Are you ready to fly with Delta Air Lines but unsure about their Basic Economy fares? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through the details of this popular fare class, highlighting everything from mileage accrual to baggage fees.
SkyMiles and Basic Economy: What You Need to Know
SkyMiles program members can earn miles on most flights. However, a catch exists: Basic Economy tickets don’t allow you to earn miles for your flights. This means you won’t accumulate miles towards your Medallion Status either. If you’re interested in knowing more about the SkyMiles program rules, mileage accrual, and redemption, check out Delta’s Membership Guide & Program Rules.
Booking Travel with Basic Economy: Know the Rules
Basic Economy fares are non-refundable and non-changeable, meaning you can’t get your money back or alter your flight after booking. You won’t get a seat assignment until you check in, and sadly, you’re not eligible for upgrades. You can find all the details on Basic Economy fares and restrictions in the Basic Economy rules section on Delta’s website.
Basic Economy and Baggage Fees: A Breakdown
Basic Economy fares come with baggage restrictions. Let’s break down the baggage fees depending on your destination:
* Travel within the United States (including Puerto Rico): $35 USD for the first checked bag and $45 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and Canada: $35 USD for the first checked bag and $45 USD 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 USD for the first checked bag and $45 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and the following locations in the Bahamas: North Eleuthera, Exuma, and Marsh Harbour: $35 USD for the first checked bag and $60 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and Mexico: $35 USD for the first checked bag and $45 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and El Salvador or Panama: $35 USD for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $45 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and Ecuador or Colombia: $45 USD for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, or Uruguay: $70 USD for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and South America, (excluding Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay) on a Basic Economy fare: $60 USD for the first checked bag and $100 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and South America, (excluding Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay) on a Main Cabin fare: no fee for the first checked bag and $60 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and Europe: $75 USD or 70 EUR for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 USD 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 and $100 USD for the second (Basic Economy only).
* Travel from the United States to Algeria, Morocco, or Tunisia: $75 USD for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 USD for the second.
* Travel from Algeria, Morocco, or Tunisia to the United States: no fee for the first checked bag and $100 USD or 85 EUR for the second.
* Travel between the United States and Israel: $60 USD for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 USD 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 and $100 USD 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 and $100 USD for the second.
* Travel between the United States and French Polynesia: $60 USD or 50 EUR for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 USD or 85 EUR for the second.
Remember, these allowances are subject to size and weight restrictions. You can always contact a Delta agent or check out Delta’s Excess Baggage section for more details.
Award Travel: Using Your Miles on Delta
Are you planning on redeeming your SkyMiles for a reward flight? Keep in mind that award travel is subject to taxes, fees, and carrier-imposed charges, which are the passenger’s responsibility and must be paid when booking. Award seats are limited and might not be available on every flight. For Main Cabin and above Award Travel tickets, you can change or cancel your trip without a redeposit or change fee for travel originating from the United States or Canada. To find more details about Delta’s Award Travel policy, head to their Travel With Miles page.
Cancellation, Refunds, and Changes: What You Need to Know
Basic Economy tickets and tickets issued for travel originating outside of the United States and Canada can’t be refunded except in accordance with Delta’s cancellation policy. These tickets also have charges and fees for changes or cancellations. You can find more information about all change and cancellation fees on Delta’s Change or Cancel Overview page.
#SkyMilesLife: Share Your Travels on Social Media
Want to share your Delta travel adventures on social media? Use the hashtag #SkyMilesLife to let others know! By using this hashtag, you grant Delta Air Lines a royalty-free, worldwide, perpetual license to display, reproduce, and create derivative works of your photos. For complete terms, visit Delta’s website.
General Information
Fares, fees, rules, and offers are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions might apply. It’s always a good idea to check with Delta directly for the most up-to-date information.
Basic Economy fares can be a great value for budget-conscious travelers, but it’s crucial to understand the limitations. By understanding the restrictions, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a smooth journey with Delta Air Lines.
