The Ins and Outs of Airline Pet Carrier Sizes
If you’ve ever planned a trip with Fido or Fluffy in tow, you know the importance of selecting an appropriately sized pet carrier for airline travel. While under-seat carriers provide the most convenient option, not all models will meet size limits. In this article, I’ll break down the dimensions airlines require and provide tips to help you find the right fit – from my own experiences wrangling my frisky feline Felix on the tarmac.
Standard Airline Pet Carrier Dimensions
- Length: Most carriers must be less than 17-18 inches to fit under most airline seats.
- Width: No wider than 10-13 inches to avoid bumping other passengers.
- Height: Pets must be able to stand without hunching over at around 10-12 inches high.
These are the typical size restrictions set by major U.S. carriers like Southwest, American, United and Delta – though international flights may vary. Kind of a bummer that even “large” breeds may not squeeze in, but the safety of passengers and pets comes first. Basically, if Fido can do yoga in there, it’s a no-go!
Measuring Up Your Pet
Before shopping, be sure to measure Fido while he’s standing at full height. Don’t just eyeball it – those extra centimeters can make or break whether you end up lugging kennels aboard. With my long-haired Ragdoll Felix, I always err on the small side just in case those fluffy tail tufts puff him up an inch. There’s no worse feeling than showing up to the gate with an ill-fitting carrier!
Choosing the Right Material
Beyond dimensions, consider your pet’s needs when selecting carrier fabrics. Soft-sided models tend to work best for cats and smaller dogs, as they feel more secure curled up inside. But look for breathable mesh panels too, so little tongues don’t get too hot mid-flight.
For anxious pooches, a sturdier hard-sided carrier provides more structure and blocks out noises/sights. Sort of like a cozy cave. However, be warned that larger breeds may find these confining. I once travelled with a Great Dane – yikes, we had to check his giant crate!
Testing for Fit Before Takeoff
No matter the dimensions, doesn’t hurt to do a test run beforehand. That way, you can return or exchange if frustrations flare during the “does it fit?” phase. Trust me – trying to cram a panicked puppy into something too small is no fun for anyone! I’ll never forget the yowling fit Felix threw as a kitten when his carrier zipper got stuck. Poor guy, he was terrified!
With any pet carrier, aim to introduce it well in advance and associate it positively. Toss treats inside, leave the door open so they can enter/exit freely. Get them used to riding in cars too before air travel day. Taking those extra precautions will work wonders come departure time.
Bringing Along Enrichment Items
Don’t forget small comforts in transit like pet-safe chew toys, blankets with your scent, and even catnip or peanut butter stuffed Kongs for dogs. Blah blah, these distractions may help curb stress-related behaviors like howling, scratching or attempted escapes. As any pet parent knows, a bored animal on a long journey sounds like pure chaos waiting to happen.
Plus, having enticing scents and toys can encourage napping vs hyperactivity – just ask my adventurous Abyssinian Abigail, who once gnawed her way out! She seems to get more batty in unfamiliar settings, basically needing extra mental stimulation to calm down. So I load up her carrier with all her fave distractions to tire her out.
Following Airline Restrictions
Of course, within reason – some items may not be allowed for health/safety concerns. Definitely check each carrier’s policies, as they can vary by airline and destination country. Most prohibit food, but soft toys, blankets and chew toys usually get the green light. The last thing anyone wants is a choking incident at 30,000 feet! That would be totally an unfun situation.
Also, confirm pet type/breed/vaccine rules if traveling internationally. Stick to domestic routes for problematic pooches like pits or rotties, just to elude worry. And always keep important paperwork on you, like vaccination records and health certificates, in case asked. No sense dealing with hold-ups or costly quarantines due to overlooked regulations.
Finalizing Your Pet’s Airline Plans
Once you’ve found the right-sized carrier and assembled any permitted extras, it’s time seal the deal with the airline itself. Most require advanced booking and pet fees ranging from $75-150 each way. Ouch, but well worth it to keep furry friends close by your side the entire trip. You can’t put a price on companion’ship! And who doesn’t enjoy getting to pet and cuddle their fur baby inflight.
Be sure to reserve your pet’s spot as soon as flight plans are made. Carrier capacity varies between flights, and there’s nothing worse than getting bumped at check-in due to no available doggie berths. I swear I’ve seen fistfights nearly break out over the last open slot before! Pet travel tends to book up fast.
With the proper preparations and equipment, your four-legged friend should feel secure and cruise right through flights with ease. Happy trails to all traveling pets and their proud parents – may the skies be ever kind to your furry fliers! Let me know if you have any other carrier questions along the way.
Airline Approved Under Seat Pet Carrier Dimensions
| Carrier Size | Maximum Dimensions | Airlines Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 16″ x 10″ x 8″ | Delta, United, American |
| Medium | 18″ x 13″ x 9″ | Alaska, JetBlue, Southwest |
| Large | 20″ x 16″ x 10″ | Frontier, Spirit |
| Extra Large | Greater than 21″ x 17″ x 11″ | No US airlines (except as checked baggage) |
| Collapsible/Soft-Sided | Varies by size when collapsed | Most major airlines if dimensions are within airline policy when expanded |
FAQ
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What are the standard dimensions for under seat pet carriers on airlines?
Most airlines allow pet carriers that are roughly 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 8 inches tall (46 cm by 36 cm by 20 cm). This fits perfectly under the seat in front of you.
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Are there size limits on under seat pet carriers?
Yes, there basically are size limits. The guidelines I mentioned above are kinda the max dimensions airlines typically permit for carriers that can fit completely under the seat. Anything larger than that usually has to be checked as luggage inside the cargo hold.
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What happens if my carrier is slightly too big?
If your carrier is only a little oversized, some airlines might kinda let it slide as long as your pet is comfortable. However, at the same time, you run the risk of it not fitting or a flight attendant asking you to check it. Therefore, it’s always safer to strictly comply with the published sizing policies.
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Can soft-sided carriers be larger than hard-sided?
Interestingly, yes – in some cases soft-sided carriers are given more leeway size-wise. Since they’re collapsible, airlines figure a slightly bulkier one can Still squeeze in without issue. Nevertheless, don’t push your luck too much – check airline rules specifically.
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Are there weight limits for under seat pet carriers?
Most carriers have weight limits printed right on them. But in general, as long as your pet carrier plus pet weighs under 20 pounds total, it should clear the weight restrictions for under-seat storage. Perhaps check with your specific airline if unsure.
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“But how will I know what size to get?”, you may ask. Any tips?
Amazingly, many retailers list the maximum pet carrier dimensions that align with airline rules right in their product descriptions. Or check out the FAQs on an airline’s website. You can also take your pet’s crate or carrier with you to the store to test the fit. That helps assure you buy the appropriate size – no mistakes!
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Is it really that important to comply with size/weight limits exactly?
Stunningly, yes – being even a tad over can potentially cause issues! Most airlines have horror stories about people pushing the boundaries, only to get stuck gate-checking an oversized carrier last minute. So to avoid potential hassles, stresses, or even fines, it’s best to follow the posted guidelines closely. Your pet will thank you by traveling in comfort under the seat as intended!