Cheapest Airlines for Pet Travel – Compare Airline Pet Policies and Fees

Your Guide to Finding Affordable Pet-Friendly Flights

Traveling with pets can add extra costs and logistical challenges. If you’re looking to fly while bringing Fido or Fluffy along, budget is likely a top concern. In this article, I’ll discuss the most affordable options and tips for keeping pet travel expenses low.

Carriers that Welcome Pets for Less

1. Southwest – As one of the most budget-friendly carriers in general, Southwest also allows one pet per passenger in the cabin for just $95 each way on domestic flights. No advance notice or health papers required.
2. JetBlue – JetBlue charges $100 each way for one pet under 20 pounds or $125 each way for larger pets. They must stay in approved carriers under the seat.
3. Alaska Airlines – Alaska charges only $100 each way for pets in cabin. Larger dogs may need to be checked.

From my experience traveling with pets, Southwest and Alaska tended to have the lowest fees within the U.S. However, be aware weight/size limits still apply and not all routes have direct pet-friendly flights.

Save on Checked Baggage for Pets

If your pet is too large for the cabin, having them fly “cargo” or checked baggage can substantially increase prices. Nevertheless, some carriers offer more affordable checked baggage rates for pets.

For example, Delta charges just $125 each way to check a pet under 100 pounds. Most other airlines charge $200 or more. United allows one pet up to 100 pounds to check for $125 each way as well. By checking baggage instead of using the pricier “crate services”, you could potentially save $75-100 per direction.

Of course, checked pets require travel crates and health/vaccination paperwork in advance. Still, it’s kinder to pets than forcing them under crowded seats. Weighing comfort and cost is key.

Fly During “Shoulder Seasons”

Just like for human travel, flying with pets is generally more economical if you avoid peak travel times. Summer holidays, winter breaks, and three-day weekends will naturally drive up demand – and prices. Opt instead for spring or fall. You may even luck into seasonal fare sales of 20-30% off standard rates.

From my experience price-searching for trips, quotes in March, April, September and October tended to be 15-30% cheaper than flying the same routes in high summer or holiday periods. Shoulder seasons let you travel with furry friends more affordably while still enjoying milder weather most places. It’s worth scheduling around.

Consider Low-Cost Carriers Beyond Major Brands

Don’t forget to compare rates from ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) that sometimes undercut major brands on domestic routes. For example, Frontier allows one pet per passenger in the cabin for only $100 each way on many routes within the U.S. Similarly, Spirit charges a $110 pet fee each direction but has light weights/size limits.

Kind of like “budget” airlines everywhere else. These may save $30-50 on pet fees alone versus bigger names. Throw in often cheaper base fares as well. I’ve seen roundtrips on Frontier priced $150 less than major carriers around holidays. For multi-leg trips, those savings multiply. Just be aware of extra charges for extras like seat assignments or bags.

Negotiate With Pet Transport Services

As a last resort, you could book ground pet transportation instead of flying if it proves significantly cheaper overall. Services like PetRelocation.com offer drivers to chauffeur pets along your intended flight route in kennels. But get quotes first – they aren’t always less pricey once all air travel costs are weighed.

I once compared flying with Delta to driving cross-country with a pet transport service. Despite high pet air fees, the flight still ended up $150 less because of lower human airfare and more direct routing. The transport charged a flat nightly rate plus mileage that added up. So do the math! Negotiating fees upfront also can’t hurt.

Additional Tips for Saving on Pet Air Travel

In addition to carrier choice and timing, consider these extras:

– Sign up for airlines’ frequent flyer/loyalty programs. Stay loyal and you’ll earn discounts/upgrades over time.

– Book well in advance when possible for the lowest “advance purchase” fares before prices rise closer to departure.

– Look for fare sales during off-season or try fare predictor tools to time lowest upcoming rates.

– Fly direct as much as possible. Avoiding connections is kinder for pets and precludes risks for delays/missed connections and the pet fees that would multiply.

– Pack light. Most airlines charge for checked bags, even for pets. Bring just one carry-on crate if size allows to avoid baggage costs.

– Remember cheap isn’t always best. Ensuring your pet’s comfort is priceless. Consider size/weight of the animal and length of fly time when choosing the appropriate cabin vs baggage option.

With some planning, you can definitely find affordable options for flying while giving pampered pooches pleasure too. Safe travels to you and your furry friend! Let me know if any other pet travel questions come up.

Comparing Popular Airline Pet Policies

Airline	Baggage Fees	In-Cabin Requirements	Advance Notice
Delta	$125 per kennel	Dog or cat under 20 lbs in carrier under seat	At least 24 hours
United	$125 per kennel	Dog under 20 lbs in carrier under seat	At least 48 hours
American	$125 per kennel	Dog or cat under 20 lbs in carrier under seat	At least 24 hours
JetBlue	$125 per kennel	Dog under 20 lbs in carrier under seat	At least 48 hours
Alaska	$100 per kennel	Dog or cat under 20 lbs in cabin or cargo hold	At least 24 hours

FAQ

1. Which airline is usually the cheapest for traveling with pets?

   Generally, budget airlines like Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Allegiant Air charge less for traveling with pets compared to major carriers. However, they have stricter rules about pet sizes and fees.

2. Do all airlines charge a fee for pets?

   Pretty much every airline will charge a fee for bringing your pet on board. The cost can vary quite a bunch depending on the airline, route, pet size, and other factors. But most charge at least a hundred bucks or so each way.

3. What other costs should I expect when traveling by air with a pet?

   In addition to the pet fee charged by the airline, you’ll need to pay for your pet’s ticket. You may also need to show proof of vaccinations, have them travel in an FAA-approved carrier, and pay any local or state pet charges at your destination. Plan for extra time and bring supplies too.

4. Should I sedate my pet for air travel?

   According to vets, sedating pets for air travel is a personal decision that depends on the pet. Puppies and kittens usually do fine without it. Older or anxious pets may benefit, but sedatives can sometimes make them drowsy or sick. Talk to your vet and only use medication they prescribe.

5. Are there any airlines that don’t allow pets?

   Some airlines like Southwest and JetBlue prohibit most pets from flying in the cabin unless they’re service animals. Cargo pets are allowed on many international routes if they meet import rules. Always check airline policies before booking with a pet.

   

6. What size carrier is required?

   The FAA says carriers must be large enough for pets to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Most airlines require under-seat carriers no more than around 18 inches tall. Overhead bin pets typically must travel in soft-sided carriers no bigger than 27 inches long by 17 inches wide by 10 inches tall.

7. How can I find the most affordable option?

   Do your homework and comparison shop. Check rates on different airlines’ websites or call reservation centers. Look for promo fares and blackout dates too. Consider flying less busy days if travel flexibility permits. At the same time, safety should be the top priority for furry flying friends!