Flying Delta and wondering what they will charge for an extra bag? You’re not alone. Whether you’re packing heavy for a long vacation, moving abroad, or simply carrying gifts for family, knowing how much an extra bag costs on Delta can save you both stress and money. Delta’s baggage rules are generally straightforward, but fees vary depending on route, ticket class, weight, size, and Elite status. A traveler who prepares ahead always pays less than one who decides last minute at the airport.
This article explains everything about extra bag fees on Delta in a way that is easy to understand. You’re about to learn how much Delta charges for your second or third checked bag, what overweight luggage costs, international pricing, special equipment charges, and most importantly—how to avoid paying extra baggage fees altogether. If you’re searching for How much is extra bag on Delta in 2025, this is the most complete answer online.
Understanding Delta’s Extra Bag Policy
Before jumping into exact pricing, it’s important to understand what qualifies as extra luggage. Delta includes one carry-on bag and one personal item free for every passenger, regardless of fare type. Checked bags, however, are different. Basic Economy, Main Cabin, and many domestic fares don’t include a free checked bag, meaning your first checked bag may already cost money.
An extra bag refers to any checked luggage beyond what your fare includes. For example:
• You have no free checked bags → your first bag is already paid, extra starts from bag #2.
• If your fare includes 1 free checked bag → your second bag counts as extra.
• Higher classes like Delta One/First Class may include 2 bags free → 3rd bag is extra.
This baseline helps us understand why two travelers on the same flight may pay different amounts.
How Much is Extra Bag on Delta for Domestic Flights? (U.S. & Canada)
For most travelers within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Delta charges:
Second checked bag:
$40 online / $45 at airport
Third checked bag:
$150 per bag
Fourth+ checked bags:
$200 per bag (up to maximum allowed)
These rates apply per direction, so if you’re flying round-trip, double the fee. Travelers save money by paying online rather than at airport check-in.
Example:
Outbound:
Second bag = $40
Return:
Second bag = $40
Total for entire trip = $80 for one extra bag.
Extra Baggage Fees for International Delta Flights
International routes have higher limits and unique fee structures. Many long-haul routes include a complimentary first bag, making the extra bag charge apply to bag #2 onward.
Average cost internationally:
Second bag: $75 – $100
Third bag: $200 – $285
Fourth+ bag: $285 each
Below are region-specific estimates (2025):
• Europe (most routes): First bag free, second bag $100, third $285
• Asia (Japan, Korea, Singapore, etc.): First bag free, second $100/170 depending destination
• India: First bag free, second approx. $100–$200
• South America: Some fares include 1–2 bags free, extra bags $75–$150
• Africa/Middle East: $100–$200 per extra bag
• Australia/New Zealand: $100 second bag, $285 third+
Some routes vary seasonally or by fare type, so always confirm before travel.
Overweight and Oversize Delta Luggage Fees (If Extra Bag Exceeds Limits)
Even if you pay for an extra bag, Delta charges additional overweight or oversize fees if your luggage crosses weight or dimension limits.
Standard bag allowance:
50 lbs (23 kg) weight
62 linear inches (157 cm) dimensions
If exceeded, extra charges apply:
51–70 lbs (23–32 kg) → $100 extra per bag
71–100 lbs (32–45 kg) → $200 extra per bag
101+ lbs → Not allowed as checked baggage
Oversize fees:
63–80 inches → $200 extra
Over 80 inches → Not accepted
If a bag is both overweight and oversized, charges stack, and this can become expensive quickly.
A 75-lb oversized bag could total:
Extra bag fee + overweight fee + oversize fee = easily $300–$600.
How Much is an Extra Bag for Delta Basic Economy?
Basic Economy passengers in most regions get zero free checked bags. This means the first bag costs money, and the extra bag fee begins from the second.
Domestic example for Basic Economy:
First bag: $35
Second (extra) bag: $40
Third bag: $150
Always pre-pay online—airport pricing is higher.
