Your Complete Guide to Finding Affordable Pet-Friendly Flights
Traveling with your furry friend can be expensive if you don’t know where to look for deals. Whether you’re planning a vacation, road trip, or relocation, these tips will help you find cheap flights for dogs with ease.
Check Major Airlines and Budget Carriers
Larger airlines like Delta, American, and United allow pets in the cargo hold on most domestic routes for a fee that’s typically $125-250 each way. Budget carriers Frontier, Spirit, and Allegiant also transport pets in the cargo compartment at a lower cost of -150. It pays to compare fares across multiple airlines.
Fly on Less Busy Days
Midweek flights tend to be cheaper than weekends. You’ll also find better prices in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall than peak summer travel times. Flying early in the morning or very late at night can sometimes save $20-50 per ticket too. Avoid holidays if possible.
Consider Ground Transportation
For shorter hauls under 500 miles, driving may end up being cheaper even when you factor in gas and accommodations. You can also look into Dog-friendly trains like Amtrak or Flixbus for multi-day trips. Some pets travel free or at low rates on certain routes. This gives your pup a more comfortable ride too.
Use Online Booking Tools
Websites like Momondo, Kayak, Google Flights, and Skyscanner let you search and compare fares from multiple carriers in one place. You can often find better last-minute deals through these aggregators than going direct to an airline. Be sure to filter for “pet-friendly” flights at checkout.
Sign Up for Airline Loyalty Programs
Frequent flyer mileage programs offer special pet-travel perks and discounted rates. For instance, United PetSafe members get 5% off advance purchase fares annually. Likewise, American AAdvantage and Delta SkyMiles partners may enjoy additional savings on fees. Building status tiers also provides extras like priority check-in.
Consider Flying Cargo vs Cabin
While cabin travel is more convenient, flying pets in cargo is usually a lot cheaper since they don’t need a ticket. Rates range from $125-$250 each way depending on carrier and destination. Just be sure to ask about special handling procedures to ease any stress. I once saved $400 flying my Labrador cargo versus cabin on an international trip!
Use Travel Agents and Specialists
Companies devoted to pet relocation and pet-friendly vacations like PetRelocation.com and PetTravel.com have industry insider deals. Travel hackers also frequently find and publish cheap flight itineraries on sites like OneTicket.com. An experienced agent can explore more options than searching yourself and uncover savings you may have missed.
Look into Discount Consolidators
Sites like CheapOair, Expedia, Priceline, and Travelocity work with bulk inventories from multiple carriers. They sometimes offer fares well below the standard published rates, especially for last-minute bookings. Be aware consolidators have limited ability to make changes once booked though.
Ask About Companion Deals
Major airlines frequently run seasonal promotions pairing steeply discounted “companion fares” with full-price tickets. These deals allow you to bring along a pet in the cargo hold at little to no added cost. You just need to watch airline deal sites and travel blogs to catch the next sale in time. Scott’s Cheap Flights is top-notch for alerts.
In summary, do your homework, be flexible on travel days, and consider all booking options. With a little effort, you should have no problem finding budget-friendly flights to take your pup along on your next vacation! Let me know if any other questions come up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What paperwork is required?
All airlines will require an up-to-date vaccination record showing your pet has received routine shots within the last year. You may also need a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel. Read requirements carefully as they vary slightly by carrier and destination country. Don’t cut it close!
How much does it cost to transport different pet sizes?
Rates tend to rise significantly for large or overweight dogs over about 25 pounds. Major carriers like Delta often charge $125 for pets under 20 pounds and $200 for those 20-50 pounds. For dogs 50-100 pounds expect to pay $250-350. Extra-large pets breach 100 pounds may not be accepted. Check policies before booking to avoid surprises.
What happens if a flight is delayed or canceled?
Ideally you’d receive a refund or be rebooked free of charge. But in reality flight changes sometimes lead to inconvenient itineraries, overnight pet shelter fees, or even abandonment of travel plans altogether if timing no longer works. Consider travel insurance to cover unforeseen costs and protect your investment.
Is my pet safe in the cargo hold?
Modern pressurized holds maintain cabin air pressure and temperature controls for comfortable conditions. However, it’s a noisy environment without your presence, so some dogs get anxious. The risk of an accident is statistically low but can’t be eliminated. For those concerned, flying in-cabin or driving may offer more security despite higher fares.
Any health restrictions?
Most carriers ban brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers due to breathing issues at high altitudes. Emotional support animals also face greater scrutiny than trained service dogs today. Rabies vaccination is strictly enforced nearly everywhere too. Again, know the regulations before confirming travel plans.
In the end, planning ahead and doing your research can prevent surprises. With preparation, even pets usually enjoy their trips just as much as we do! Let me know if any other dog travel questions come up.
Factors to Consider When Booking Cheap Flights for Dogs
| Airline | Cargo Fees | Size/Weight Limit | Crating Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | $150 each way | Under 100 lbs | Hard-sided carrier |
| American | $125 each way | Under 100 lbs | Hard-sided carrier |
| United | $125 each way | Under 100 lbs | Hard-sided carrier |
| Alaska | $100 each way | Under 100 lbs | Hard-sided carrier |
| JetBlue | Contact for quote | Under 50 lbs | Hard-sided carrier |
FAQ
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Can you bring your dog on a plane?
Most airlines allow dogs to fly in the cargo hold or in the cabin as a service animal or emotional support animal. Rules and fees differ by airline. Always check airline policies before booking travel with your furry pal!
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How much do dog flights usually cost?
Plane ticket costs for dogs basically depend on factors like weight, airline, and travel class. Economy flights usually cost $100-$250 per leg for medium dogs under 20 pounds. Large dogs may be over $200 each way. Of course, getting a dog’s ticket as early as possible often saves money.
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Is it stressful for dogs to fly?
While it appears the experience can be scary and unpleasant for some pups, others take to flying with no problems at all. Each doggy is different! Make sure you talk to your vet and do your research to decide if air travel is right for your pooch. Having familiar toys or blankets may help anxious dogs feel more calm.
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What paperwork do I need for my dog’s flight?
All airlines require a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel. You’ll also need proof of vaccines and an official ID tag. Some require microchipping as well. Check airline rules carefully to confirm all necessary documents are in order before heading to the airport with your fur baby!
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How can I prepare my dog for a plane ride?
Getting your pup used to car rides, travel crates, and other new experiences ahead of time helps. Practice crate training at home. Consider doggy Xanax or sedatives from your vet if super anxious. Make test-runs to the airport too. Maybe bring a favorite toy or blanket to reduce stress. With patience and positive associations, even scaredy pups can learn to “go with the flow”!
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What’s the best way to transport dogs on a plane?
Most experts recommend using a sturdy kennel or carrier that’s properly sized for the dog. Make it den-like with cozy bedding. Air cargo is probably safer than cabin for untrained dogs. However, small pets in cabin may feel less alone with an owner nearby! Several airlines allow one “emotional support animal” per person in the cabin with documentation from a therapist.
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How can I make my dog’s flight more comfortable?
Try giving timid dogs calmative supplements from a vet before flying. Also pack extras like water, snacks, pee pads, and toys or chewies inside the kennel. Clearly label it outside with contact info in case of mix-ups. For cabin pets, bring leash, bowls, and anything to keep them entertained. Despite risks, many dogs take to flying with no worries thanks to tender loving care!