Does Delta Airlines Baggage Allowance Include Pets?

Carey Cronin
1 day ago
6 min read

When planning a trip, one of the most common questions travelers ask is whether Delta Airlines baggage allowance includes pets. Delta is one of the leading airlines in the United States, known for its flexible travel services and customer-friendly policies. For passengers traveling with pets, Delta provides options that allow you to bring your furry friends along in the cabin or as checked baggage under specific conditions.

In this detailed guide, we will explore Delta’s policies on pets and baggage allowances, along with related details such as Delta carry on size, Delta first class baggage allowance, Delta baggage policy, and baggage weight for Delta Airlines. If you’re traveling for business or leisure, or even relocating with your pet, this comprehensive resource will help you make informed decisions.

Understanding Delta Baggage Policy And Pet Allowance

Delta Airlines is committed to making travel smooth for passengers while maintaining safety and comfort. The Delta baggage policy is straightforward and designed to accommodate both light and heavy travelers. However, when pets are involved, travelers often wonder if pets count as part of their baggage allowance.

The short answer is: yes, pets are considered part of your baggage, but Delta has specific rules regarding their travel. Pets in the cabin are subject to an additional fee and must meet carrier and weight requirements. This means if you are bringing a pet onboard, it won’t replace your carry-on bag but will be treated as an additional item.

Delta Carry On Size And Pets

Delta allows one standard carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. The Delta carry on size requirement is up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, which includes wheels and handles. For passengers with pets, the pet carrier replaces your carry-on bag, meaning you can still bring a personal item like a purse, laptop bag, or briefcase.

If you are traveling for business and need both your laptop and your pet, this policy ensures you don’t have to compromise. However, it is important to remember that the pet carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, and your pet must remain inside throughout the flight.

Delta First Class Baggage Allowance And Pets

Traveling in Delta First Class comes with additional perks, including priority boarding, extra comfort, and higher baggage allowances. The Delta first class baggage allowance typically includes two free checked bags up to seventy pounds each. However, pets are not included in this baggage allowance. Instead, they are subject to separate fees depending on whether they are carried in the cabin or shipped as cargo.

First Class travelers may find the pet policy especially beneficial since the cabins often offer more spacious seating, which can make traveling with pets easier and more comfortable. But it’s essential to book early because only a limited number of pets are allowed per flight.

Baggage Weight For Delta Airlines With Pets

For standard checked baggage, the baggage weight for Delta Airlines ranges from fifty pounds for economy passengers to seventy pounds for premium cabins like First Class. Overweight and oversized baggage fees apply if you exceed these limits. Pets do not count toward this weight allowance. Instead, they are charged separately, with fees varying by route and destination.

In summary, while Delta’s baggage allowance does not directly include pets as free baggage, it provides a clear and convenient structure for passengers traveling with their furry companions.

Delta Airlines Pet Travel Options

Delta offers three main ways for pets to travel: in-cabin, as checked baggage, and through Delta Cargo. Understanding these options will help you decide which method works best for your travel plans.

Pets In-Cabin

Small dogs, cats, and household birds are allowed to travel in the cabin on most Delta flights. The pet must be small enough to fit in a carrier that slides under the seat in front of you.

Requirements: The pet must remain inside the carrier, which counts as your carry-on bag.
Fees: A one-way fee applies, depending on the destination.
Restrictions: Not all international routes allow pets in-cabin, and some aircraft types have limitations.

Pets As Checked Baggage

For medium-sized pets that cannot fit under the seat, Delta allows pets to travel as checked baggage on specific routes. However, due to seasonal heat restrictions and safety measures, this option is not always available.

Requirements: Must meet size and kennel specifications.
Fees: Higher than in-cabin travel, charged per route.
Restrictions: Limited availability depending on weather and aircraft.

Pets Through Delta Cargo

For larger pets or when in-cabin and checked options are unavailable, Delta Cargo is the solution. This service is often used for international travel or transporting pets safely under regulated conditions.

Requirements: Booking must be made separately through Delta Cargo.
Fees: Vary significantly based on size, weight, and route.
Restrictions: Not all destinations accept Delta Cargo pets.

Business Travelers And Pet-Friendly Travel With Delta

For business travelers, bringing pets along can be challenging. Delta’s policies make it easier by clearly separating baggage and pet allowances. A business traveler flying in First Class, for example, can take advantage of the Delta first class baggage allowance for professional needs while still traveling with a pet in the cabin.

Delta also allows certain emotional support animals and service animals under separate rules, which benefit business travelers with special requirements. This ensures that professionals who need to balance work commitments with personal needs can do so without unnecessary stress.

Key Takeaways On Delta Baggage Policy And Pets

Pets do not count as free baggage under the Delta baggage policy.
The Delta carry on size requirement applies to pet carriers in the cabin.
Delta first class baggage allowance offers more flexibility for luggage but does not waive pet fees.
Baggage weight for Delta Airlines applies only to human baggage, not pets.
Pet travel requires advance booking, proper carriers, and compliance with airline regulations.

Reviews

One:“I traveled with my cat on a business trip from Atlanta to New York. Delta’s staff was professional, and the pet check-in process was simple. My cat stayed comfortable under the seat, and I was impressed with how clear their Delta baggage policy was.”

Two:“As a frequent First Class traveler, I appreciate the extra baggage room under the Delta first class baggage allowance. I brought my small dog along for a conference, and everything went smoothly. Highly recommend Delta for pet-friendly travel.”

Three:“I was nervous about traveling with my puppy, but the Delta carry on size rules made it simple to plan. The carrier fit perfectly under the seat, and the staff was reassuring throughout the flight.”

Four:“My Labrador had to fly through Delta Cargo, and though I was hesitant, the process was handled with care. The baggage weight for Delta Airlines didn’t affect pet fees, but I was glad to have clear instructions.”

Five:“Booking my pet for an international trip was stress-free with Delta. The customer service team explained every detail about fees, baggage, and requirements. My dog arrived safely, and I felt confident traveling with them.”

Conclusion

Traveling with pets on Delta Airlines is possible and straightforward once you understand their policies. While the Delta baggage policy does not include pets as part of the free allowance, Delta provides flexible options for in-cabin, checked, or cargo pet travel.

Business and leisure travelers alike can rely on clear rules regarding Delta carry on size, Delta first class baggage allowance, and baggage weight for Delta Airlines to plan ahead.

At Tours N Travel Pro, we help you navigate these details and secure the best travel experience. Whether you are traveling for business or vacation, we make sure your baggage and pet travel needs are handled smoothly. For personalized assistance, call us at +1-866-679-5070 today.