Extra Bag Fees for Delta First Class, Premium Select & Delta One
Premium cabins receive complimentary luggage allowances, reducing extra bag cost.
Typical included baggage:
First Class: 2 free bags
Premium Select: 2 free bags
Delta One: 2 free bags
Extra bag charges apply starting from the 3rd bag:
Third bag: approx. $150
Fourth+ bag: $200 each
For international Delta One, free allowance sometimes increases to three bags depending route.
Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments & Specialty Items Pricing
These count as checked bags, and extra bag fees apply if above your limit.
Examples of items considered bags:
• Bicycles
• Golf clubs
• Surfboards
• Ski/Snowboard gear
• Musical instruments
• Fishing equipment
• Scuba gear
If your fare includes one checked bag, carrying golf clubs + suitcase = 2 bags → one may be extra and charged.
Overweight pricing applies separately.
Cheapest Way to Pay for Extra Bag on Delta
Paying at the airport is always the most expensive option. You can save by:
• Pre-paying bags online during check-in
• Paying with Delta co-branded credit cards
• Gaining Elite Medallion status
• Bundling with vacation packages
• Shipping heavy items via ground courier
• Traveling light with compression packing
Sometimes reducing weight is cheaper than buying another bag.
Credit Cards That Give Free Bags on Delta
If you fly Delta more than once a year, this is the easiest way to save. The following cards offer 1st checked bag free on Delta flights:
• Delta SkyMiles Gold Card
• Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card
• Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card
• Delta SkyMiles Business Card equivalents
This perk applies for the cardmember + up to 8 companions on the same reservation—huge savings for families.
Two people round-trip save:
($35 x 2 travelers) x 2 directions = $140 saved per trip.
Medallion Elite Members — Extra Bags Free
Elite SkyMiles members enjoy generous baggage benefits.
Silver Medallion:
1 extra bag free (total 2 allowed)
Gold Medallion:
2 bags free
Platinum/Diamond Medallion:
Up to 3 bags free depending itinerary
This often eliminates extra bag fees entirely.
How to Avoid Extra Bag Fees on Delta (Smart Tricks)
Nobody likes paying more than they need. Try these strategies:
• Use compression cubes & vacuum bags
• Distribute weight across multiple smaller bags
• Wear heaviest clothing during travel
• Carry bulky items as your personal item
• Ship items separately for cheaper cost
• Bring foldable duffle for overflow items return-trip
• Check if partner airlines allow more than Delta
A bit of planning can save hundreds.
Real-World Examples of What You’ll Pay for an Extra Bag on Delta
Example 1 — Domestic round trip, no free bags
Bag 1: $35 ×2
Bag 2 (extra): $40 ×2
Total: $150 for round-trip with one extra bag.
Example 2 — USA to Europe, 1st bag free
Extra bag (second): $100 ×2 round-trip
Total: $200 extra bag fee.
Example 3 — Heavy bag 70 lbs
Extra bag: $40
Overweight: $100
Total: $140 one-way.
Now imagine 75 lbs oversized—prices nearly double.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bags can I check max?
Usually up to 10 on domestic, 5–8 international routes.
Is carry-on free on Delta?
Yes, one carry-on + one personal item always free.
Is extra bag free for military?
Active-duty with orders often receive 3–5 free checked bags depending cabin.
Is it cheaper to pay for extra bags online?
Yes—at least $5–$30 cheaper each direction.
Final Summary — How Much is Extra Bag on Delta?
Domestic second bag averages $40–$45, while international extra bags range from $75–$200 depending destination. A third bag usually costs $150–$285, and overweight charges are separate. You save the most by paying online, using a Delta credit card, or earning SkyMiles Medallion status.
Extra baggage on Delta can be expensive, but with proper planning and knowledge, you can travel smarter and avoid unnecessary fees. If heavy packing is unavoidable, knowing the exact cost protects you from surprises at the airport.
