In 2026, travelers flying major U.S. airlines will pay an average of $35 for their first checked bag, but fees can climb to $150 or more for oversized luggage. Choosing between Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines means weighing predictable pricing against flexible allowances. Both carriers dominate domestic routes, yet their baggage policies cater to starkly different priorities.
Overview
Delta Air Lines
Delta maintains a tiered baggage fee structure aligned with flight class and route. Checked bags start at $35 for the first bag on domestic flights, with steep penalties for overweight ($100+) or sports equipment. Its partnership network and premium cabin options make it a contender for travelers prioritizing flexibility over upfront savings.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest's "Bags Fly Free" policy remains its flagship perk, allowing two checked bags at no additional cost for all passengers. However, weight limits (50 lbs per bag) are strictly enforced, with $75 fees for overweight bags. This model appeals to budget-conscious travelers who pack light but penalizes those exceeding strict size/weight rules.
Key Differences
| Feature | Delta Air Lines | Southwest Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| First Checked Bag | $35 (domestic) | Free |
| Second Checked Bag | $45 (domestic) | Free |
| Overweight Fee (>50lbs) | $100-150 (varies by route) | $75 flat rate |
| Sports Equipment | $150 per item | $75 per item |
| Elite Status Benefit | Free first bag for Medallions | No baggage status tiers |
| Online Check-In Discount | $5-10 off if pre-paid online | No discount |
Delta's fees scale with route complexity, while Southwest's simplicity ends at two bags. Overweight penalties hit harder on Delta, but Southwest's strict weight enforcement catches travelers unaware.
Quick Take: Delta suits travelers needing flexibility for international flights or premium cabins. Southwest wins for families or budget-focused flyers with standard luggage.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Delta Air Lines
Delta excels for passengers connecting through partner airlines (like Air France or KLM) where baggage allowances transfer seamlessly. Its premium economy and Delta One passengers receive complimentary bags, while SkyMiles elites earn points faster on paid baggage. However, Delta's tiered fee structure creates confusion for international travelers, and its steep $100+ penalties for even minor weight overages make budgeting unpredictable.
Southwest Airlines
"Bags Fly Free" saves families hundreds annually, but the policy's strict 50lb weight limit with no grace period turns small packing errors into costly fees. Southwest also lacks elite status benefits for baggage, leaving frequent flyers without discounts or free allowances. While its flat-rate fees simplify planning, travelers with oversized luggage (e.g., ski gear) face higher costs than Delta for similar items.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Delta if you fly international routes or hold elite status. Southwest is ideal for domestic travelers with standard luggage who can adhere to strict weight limits.
Our Recommendation: For most travelers flying domestic routes with standard luggage, Southwest Airlines is the clear choice to avoid baggage fees.
Conclusion
The deciding factor isn't just price—it's whether your trip crosses borders or requires extra weight flexibility. Review your itinerary's baggage needs using our baggage allowance per airline guide before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost for a first checked bag on major U.S. airlines in 2026?
In 2026, travelers flying major U.S. airlines can expect to pay an average of $35 for their first checked bag. However, fees for oversized luggage can increase to $150 or more.
How do Delta Air Lines' baggage fees compare to Southwest Airlines'?
Delta Air Lines charges $35 for the first checked bag on domestic flights, with additional fees for overweight items. Southwest Airlines offers a "Bags Fly Free" policy, allowing two checked bags at no additional cost.
Are there fees for overweight bags on Southwest Airlines?
Yes, Southwest Airlines strictly enforces a 50 lbs weight limit per bag. Overweight bags exceeding this limit incur a $75 fee.
Which airline is better for travelers with international flights or premium cabins?
Delta Air Lines is generally more suitable for travelers with international flights or those booking premium cabins. Its baggage allowances transfer seamlessly with partner airlines, and premium passengers receive complimentary bags.
Does Southwest Airlines offer discounts for checking bags online?
No, Southwest Airlines does not offer any discounts for checking bags online. Delta Air Lines, however, may offer $5-10 off if baggage is prepaid online.
What are the fees for sports equipment on Delta and Southwest?
Delta Air Lines charges $150 per item for sports equipment. Southwest Airlines charges a flat rate of $75 per item for sports equipment.
Which airline is recommended for domestic travelers with standard luggage?
For most domestic travelers with standard luggage, Southwest Airlines is the recommended choice to avoid baggage fees due to its "Bags Fly Free" policy for the first two checked bags.
