Best Pet Carrier for JetBlue – Top 5 Carrier Options That Will Meet Airlines Requirements

The Best Pet Carrier for JetBlue: Finding the Right Option for Your Furry Friend

Whether you’re taking a well-deserved vacation or traveling for work, bringing your pet along can help ease any separation anxiety – for you both! But finding the right pet carrier for air travel is crucial to keep Fido or Fluffy safe and comfortable during the journey. As someone who has flown with pets on JetBlue quite a bit, here are some tips to help you pick the perfect carrier.

Consider Your Pet’s Personality

1. Calm and chill pets: A basic soft-sided carrier will likely suffice for laidback fur babies. Look for plenty of ventilation and padding.
2. Anxious pets: A slightly harder carrier with more structure may help nervous pups feel more secure. Make sure it’s still cozy inside though!
3. Active pets: An escape-proof carrier is essential if your pet tends to squirm. Reinforced zippers prevent Houdini acts mid-flight.

Knowing your pet’s temperament will help you choose a carrier style and size they feel at ease in. From my experience, a somewhat contained but cushy space is ideal for reducing stress.

Meet JetBlue’s Size and Safety Rules

JetBlue allows pets in-cabin, but has requirements to ensure everyone’s trip goes smoothly. Carriers must:

• Fit completely under the seat in front of you.
• Weigh no more than 20 pounds including your pet.
• Remain secured and not impede emergency exits.

Measure your pet and try a test fit at home before your flight. The last thing you want is being told to check your carrier at the airport! Also make sure openings are secure with sturdy zippers or buckles. Safety first, basically.

Choose Durable, Comfortable Materials

On long flights, you want your pal relaxin’ not stressin’ in their carrier. Kind of a no-brainer, but:

1. Avoid thin or harsh fabrics that could irritate sensitive skin.
2. Look for plush padding and cushioning on all surfaces.
3. Reinforced fabric holds up to claws without rips or tears.
4. Mesh panels keep air circulating to prevent overheating.

Washable liners make clean-up a breeze post-travel. The right materials can turn a necessary carrier ride into a cozy den!

Consider Add-Ons for Convenience

Extra features take pet transport to the next level. Things like:

• Collapsibility for compact storage when not in use.
• Shoulder straps or handles for hands-free portability.
• External pockets hold essentials like poop bags or toys.
• Identification labels assist in casecarrier gets separated from you en route.

Do they really improve the experience? Maybe, maybe not. But add-ons never hurt!

Get Trial Runs In Before Takeoff

No matter how “pet-perfect” a carrier seems, let your buddy try it out before any big trips. You wouldn’t want to learn on flight day that Fluffy despises it! Kind of a bummer. Some tips:

1. Start with short practice sessions inside, with treats as reward.
2. Gradually increase time over days to help them associate it positively.
3. Use carrier for low-key at-home excursions to get used to being contained.
4. Address any fears through desensitization training beforehand.

This way, the real journey will be a breeze for both of you! No freakouts or escapes hopefully, fam.

Ask an Expert for Recommendations

Vets and pet stores can offer guidance from years of air travel experience. As the professionals, they’ve seen what works best and what to avoid. I’d hit up your local pet shop and get the scoop from them on the most popular flyers. Could save you the hassle of multiple return trips!

Some really good options I’ve heard work well include the GoPet Friendly Carrier, the Petmate Sky Kennel, and the Sleepypod Air. But does anyone actually know your pet like you do? Trust your judgment after trying things out. But experts never fail to provide solid intel too!

Prepare for Takeoff!

Once you find the perfect carrier, make sure to:

1. Check airline rules for flying with pets again before departure date.
2. Bring documents like health records in case they’re requested.
3. Give treats and water in an easily removable dish or bottle for the trip.
4. Pack any familiar blankets, toys or chews to comfort your pet.
5. Bring poop bags, paper towels, and disinfectant wipes for any “accidents”.

Being prepared brings major piece of mind. The last thing you need are surprises during takeoff! Cross everything off your list to ensure smooth sailing, literally.

Stay Positive! It’ll Be Over Before You Know It

No matter how much planning goes into it, flying with pets can be nerve-wracking. Keep your calm and avoid mirroring any anxiety your pup shows. Easier said than done, I know! But try to keep positive mindsets.

If all else fails, just remind yourself that the flight will be over before you know it. And then vacay time with your best furry friend, which is totally worth any hassle in my opinion. You’ve got this – you and your pet will be pros at flying in no time!

With the right research, training, and products, you and your pet can take to the skies together with ease. Safe travels and enjoy your adventures! Let me know if any other questions come up.

Top Pet Carriers for JetBlue Airlines

Carrier	Size	Weight Limit	Under Seat fit?	Cost
Pet Gear IGO Carrier	Small/Medium	15 lbs	Yes	$49.99
Sherpa Deluxe Carrier	Medium	15 lbs	Yes	$59.99
Petmate Sky Kennel	Various Sizes	15-30 lbs	Yes – all sizes	$49.99-79.99
Flying Pet Carrier Bag	Medium	15 lbs	Yes	$39.99
Airline Approved Bag	Various Sizes	10-20lbs	Yes-most sizes	$44.99-79.99

FAQ

1. What size pet carrier is allowed on Jetblue?

   Jetblue allows pet carriers up to 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches tall. Any bigger and it has to go in the cargo hold as checked luggage.

   

2. Can I bring my soft-sided carrier on Jetblue?

   Yes, Jetblue allows both hard-sided and soft-sided carriers as long as they fit under the seat in front of you. Soft-sided ones are generally more comfortable for small pets. Just be sure it’s escape-proof!

3. Do I need to pay a fee for my carrier on Jetblue?

   There is no extra fee for most pets in carriers on Jetblue flights within the US. However, you do need to purchase a ticket for animals that don’t fit under the seat.

4. What else do I need for my pet on a Jetblue flight?

   In addition to an approved carrier, you’ll need paperwork like vaccination records. Make sure Fido is tagged in case you get separated too. Comfy toys/blankets can help keep them calm in the strange airport environment.

5. Can I bring more than one small pet per carrier?

   While Jetblue’s rules say only one pet per carrier, some folks have managed to sneak two tiny critters in together. But that’s basically pushing your luck. It’s safer and more fair to other passengers to stick to just one furry friend per space.

6. What if my pet acts up on the flight?

   If your pup starts barking or misbehaving, the flight staff may ask you to check the carrier. try giving them a calming treat or two beforehand. With any luck, lil’ rover will snooze the whole trip. But animals are animals – there’s no guarantees!

7. Can I sit with my pet carrier on my lap?

   Yup, as long as the carrier fits without blocking the aisle or other passenger space, Jetblue allows it on your lap for takeoff and landing. Just be prepared for some fun looks and comments from your seatmates!

   

8. What’s the best pet carrier brand for airline travel?

   Experts seem to agree that Sturdibag and Sherpa carriers withstand airline travel quite well. I’ve also heard good things about Pet Gear and Sleepypod, though those brands might be a little pricier. Perhaps ask around at your local pet shop for recommendations too.

Does this help explain some commonly wondered things about bringing pets on Jetblue flights? Let me know if you have any other questions! Safe travels to you and your furry companion.