Your Guide to Finding Affordable Pet-Friendly Flights
Traveling with your furry friend can present unique challenges when it comes to booking flights. As a pet owner myself, I understand the desire to bring your pup or kitty along on trips. In this article, I’ll share tips focused on different aspects of finding cheap pet-friendly flights based on over a decade of experience flying with pets.
Check Multiple Carriers
Your first step should be comparing flight options across different airlines. Prices and fees can vary widely between carriers when traveling with animals. Rather than just looking at your usual airline, search major pet-friendly airlines like Delta, American, and United. You may also want to explore discount airlines that allow one pet per passenger in the cabin like JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. Shop around to find a good combination of cost and animal policy.
Book Early
Just like with regular flights, being flexible on travel dates and booking early helps maximize your chances of scoring a cheap fare when flying with pets. The sooner you buy tickets, the more options you’ll have for dates and routes. If there’s a specific time you need to travel, it may require paying a premium. But even a couple months of lead time opens the door to promotions and fare sales that don’t exist as departure dates near.
Fly Off-Peak
Midweek flights and those early or late in the day tend to be cheaper options compared to weekends and most popular travel times. If your schedule allows it, try flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Saturdays to potentially save versus flying Friday or Sunday. I’ve even had luck with red-eye flights, since fewer passengers means lower fares. Just be aware of how your pet handles overnight travel before choosing that route.
Ask About Rates for Small and Medium Dogs
Most airlines charge pet fees on a per-container basis, so your costs will obviously be lower if traveling with a teacup poodle versus a Great Dane. However, some carriers like JetBlue actually have reduced rates for small and medium-sized dogs that can sit at a passenger’s feet rather than going under the seat. Even a $25 reduction in fees adds up. Make sure to understand any size/breed guidelines to identify cheaper options.
Consider Cargo for Longer Routes
For multi-leg trips covering long distances, the occasional cargo hold transport of animals could save a bundle versus paying extra fees on every leg of the journey. Cargo is fully pressurized and temperature controlled on most major domestic carriers. While not ideal compared to cabin travel, proper carriers and handling mean it’s generally safe for pets under a certain weight. Just be sure to research individual airline policies thoroughly first.
Use Frequent Flier Miles
If you have miles saved up from personal or business travel, look into options for redeeming points to cover pet transportation costs. Sign up for airline mileage programs to start collecting points you can apply later when ready to book a trip with your pet. Some allow for using miles on pet fees specifically if a standard reward ticket isn’t an option. Every mile counts when the goal is getting the most travel for your points.
Search Flight Booking Sites
Don’t stop at just airline websites since third-party booking engines like Expedia, Travelocity or CheapOair sometimes have cheaper bundled fares factored for traveling with pets. Use promo codes and cash-back rebate programs too. Sites offer deals negotiated directly with carriers. You may also come across rare incentive packages including pet fees waived or discounted as a promotion. It’s worth a quick scan of several travel sites alongside individual airline sites.
Negotiate Fees Directly
Agents have some flexibility to adjust pricing, so if you happen to find an unusually high pet fee quoted, don’t hesitate to ask for a lower rate. As the old saying goes, “you don’t get what you don’t ask for.” Provide specifics on your travel history and loyalty as reasons you deserve a discount. Airlines want happy returning customers like yourself who follow all rules. A little polite negotiation could save $50 or more. Just be courteous if told no available discounts apply.
Consider Surface Transport
For shorter domestic trips under 10 hours or so, you may save a bundle versus flying by relying on Amtrak, bus services or driving yourself. Many ground transportation operators allow animals in the cabin or cargo holds similar to planes. While flying is inarguably faster, the tradeoff of pet fees added to airfare versus an affordable train or bus ticket could make surface travel worth considering depending on your situation. Just build in time for potential delays.
