Delta Air Lines Carry-On Rules & Size Limits (2026)
Planning to fly with Delta Air Lines (DL) and wondering what you can bring on board? This comprehensive guide covers everything about Delta Air Lines carry-on baggage rules including exact size dimensions, weight restrictions, personal item policies, and what additional items you can bring free of charge. All information is verified against Delta Air Lines's official policies and updated regularly.
Quick Answer
Delta Air Lines carry-on size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). Free for Main Cabin and above. Basic Economy: personal item only (carry-on costs $35-$65 if added). Personal item: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (always free).
Size Limits at a Glance
| Bag Type | Size (inches) | Size (cm) | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-On Bag | 22 x 14 x 9 | 56 x 36 x 23 | Paid |
| Personal Item | 18 x 14 x 8 | 45 x 36 x 20 | Free |
Weight Limit
No weight limit
Carry-On Fee Details
Free for Main Cabin and above. Basic Economy: personal item only (carry-on costs $35-$65 if added).
Overhead bin access: Main Cabin+: full overhead bin access. Basic Economy: personal item under seat only (no overhead bin unless you pay for carry-on).
Personal Item Rules
Size: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 36 x 20 cm). Examples: Purse, small backpack, briefcase, laptop bag (must fit under seat)
Additional Items Allowed (Free)
- Jacket or coat
- Umbrella
- Food for the flight
- Duty-free purchases
- Assistive devices
How Strictly Are Rules Enforced?
Delta Airlines (officially Delta Air Lines) is moderate to strict on Basic Economy carry-on enforcement. Gate agents check boarding passes and may deny overhead bin access to Basic Economy passengers.
Expert Tips
- Basic Economy on Delta does NOT include a carry-on bag — only a personal item
- If you need overhead bin space, book Main Cabin or pay $35-$65 for carry-on
- Delta SkyMiles credit card holders get free carry-on even on Basic Economy
- Gate-checking is free if bins are full (even for Basic Economy)
Carry-On Packing Checklist
Before heading to the airport, ensure your carry-on meets Delta Air Lines's requirements:
- Measure your bag: must be within 22 x 14 x 9 inches including handles and wheels
- Weigh your bag: No weight limit
- Personal item fits under the seat: 18 x 14 x 8 inches max
- Liquids in 3-1-1 compliant bag (containers 100ml or less, one quart-size clear bag)
- Electronics accessible for security screening
- No prohibited items (sharp objects, large liquids, flammable materials)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size carry-on does Delta Air Lines allow?
- Delta Air Lines allows a carry-on bag up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
- Is carry-on free on Delta Air Lines?
- Free for Main Cabin and above. Basic Economy: personal item only (carry-on costs $35-$65 if added).
- What is Delta Air Lines's personal item size?
- Personal item must be 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Examples: Purse, small backpack, briefcase, laptop bag (must fit under seat)
- Does Delta Air Lines weigh carry-on bags?
- No weight limit