Delta Airlines Carry On Baggage Size, Policy, Rules & Guidelines

Delta lets each passenger bring one carry-on bag and one personal item at no charge. To ensure your luggage fits safely in the overhead bin and meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety regulations, your bag must comply with Delta carry on size, dimension, and weight guidelines. 

What is Delta Carry On Policy?

Under Delta carry on policy, each traveler can bring the following items free of charge:

• One carry-on bag: A small suitcase, roll-aboard bag, or similar piece of luggage that meets the airline’s size restrictions.
  
• One personal item: A smaller bag, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack, that can fit underneath the seat in front of the passenger.

The standard allowance applies to Delta-operated flights, although exceptions exist for certain aircraft and travel situations. 

Delta Personal Item Rules

In addition to the standard Delta Airlines guidelines for carry on, passengers can bring one personal item that fits underneath the seat in front of them. 

Some of the permitted personal items include:

• A purse or briefcase
• A small backpack
• A laptop bag
• A belt bag or fanny pack
• A camera bag
• A diaper bag

Passengers should choose a personal item that does not obstruct the footwell or interfere with another person’s seating space.

What is the Carry-On Luggage Size on Delta?

Delta carry-on rules specify that a standard bag must meet the following size requirements to fit in the aircraft’s overhead storage compartment.

How to Measure Your Carry-On Bag?

When checking carry-on dimensions for Delta:

1. Measure the longest side from the bottom of the wheels to the top of the collapsed handle (Length / Height).
   
2. Measure across the widest face of the suitcase (Width).
   
3. Check the depth from front to back, including expanded zippers (Depth).
   
4. Add the three measurements together. If the sum is 45 inches (114 cm) or less, and no single side exceeds 22″ x 14″ x 9″, the bag complies with the airline carry-on rules.

Note: Small musical instruments that fit in the approved overhead or under-seat storage space are exempt from the standard size measurements.

Delta International Carry-On Weight Exceptions

Delta has no carry-on weight limit on most flights, as long as you can lift and store your bag in the overhead bin by yourself. Those departing from one of these international airports should check the Delta Airlines carry on measurements requirements before arriving at the airport.

The following airports have specific carry-on weight limits:

• Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN): Maximum 15 lbs (7 kg).
  
• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX): Maximum 22 lbs (10 kg).
  
• Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): Maximum 22 lbs (10 kg).

Looking for checked baggage size limits and regulations? Review the Delta Airlines Baggage Allowance Guidelines.

What Items Are Allowed in Delta Carry-On Bags?

Passengers can pack everyday travel belongings in their Delta carry-on bags and personal items that comply with applicable security regulations and airline restrictions.

Liquid Restrictions

Those traveling on flights subject to U.S. TSA screening rules must follow the Delta Airlines liquid carry on 3-1-1 rule when packing liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and other necessary items.

• Each container must hold no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).
  
• All containers must fit inside one clear, quart-size, resealable plastic bag.
  
• Common examples are shampoo, toothpaste, sunscreen, lotions, and hair gel.
  
• Medications, breast milk, and infant formula may qualify for exceptions, although additional screening applies.

Note: Passengers going on an international trip should check the security requirements at each airport on their itinerary, as liquid restrictions and exemptions may vary.

Duty-Free Purchases

Passengers can usually bring duty-free purchases on board, according to different airport security rules and airline requirements. Some airports require duty-free liquids to remain in sealed, tamper-evident bags with the receipt visible inside or attached.

• Keep items sealed: Do not open security-sealed duty-free bags before reaching the final destination if the rules say so.
  
• Check transit restrictions: Some countries may not accept duty-free liquids purchased at another airport.
  
• Retain the receipt: Keep the purchase receipt accessible for security inspection.

Electronic Devices and Batteries

Flyers can carry electronic devices in their bags, provided they comply with the airline regulations. Battery type, capacity, and placement may affect whether a device or battery is permitted in the cabin.

• Carry spare lithium batteries in the cabin rather than in checked baggage.
  
• Ensure devices and their batteries meet applicable airline and Delta carry on restrictions.
  
• Battery-powered equipment: Check Delta’s restrictions for items with lithium batteries before packing, particularly if they contain high-capacity batteries.

