The Ultimate Guide to Airline Approved Dog Soft Carriers
Traveling with your furry friend by air can be stressful for both you and your dog. However, with an airline approved soft-sided carrier, you can feel at ease knowing your pooch will be safe, secure and comfortable for the journey. In this article, I’ll answer all your questions about choosing the right soft carrier and meeting airline regulations.
Why Choose a Soft Carrier?
There are a few key reasons why soft carriers are often the best option for air travel with dogs:
- Comfort. A soft-sided carrier allows your dog more freedom of movement and a less restrictive space than a hard-shell carrier. This is less stressful for nervous flyers.
- Convenience. Soft carriers are lighter weight than hard crates, making them easier to lift, carry and store both at the airport and in your vehicle.
- Safety. While providing more comfort, airline approved soft carriers still meet secure closure and strength requirements to protect your dog in the cargo hold.
From my experience traveling with dogs, soft carriers seem to put them more at ease. My terrier finds his soft carrier cozy like a den, versus being anxious in a hard plastic crate.
Finding the Right Size
When shopping for a soft carrier, an important first step is making sure you choose the appropriately sized model for your dog. Most manufacturers provide size guidelines for weight ranges:
- Small – up to about 15 lbs
- Medium – 15-30 lbs
- Large – 30-50 lbs
- X-Large – 50+ lbs
However, it’s best not to judge size solely on weight. Consider your dog’s breed and how they carry their weight. Some short and stocky breeds may fit into a smaller size than anticipated. I’d suggest taking accurate measurements of your dog and checking the carrier dimensions.
The carrier should have enough room for your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down fully extended, but not be too loose or they could shift around during travel. Leave about 2-3 inches of extra space for comfort. A proper fitting carrier makes the journey smoother.
Selecting Carry-On or Checked Bag Options
Depending on your travel plans, you’ll want an airline approved soft carrier suited for either carrying on board or checking into the cargo hold:
Carry-on options: Look for soft-sided models clearly labeled as meeting size restrictions for carry-on luggage, usually no more than about 22x14x9 inches. This allows keeping your dog with you in the cabin.
Checked bag carriers: These larger soft carriers are meant for transport in the cargo hold and must meet strength testing to protect against falls or other impacts during handling. Make sure your carrier is labeled as approved for checked baggage.
From my experience, it was a huge relief to keep my little Pomeranian in her airline allowed soft-sided carrier under the seat in front of me on flights. No worrying about her wellbeing down in cargo!
Adding Comfort Features
Beyond basic safety and sizing, look for soft carriers that provide extras to make the ride as cozy as possible for your pup:
- Padded or upholstered interior walls
- Breathable mesh windows
- Adjustable leash/harness attachment points
- Storage pockets for necessities like water, treats or toys
- Durable, wipe-clean exterior fabric
I like soft carriers with built-in collapsible bowls, as it’s one less thing to pack. My poodle enjoys poking her nose out one of the carriers mesh ports too. The small comforts help reduce stress levels.
Meeting Airline Regulations
Now for the most crucial part – ensuring your soft carrier choice actually complies with individual airline policies. Regulations can vary, so always check well in advance of booking flights:
- Labeling: The carrier must be clearly marked as airline-approved, usually with a specific certification program logo like IATA or CAWA.
- Size: Measure to confirm carry-on or checked sizes to avoid hassles. Many airlines enforce strict maximum measurements.
- Securement: The carrier must have sturdy, tightening straps or clasps that prevent opening in transit. Mesh or wire doors are usually prohibited.
- Ventilation: Proper airflow holes or mesh panels are necessary safety standards.
It’s kind of like those old “does this fit or does this sit” brain teasers as a kid, but check, double check and bring your measuring tape when choosing a carrier. Airlines don’t play!
Unfortunately, I once showed up to the airport with a carrier with doors that didn’t meet policy. major hassle trying to find alternate safe transport last minute. Now I study guidelines super carefully to avoid similar predicaments in the future.
Dog-Friendly Airport Tips
Lastly, allow me to share my best advice for making the airport experience as low-stress as possible for you and your pooch:
- Comfortable ID tags and microchip are required, so get these set up in advance.
- Provide familiar toys/blankets to ease anxiety in the new setting.
- Stay hydrated and offer water regularly since airports can get warm.
- Bring treats and healthy snacks, as pets can get hungry waiting.
- Consider calming supplements or remedies approved by your vet for nervous fliers.
- Request assistance if needed and be prepared to show officers your travel documents.
Taking the proper precautions and providing your pet with tender loving care is key. From all my airport runs, there’s no better feeling than when both you and your pup reach your destination safely!
I hope this mega-guide covered all the questions and concerns you had as you select an airline approved soft carrier. Dogs deserve the comfiest travels possible, so choose wisely and have a pleasant journey! Let me know if you need any other pet travel tips.
Airline Approved Dog Soft Carriers
| Brand | Size | Weight Limit | Fits Under Seat | Pockets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier | Medium | 15 lbs | Yes | Two side mesh pockets |
| Sleepypod Air Travel Pet Carrier | Small | 15 lbs | Yes | One zippered front pocket |
| PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier | Large | 25 lbs | No | Two side mesh pockets, one zippered front pocket |
| Petsfit Airline Approved Pet Carrier | Medium | 15 lbs | Yes | Two side mesh pockets, one zippered front pocket |
| SPORT PET Soft-Sided Carrier | Small | 15 lbs | Yes | One zippered front pocket |
FAQ
- Are soft dog carriers for air travel?
Yes, soft-sided dog carriers are typically allowed onboard most airplanes as long as your pet fits under the seat in front of you. However, regulations can differ between airlines so it’s best to check with the specific airline you’re flying with. - What size soft carrier is best for air travel?
The best size soft carrier for airplane travel is one that fits completely under the seat in front of you without sticking out into the aisle. Measure the space and try to find a carrier that allows for some extra room but isn’t too big. Going too big could cause the carrier to be checked rather than carried on. - Are there weight limits for soft carriers?
Generally speaking, soft carriers don’t have specific weight limits. The main things airlines look at is the overall size that fits under the seat. Nevertheless, keeping your pet comfortable is important too, so don’t overstuff a small carrier. - Can you bring two dogs in one soft carrier?
While it may be sort of tempting to try and bring two smaller doggos in one carrier to save money, most airlines actually have rules against this. The reason is that in an emergency it’s safer if the pets are separately contained. So to stay on the safe side, get individual carriers for each pup. - What features should I look for?
Some basically awesome features to seek in a soft dog carrier for planes include pockets for supplies, comfy padding, sturdy handles, and ventilation. It’s also handy if the door zips rather than buckles for quick access. On the other hand, avoid carriers with too many bells and whistles so it meets size rules. - Are there any alternatives to soft carriers?
While soft-sided carriers are generally the top choice for meeting most airline rules, there are a couple other options to consider. For example, some pets may feel more secure in a hard-sided pet kennel that fits under the seat. Also, very small dogs or cats may travel in an FAA-approved backpack or vest carrier worn by the owner. - What other tips make air travel less stressful?
To help keep your pup calm and comfy despite the noisiness of planes, consider giving them a safe chew toy or blanket with a familiar scent. Also, some pets settle down with a light calming aid from the vet. But is it worth the risk? Speak to your vet about the best option for your dog’s needs and anxiety level.