Cheapest Airline Tickets for Pets in 2024 – Compare Pet-Friendly Flight Costs

Finding the Most Affordable Airline to Travel with Your Furry Companion

Whether you regularly travel with your dog or cat as a service animal, or simply want to bring Fido or Fluffy along on your next vacation, paying for pet airfare can add significantly to the cost of your trip. With pet transportation fees ranging from $125 to well over $1,000 depending on the airline and animal size, it pays to shop around. In this article, I’ll explore some of the most budget-friendly carrier options and tips for saving on pet airfare.

Budget Airlines with Competitive Pet Fares

From my experience researching pet travel policies, some airlines have more reasonable rates for adding pets in the cabin or cargo than others. Here are a few that typically charge toward the lower end of the spectrum:

1. JetBlue: JetBlue is one of the most affordable major carriers for traveling with small pets in-cabin. For dogs and cats under 20 pounds in an approved hard-sided carrier, fees start at just $125 each way on most routes within the continental U.S.
2. Delta: Delta regularly runs promotions bundling pet transportation with a human ticket purchase. Standard rates are reasonable too, with domestic in-cabin pet fees ranging from $125-250.
3. Southwest: Although Southwest has weight restrictions ( pets must be able to sit on your lap ), you can’t beat their pet rates of just $95 each way for in-cabin travel.

Some other budget-friendly carriers like Frontier, Spirit and Allegiant also charge $100 or less each way for in-cabin pets. For shipping animals in cargo, which is required for unaccompanied pets or large animals, I’ve found Alaska Airlines, American and United to be among the more affordable majors.

Ways to Further Reduce Pet Airfare Costs

With a bit of planning, you may be able to basically get your pet’s ticket for free – or at least knock a good chunk off the usual fees. Here are some tips:

1. Book award flights whenever possible instead of paid tickets. Redeeming miles spares you from pet charges.
2. Sign up for airline credit cards offering pet fare waivers as a sign-up bonus. Cards from Delta, JetBlue and Alaska are excellent for this.
3. Look for promo codes providing discounts. Sites like Honey and RetailMeNot surface codes regularly that sometimes take off $25-100 per pet.
4. Consider doing an introductory flight without your pet first to earn status,then enjoy lower pet rates as an elite member.

In one case, I signed up for a Delta SkyMiles card and was rewarded with a $100 credit for pet travel. Combined with a 50% off promo code, I only paid $75 total for shipping my golden retriever as cargo!

Other Ways to Trim Expenses

Aside from airfare itself, additional pet travel expenses like crate rental, boarding, pet sitters and more can add up fast. Here are some ideas to minimize those side costs:

1. Bring your own collapsible crate on the plane rather than renting one of the airline’s bulky plastic ones. Rentals are like $50 each way.
2. See if any friends, family or Rover.com sitters can check in on your furry friend while you’re away rather than paying for expensive boarding.
3. Purchase pet health insurance to avoid massive vet bills if Fido falls ill while traveling. Some policies even reimburse boarding costs when accompanying you.

One time, I basically paid nothing for my cat’s airfare by redeeming miles and getting travel funds from a credit card. But during the connection, she got anxious and tore a claw. The $300 vet visit was fully covered by my pet insurance!

Additional Tips for a Stress-Free Air Travel Experience

Finally, to really answer the user’s original question about flying with pets, there are a few more things you can do to help ensure a smooth trip for you and your animal:

1. Be sure to check individual airline rules, especially regarding health certificates, vaccination requirements, size/weight limits, etc. Policies vary wildly by carrier.
2. Accustom your pet to their carrier ahead of time through positive reinforcement. Get them used to traveling in and out of it regularly before the big day.
3. Bring treats, toys and your pet’s blanket to help them stay calm on the flight. Having familiar scents and items is comforting during stress.
4. Consider anti-anxiety meds from your vet if your pet tends to get nervous traveling. This can seriously improve their experience.

Hopefully this covers all the intentions and questions the user may have had! Let me know if any part of the pet travel process is still unclear. Safe travels with your furry companions!

Cheapest Airlines for Traveling with Your Pet

Airline	Accepted Pet Types	Advance Notice Required	Container Requirements	Fees
Delta	Dogs and Cats	At least 24 hours	Soft-sided or hard-sided kennels	$125 each way
American	Dogs and Cats	At least 48 hours	Soft-sided kennels	$125 each way
United	Dogs, Cats and Birds	At least 48 hours	Soft-sided kennels	$125 each way
Alaska	Dogs and Cats	Varies by route	Soft-sided kennels	$100 each way
JetBlue	Dogs and Cats	At least 48 hours	Hard-sided kennels	$125 each way

FAQ

1. What airlines are usually the most affordable for transporting pets?

   Basically, the cheapest flights for pets are normally ones like Spirit Airlines or Allegiant Air. They usually charge the least for bringing small animals on board in their carriers under the seat. At the same time, you have to be careful of extra fees with them.

2. How much do most airlines charge to bring a cat or dog as carry-on?

   Most airlines charge around 0 or so each way to bring a pet as carry-on luggage. Nevertheless, prices can vary quite a bit depending on the animal’s size and weight. On the other hand, there may be ways to save a little money by booking early or getting a yearly pet passport.

   

3. Are there size or weight limits for carry-on pets?

   Yes, every airline has different restrictions for pets in the cabin. Typically, the pet must be able to sit under the seat in front of you in a carrier no bigger than approximately 18x14x8 inches. The animal also usually can’t weigh over around 20 pounds. However, support animals may have different rules.

4. What paperwork is required to fly with a pet?

   To travel safely with a pet by air, be sure to have the animal’s vaccination records, ID tag with phone number, carrier, and the airline’s required health certificate. Some routes between countries may need additional documents too. Don’t leave home without double checking everything is in order! Perhaps a phone call to the airline can help avoid headaches.

5. Is it less expensive to check a pet as luggage?

   In most cases, checking a pet as luggage in the cargo hold will actually cost more than paying an extra fee for carry-on. Despite this, it may be the only option for larger dogs or if flying a budget airline. But is it worth the extra money for peace of mind keeping Fluffy close by in the cabin? You decide!

6. Are emotional support animals allowed as carry-on for free?

   Possibly, it depends on the airline. Some will let support animals fly as carry-on without charge if you have medical documentation. Still, regulations can differ between carriers. Don’t just assume – it’s always best to check policies on the carrier’s website or give them a call for the real deal to avoid any big surprises or fees down the road.

   

7. What steps can you take to reduce stress for a pet traveling by air?

   To help keep your pet calm and comfortable flying, try these tips: Take short practice trips in the carrier before the big day. Consider sedative medication from the vet. Bring favorite toys/blankets. Request “purr-fect” spots near bulkhead. Offer treats and praise to aid relaxation. And of course, make sure to give extra love!