The short answer
- Personal item: free; a purse, laptop bag or similar item that fits under the seat in front of you.
- Carry-on: free on standard fares, up to 22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 35 × 23 cm).
- Checked bag: first bag $45; up to 50 lb (23 kg) and 62 linear inches.
- Delta Main Basic: Main Basic fares include a full-size carry-on and a personal item, the same as Main Cabin. You board last, so bins may be full and your bag may be gate-checked for free.
Delta bag fees at a glance
| Bag | Price | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Personal item | Free | Must fit under the seat |
| Carry-on bag | Free | 22 × 14 × 9 in |
| 1st checked bag | $45 | Up to 50 lb / 23 kg |
| 2nd checked bag | $55 | Up to 62 linear in |
| Overweight bag | 51–70 lb (23–32 kg): $100. 71–99 lb: $200. 100 lb and over not accepted. | |
| Oversize bag | 63–80 linear in (161–203 cm): $200. Over 80 in not accepted. |
Standard fees for Delta’s main routes as of our last check. Elite status, co-branded cards and some fares include bags.
Checked bags
Each checked bag can weigh up to 50 lb (23 kg) and measure up to 62 linear inches (157 cm), length + width + height. Delta One and First Class allow 70 lb (32 kg).
Full details: Delta Checked Bag Size & Weight Limit.
Delta carry-on and personal item size
- Carry-on
- 22 × 14 × 9 in
- 56 × 35 × 23 cm · free
- Personal item
- Must fit under the seat
- free
Rules to know
- Delta doesn’t publish personal item dimensions. It must fit under the seat in front of you; a bag around 17 × 13 × 8 in is a safe size.
- On Delta Connection flights with 50 seats or fewer, only personal items go in the cabin. Roller bags are gate-checked free with a pink Gate Claim tag.
- Medallion members and Delta SkyMiles Gold, Platinum and Reserve Amex cardmembers get their first checked bag free; the main cardmember also gets a free second bag on domestic Delta-operated flights.
- Checked bag fees rose to $45 / $55 for tickets bought from April 8, 2026 (earlier tickets: $35 / $45).
Will your bag fit Delta?
Measure your bag at its widest points. Most carry-on bags are 21–22.5 in tall with wheels.
Bags that fit Delta
- Best 22x14x9 Carry-On Luggage (Fits Every US Airline)A 22 × 14 × 9 in bag fits Delta’s carry-on limit.
- Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks35–45 L travel backpacks built to the carry-on limit.
- Best Personal Item Bags & Backpacks for PlanesBackpacks and totes that slide under any seat.
- Best Underseat LuggageSmall wheeled bags that go under the seat.
Delta compared with similar airlines
| Airline | 1st checked bag | 2nd checked bag | Checked weight | Lowest fare carry-on |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | $45 | $55 | 50 lb23 kg | Carry-on includedDelta Main Basic |
| American Airlines | $50 ($45 online) | $60 ($55 online) | 50 lb23 kg | Carry-on includedAmerican Basic Economy |
| United | $50 ($45 prepaid) | $60 ($55 prepaid) | 50 lb23 kg | Personal item onlyUnited Basic Economy |
| Southwest | $45 | $55 | 50 lb23 kg | Carry-on includedSouthwest Basic |
Frequently asked questions
How much is a checked bag on Delta?
First bag: $45. Second bag: $55.
What is the weight limit for checked bags on Delta?
50 lb (23 kg) in economy. 51–70 lb (23–32 kg): $100. 71–99 lb: $200. 100 lb and over not accepted.
How can I avoid Delta baggage fees?
On Delta Connection flights with 50 seats or fewer, only personal items go in the cabin. Roller bags are gate-checked free with a pink Gate Claim tag. Medallion members and Delta SkyMiles Gold, Platinum and Reserve Amex cardmembers get their first checked bag free; the main cardmember also gets a free second bag on domestic Delta-operated flights.
What does Delta Main Basic include?
Main Basic fares include a full-size carry-on and a personal item, the same as Main Cabin. You board last, so bins may be full and your bag may be gate-checked for free.