Items That Are Not Allowed Under Delta Airlines Carry-On Policy

Delta carry on regulations prohibit certain comfort accessories and personal devices that may create safety risks, obstruct access, or interfere with other passengers.

Some of the specifically prohibited items include:

• Inflatable wedges, cubes, and beds
• Knee defenders and seat-recline blockers
• Foot hammocks and slings
• Window and tray-table organizers
• Pods and tents
• Full-head helmets
• Human-like or animal-like robots

The airline also restricts an item if it blocks an aisle, obstructs access to emergency equipment, extends into another passenger’s space, or creates another safety concern.

Delta Airlines Carry-On Exceptions

Delta allows certain items in addition to, or as exceptions to, its standard carry-on allowance. These rules depend on the passenger’s travel circumstances and the type of item being carried.

Passengers Traveling with an Infant-in-Arms

Infants traveling on an adult’s lap do not receive a separate standard carry-on allowance. However, accompanying adults can bring certain essential infant-related items, subject to Delta’s requirements.

• Diaper bag: For carrying essential baby supplies.
  
• Breast pump: Including its associated cooler bag.
  
• Stroller and child safety seat: These may be checked at the gate or brought into the cabin when permitted and space allows.

Travelers with Pets in the Cabin

Passengers traveling with a pet in the cabin can bring the pet’s approved kennel along with one personal item or one carry-on bag. The kennel must fit completely underneath the seat in front of the passenger for the duration of the flight.

Small Musical Instruments

Small musical instruments are exempt from Delta’s standard carry-on size measurements if they fit in an approved overhead compartment or underneath the seat. The instrument must still fit safely within the available cabin storage space.

Which Items Can You Bring Onboard for Free?

In addition to the standard carry-on bag and personal item, Delta allows passengers to bring certain items on board without an additional charge. These items are subject to applicable safety, security, and storage requirements.

Passengers can bring the following items:

• Jackets and umbrellas: Bring a jacket, an umbrella, or both for your journey.
  
• Food and drinks: Items purchased after passing through the airport security checkpoint can be brought on board.
  
• Special items and assistive devices: Certain wheelchairs, strollers, child safety seats, and mobility aids such as crutches
  
• Duty-free purchases: A bag or box of duty-free merchandise is permitted in addition to your regular carry-on allowance.

What Are Delta Carry-On Rules for Different Flights?

Delta Air Lines carry on size allowance includes one bag and one personal item. However, the rules may vary depending on the aircraft’s storage capacity and the airline operating the flight.

Delta Connection Flights

Passengers traveling on Delta Connection flights, including aircraft with 50 seats or fewer, are generally permitted to bring personal items on board because of limited overhead storage. 

Larger carry-on bags may be tagged at the gate and placed in the aircraft’s cargo compartment. These bags are returned to passengers upon deplaning.

Flights With Limited Overhead Storage

On other Delta-operated flights, a carry-on bag may need to be checked at the gate if it does not fit in the approved storage space or if the flight has insufficient overhead-bin capacity. Gate agents or flight attendants may also restrict the amount of baggage permitted in the cabin based on the aircraft’s capacity and expected passenger load.

Passengers should keep essential items accessible and follow any instructions provided by airport or cabin personnel.

Codeshare and Partner Airline Flights

When an itinerary includes a flight operated by another airline, the carry-on allowance may differ from Delta’s standard policy. Passengers should check the operating carrier’s rules before departure, particularly when the journey includes multiple airlines.

Special Items and Assistive Devices

Certain items may be permitted in addition to the standard carry-on allowance, subject to applicable requirements. These include:

• Mobility aids: Wheelchairs and crutches.
• Infant-related items: strollers and child safety seats.
• Other permitted items: Special equipment allowed under Delta’s applicable onboard rules.

Conclusion!

Understanding the Delta Airlines carry on rules helps passengers prepare their luggage and avoid last-minute issues at the airport. Keep your carry-on bag within the standard limit of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, check the applicable weight restrictions for your departure airport, and ensure your personal item fits under the seat in front of you. If your itinerary includes a partner-operated flight, review the operating airline’s requirements before departure to ensure a smooth boarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)