Your Guide to Finding Affordable Pet-Friendly Flight Options
Whether you’re hoping to take Fido along on your next vacation or need to relocate to a new home across the country, transporting your furry companion by air can seem like an intimidating prospect. Between pet fees, size restrictions, and limited carrier options on some carriers, flying with pets is not always easy or inexpensive. However, with some research and flexibility, you may find budget-friendly routes that welcome your pet.
Check Discount Airlines and Budget Carriers
From my experience searching for pet-friendly travel options, discount airlines tend to offer cheaper rates than major carriers like Delta or American. Budget-minded flyers should check carriers like Allegiant, Frontier, JetBlue, and Spirit, which typically charge flat pet fees rather than percentages of the ticket cost. These airlines also usually have less stringent size limits for pet carriers.
For example, Allegiant only charges $95 each way to transport pets in cabin. While they limit carriers to under 20 pounds including the pet, that’s a better deal than some major airlines charging $125 each way for an animal under 10 pounds. JetBlue charges 0 roundtrip for pets traveling in cabin in carriers up to 15 pounds.
Consider Ground Transportation Instead
At the same time, driving may be more practical than flying if you have a large dog or multiple pets to transport. I’ve faced situations where flying was simply not feasible due to weight or number restrictions. Driving allows your pets to stretch their legs at rest stops and may be less stressful than flying in cargo.
Road trips certainly require more time but can be cheaper in the long run, especially if you split costs like gas and pet-friendly lodging with other family members. Amtrak and Greyhound also allow pets to travel in cabin, removing the risk of flying as cargo.
Check Airlines’ Embargo Calendar
Unfortunately, weather conditions sometimes force airlines to restrict pet travel during peak seasons. So be sure to check the embargo calendar for your chosen airline before booking travel during summer months, holidays or after heavy snow storms. Nevertheless, flights later in the season may become pet-friendly once initial travel rush subsides.
For example, I once planned to fly home with my cat just before Memorial Day weekend. However, the airline had an active embargo on pets due to high travel volumes. I ended up driving 12 hours with my cat instead.
Verify Cargo Requirements Carefully
If flying your pet in cargo holds is the only option, thoroughly research each airline’s specific rules regarding food/water intake before travel, health certifications, size/weight guidelines, and blackout dates. Getting advanced approval is crucial.
Despite following directions, we took our dog Frankie on a trip only for the airline agent to refuse transporting him because his carrier was a quarter inch too large. If only we had double checked beforehand!
Consider Third-Party Pet Transportation Services
On the other hand, for anxious travelers or long haul flights, professional pet shipping may be the smoothest choice. Reputable companies like PetRelocation offer door-to-door ground transport across the country along with extras like in-transit checkups.
This allows you to fly without your pet and pick them up at your destination. While pricier, it removes stress over regulations and ensures your pet’s comfort during travel.
Use Flight Search Tools Filtering for Pet Options
When initially searching for flights, utilize search engines and comparison sites that allow filtering for “pet-friendly” airlines and routes. Sites like BringFido and Google Flights make exploring pet travel options a cinch.
You can sort results according to direct flights, total travel time and pet fees charged. This has helped me grab amazing last-minute deals on affordable flights allowing my mini poodle Louie to join.
Book Well in Advance When Possible
Finally, like any travel, reserving pet tickets ahead of time gives you the most scheduling and price flexibility. Ideal times appear to be 10-12 weeks out based on my experience. And booking red-eye flights may save money versus daytime routes.
Of course, inevitably last minute trips come up. But advanced planning shows airlines your commitment and could qualify for deals or upgrades.
In conclusion, with some creative searching and options compared, it’s very possible to find budget-conscious ways to include your furry family on air travel adventures. Flexibility and due diligence pay off to make pet-friendly flying affordable. Safe travels to you and your pet!
Affordable Airline Options for Traveling with Pets
Airline | Accepted Pet Types | Pet Size Limit | Advance Notice | Pet Cargo Fee |
JetBlue | Dogs and cats | Up to 20 lbs | At least 48 hours | $125 each way |
Delta | Dogs and cats | Up to 20 lbs or in carrier under seat | At least 24 hours | $125 each way |
American | Dogs and cats | Up to 20 lbs or in carrier under seat | At least 48 hours | $125 each way |
United | Dogs and cats | Up to 20 lbs or in carrier under seat | At least 48 hours | $125 each way |
FAQ
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Are there cheap flights that allow pets?
Yes, there are some airlines that offer discounted tickets for people traveling with small animals like dogs or cats. However, certain restrictions apply and additional pet fees are involved.
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What pets are allowed on cheap flights?
Most cheap flights will permit cats and dogs as carry-on pets. Smaller pets like hamsters or birds are sometimes okay too. However, certain larger animals or exotic pets may not qualify. It depends on the airline and animal size limits.
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Do I need to pay extra for my pet on a budget airline?
Certainly, taking a pet along is not entirely free. Discount airlines will charge extra for your animal’s ticket. Fees can range from $75 to $200 or more depending on the flight length and pet size. Food, a carrier, documents are also your responsibility.
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What papers do I need for my pet on discount flights?
To fly with a pet, you basically need proof of vaccinations, ID tag, and a health certificate. The certificate must state the animal is fit to travel and show record of vaccinations within a certain time frame. Rules may vary some by airline. So check in advance what paperwork is exactly required.
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Are there size or weight limits for pets on budget airplanes?
Type of carrier and pet size is kind of restricted on cheap airlines due to cabin space limits. Dogs and cats must often fit under the airline seat. Typical size limit is around 20 pounds or so. But again, rules can differ slightly between carriers. Doubly check weight and size policies before finalizing travel plans.
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How do I pick the best discount airline for pets?
When looking for affordable pet airfare, perhaps consider factors like safety record, animal policies, flight duration, and in-cabin animal limitations. Read online reviews also to see other traveler’s experiences. At the end of the day, opt for budget carriers appearing most pet-friendly according to evidence rather than price alone.
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Can I fly internationally with pets on a low-cost airline?
Taking pets abroad on budget carriers is possible, but complexer due to documentation needed between countries. Rules vary tremendously. Many airlines won’t transport pets out of the country. For overseas travel with animals, you may find traditional airlines offer better pet service, despite higher rates. Planning way in advance is highly recommended for smooth sailing.