Delta Air Lines Carry-On Baggage: Size, Weight & Rules

Updated for 2026 • 6 min read

Packing your cabin bag the right way can make your airport experience much easier. Before heading to the airport, it is worth checking the Delta Air Lines Carry-On Baggage rules for size, personal items, and special restrictions. And this little preparation can help you avoid repacking your bag at the gate. So, read further!

What Is Delta Air Lines Carry-On Size and Dimensions?

Delta allows its passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on most flights. The standard carry-on item must not be larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles. The total combined dimensions must also stay within 45 linear inches. 

Delta Carry-On Baggage size22 x 14 x 9 inches
Metric size56 x 35 x 23 cm
Linear dimensions45 inches
Carry-on allowance1 bag
Personal item1 item

How Much Baggage Can You Bring for Free?

Your Delta Air Lines Carry-On baggage allowance includes:-

  • 1 carry-on bag free of charge.
  • 1 personal item free of charge.

A personal item can be a purse, laptop bag, briefcase, camera bag, or small backpack. Plus, it should fit safely under the seat in front of you.

Note:- Jackets, umbrellas, qualifying food or drinks, duty-free merchandise, strollers, child safety seats, wheelchairs, and other assistive devices may receive separate treatment.

Liquid Rules for Delta Air Lines Carry-Ons

Liquids, gels, and aerosols in your Delta Airlines carry-on baggage should generally be packed in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less. They should fit within the required clear, resealable bag under applicable security rules.

A Look at Smart Baggage Tips!

  • Larger carry-on bags may be tagged and placed in the aircraft’s cargo area at the gate, then returned after landing. 
  • Before packing, measure your suitcase, including its wheels and handles. That simple check can save you from surprises at the airport.

Get Help With Your Delta Carry-On!

If you are unsure whether a particular item can travel in your cabin bag, check Delta’s current baggage regulations before leaving for the airport. Rules can vary for certain aircraft, routes, and special items.

If your item is lost on-board, report it to Delta’s team as soon as possible so the airline can begin tracking or handling your claim.

Report Lost Baghttps://www.delta.com/us/en/baggage/delayed-lost-damaged-baggage#delayed 
Help for Lost Itemshttps://app.nettracer.aero/lf-pax/delta/landing 
Official Delta Websitehttps://www.delta.com/ 
Toll-Free 24-Hour Hotline800-221-1212 

Flyers May Also Ask

What are the new rules for carry-on luggage?

The standard carry-on size remains 22 x 14 x 9 inches, with one carry-on and one personal item permitted on most Delta flights.

Is a backpack a personal item or carry-on on Delta?

Yes, it can be a personal item, but it should fit safely in the provided under-seat space. A larger backpack may need to be treated as a carry-on bag.

What happens if my carry-on is 1 inch too big on Delta?

If the bag exceeds the permitted size, Delta may require it to be checked. Gate agents can also check a bag when overhead space is unavailable.

Can I bring food in my carry-on?

You can purchase food and drinks after security to bring onboard, subject to applicable security and destination rules.

Does Delta allow a personal item with a carry-on?

Yes. You can bring one carry-on bag plus one personal item on most flights.