✈️Flying with your pet soon?
You're not alone, as an increasing number of people are bringing their pets on vacation. One item you must have before you both fly, though, is an airline-approved pet carrier that will keep your pet comfortable, safe, and compliant with airline regulations. From carrier size requirements to recommended options and wise travel advice, this guide will cover all you need to know, whether you're moving overseas or taking a holiday. Is it time to take off? Together, we can use Trip.com to simplify pet-friendly travel.
✈️ Why You Need an Airline-Approved Pet Carrier
Airlines have strict guidelines to ensure the safety of both passengers and pets, so bringing pets on flights is more complicated than just packing them in a backpack. A pet carrier that has been approved by the airline can help with that. In addition to meeting cabin size restrictions, these carriers are made to offer adequate ventilation and ensure your pet's safety and comfort during the trip.
✅ Airline-Approved vs. Non-Approved Pet Carriers
Feature | ✅ Airline-Approved Carrier | ❌ Non-Approved Carrier |
|---|---|---|
Fits under cabin seat | ✔️ Yes—Designed to meet most airline dimensions | ❌ Often too large or inflexible |
Ventilation (mesh sides) | ✔️ Required—At least 2 sides with airflow | ❌ May have poor airflow or full coverage |
Pet comfort | ✔️ Soft bedding, smooth interior, leak-proof base | ❌ Hard materials, limited space |
Zipper security | ✔️ Lockable or escape-proof zippers | ❌ Weak or non-locking zippers |
Accepted at check-in | ✔️ Yes—airlines list approved dimensions by model | ❌ Risk of being rejected at the gate |
Weight support | ✔️ Typically supports up to 8 kg (17 lbs) | ❌ May lack reinforced base or handles |
Travel experience | ✔️ Smooth and worry-free journey for you and your pet | ❌ Stressful for both owner and animal |
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🐶 Top Airline-Approved Pet Carriers for In-Cabin Travel
Carrier Model | Key Features | Best For | Compatible Airlines on Trip.com | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Sherpa Original Deluxe | ✔️ Soft-sided, fits under seat ✔️ Leak-proof base ✔️ Mesh panels for airflow | Small dogs & cats Frequent flyers | 💰 $50–$70 | |
2. Sleepypod Air | ✔️ Crash-tested ✔️ Expandable design ✔️ Super cozy interior | Nervous pets Stylish pet parents | 💰 $180–$200 | |
3. Petmate Soft-Sided Kennel | ✔️ Lightweight & compact ✔️ Budget-friendly ✔️ Top + front entry | First-time travelers Short flights | 💰 $30–$50 | |
4. Mr. Peanut's Gold Series | ✔️ Premium build ✔️ Faux fleece bed ✔️ Reinforced handles | Eco-conscious owners Small dogs | 💰 $60–$80 | |
5. AmazonBasics Soft Carrier | ✔️ Simple & affordable ✔️ Multiple sizes ✔️ Mesh panels | Occasional flyers Extra carrier option | Most domestic & international airlines on Trip.com | 💰 $25–$40 |
📏 What Determines an Airline-Approved Pet Carrier?
Not every pet carrier is made equal, particularly when you're flying! 🛫 The size, comfort, and safety criteria of the aircraft cabin must be met by your pet carrier for you to bring your pet on board. What qualifies a carrier as airline-approved is as follows:
✅ Airline-Approved Pet Carrier vs. ❌ Non-Approved Carrier
Feature | ✅ Airline-Approved Carrier | ❌ Non-Approved Carrier |
|---|---|---|
Fits Under Airline Seat | ✔️ Yes—matches airline size guidelines | ❌ Often too large or hard-shelled |
Ventilation | ✔️ Mesh on 2–3+ sides for airflow | ❌ Limited or no mesh panels |
Leak-Proof Bottom | ✔️ Waterproof or removable liner | ❌ May leak or lack secure base |
Secure Zippers | ✔️ Lockable or escape-proof | ❌ Easy to unzip or chew through |
Soft & Flexible Build | ✔️ Soft-sided, compressible for tight spaces | ❌ Rigid, bulky, not adjustable |
Comfortable Interior | ✔️ Padded or fleece-lined bottom | ❌ Hard surface or no cushioning |
Accepted by Airlines | ✔️ Listed as “approved” by major airlines | ❌ May be rejected at boarding gate |
🐾 Pet-Friendly Travel Tips (from Trip.com)
Taking your pet on a flight? ✈️ You can make the trip easy and stress-free for both of you with a little preparation and assistance from Trip.com!
✍Make Your Reservations Early
- Use Trip.com's flight booking filters to reserve your space in advance, as most airlines have a cap on the number of pets that can travel in the cabin. When searching, opt for "pet-friendly" alternatives.
📏 Be Aware of the Carrier Policies
- Every airline has its own set of guidelines. Make sure your soft-sided carrier satisfies the requirements (typically under 18") by using Trip.com to check the most recent in-cabin pet carrier size limits.
🍖 Forego the Large Meal Before the Flight
- Motion sickness may result from feeding your pet soon before takeoff. Food should be withheld 4–6 hours before takeoff, according to veterinarians.
😘 Maintain Your Calm—It Helps!
- Your pet senses your feelings. Your travel companion is more likely to remain composed if you are at ease.
🧭 Do you need flights or hotels that allow pets?
- Pet-friendly hotels and pet-friendly airlines are easily found on Trip.com. For discounted prices on flights, carriers, and other items, check out our Pet Travel Deals!
🛬 Popular Airlines with Pet Travel Options on Trip.com
Airline | In-Cabin Pet Policy Highlights |
|---|---|
In-cabin pets allowed; carrier must fit under seat (≤18") | |
Soft-sided carriers preferred; limited space—book early | |
Requires separate booking form for pet approval | |
Only IATA-approved carriers; check requirements via Trip.com | |
No in-cabin pets; pet transport available via cargo only |
🏨The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Canada
Are you trying to find a home where you and your pet can feel comfortable? 🐶🐾These are some of the top pet-friendly hotels in Canada, which you can book today on Trip.com, ranging from opulent city stays to comfortable mountain cabins!
Hotel Name | Location | Pet Policy Highlights | Perfect For | Trip.com Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Banff, AB | Pets welcome for a small fee; pet beds & bowls provided | Nature lovers & mountain hikers | ⭐ 4.6/5 | |
Toronto, ON | Small pets stay free; pet-sitting available | City explorers | ⭐ 4.7/5 | |
Montreal, QC | Pets up to 40 lbs allowed; close to pet-friendly parks | Culture & foodies | ⭐ 4.5/5 | |
Vancouver, BC | Dog-friendly rooms; direct access to the Seawall | Scenic city walks | ⭐ 4.3/5 |
From now until stock last, you can enjoy up to 8% off hotel deals on Trip.com when you register as a member on desktop or app!
FAQs: Airline-Approved Pet Carriers
What dimensions of pet carriers are permitted in the aircraft cabin?
The majority of airlines demand soft-sided carriers, which are usually around 18" x 11" x 11" and can fit beneath the seat in front of you. Prior to taking a flight, always check Trip.com for the specific criteria of your airline.Do airlines approve of hard-shell pet carriers?
Soft-sided carriers are more frequently approved for cabin travel, but some airlines permit tiny hard-sided carriers in cargo or under certain circumstances. They fit beneath chairs more easily and are more flexible.Does every airline allow me to bring my pet?
No. Pets are not always permitted in airplanes. To see airlines that allow pets, such as Delta, United, Air Canada, and Lufthansa, use Trip.com filters. Only pets are allowed as cargo on some airlines, such as Singapore Airlines.