Moreover, extra charges can also be applicable based on overweight and oversized rules.
Despite the way the instruments are transported, the travellers must ensure to pack all the items in the hard side case to ensure safety.
Medical Devices & Mobility Aids (Wheelchairs, CPAP, Oxygen Tanks)
As per the Delta airline rules, the airline allows most of the medical devices and mobility aids like crutches, scooters, and wheelchairs for free.
Additionally, assistive devices don’t count under the carry-on allowance.
The airline allows the carry of CPAP machines in addition to standard carry-on and personal items.
The airline applies some specific terms and conditions for portable oxygen concentrators (POCs), and the traveller must ensure to notify the airline in advance.
Always remember that all the medical devices and mobility aid items are subject to standard security check-ups.
Fragile and Valuable Items
As per Delta carry-on and personal item rules, the airline strongly advises passengers to carry valuable and fragile products such as artworks and electronic items in their carry-on bag.
The Delta baggage policy mentions they have limited liability for damage to fragile items carried in checked baggage.
The airline authority might ask the travellers to sign a limited release tag if they are travelling with a fragile item, indicating that they accept the risk of damage during transportation.
You must ensure to buy extra travel insurance if you are travelling with expensive items.
Firearms and Ammunition Policy
Under the Delta baggage allowance, it is mentioned that firearms should be transported in checked baggage and declared at check-in.
The travellers must ensure to pack the firearms in hard-sided containers.
You must pack the item in the original container with a secure box while transferring checked items.
According to the Delta baggage weight limit, the airline allows ammunition weight up to 11 pounds.
While carrying any firearms or ammunition, ensure to check out all the terms and conditions of the TSA.
Child and Infant Items
The airline allows travellers to travel with strollers and car seats for free. It can be checked either at the gate or at the airport counter.
The diaper bags are not counted as carry-on allowance items.
Infants travelling on a lap without tickets don’t have their own separate luggage allowance. Their items must be added to the adults’ luggage allowance itself.
If any infant is travelling on an international flight, with 10% of adult fare will get their own checked baggage allowance.
Military Baggage Allowances
Delta airline offers an extra baggage allowance to active US military members.
The active military members will usually get a larger baggage weight and size allowance per bag.
If any military personnel are travelling for their personal reasons, they also get a higher baggage allowance than usual.
It is mandatory for every military personnel to have their ID handy to show at the security check-in points.
If any Dependent of the military members is travelling without the active member, they will be eligible to carry the general baggage allowance only.
Rules for Pets Travelling as Checked Baggage in Delta
According to Delta Airlines Baggage Restrictions and Rules, the airline doesn’t allow the animals to fly in the check-in sections. The animals can either fly in the cabin or in the cargo section of the aircraft. Take a look at the following crucial aspects if you are planning to fly with your furry friend with Delta Airlines:
Pets Travelling as Carry-ons:
The airline allows small dogs, cats, and household birds to travel with the passengers in the cabin section. Ensure they meet the weight and size requirements as per the Delta pet policy.
If the pet is travelling in a carrier, ensure that the carrier can easily fit under the seat in front of you.
It is mandatory for the travellers to make a reservation for their pets in advance as Delta Airlines has a limited allowance for pets.
Pets Travelling in Cargo Section:
Larger pets that cannot fit in carriers are required to travel in the cargo section.
As per Delta Air Lines’ pet policy, the pets must be transported in a specially designed and well-ventilated carrier that meets all the requirements as per IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards.
Moreover, there are specific weight limits and temperature guidelines for animal shipments. Usually, 20°F and 80°F are maintained for the animals.
The passengers need to have a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian for the dogs and cats within 10 days of travelling.
Some Crucial Pet Travel Guidelines
The airline restricts short-nosed (brachycephalic) animals due to possible health risks during transportation.
It is necessary for all the pets to meet the health and document requirements, which can include the details of the vaccination and health certificates.
