Your Guide to Finding the Biggest Pet Carrier Allowed on Airlines
Whether you’re moving cross-country or traveling abroad with your furry friend, packing them safely and legally in an airline-approved carrier is a must. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is largest without going over size limits? In this article, I’ll break down the size restrictions for major airlines and share my top picks for extra large carriers that should satisfy even the biggest dogs and cats. By the end, you’ll have all the intel you need to transport your pet in style and comfort.
Understanding Airline Size Restrictions
Most domestic airlines in the U.S. allow pet carriers no larger than approximately 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches (LxWxH). However, restrictions can vary slightly by carrier. For example, some like American and United allow carriers up to 18x23x9 inches. Meanwhile, Alaska caps dimensions at 18x18x9 inches. It’s important to double check the specific rules for your airline before buying a carrier.
International flights often have even stricter limits to comply with regulations in other countries. Most foreign carriers limit pet carriers to approximately 16x13x8 inches or smaller. So if traveling abroad, you’ll want to stick to carriers on the more compact end of what domestic airlines permit.
Top 3 Largest Pet Carriers for Airline Travel
- Petmate Sky Kennel – At 17.5×11.5×10.5 inches, this is about as big as it gets within most major airline restrictions. It’s roomy enough for large dogs up to 50 lbs and folds flat for easy storage. Air vents along the sides keep air circulating on long flights. Overall a great choice for comfortable travel with bigger pups.
- Snoozer Lookout Collapsible Crate – Measuring 18x13x13 inches when assembled, this carrier pushes the size envelope but should squeeze under most domestic airline allowances. The two-door design makes it easy to load pets in and out. Mesh windows provide ventilation too. It’s a nice high-end pick for accommodating large cats or medium/large dogs.
- Petmate Sky Kennel Deluxe – At an expandable 17.5x13x11.5 inches, this kennel is comparable in size to the standard Sky Kennel while adding a few perks like dual side doors and removable plastic pan. Overall it provides more interior space than many competitors within airline limits. A great option if you need just a bit more elbow room for your pet.
Tips for Choosing the Right Carrier Size
When selecting a carrier, consider your specific pet’s measurements. Most airlines require enough empty space for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. So if your dog is longer than the available interior length of an approved carrier, keep looking for a larger option.
Also think about your pet’s personality and flight anxiety levels. More nervous pets may prefer a darker, more enclosed space versus highly ventilated mesh carriers. And really rambunctious pets needing more security could merit an airline-approved hard-shell kennel with secure latches versus soft-sided bags.
From my experience flying with pets, it’s better to have a bit of extra interior room rather than the absolute minimum space. Pets feeling cramped in-flight tend to get more stressed. So if your pet is on the larger end of what an airline allows, I’d aim for one of the largest carriers that still meets guidelines.
Alternative Options for Oversized Pets
If Fido is just too big even for the largest airline-approved carriers, a few other options exist. You could check your pet as oversized luggage, but be prepared for higher fees. Another is to transport in a roomy crate or kennel that you partially disassemble width/height-wise and check as luggage. Just be sure to pad it well for impact protection.
As a last resort, see if your airline offers special kennels that stay in the cargo hold. These offer more space but involve additional costs. You’ll also need to arrange private ground transport between the cargo area and your destination.
Remember, air travel is always stressful for pets no matter the carrier size. Consider driving or using ground transportation if your pet seems overly anxious flying. Their comfort should be the top priority when traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring two cats in one carrier?
A: Most airlines allow transporting two cats per carrier as long as there’s enough space for each to stand up, turn around and lie down spread out without being on top of each other. So larger carriers like those mentioned above could work well for a cat couple.
Q: What should I pack inside the carrier?
A: Be sure to include water, food, treats, favorite toys/blankets, pee pads, and any medications in a resealable plastic bag. I also like adding an old worn t-shirt that smells like home to comfort anxious pets. Bring ID tags and health/travel documents taped to the outside too.
Q: How can I help keep my pet calm during the flight?
Speak soothingly, avoid last-minute changes, offer calming aids like CBD if prescribed, and ask your vet about anti-anxiety meds for really nervous pets. Getting pets accustomed to carrier training before travel also helps desensitize them.
