Include your SkyMiles number in your reservation by providing it when booking your flight, adding it when checking in, or looking up your itinerary and clicking “Add Loyalty Program #.” The first bag of each passenger in the reservation will be automatically waived of fees at check-in.

You can get your Delta checked baggage fees waived in 2026 through four primary "High-Fidelity" methods. The most common way is by holding a Delta SkyMiles American Express Card (Gold, Platinum, or Reserve); the first checked bag is free for the cardholder and up to eight companions on the same reservation. Second, Delta Medallion Status (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond) grants you at least one (and up to three) free checked bags depending on your tier and route. Third, if you book a First Class, Delta One, or Premium Select ticket, you are automatically allowed two or three free bags up to 70 lbs each. Finally, Active Duty U.S. Military members on orders can check up to five bags for free, while those on personal travel can check two. If you don't meet these criteria, you can still save money by pre-paying for your bags on the Delta app at least 24 hours before your flight, which is often $5–$10 cheaper than paying at the airport kiosk.