Everything You Need to Know About Airline Pet Carrier Sizes
Wondering what size pet carrier you need to fly with your furry friend? You’ve come to the right place. As someone who has transported cats on several flights over the years, I’ve faced my fair share of struggles with pet carrier sizes. In this article, I’ll answer all your questions about airline pet carrier dimensions and requirements.
Why Do Airlines Have Pet Carrier Size Limits?
The main reason airlines stipulate maximum pet carrier dimensions is safety. Animals must be properly contained so they don’t block aisles or doors during an emergency evacuation. Carriers also need to fit under seats during takeoff and landing when the overhead bins are closed. That way, your pet stays secured in case of turbulence.
Capacity is another concern. If carriers are too big, it limits the number of pets per flight. This impacts the airline’s ability to accommodate all ticketed animals. Uniform sizing also makes it easier to load and stow pets where space allows.
What Are the Standard Airline Pet Carrier Sizes?
Most major carriers in the US require pets to travel in hard-sided carriers that don’t exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches. That’s about the size of a typical pet kennel. Larger dogs may need a carrier up to 20 x 16 x 8 inches or possibly an additional 1-2 inches in one dimension.
International pet travel rules tend to be stricter, ranging from 13 x 9 x 7 inches on some Asian airlines to a maximum of 21 x 15 x 8.5 inches allowed by most European carriers. Always check size limits for your specific route well in advance.
How to Measure Your Pet’s Carrier Dimensions
To ensure your carrier fits regulations, measure it like a suitcase:
- Length is the longest side (front to back)
- Width is the measurement across the carrier from left to right edge
- Height is the vertical measurement from bottom to top of the carrier
Use a measuring tape and include any handles or wheels that extend past the box itself in your calculations. Carriers must not exceed the maximum size when fully closed and latched for travel.
Do Soft-Sided Carriers or Other Containers Qualify?
Strictly speaking, no – most airlines only accept rigid kennels or carriers made of mesh, plastic or metal. But from my experience, several domestic carriers have allowed soft-sided pet bags if they’re structurally sound. One option is collapsible “dog taxis” which fold flat but remain hard-walled once erected.
Containers like cardboard boxes or reusable shopping totes likely won’t pass muster due to liability if they break open mid-flight. Play it safe and stick with an airline-approved hard-sided design.
Tips for Picking the Right-Sized Carrier
When choosing a carrier dimensionally, these tips will help you “pass the snug test”:
- Get a carrier that’s only large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably – not too much extra space.
- Consider your pet’s possible growth if traveling as a puppy or kitten versus adult size.
- Account for any accessories like toys, leash or dish that may increase the required carrier interior space.
- Always allow an inch or two of breathing room under the maximum limit for overhead bin clearance.
You basically want your pet cozy yet not cramped. Remember – airlines may refuse carriers that appear oversized even if measurements check out. Go modest if in doubt.
Special Rules for Emotional Support Animals
If flying with an ESA, dimensions are generally the same except that some carriers accept a recreational vehicle (RV)-style crate up to 22 x 22 x 22 inches for small dogs. However, you’ll need medical documentation and must check with your specific airline well ahead of time. The paperwork has to line up exactly or they won’t let Fido ride in the cabin with ya.
In my opinion, trying to squeeze an extra large ESA in the cabin seems sorta sketchy. But air travel can be stressful for some folks, so the option is there if their condition truly requires canine companionship at 30,000 feet. Just dot all your i’s and cross your t’s with the paperwork is my advice.
What to Do If Your Carrier Is Too Big
If measurements exceed airline limits, your best bets are either:
- See if the carrier collapses or deconstructs smaller for travel, then reassembles at your destination.
- Purchase a replacement carrier in a compliant size before your trip.
- Consider checking your pet into the cargo hold versus the cabin if their weight allows. Cargo sizing tends to be more lenient.
As a last resort, see if the airline will make an exception if your pet is highly distressed by confinement. But don’t count on special treatment – most stick tightly to published sizing policies. You don’t want surprise denial at the airport!
Flying With Multiple Pets? Consider Booking a Companion!
If you’ve got a whole pack of fur babies to ferry, taking a person may be smarter than trying to coordinate all those carriers. Airlines restrict most passengers to just one or two animals each. You could end up separating pets amongst multiple travelers otherwise.
It never hurts to ask nicely at check-in if travelling together might sway them, but who wants the stress? Book that extra seat for Aunt May instead – she’ll love the bonding time! Just be sure all paperwork and vaccinations line up for each pet no matter who’s “guardian.” No cutting corners there.
So in summary folks, those are the basics on pet carrier sizing guidelines for air travel. Not too complex, but details matter! Hit me up if any other critter travel questions come to mind. With a bit of prep, even the scatterbrained can get Fido to Grandma’s house in style. Happy flying!
Choosing the Right Pet Carrier Size for Air Travel
| Carrier Type | Pet Size | Maximum Dimensions (L x W x H) |
|---|---|---|
| Soft-Sided | Small Dogs & Cats | 16 x 12 x 8 inches |
| Hard-Sided | Medium Dogs | 18 x 13 x 9 inches |
| Deluxe Hard-Sided | Large Dogs | 21 x 16 x 11 inches |
| Oversized | Extra Large & Giant Breed Dogs | Up to 24 x 17 x 13 inches |
FAQ
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What sizes of airline pet carriers are generally allowed?
Most airlines permit pet carriers that are under 20 inches long by 16 inches wide by 9 inches tall. Basically, the carrier needs to fit safely under the airline seat in front of you.
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Are there weight limits for pet carriers?
Typically, airlines set a weight restrict for pet carriers including the pet of around 20 pounds or less. However, some smaller animals like rabbits could be in a carrier weighing a little more. It really depends on the specific airline’s rules.
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Can I bring a larger pet crate as luggage?
While most carriers must fit under the seat, you can check a bigger crate as luggage on some flights. Nevertheless, it depends on the airline and there are usually size and weight limits. It’s best to verify the rules ahead of time to avoid issues.
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What if my pet is too big for the carrier size restrictions?
If your pet exceeds the carrier size limit, you may have to look into shipping them as cargo instead. But perhaps there is a larger dog breed you can bring? I’d investigate the animal shipping policies carefully or see if flying is actually the right choice in that case.
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Do I need anything else for the carrier?
You’ll want to bring extras like pee pads, water, a leash, collar with ID tag, and favorite toys. It also doesn’t hurt to throw in a note from the veterinarian saying your pet is healthy and vaccinated. The last thing any traveler needs is a delay due to missing paperwork!
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Is there a fee for flying with a pet?
Airlines routinely charge pet fees nowadays, usually $100-250 per carrier. A few budget airlines exempt service animals, however. You might save money by checking into shipping as an alternative. But as any pet owner knows, it is awful to be apart from your furry companions for long periods!
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What are some tips for keeping pets calm during the flight?
Experts suggest getting pets acclimated to their carriers before travel dates. Bring familiar toys/blankets and limit attention to reduce anxiety at the airport. Melatonin supplements or calming treats from the vet may help timid pets stay chill. But doesn’t anyone else find it amazing how many dogs happily snooze through flights? Our pets can surprise us!