Let’s dive into the ins and outs of Delta’s Basic Economy fares, which offer low prices but come with some key restrictions.
Important Note: All prices mentioned here are subject to availability and can change anytime.
Earning and Using SkyMiles
If you’re a SkyMiles member, you can earn miles on most Delta flights. However, tickets booked in Basic Economy are not eligible to earn miles towards your SkyMiles balance or your Medallion Status. To get the full picture on SkyMiles, check out the Membership Guide & Program Rules.
Basic Economy: What You Need to Know
Basic Economy fares are non-refundable, meaning you can’t get your money back if you need to cancel your flight. You also can’t change your flight once you’ve booked it. Seat assignments aren’t guaranteed until check-in, so you might end up separated from your travel buddies. And unfortunately, you’re not eligible for paid or complimentary upgrades either. If you want to understand all the details and limitations of Basic Economy fares, visit the Basic Economy Rules page.
Seat Comfort and Amenities
The type and size of the aircraft can affect your seating and the amenities available on board. To get more information about your specific flight, browse the seat products and Onboard Experience sections on the Delta website.
Baggage Fees: Get Ready to Pay
Packing for your trip? Basic Economy fares usually come with baggage fees. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
Domestic travel (including Puerto Rico) is $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second.
International travel has varying fees depending on your destination:
- Travel between the United States and Canada: $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Central America (excluding El Salvador and Panama), Caribbean, Guyana or Bermuda: $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and the following locations in the Bahamas: North Eleuthera, Exuma, and Marsh Harbour: $35 for the first checked bag and $60 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and Mexico: $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and El Salvador or Panama: $35 for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $45 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and Ecuador or Colombia: $45 for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only), and $100 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, or Uruguay: $70 for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and South America (excluding Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay): $60 for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 for the second. For Main Cabin fares on these routes, the first checked bag is free, and the second costs $60.
- Travel between the United States and Europe: $75 or 70 EUR for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 or 85 EUR for the second.
- Travel between the United States and Africa (excluding Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia), the Middle East or India: No fee for the first checked bag, but $100 for the second (Basic Economy Only).
- Travel from the United States to Algeria, Morocco, or Tunisia: $75 for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 for the second.
- Travel from Algeria, Morocco, or Tunisia to the United States: No fee for the first checked bag, and $100 or 85 EUR for the second.
- Travel between the United States and Israel: $60 for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and Asia (excluding Australia, New Zealand, China, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea): No fee for the first checked bag, but $100 for the second (Basic Economy only).
- Travel between the United States and Australia, New Zealand, China, Fiji, or Papua New Guinea: No fee for the first checked bag, but $100 for the second.
- Travel between the United States and French Polynesia: $60 or 50 EUR for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 or 85 EUR for the second.
Remember, these baggage allowances have size and weight limitations. If you need to know more, contact a Delta agent or check the Excess Baggage section.
Award Travel: Redeeming Your SkyMiles
You can use your SkyMiles to book award travel, but keep in mind that taxes, fees, and carrier-imposed charges are your responsibility and must be paid when booking. Award seats are limited and might not be available on all flights or destinations. If you’re booking an Award ticket for Main Cabin or a higher class, you can change or cancel it without a fee for travel originating from the United States and Canada. To learn more about the full Award Travel policy, head to the Travel With Miles page.
Changes, Cancellations, and Refunds
Basic Economy tickets and tickets issued for travel originating outside the United States and Canada are subject to charges and fees for changes and cancellations. To see all the change and cancellation fees, visit the Change or Cancel Overview page. Remember, Basic Economy tickets are generally non-refundable.
Stay Connected with #SkyMilesLife
Share your travel adventures with #SkyMilesLife! By tagging your photos, you’re granting Delta Air Lines a license to use them. To see the complete terms and conditions, visit delta.com/skymileslife.
Important Notes
Keep in mind that fares, fees, rules, and offers are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions might apply. Always check the latest information before you book your flight!