With any luck this mega guide has provided answers to all your pet carrier size and airline transportation questions! Let me know if you need any other tips for safely flying with your furry friend. Safe travels!
Top Airline Approved Pet Carriers
| Brand | Capacity | Dimensions | Weight Limit | Wheels |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PetAmerrican Jupiter Jumbo | Large dogs/cats | 35″ L x 23″ W x 27″ H | 50 lbs. | Smooth rolling wheels |
| Petmate Sky Kennel | Medium/large dogs | 29″ L x 19″ W x 22″ H | 50 lbs. | Dual wheels for easy transport |
| MidWest iCrate Folding Dog Crate | Small to medium dogs | Various sizes | 35 lbs. | No wheels, lightweight for portability |
| Sherpa Deluxe Pet Carrier | All small pets | 23″ L x 15″ W x 16″ H | 15 lbs. | Front carrying handle, toy pockets |
| Pet Gear Travel Luggage Carrier | Cats, small dogs | 22″ L x 14″ W x 13″ H | 15 lbs. | Spinner wheels, airline compliant |
FAQ
- What is the largest pet carrier approved by airlines? Airports usually allow hard-sided carriers with dimensions up to roughly 18 inches by 14 inches by 10 inches. However, these are not strict rules and some leeway exists depending on the airline. The most important thing is to contact your specific airline in advance to confirm size limits.
- Do airline pet carriers need to be hard-sided? For safety during travel, nearly all airlines demand a securely closeable carrier for pets. Most prefer hard-sided models made of plastic or metal mesh. While some airlines will accept soft or collapsible carriers under certain conditions, you run the risk of delays or denied boarding without the recommended hard-sided type.
- How should I prepare my pet carrier for flying? Thoroughly clean the carrier beforehand and line it with old towels or puppy training pads. Provide chew toys and water to help your pet stay occupied and hydrated during the journey. Consider calming treats or supplements under veterinary guidance. Attach ID tags to the carrier exterior in case of any separation. And do not omit anything sharp inside that could injure your pet.
- What else do I need for airline pet travel? Most carriers require water and food bowls to be fastened inside. Plus, you will need health and vaccination records, either uploaded digitally or carried on paper. Some airlines may insist on seeing microchip information too. Carrying a phone or ID clipped onto the carrier adds an easy way to retrieve your pet if the carrier comes loose. But basically, preparing paperwork, water, bowls and carrier are the essentials.
- Can I use a soft-sided carrier as a personal item? While discouraged, a few airlines currently allow small pets in soft-sided carriers that will fit under the seat as a personal item. However, regulations are subject to change, and other passengers may object to pets nearby. Ultimately it kind of depends on the specific flight, crew and how considerate you can be of fellow travelers that day. It’s better to stick with the required hard-sided type checked as cargo when possible.
- What if my pet seems anxious about the carrier? With sufficient practice prior to flights, most pets can learn to relax inside carriers. But if anxiety appears unlikely to ease, talk to your vet about situational anti-anxiety medication. Perhaps use a carrier only for travel and have your pet reside elsewhere ordinarily to avoid bad associations forming. Positive reinforcement training using high-value food inside could help too. However, there are no assured fixes, so discuss all possibilities carefully with a vet.
- Are there any pet carriers approved for under-seat use during flights? A minority of exceptionally small dogs and cats less than 10 pounds can fit inside certain sizes of collapsible soft-sided carriers labeled specifically as “under-seat pet carriers.” These tiny pets may stay with owners if the bagged carrier fits completely beneath the seat ahead. Nevertheless, always confirm the aircraft type and specific airline policy first before assuming any carrier allows under-seat placement.
In Summary…
While every pet is unique, proper preparation of health paperwork, water, a securely closeable hard-sided carrier within airline size limits, plus voluntary acclimation training considerably raise the chances for a smooth traveling experience. On the other hand, unforeseen issues can still occur regardless, so contact your airline well in advance and follow their regulations carefully to understand limitations. Overall, ensuring both you and your pet are mentally and physically ready for travel basically reduces stress across the board.