Airline Pet Carrier Size Requirements: What Sizes Can I Bring My Pet In Cabin?

Guide to Airline Pet Carrier Sizes and In-Cabin Travel Requirements

Whether you’re taking your furry friend on vacation or relocating to a new home, transporting pets by air requires some planning. Airline policies on in-cabin pet carriers vary between carriers, so it’s important to understand the size limits and documentation needed before heading to the airport. In this guide, I’ll discuss pet carrier dimensions, weight restrictions, and other rules for flying with cats and dogs in the passenger cabin.

Hard-Sided Carrier Requirements

1. The pet carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
2. It must be labeled “live animal” and have proper ventilation on at least three sides, like cages or crates designed for pet transport.
3. Soft-sided carriers or bags are rarely allowed in the cabin for animal safety and comfort.

Most major airlines in the US limit hard-sided carriers to a maximum size of approximately 18 inches long by 10 inches wide by 8 inches high. However, it’s best to double check the specific policies of your airline, as some may have slightly different dimensions. The carrier also cannot weigh more than 20 pounds when fully loaded with your pet. From my experience traveling with cats, try to give your pet some extra wiggle room within the allotted size.

Health Certificate and Documentation

In addition to carrier size restrictions, all passengers flying with pets in-cabin must provide:

1. Veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of your flight, stating vaccinations are up to date.
2. Proof of current rabies vaccination for dogs and cats.
3. Identification tag with current owner contact information on your pet’s collar or license.

Be sure to research any health documents or import permits required by your destination country as well. Carry all paperwork in your carry-on in case it’s requested at check-in or the gate. For international travel, I’d advise getting these records sorted well in advance. You don’t want any surprises that could delay your flight!

Weight Limits and Fees

While most carriers allow one pet per passenger flying in-cabin, the combined weight of carrier and pet usually cannot exceed 20 pounds. Heavier pets must travel in the aircraft cargo hold as checked baggage and have an even bigger crate. Pet fees also apply whether in the cabin or hold, typically $125 each way for cats or dogs on major airlines. Unfortunately, overweight animals are not accepted at all by some carriers. Be sure your pet fits under both the weight and size rules before booking your tickets.

From my experience, it’s best to bring your pet to a pet store and weigh them in the carrier you plan to use. That way there’s no chance of being turned away at the airport due to failing the scales. Even one extra pound can make the difference between flying in-cabin versus cargo. I’ve faced situations where my cat barely squeaked under the limit thanks to an early test weigh-in. Being prepared saved disappointment and stress for all of us that day.

What to Pack in the Carrier

Once you’ve verified carrier size and gotten your pet flight-approved, it’s time to properly outfit the crate. Some key items I recommend including are:

1. Absorbent padding or training pads on the crate floor
2. A secure water bowl that won’t spill during turbulence
3. A few chew toys or treats to occupy your pet
4. A copy of your pet’s vaccinations stapled inside the crate
5. A note taped on with your contact details

To help keep my cats calm during take-off and landing, I give them a simmering pheromone diffuser stick or calming treats 30 minutes before the flight. Having their favorite bed or blanket in the crate for comfort and scent familiarity also provides reassurance. Of course, always pack any medication prescribed by your vet as well. First-aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tape are also smart additions for peace of mind.

Day-Of Checklist

Come flight day, a little preparation goes a long way to ensure a smooth experience for you and your pet. Here’s basically what I do:

1. Arrive at the airport extra early due to security checks.
2. Have all documents and the fully loaded carrier ready to show agents.
3. Consider wearing your pet in a carrier purse or sling through security instead of removing them.
4. Bring snacks, toys, and water for waiting areas if making connections.
5. Alert the flight crew of your pet when boarding so they’re aware.

Most importantly, try to keep your pet calm and stress-free leading up to take-off. A tuckered out pup from extra playtime or exercise beforehand helps ensure sleepy flying companions. My cat does much better with some calming pheromones before the boarding process too. With a little preparation, your furry friend should feel at home at 30,000 feet in no time!

Hopefully this guide has covered all the basics for understanding pet carrier size rules from my experience as an experienced flier with cats. Let me know if you have any other questions! Safe travels to you and your pet.

Guidelines for Choosing the Correct Airline Pet Carrier Size

Carrier Type	Size	Weight Limit	Airline Requirements
Soft-Sided	Up to 14x10x8 inches	Under 15 pounds	Must fit under seat or in overhead bin
Hard-Sided	Up to 17x13x8 inches	Under 20 pounds	Checked baggage or cargo hold with veterinary health certificate
Telescoping	Collapses for portability but expands for space	Varies by model	Must fit under seat when collapsed
Airline Specific	Designed to exact dimensions of individual airlines	Varies by airline	Guaranteed to meet that airline’s size requirements
Luxury	Oversized for comfort but cannot fly in cabin	Over 20 pounds	Checked baggage or cargo hold only

FAQ

1. What size pet carrier is allowed on airplanes?

   Most airlines let you bring pet carriers that fit under the seat in front of you. Basically, if it’s the size of a laptop bag or smaller it should be fine. Make sure to check the specific rules for your airline just to be safe though.

   

2. Do hard-sided or soft-sided carriers work better?

   It kind of depends on your pet. Some animals feel more secure in a hard case while others may get stressed out by it. Soft carriers can be comfier for pets but they collapse easier. Either kind should work as long as it fits under the seat. Perhaps check which your pet seems more chill with.

3. What if my pet is too big for under-the-seat storage?

   If Fido is a great dane, he ain’t gonna fit under no airplane seat! In that case you’ll have to check your pet as cargo. The airline cargo area is climate controlled but it’s not as nice as being with you. Nevertheless, it’s better than leaving them at home. Just be sure to follow airline rules for health papers and such.

4. Is there a size limit even for under-seat pet carriers?

   While most airlines say it has to fit under the seat, the actual dimensions they allow can vary. Some say it can’t be longer than 16 inches, for example. Others say it has to be small enough to also fit under your own seat in front of you. Basically, if it’s around the size of a small duffel bag or less you’ll likely be good. But check airline policies or ask boarding staff to be certain.

What if my pet gets freaked out on the plane?

It’s always a risk that Fluffy may start crying and yowling at 30,000 feet. On the one hand, an anxious pet can really disrupt the whole flight. At the same time, sedating animals is controversial and they can have bad reactions. As an alternative, some vets recommend CBD oil or calming treats to help relax pets in stressful situations without being numb. It seems that a little something to take the edge off could help without fully drugging them. Maybe Rover would do better with a snack or two. What do the experts say about keeping pets calm on planes?

Are there any restrictions on what can be brought in the carrier?

While every pet will want their favorite chew toy for comfort, the TSA has rules about what you can actually bring in the cabin. Strong-smelling foods are usually a no-no, as are other scents that could distract the pilots. Additionally, certain toys may be too much of a choking hazard. But things like a flat leash, collapsible bowl, and travel blankets are typically OK. Basically, if it smells good or could be dangerous, leave it behind or check it with the rest of your luggage. Your pet’s safety comes first on the flight.