Traveling with a pet can feel stressful, but with preparation, you can ensure a smooth journey for both you and your animal companion. In this guide, we’ll cover what you need to know about flying with pets, including airline policies, required documentation, expert insight, and tips for keeping your animal safe and comfortable during the flight. Our team spoke with the following experts to provide you with the knowledge and resources to make flying with your pet a more positive experience
If you are flying with an airline not listed above, you can reach out to the company directly to learn more about its specific pet travel policies.
For added peace of mind, consider purchasing pet insurance for financial protection in the event of an emergency. The best pet insurance companies can cover illness and injury your pet may sustain during travel.
Preparing For Your Flight
Since the updates to the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) in 2021, flying with an animal has become more difficult, but not impossible. As long as your pet meets the requirements set by the airline you plan to fly on, you can likely get it on the plane.
But before you buy your ticket, it’s important to prepare by doing your research and having proper documentation.
Do Your Research
Nearly every airline has some sort of pet travel policy but rules can vary from one company to the next. We recommend getting answers to the following questions before you fly:
- Animal and breed restrictions: Most airlines only allow cats and smaller dogs in the cabin, but others may extend flight privileges to birds, domestic rabbits and other small animals.
- Your pet’s age: Animals must be at least 8 weeks old to travel, but some airlines require animals to be at least 16 weeks old to fly.
- Number of pets allowed onboard: Many airlines only allow a maximum of six pets total on board for a single flight, so you’ll want to book your flight early to ensure your pet gets one of those spaces.
- Size and weight of travel carrier: Your pet will have to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you with enough space to move around. You can buy TSA-approved pet carriers, but make sure to check your airline’s requirements as the size may differ depending on the airline.
- Cost of pet travel: Pets can no longer fly for free unless they are a trained service animal, so expect to be required to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 each way.
If your pet fails to meet any of the above rules, you may have to reconsider flying with your pet. Some airlines, such as American Airlines and Delta, may allow larger dogs to travel as cargo, but most major airlines no longer offer this as an option.
Have the Appropriate Documentation and Equipment
Just as you need personal identification and a boarding pass to fly, your pet also needs the right documentation. You may not need all of the below information before you purchase your ticket, but you will need it before you check into your flight.
- Your name and address
- Animal species or pet breed
- Vaccination records
- Pet weight
- Pet carrier dimensions
- Professional medical documentation, if applicable
Make Your Pet Comfortable
It’s important to keep your pet as comfortable and protected as possible. Traveling can be stressful for an animal, which can lead to illness or injury.
“Traveling with pets invariably means exposing them to infectious diseases they may not encounter in their daily lives,” said Dr. Mark Freeman. “Ensuring your pet is fully vaccinated, including against diseases that may be prevalent at your destination, is essential for keeping your pet healthy. Limiting, or preventing, your pet’s contact with other animals while traveling is also recommended.”
Make sure to pack plenty of food, treats, medication and a bowl to hold water. For your pet’s comfort, you can also pack a favorite toy or blanket.
Navigating the Airport
Once you have your flight ticket and the proper documentation, you can make a plan to travel with your pet. Getting through security and checking in at your gate is only part of the process — there are plenty of things you can do before you even get to the airport.
Before Arriving at the Airport
If you feel restless on an airplane, your pet may feel it too. Before you leave for the airport, try to keep your pet calm and prepare them for the flight ahead.
- Schedule a visit with your vet to make sure you have the right documentation and check that your pet is ready to fly.
- You can practice using your pet carrier before you fly so your pet gets used to being in it.
- Your pet has to stay in the carrier their entire time in the airport and on the airplane, so make sure it exercises and gets enough mental stimulation before you go.
- If your pet needs any calming medication, follow your vet’s instructions.
- Experts recommend feeding your pet four to six hours before you board to prevent it from having to go to the bathroom on the plane.
- You don’t have to restrict water before boarding, but you can also bring a small amount with you on the plane in case your pet gets thirsty.
- Plan enough time to get to the airport — remember that you’ll need extra time to get through security and check in at the gate.
- Find out where the pet relief area is at the airport so you know where you can take your pet to use the bathroom before you board.