Does Delta Basic Economy include a free checked bag?

What is Delta's Basic Economy Baggage Policy? The Delta Basic Economy baggage policy is almost identical to any standard economy fare: You get a carry-on bag and personal item for free and pay $30 each way for a checked bag (or $60 each way to Europe).



No, Delta Basic Economy (E class) does not include a free checked bag for standard domestic flights or short-haul international flights. If you choose this "no-frills" fare, you are restricted to one free carry-on bag and one small personal item. If you need to check a bag, you will typically have to pay a fee (usually starting at $35 for the first bag each way). However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If you are traveling on certain long-haul international routes (such as to Asia or Australia), a checked bag might still be included even in Basic Economy, though this varies by specific destination. Additionally, if you hold a Delta SkyMiles American Express Card or have Medallion Status, you can bypass this restriction and receive your first checked bag for free. It is also important to note that Basic Economy tickets are non-changeable and do not allow for seat assignments until after check-in, making them a "buyer beware" option for those who prioritize flexibility and extra luggage.

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Unlike some other airlines (namely United), Delta includes a free overhead carry-on bag as part of its basic economy fares. These bags are also included in main cabin fares. And both fares charge the same checked bag fees for domestic flights.

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Basic economy is United's least-expensive economy fare class. Unlike some of the other perks (i.e. free checked bag, seat selection) included on a regular economy ticket, basic economy offers nothing extra. In addition, you'll board last and may not be able to bring a carry-on.

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The Delta baggage policy allows passengers to check up to two bags per flight. But some passengers have to pay a Delta checked bag fee. The fee varies based on route and fare class, but those with Delta elite status or a Delta credit card will sometimes get the fee waived.

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Carry-on bag Carry-on bags are not included unless you're flying to South America, across the Atlantic or on an international flight across the Pacific. You can prepay to check a bag or check a carry-on at your gate for the regular bag fee plus an additional $25.

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Basic economy is a newer airplane ticketing “class,” that is usually at a cheaper price than regular economy. For this reason, basic economy flight tickets usually lack cancellation benefits, flight choices and any permitted types of luggage past a single small personal item.

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While Basic Economy provides the same level of inflight service as standard Economy, this lower-priced option has some important restrictions on seating, carry-on baggage, MileagePlus member benefits – including Premier member benefits – and other aspects of your travel.

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What is Delta's Basic Economy Baggage Policy? The Delta Basic Economy baggage policy is almost identical to any standard economy fare: You get a carry-on bag and personal item for free and pay $30 each way for a checked bag (or $60 each way to Europe).

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Far from being an act of generosity towards travelers, Delta is testing giving free checked bags in the hopes that it will help speed up the boarding process.

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It's rare to find U.S. airlines with free checked baggage. Southwest Airlines is the only airline without any bag fees. For other airlines, you'll need to earn elite status or book your tickets with an airline credit card.

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Typically, airlines allow checked bags that weigh up to 50 pounds and whose dimensions (length + width + height) are 62 inches or less. Airlines allow overweight bags (up to 70 pounds), but you may have to pay extra for heavier baggage unless you're flying in a premium cabin or have elite status.

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It's rare to find U.S. airlines with free checked baggage. Southwest Airlines is the only airline without any bag fees. For other airlines, you'll need to earn elite status or book your tickets with an airline credit card.

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Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Delta Comfort+ and Delta Premium Select passengers should follow the standard 50 lb limit per piece. Delta One, First, and Business passengers should follow the 70 lb limit per piece.

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Additionally, basic economy passengers are the last to board a Delta aircraft and aren't eligible for upgrades. Main cabin passengers can choose their seats, change or cancel a ticket at no extra cost, earn flight rewards and board the plane before basic economy passengers.

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As a reminder, Basic Economy tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable in most cases, but may be canceled for a partial eCredit. If you need additional assistance with making a change, please contact us and a Reservation Specialist will be able to assist you.

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With most airlines, there's no difference between the actual seats in the main cabin versus basic economy. But the policies outside of your seats — like how much luggage you can bring and how easy (and cheaply) you can change your flights — can be significantly different.

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Second, at the bottom of each price box you can see the fare class currently available for booking, with Basic Economy coded as “N”. This is a wonky note and not something you'll usually need, but sometimes searching out your fare code is the only way to tell whether you've booked Basic Economy or not.

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Let's break down what this actually means: On most airline basic economy tickets, you won't be able to select your seat ahead of time. Instead, you'll be assigned one at check-in or the gate. So you're not any more likely than any other passenger to get bumped from the flight.

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