Delta Air Lines Carry-On Size & Rules (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). Each passenger flying with Delta can bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item free of charge, including Delta Main Basic (Basic Economy). Delta Connection limited-space flights, operating-partner policies, infant/pet exceptions and bag-fit or cabin-capacity conditions can change onboard handling; check the applicable Delta or operating-carrier policy. Personal item: Must fit under the seat in front of you (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 | Free |
| Personal Item | Must fit under seat | — | Free |
Weight Limit
No weight limit
Carry-On Fee Details
Each passenger flying with Delta can bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item free of charge, including Delta Main Basic (Basic Economy). Delta Connection limited-space flights, operating-partner policies, infant/pet exceptions and bag-fit or cabin-capacity conditions can change onboard handling; check the applicable Delta or operating-carrier policy.
Overhead bin access: The general allowance includes one carry-on and one personal item, not a paid Main Basic carry-on upgrade. Overhead space is not guaranteed. Delta Connection flights including aircraft with 50 seats or fewer allow only personal items in the cabin due to limited space; larger bags may be gate checked. Partner policies may differ.
Personal Item Rules
Size: Must fit under the seat in front of you. 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?
If a bag does not fit or an exceptionally-full flight lacks overhead space, a flight attendant or gate agent can assist by checking it at the gate. Limited-space Delta Connection and operating-partner rules must be checked separately; do not treat Main Basic as a general personal-item-only fare.
Expert Tips
- Delta’s general allowance is one free carry-on plus one free personal item, including Main Basic; applicable aircraft, operator and passenger exceptions remain.
- Check the operating carrier and aircraft conditions before travel. Overhead space is not guaranteed, and Delta Connection limited-space flights may require larger carry-ons to be gate checked.
- A SkyMiles credit card is not needed for Delta’s general free carry-on allowance. Credit-card checked-bag benefits are a different policy.
- 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
- 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?
- Each passenger flying with Delta can bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item free of charge, including Delta Main Basic (Basic Economy). Delta Connection limited-space flights, operating-partner policies, infant/pet exceptions and bag-fit or cabin-capacity conditions can change onboard handling; check the applicable Delta or operating-carrier policy.
- What is Delta Air Lines's personal item size?
- Must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples: Purse, small backpack, briefcase, laptop bag (must fit under seat)
- Does Delta Air Lines weigh carry-on bags?
- No weight limit