Check Discounted Last-Minute Apps
If flexible dates aren’t an issue and you don’t mind a little spontaneity, apps like Hopper and The Flight Deal scan airfare trends to alert users about dramatic price drops on short notice. Last-minute domestic travel with pets tends to be significantly cheaper than standard advance fares. Sign up for date-change flight deal notifications sent 1-2 weeks out. While it requires packing fast, savings can exceed fees if the timing works out. Worst case is you don’t take the offer.
In summary, doing diligent research to understand pet travel policies followed by flexibility on timing and routes opens opportunities to significantly cut costs versus just assuming the listed fare is your only choice. With creativity and persistence, I’ve found most of these tactics can save up to 30% or more versus standard rates. Hopefully these real-world recommendations help you bring your furry friend along without breaking the bank! Let me know if any other questions come up during your search.
Comparing Pet-Friendly Flight Options
| Airline | Baggage Fees | In-Cabin Requirements | Advance Notice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | $125 each way | Pet must fit under seat | At least 24 hours |
| United | $125 each way | Hard-sided carrier under seat | At least 24 hours |
| American | $125 each way | Soft-sided carrier under seat | At least 24 hours |
| JetBlue | $100 each way | Pet must fit under seat | At least 48 hours |
| Alaska | $125 each way | Pet must fit under seat | At least 48 hours |
FAQ
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Are there pet friendly cheap flights?
Basically yes, there are many budget airlines that permit small pets to fly in the cabin with you for an additional cost. Most major airlines also offer pet services for traveling with common household pets in cargo or as checked baggage. So it’s possible to find affordable flight options that will accommodate your furry friend.
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What size pet can fly in the cabin?
The maximum size allowed in the cabin varies by airline. Generally, dogs and cats must fit under the seat in a carrier no more than around 9 by 14 inches. Perhaps smaller dogs and cats kind of have an easier time meeting the specifications. Certain carriers designed specifically for in-cabin air travel make it easier to comply with dimensional limits.
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Can I bring more than one pet?
At the same time, most pet-friendly airlines only permit one pet carrier per passenger in the cabin due to space constraints. However, some carriers do make exceptions on occasion for a smaller second pet traveling on your lap. It’s always safest to check the policies of your chosen airline ahead of time. Don’t assume you can bring multiple pets without approval.
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Is it stressful for pets to fly?
Despite efforts to make flying as comfortable as possible for pets, it can be an anxious experience no matter how docile an animal is normally. The unfamiliar environment, noises and confinement in a carrier are enough to stress out even the calmest of companions. You can help minimize risks to your pet’s health by practicing calm handling methods and preparing them with training prior to the big day.
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How much does it cost to bring a pet on a flight?
Charges vary dramatically depending on the airline, route, size of pet, and whether traveling in cargo or as a cabin passenger. On average, you can budget anywhere from $100 to $200 or potentially more each direction just for the animal transportation portion. Additional health certifications, carriers, and special booking class tickets also tack on expenses. So is it worth it financially?
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What documents do I need for my pet?
Most traveling pets require some form of valid rabies vaccination on file, an overall health certificate from your vet dated within 10 days of return travel, and possibly an import permit if crossing international borders. Airlines each have their own exact paperwork rules – be sure to thoroughly research documentation needs well beforehand to avoid delays or denied boarding at the airport. Double checking can save future hassle!
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What if my pet becomes distressed during flight?
On the other hand, despite best precautions some pets may exhibit signs of air anxiety like crying or trying to escape their carrier mid-flight. In the case of any medical issues, the crew can store carrier in a dimly lit area and notify air staff on landing. However, remember that subjecting a pet to obvious suffering would be unfair, so consider all risks carefully before booking travel. Your companions comfort should come before saving a few dollars.
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How can I prepare my pet for flight?
Experts advise starting acclimation well in advance. Get them used to carriers by short play sessions, rewarding calm behavior and introducing litterboxes if traveling as checked luggage. Practice car rides together to simulate vehicle motion. Ask your vet for calming supplements before flying day. Most importantly, remain positive and don’t mirror your pet’s anxiety during the journey. With the right prep work, flying with furry friends can be a breeze!