Passengers travelling with pets are required to complete their flight check-ins through the ticket counters and not via self-check-in kiosks.
What Items are Restricted in the Delta Baggage Policy?
As per TSA AND International laws, Delta Airlines restricts passengers from traveling with certain items that can be harmful to passengers. Primarily, the airline restricts travellers from flying with Hazardous items, weapons, and more. Have a look at the following points to have a detailed understanding of the restrictions by the airlines:
Restricted Items in Carry-On Bags
Carry-on restrictions are imposed due to safety and security reasons. Additionally, the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule is applicable to carry-on bags. Have a look at the following aspects to understand the restrictions to follow while travelling with carry-on items:
Sharp items like ice axes, box cutters, razors, blades, picks, and knives are not allowed. However scissors with blades less than 4 inches are generally allowed to carry.
Things that can be utilised as bludgeons, like baseball bats, hockey sticks, ski poles, and golf clubs, can be checked in.
The airline doesn’t allow travellers to fly with pepper spray or mace in their carry-on bags.
Gasoline, Dynamite, and fireworks are not allowed during travel with Delta Airlines.
Electronic items like e-cigarettes can be carried in carry-on bags and are not allowed to recharge in the aircraft.
Restricted Items in Checked Bags
Checked bags rules are less restrictive in comparison to carry-on bag rules, but still have some prohibited items due to safety concerns. Have a look at the following aspects to have a better understanding:
Any flammable or explosive items like fireworks, Dynamite, or lighter fluid are not allowed for transportation.
Things like bleach, chlorine, and liquid fertilizers are also restricted.
Any hazardous item, like corrosives, compressed gases, and poisons, is also not allowed.
Beverages having more than 70% alcohol by volume are also not permitted to be carried while flying with Delta Airlines.
Loose or spare batteries are not allowed for flight check-ins, and if necessary to carry, keep them in the carry-on bag.
Delta Airlines Liquids Policy (TSA 3-1-1 Rule)
For carry-on bags on Delta flights within or departing from the US, TSA has the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, aerosols, and gels. Check out the details below:
3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less: Each liquid container must be travel-sized.
1 quart-sized bag: All liquid containers must fit inside one clear, resealable, quart-sized plastic bag.
1 bag per passenger: Only one such bag is allowed per person.
Delta airline applies some exceptions to the 3-1-1 rules, which include medically required liquids, Breast milk, and baby formula.
Destination-Specific Restrictions (International Travel)
For international flights, the rules and restrictions vary depending on the destination you are flying to due to different customs rules and import regulations. Travellers must always ensure to check the airline-specific rules as per their flying destination. Check out the following aspects:
Many international carriers and countries allow lower carry-on bag allowances in comparison to Delta’s baggage policy.
Usually, TSA offers a Secure, Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) exemption for duty-free liquids that are brought within 48 hours. Not every country follows the same rules.
Some agricultural products, food items, and other items may also be restricted from entering a specific foreign country.
Note: To get more specific details on restricted items or to know your destination-specific rules, get in touch with Delta airline executives or Flightaura travel experts at +1-866-673-8391.
Delta Airlines Missing, Delayed, or Damaged Luggage Policy
Sometimes, due to uncertain circumstances, the luggage of the passengers might get delayed, damaged, or lost. In certain scenarios, the most important thing that travellers must do is to report and file a case with the airline authority regarding the baggage mishandling. To deal with such scenarios efficiently, have a look at the following aspects to get a better understanding:
How to File a Lost Baggage Claim with Delta?
As soon as you realise your bag is delayed or lost, find the nearest Delta baggage counter at the airport. Ensure not to step out of the airport without filing a report.
You will have to provide details like tag receipt, flight confirmation number, boarding pass, and other travel details. The airline executive will create a case for your complaint and will provide you with a case reference number.
