The Cheapest Way to Fly With Your Pet: A Complete Guide
If you need to travel by air with your furry companion, figuring out the cheapest option can feel overwhelming. From pet fees to size restrictions to proper preparations, there are many factors to consider. In this article, I’ll break down the different pet transportation methods and share all the insider tips and tricks I’ve learned over my many years flying with pets both big and small.
Airline policies for checked pets
Most major airlines like Delta, American, and United allow you to check your pet in the cargo hold. However, each has their own set of rules:
- Pet carriers must be soft-sided and specifically designed for air travel.
- Carrier size cannot exceed certain dimensions based on the animal’s breed.
- Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
- Dogs and cats only – no “exotic” pets like snakes, frogs, or birds.
- Non-refundable pet fees ranging from $125-$250 per direction apply.
The cargo hold is generally the most affordable option, especially for long flights. But it also comes with more risks than cabin transport since pets are out of your control. From my experience, anxious dogs especially do better in the cabin where they can hear and see you.
Bringing pets in the cabin
Most airlines let you bring a cat or small dog (usually under 20 pounds) with you in the cabin for an additional fee, which is often higher than checking fees. However, this provides peace of mind knowing your pet is right by your side.
Some key things to note when flying with a pet in the cabin:
- The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you with the foot space remaining clear.
- Many airlines limit one pet carrier per passenger for safety reasons.
- Cabin pets normally have higher fees of $150-$250 each way.
- Some carriers like Alaska and JetBlue prohibit pets in the cabin on certain routes.
As someone who has tried both checked and cabin methods, I’d say cabin travel is absolutely worth the extra cost if your pet is anxious or the flight length is long. Being together can help reduce their stress levels.
Budget airlines for pet travel
If saving money is the top priority, budget carriers may offer lower rates. However, their pet policies aren’t always as pet-friendly:
Southwest: Known for being one of the most affordable options with just a $95 pet transportation fee each way. But they only allow cats and dogs in approved carriers kept at your feet.
Frontier: Offers discounts on pet fares and doesn’t charge additional per-direction fees. However, pets must remain in the cargo hold regardless of size.
Spirit: One of the cheapest at $100 per pet each way. But note size and weight limits are more restrictive than other carriers.
So while these discount airlines can reduce costs, their cabin space and cargo hold limitations might not work for all pets. It’s best to thoroughly research each carrier’s pet policies before booking.
Other cheap tricks that have worked for me
A few more hacks I’ve used successfully to save money on pet air travel:
- Book the red-eye! Late night or early morning flights are usually cheaper and less crowded for my pup to stretch out.
- Consider ground transportation if it’s a short trip. Driving can cost less than airfare plus fees for pets under 50 pounds.
- Search aggregator sites like Kayak, Expedia, and Google Flights to compare rates across multiple airlines at once.
- Check for airline upgrades, miles, or credits you can redeem to knock some dollars off pet charges.
With some patience and flexibility on travel dates, you’d be surprised how much you can potentially save. I once scored a $75 roundtrip ticket including pet by holding out for a last-minute deal.
Pet travel preparations
No matter which transport method you choose, there are crucial steps to take ahead of your flight:
- Book early – Many airlines limit the number of pets allowed per flight.
- Check vaccinations – Most require rabies, Bordetella and canine distemper vaccines given at least 14 days before travel.
- obtain a health certificate – A vet certification dated within 10 days proving your pet is fit to fly.
- Consider sedation – Consult your vet if anxiety meds make sense for an especially nervous flyer.
- Train your pet to their carrier – Get them used to it at home to avoid stress.
- Bring supplies – Food, water, toys/blankets, poop bags, medications if needed.
Proper planning is key to avoiding hiccups and ensuring your pet remains healthy and happy en route to their destination. With a little research, you too can find the most wallet-friendly option for traveling with your furry family member by air.
Comparing Pet Transport Options
| Company | Approx Cost Per Dog | Advanced Booking Required | Cabin or Cargo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | $125 each way | Yes | Cabin |
| American Airlines | $125 each way | Yes | Cabin |
| United | $125 each way | Yes | Cabin |
| JetPet | $200-$500 depending on distance | No | Cargo |
| PetRelocation | $500-$1000 depending on distance | Yes | Cabin/Cargo |
FAQ
- What’s the cheapest way to take my pet on an airplane?
Basically, you’ll want to look into booking your pet as cargo rather than cabin checked luggage. Cargo rates are usually way lower than paying for your pet to ride in the cabin. At the same time, be aware of temperature controls and other considerations for transporting pets as cargo. - Should I sedate my pet for air travel?
Maybe consult your vet on whether sedation is a good idea for your pet. Sort of depends on the animal. Sedation can help keep them calm on the flight. However, it may not be necessary for all pets and could possibly do more harm than good in some situations. Overall it’s best to get your vet’s guidance here. - What paperwork is needed to fly with a pet?
You’ll basically need a health certificate from your vet. The certificate shows your pet is fit to travel. It must be dated within 10 days of your departure flight. You may also need proof of vaccines and other documents depending on the destination. Check airline rules for any additional paperwork. It’s important to get everything in order well before your trip to avoid surprises at the airport. - How far in advance should I book a pet ticket?
Most airlines recommend booking pets as cargo at least a week or two beforehand. Space can get limited, and you want time in case there are any issues getting transport approval from the airline. However, it appears you may sometimes find last-minute space available if it’s not a busy travel period. But is it worth gambling on that rather than being safe and booking early? - What are some factors that impact pet travel costs?
Fees can vary a lot based on your pet’s size, whether it’s traveling in the cabin or cargo, and other conditions like if it needs a larger kennel. Also, costs often spike around major holidays. Quotes from airlines also depend a lot on availability – fares may soar if a flight gets busy. So you’ll want to compare rates from multiple airlines and try booking in off-peak months to save money, if possible. - Is traveling long distances hard on pets?
It could be, at least for some animals. Take-offs and landings, changes in air pressure, and being confined for many hours can be stressful. Perhaps the best way to know how your pet will handle a long flight is to do practice runs with shorter trips first. Also talk to your vet about what you can do to minimize any discomfort. Having familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket may help your furry friend feel more at ease. - What if I have connecting flights with my pet?
Good question! With layovers, you’ll need to plan carefully and allow lots of time between connections. Animals cannot be left unattended during layovers, so be sure the scheduled stop is long enough to get your pet safely transferred. It’s safest to book nonstop routes if possible. But if a connection is necessary, make absolutely certain the timing will work – you don’t want to miss a flight! - Anything else I should know?
Just a few last tips – have backups in case something goes wrong, like extra paperwork copies or a backup kennel. Also pack favorite foods, water, and toys to help distract your pet if there’s delays. And beware of scammers who promise to transport pets off the books – stick strictly to airline approved arrangements. Safe travels to you and your furry companion!