#Manage Money
Easy Ways to Avoid Delta Baggage Fees
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Delta baggage fees
Avoiding Delta baggage fees can save you money on your travels. Here are some easy ways to minimize or eliminate these fees:
Bag type | Size and weight limits | Baggage fee |
Personal item | Size: undisclosed, but Delta references items such as a purse, briefcase, camera bag, or laptop bagWeight: N/A | Free |
Carry-on | Size: 22 in x 14 in x 9 in Weight: N/A | Free |
First checked bag | Size: 62 linear inches (H + W + D) or lessWeight: 50 lbs or less | $30 |
Second checked bag | Size: 62 linear inches (H + W + D) or lessWeight: 50 lbs or less | $40 |
Third checked bag | Size: 62 linear inches (H + W + D) or lessWeight: 50 lbs or less | $150 |
Fourth or more checked bags | Size: 62 linear inches (H + W + D) or lessWeight: 50 lbs or less | $200 each |
Oversized bag | Size: 63 to 80 linear inchesWeight: N/A | $200 |
Overweight bag 70 pounds or less | Size: N/AWeight: 51 to 70 lbs | $100 |
Overweight bag 71 pounds or more | Size: N/AWeight: 71 to 100 lbs | $200 |
- Pack Lightly: Delta allows one free personal item and one free carry-on bag. Make the most of this by packing efficiently and avoiding checked baggage altogether.
- Use a Delta-branded Credit Card: Some Delta credit cards offer benefits such as free checked bags for the cardholder and eligible companions. Check the specific terms and conditions of the card you have or are considering.
- Achieve Elite Status: Delta’s frequent flyer program, SkyMiles, has different elite status levels. Passengers with elite status may be entitled to free checked bags. Accumulate qualifying miles to achieve Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond Medallion status.
- Fly First Class or Delta One: If you’re willing to splurge on a premium cabin, you may be entitled to complimentary checked baggage. Be sure to check the specific baggage policies for the class of service you book.
- Military Exemptions: Active U.S. military personnel and their dependents may be eligible for waived baggage fees. Ensure you have the necessary military ID and check Delta’s military baggage policy for details.
- Purchase a Higher Fare Class: Some fare classes include complimentary checked bags. While these tickets may be more expensive initially, they can be a cost-effective option if you plan on checking luggage.
- Fly with Status Partners: Delta is part of the SkyTeam alliance, and certain partner airlines may honor Delta’s baggage policies. If you have status with a partner airline, you may be entitled to baggage benefits.
- Pack Smartly: Avoid exceeding weight and size limits for carry-on bags to prevent unexpected fees. Also, check Delta’s baggage policy for any updates or changes before your trip.
- Utilize Same-Day Change: If you need to change your flight last minute, consider using Delta’s Same-Day Change feature. Some fare classes with same-day changes may include checked baggage at no additional cost.
- Check for Promotions: Delta occasionally runs promotions or offers discounts on baggage fees. Keep an eye on Delta’s official website, newsletters, or social media channels for any ongoing promotions.
Remember to verify the current policies on Delta’s official website, as they may be subject to change.