If you have the Delta app on your device, you can track your bag status over there, or you can also get details by connecting with our executives at +1-866-673-8391. If you find your baggage is on the wrong flight, the airline executive will guide you through the process to claim your baggage.
How to Track Missing or Delayed Bags?
If you want to track your delayed or missing baggage, follow the steps below:
You will be able to track your luggage in real time via the “Track bags” section present on the Delta airline manage bookings section, or by directly getting in touch with airline executives over the phone.
After navigating to the Delta airline official website, you can enter the file reference number to check the status of your baggage.
Delta Compensation for Lost or Delayed Luggage
Delayed bags: If you spend reasonable incidental costs during the wait, including clothing or toiletries, Delta must pay you. If your bag is considerably delayed (more than 12 hours for domestic flights), the US Department of Transportation mandates that your checked bag cost be automatically refunded.
Lost bags: Although the precise period may differ, a bag is usually deemed lost after being missing for five to fourteen days. After a loss is reported, Delta will pay you up to the maximum responsibility limit, which is $4,700 per passenger for domestic flights.
How to Report Damaged Baggage to Delta?
Arrive at the airport right away. If at all feasible, you should notify a Delta baggage service representative about the damage before you leave the airport.
After seeing the damage, an agent will assist you in submitting a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Repair, replacement, or reimbursement for the depreciated value could be granted to you.
You can submit a claim online on Delta’s website if you depart before reporting; however, there are deadlines (24 hours for domestic travel and 7 days for foreign travel).
Delta Lost & Found Contact Information
Online lost and found reporting: You can use the online lost and found portal to report any goods you left behind in the airport terminal or aboard the aircraft.
Telephone assistance: You can contact us for basic inquiries about Delta’s baggage service at +1-866-673-8391.
Delta Airlines Baggage Guarantee & Compensation
To get insights into the Delta Guarantee and Compensation, read the points given below:
How Does Delta’s 20-Minute Baggage Guarantee Work?
For domestic flights, Delta Air Lines guarantees a 20-minute Baggage Guarantee, which ensures that checked luggage will be delivered to the carousel promptly. You can get extra SkyMiles for the inconvenience if your suitcase isn’t on the carousel at the gate within 20 minutes of the flight arriving.
When the airplane door is opened at the arrival gate, the clock begins to tick.
When the luggage is shown on the baggage claim carousel, the time stops.
It covers domestic flights that are advertised and run by Delta and Delta Connection within the 50 states and Puerto Rico.
If Delta operates the last leg of the trip, code-share flights are eligible.
How Much Compensation Does Delta Offer?
Compensation for the baggage guarantee by Delta Airlines:
Bonus SkyMiles: If the 20-minute window is over, passengers will be eligible to ask for 2,500 bonus SkyMiles.
Equivalent refund: This compensation by Delta Airlines is often considered an effective refund of the baggage fee to the travellers who have paid extra for bag check-ins.
Automatic baggage fee refunds: The US Department of Transportation (DOT) also requires that you be refunded for your checked luggage fee if your bag gets delayed or is not delivered within 12 hours.
How to Claim Compensation Under Delta’s Baggage Guarantee?
Request Online claim: You must navigate to Delta airline official website and request for your claim through compensation form within 3 days of flight arrival.
No compensation for multiple bags: Travellers have a limitation of requesting one compensation for each direction of travel, regardless of the number of bag check-ins.
Submit it: You must ensure to fill in all the details accurately and submit it on the official website portal.
Receive claim: If the airline approves your claim for the flight delay and eligibility for compensation, you will receive 2,500 bonus SkyMiles through Delta Airlines.
Exceptions & Restrictions in the Delta Baggage Policy
Here are some restrictions and exceptional cases of this policy:
This policy doesn’t guarantee international flight bookings.
Operational disruptions: This guarantee is not applicable in cases that happen outside the Delta airline control, like severe weather changes or baggage system malfunctions, etc.
Overweight, oversized, and special items are not included under this policy.
