If you are flying with Delta Air Lines and wondering How Much Does It Cost to Check a Bag on Delta Airlines, the answer depends on your route, ticket type, frequent-flyer status, credit card benefits, and the number of bags you check.
For a standard domestic Delta flight within the U.S., passengers without an applicable baggage waiver generally pay $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second checked bag, each way. A standard checked bag must weigh no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and measure no more than 62 linear inches (157 cm) when you add its length, width, and height. However, not every Delta passenger has to pay these fees. Some travelers qualify for free checked bags through their fare, Delta Medallion Status, eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards, or military benefits.
How Much Is a Checked Bag on Delta?
For eligible domestic itineraries in Delta Main or Delta Comfort, the standard baggage fees are: Checked Bag Standard Fee Weight Limit First checked bag $45 each way Up to 50 lb (23 kg) Second checked bag $55 each way Up to 50 lb (23 kg) Third or additional bags Varies Additional restrictions may apply
These are Delta’s standard fees for domestic travel when no free-bag exception applies. The standard maximum size is 62 linear inches, calculated as length + width + height. For a round trip, a passenger paying standard fees for one checked bag would generally pay $90 total, while two checked bags would generally cost $200 total. Also remember that international routes may have different baggage rules and allowances, and therefore the domestic $45/ $55 pricing should not be automatically applied to an international itinerary.
Delta does not charge for the first checked bag
Sometimes, yeah. Delta provides free checked-bag allowances to certain passengers. For example, eligible Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members can receive a first checked bag free on qualifying domestic flights. Eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card Members can also receive a baggage fee waiver under the applicable terms. Active-duty U.S. military personnel may also qualify for different baggage allowances depending on their travel circumstances. Because eligibility depends on the passenger and itinerary, it is a good idea to check your specific reservation before paying for a bag.
Delta SkyMiles American Express Card Baggage Benefits
One way eligible travelers can avoid standard checked-bag fees is through an eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card. Delta states that eligible Basic Card Members can receive a waiver for the first checked bag on qualifying Delta flights. Delta also states that, beginning June 4, 2026, eligible Basic Card Members can receive a waiver for a second checked bag on qualifying domestic Delta-operated flights, subject to the applicable terms and conditions. The reservation must contain the appropriate SkyMiles number, and the benefit applies only to qualifying standard bags. Overweight and oversized bags are not automatically covered by the free-bag benefit.
How Much Does Delta Charge for a Second Checked Bag?
If you are traveling on an eligible domestic itinerary and do not have a baggage-fee waiver, Delta’s standard fee for the second checked bag is $55 each way.
That means:
- First checked bag: $45
- Second checked bag: $55
- Two checked bags: $100 each way
- Round trip with two paid checked bags: about $200 total
These amounts apply to the standard domestic baggage situation described by Delta and can vary when different baggage rules, routes, fare conditions, or exemptions apply.
What Is the Delta Checked Bag Weight Limit?
For Delta Main and Delta Comfort passengers, a standard checked bag generally must weigh 50 pounds (23 kg) or less. Delta lists a higher 70-pound (32 kg) allowance for certain Delta One and Delta First passengers. The standard size limit is 62 linear inches (157 cm).
Calculating Linear Inches
Add in: Inches Linear Length + Width + Height =
For example, your suitcase measures:
- Length: 28”
- Width: 18 in.
- Size: 16″ Tall
The total is :
28 + 18 + 16 = 62 linear inches
That’s within Delta’s normal size limit.
What if your Delta bag is over weight?
Even if you are allowed one free checked bag, you could still be charged a fee if your bag is overweight.
This is important because a free checked bag does not automatically mean a free overweight or oversized bag. Delta’s baggage rules distinguish the standard checked-bag allowance from additional fees for bags that exceed applicable weight or size limits. Before leaving for the airport, weigh your suitcase at home if possible. A small luggage scale can help you avoid an unexpected fee at check-in.
Can You Pay for Delta Checked Bags Online?
Yes. Delta allows eligible customers to select the number of bags they plan to check and pay for standard checked bags during the check-in process. Delta says customers can do this during the 24-hour check-in window through Delta.com, the Fly Delta app, or an airport kiosk. Paying attention to your baggage allowance before arriving at the airport can make the check-in process much easier.
Does Delta Charge for Checked Bags on International Flights?
International baggage rules are not the same as normal domestic fee structure. Depending on where you’re traveling from, where you’re going, cabin, fare and itinerary, your ticket may include one or more checked bags. Some international routes have baggage allowances built into the fare, while other itineraries may have fees. Delta also notes that baggage fees can be charged in local currency for certain itineraries originating in Canada or Europe, and fees for itineraries between Europe and India can be converted from euros into the applicable local currency. Therefore, if you are flying internationally, the safest approach is to check the baggage allowance attached to your specific Delta reservation rather than assuming the standard U.S. domestic fee.
Can I Redeem Miles for Delta Luggage?
Yes, in some cases. Delta states that SkyMiles Members departing from most domestic airports can pay standard checked-bag fees with miles instead of cash during check-in on Delta.com, the Fly Delta app, or an airport kiosk. Availability can depend on the airport and itinerary, and excess or overweight baggage cannot be purchased with miles. If this option is available for your trip, Delta will display the applicable cash or mileage amount when you check your bags.
How Many Bags Can You Check on Delta?
The maximum number of bags you can check depends on your itinerary, aircraft, destination, cabin, and applicable baggage restrictions. Delta also has destination-specific baggage embargoes and limitations. For example, certain destinations may have restrictions on the number of bags accepted during specific periods. That means travelers shouldn’t assume that paying a fee on top of the fee will always mean another bag will be accepted.
How to Avoid Delta Checked Baggage Fees
Here are some easy ways to cut your baggage fees:
1. Verify Baggage Allowance
Check your Delta reservation before you pay for a bag. Your ticket or passenger status may already include checked baggage.
2. Use eligible Delta benefits
Medallion Members and eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card Members may receive free checked-bag benefits on qualifying flights.
3. Don’t exceed weight limits
There may be an additional charge for a suitcase that is over the applicable weight limit.
4. Weigh Your Bag
Please ensure that your checked bag does not exceed the applicable size limit. For a standard bag, Delta lists 62 linear inches as the maximum.
5. Check baggage rules before an international trip
International baggage allowances can differ considerably from domestic rules. Always check the allowance for your particular itinerary.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to check a bag on Delta Airlines? For a typical domestic Delta itinerary, the current standard fee is $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second checked bag, each way. However, your actual cost may be lower—or zero—if your fare, Delta Medallion Status, eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card, military status, or itinerary provides a baggage allowance. Because baggage fees and allowances can depend on your exact route and passenger benefits, always check the baggage information attached to your Delta reservation before traveling. This is especially important for international flights, where baggage rules can be significantly different.
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