Delta's current public example lists $45 for a first standard checked bag and $55 for a second, each way, for Delta Main and Delta Comfort travelers on domestic U.S. flights without an eligible card, Medallion status or military exception. A Delta Main Basic ticket, an international route, or an older ticket should not inherit that example without an itinerary check.
What the $45 and $55 example includes
| Item | Published example | What can change it |
|---|---|---|
| First standard checked bag | $45 each way | Fare, ticket date, eligible card or status, route |
| Second standard checked bag | $55 each way | The same conditions, plus a possible second-bag card benefit |
| Two standard bags together | $100 each way | Only when both published components apply to the same traveler |
Delta's standard example is for a bag under 50 lb and within 62 linear inches, adding outside length, width and height. A premium product may have a different weight allowance. Oversize, overweight and additional-piece charges are separate questions; one $45 figure cannot answer them. A partner carrier or a special item may use another rule. If you do not know all three outside dimensions, treat a full price as unknown.
The example gives $200 for two directions with two bags only if the outbound and return have identical qualifying conditions. A traveler carrying one bag has a different base component, and a traveler with a free-bag benefit cannot simply subtract an assumed amount without checking eligibility at check-in.
Card and status exceptions need a product check
Delta says eligible SkyMiles American Express cardmembers and Medallion members can receive a standard first-bag waiver. Its current card terms also describe a second domestic bag benefit for eligible Basic Card Members, effective June 4, 2026. The terms identify who receives it, what flights qualify and how the SkyMiles number connects to the reservation; do not apply that second waiver to every companion or every Delta-branded card. A bag outside standard weight or size is not made free by the standard-bag waiver.
When and where to pay
Delta allows bag selection and payment during the 24-hour check-in window on delta.com, in its app or at an airport kiosk where offered. Delta warns that it does not sell baggage in advance through third-party travel agencies. Use the airline's actual check-in or booking flow for the payable amount, and keep the bag receipt.
Older tickets may follow an earlier price schedule. Delta links a previous-fees page for that reason. Start with the Delta airline profile, then use the bag size tool and official policy before treating the two-row example as your charge.
Airline sources
Sources last checked 2026-11-01. Match the fare and flight in your booking before you pay or pack.