This guarantee doesn’t take charge of compensation for the damaged, lost, or pilfered contents or luggage. Compensation for such scenarios falls under the standard baggage liability policies.
This policy is also not applicable to fragile, perishable, or precious items in the checked baggage.
Tips to Avoid Paying Delta Baggage Fees
While travelling, every passenger looks for ways to avoid paying hefty baggage charges to the airport authority. If you are one of them, then you are at the right place. Take a walk through the following points to get you hands on some useful tips using which you can avoid paying any extra charges for your baggage:
Travel with a carry-on
This is one of the simplest way to avoid paying any extra fees to the airport authority. Delta policy mentions that travellers can easily fly with one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Just ensure to adhere to the carry-on limitations to avoid any extra fees. Even basic economy fares are also eligible to fly with carry-on bags for free.
Free Checked Bags With Delta Credit Cards
With Delta SkyMiles, you will get a free first checked baggage benefit for the Delta credit card holders and are eligible for up to eight companions on the same. This benefit is applicable to all the popular cards, like the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card.
Delta SkyMiles Elite Status Baggage Allowances
Passengers can easily earn elite Medallion status by travelling with Delta airline frequently. This status offers various benefits, including free checked baggage with higher tiers of allowances. Check out the following points:
Silver Medallion: on the flight within the US and Canada, the travellers can carry one checked baggage for free.
Gold, Platinum, and Diamond Medallion: Travellers can carry one to three checked baggage for free depending on their destination.
Additional weight allowance: Medallion members often have a higher weight allowance, usually 70 pounds per bag on domestic flights.
Upgrade Your Ticket for Free Checked Bags
If your travel budget allows, always try to buy higher fare tickets that usually offer additional luggage allowance. Buying a premium cabin ticket will generally offer a higher or completely free baggage allowance to the travellers. Check out the allowances that come with higher fare tickets:
First Class and Delta One: Travellers can get a minimum of 2 free checked bags with an additional weight allowance of up to 70 pounds for each bag.
Delta premium select: This fare class incorporates two free checked baggage on most routes.
Wrapping Up
Overall, understanding and adhering to all the crucial intricacies of the Delta Baggage Policy is necessary to ensure and enjoy a hassle-free and smooth journey. Usually, Delta Airlines has a generous baggage allowance for every traveller, but is strict with the baggage weight and size allowance. Any traveller exceeding the allowance will be liable to pay extra fees to the airline authority. So if you still have any doubts about your baggage allowances or need help with bag check-ins, don’t hesitate to connect with Flight Aura travel experts at +1-866-673-8391. They are available around the clock and will be happy to assist you.
Also Read: While checking baggage limits, don’t forget to review the Delta Airlines Check-in Policy to ensure smooth travel planning.
As per the Delta baggage policy for international tickets, the airline allows travellers to fly with one carry-on bag, one personal item, and two checked baggages for free.
If you have Diamond Medallion elite status, are flying in Delta One, or flying on a specific International route, you will be eligible to check in 3 bags.
Yes, as per Delta baggage allowances, if any passenger exceeds the number of bags, bag weight, or size allowances, the airline will charge an additional fee from the travellers.
Delta Airline allows two free bag check-ins. However, the allowance depends upon multiple aspects like flight route, destination, travel class, fare type, and more.
Delta’s international baggage fees vary by route and fare type. On most routes, travellers get one or two checked bags free. For additional bags, the fee usually ranges from $75 to $100 for the second bag, and $100–$200 for overweight or oversized items.
Usually, Delta Airlines doesn’t charge on the basis of extra baggage cost per kg, but has certain fees for baggage for specific weight limits. For bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds, a charge $100. The bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds will cost around $200, and any bag weighing more than 100 pounds is not acceptable.
Delta airline allows travellers to fly with one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. There is no free allowance for the checked baggage. The traveller will have to pay minimal charges to fly with any checked bag.
