7 Reasons Why Delta Has the Best Carry-On Policy
I come from a family of American Airlines loyalists, but after flying Delta Air Lines recently, I may be a convert. Not only do they belong to the SkyTeam Alliance, which includes KLM, Air France and Korean Air, Delta has the least stressful and confusing carry-on rules. From Delta carry-on size and weight limits to Delta Basic Economy carry-on restrictions (or lack there of), here are seven reasons why Delta has the best carry-on policy.
1. Carry-on bags and personal items are free.
It seems like more and more airlines are imposing carry-on bag fees, but not Delta. All Delta passengers may bring one carry-on and one personal item free of charge. (If you want or need to check your bag, you’ll have to pay.)
2. Delta carry-on size is pretty standard.
The Delta carry-on size is the same as American Airlines. Carry-ons may not exceed 22 in x 14 in x 9 in (56 cm x 35 cm x 23 cm). As with all other airlines, the Delta carry-on dimensions include wheels and handles. (Note: Even though the Delta carry-on size is the same as American in inches, Delta provides different value in centimeters. Instead of 36 cm they have 35 cm. I doubt 1 centimeter matters, but for the sake of accuracy, I’m putting what’s on the Delta website.)
Delta also notes on their website that the carry-on must not exceed 45 linear inches (114 cm). Here’s your bonus math lesson of the day: To calculate linear inches, combine the length + width + height of your bag.
3. Delta doesn’t have a carry-on weight limit.
While some airlines may have carry-on weight limits, Delta does not. However, certain airports may have their own carry-on weight limits.
For example, if you fly out of Singapore Changin Airport (SIN), carry-ons must weigh less than 15 lbs or 7 kg. ​​Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Pudong International Airport (PVG) have a 22 lbs or 10 kg carry-on weight limit.
4. There’s only one rule for Delta personal items.
If you have personal item PTSD from flying Spirit or Allegiant, Delta’s personal item size will be a breath of fresh air. That’s because there isn’t one. The only rule for bringing a personal item is that it must fit under the seat in front of you.
In case you’re wondering, Delta under seat dimensions on most aircrafts are 20 in x 15 in x 11 in (55 cm x 38 cm x 28 cm).
5. Delta Basic Economy doesn’t have additional carry-on restrictions.
Unlike United Basic Economy which only allows a personal item, Delta Basic Economy doesn’t have carry-on restrictions. In other words, if you’re flying Delta Basic Economy you can bring both a carry-on and a personal item for free.
6. Some items don’t count toward your carry-on allowance.
What’s better than a free Delta carry-on and personal item? More carry-on items that don’t cost anything! Additional free items you can bring with you include:
- A jacket
- An umbrella
- Food or drink purchased past the security checkpoint
- Duty-free merchandise
- A breast pump and associated cooler bag (subject to carry-on size restrictions)
- Special items like strollers, wheelchairs, child safety seats
- Assistive devices like crutches, walkers or canes
7. Pets can count as a Delta carry-on.
Put the “bark” in embark and bring your pet on a Delta flight! Dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee. Pets must be small enough to fit in a soft-sided kennel that fits under the seat in front of you.Â
The Delta carry-on kennel allowance is 18 in x 11 in x 11 in. The kennel must have ventilation openings on three sides for domestic travel. If you’re flying internationally, four sides must be ventilated.
Delta’s carry-on pet policy is first-come, first-served. When you call to book your pet, make sure you have your carry-on kennel dimensions available.
