For so many of us, our pets are members of our family, and we want to include them in our travels—whether it be for logistical reasons or just plain fun. Unlike children or partners, airlines, hotels and rental cars don’t view fur babies through the same lens, and as a result, traveling with pets can get expensive. Plus, airlines charge additional fees, you have to take designated Uber cars, and not every hotel is as welcoming to your cats and dogs.
Here’s what to expect while traveling with a pet, including how much it costs to fly with your pet, travel gear and must-haves, and other important details that can make or break your plans.
Key information to find below:
- How much does it cost to fly with a pet?
- What airline pet restrictions should I know before booking a flight?
- How much does it cost to travel with your pet by car, train, rental car or Uber?
- Service animals vs. emotional support animals: What you should know
- More pet travel gear you’ll want for any trip
- Is it cheaper to travel with my pet or leave them at home?
- Can my pet fly in the cabin with me?
- What paperwork do I need to travel with my pet?
- How can I save money when traveling with a pet?
How Much Does It Cost to Fly With a Pet?
Unless your fur baby is a service animal, flying with your pet will cost extra. In the United States, domestic flights cost around $95 to $150 each way to fly cats and small dogs in the cabin with you (in an airline-approved pet carrier, under the seat in front of you). The price increases for larger pets flying cargo, with the cost starting at around $200 each way and going up based on size, weight and distance. It is more expensive to fly your pet internationally, with some airlines doubling the domestic price. Additionally, some international flights might also require extra paperwork, which adds additional fees.
For up-to-date information on the cost of flying with a pet, travelers should visit airline websites directly.
Here are some popular pet-friendly airlines:
- Southwest Airlines pet policy
- United Airlines pet policy
- Expedia’s recommendations for traveling with pets
Shop this airline-approved soft-sided pet carrier
If you’re traveling with a pet, ensure you choose a carrier that is not only airline-approved but also comfortable for your fur baby. The SturdiBag Pro 3.0 Pet Travel Carrier is a durable option, and it’s available in a variety of colors and sizes for your dog or cat.
This portable travel crate is perfect for flying cargo
If your dog is flying cargo, you’ll need to invest in an airline-approved hard-sided travel crate. The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is available in four sizes ranging from small to extra-large and is constructed from durable plastic to keep your pets safe. It also has a spacious interior that is comfortable enough for long travel days.
Keep your pup hydrated on the go with a collapsible water bowl
A collapsible water bowl is a must for dog owners—and you can never have too many. A two-pack from Amazon is very affordable and features a packable design with large hooks, so you can easily clip them to your pet carrier or backpack when not in use.
What Airline Pet Restrictions Should I Know Before Booking a Flight?
To keep your travel plans—and your budget—intact, it’s vital to navigate pet restrictions well before you finalize your flight.
- Size and Weight Restrictions: Size is the first thing to consider, since most airlines look at the overall size of the carrier (and if it will fit under the seat in front of you) vs. weight. However, some airlines will also consider weight or combine bag size and weight for approval. If flying your pet in cargo, the allowed weight and crate size depend on the size of the aircraft, and your pet must be able to lie down, stand up and turn around comfortably in their kennel.
- Breed Restrictions: Brachycephalic dogs and cats are allowed to fly in the cabin, but most airlines restrict them from cargo travel, since their snub nose might result in breathing problems.
- Age Restrictions: If you’re traveling with a puppy or kitten, you’ll also want to check the airline’s policy for age limits. Most require animals to be at least eight weeks old, but this policy can vary among airlines.
- Temperature Restrictions: Most airlines will not allow cargo travel if the outside air temperature reaches 85°F. In winter, cold restrictions vary from 20° to 45°, depending on the airline’s policy.
- Health Certificates and Vaccines: Depending on the airline and where you’re flying, vaccination records and health certificates might be required. Check the airline’s specific pet policy and consult your vet for requirements based on your destination.
Stay organized with a passport and document holder
Traveling with pets can be a lot, so organization is key. A travel document organizer can keep all the necessary paperwork in one secure place. Look for a waterproof option that can fit your passport and all travel documents while staying easily accessible through security.
How Much Does It Cost to Travel With Your Pet by Car, Train, Rental Car or Uber?
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
When booking a rideshare, you can expect to pay an additional $3 to $7 for Uber Pet and around $4 for Lyft. For the most part, you can only travel with one pet when booking through a rideshare. Similar to airlines, rideshare pet policies vary between companies, so it’s best to look up specific requirements within the app or online.
Trains
Similar to flying, the additional cost of traveling with a pet via train can vary depending on the company and route. According to Amtrak’s pet policy, only dogs and cats under 20 pounds are allowed on trips up to seven hours, and they must be in a carrier.
Buses
Unfortunately, most bus companies do not allow pets onboard, unless they are service animals. If you are traveling by bus, review the pet policy for the specific bus company you plan to travel with.
Rental Cars
In general, rental car companies allow pets. However, they might require pets be crated, and the car must be returned clean and damage-free. Many car rental companies have policies around pet hair, so protecting the seats with blankets and running the car through a wash before drop-off isn’t a bad idea to avoid cleaning fees.
Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals: What You Should Know
Service animals and emotional support animals (ESA) are not the same and do not have the same rights when traveling. Certified service animals are trained for a specific task for people with disabilities and are protected under ADA laws. Emotional support animals are typically certified through therapists, doctors, or third-party websites to provide comfort and emotional support.
For the most part, service animals travel free and are expected to behave and be trained. ESAs are treated as pets, and owners do not usually receive accommodations or special privileges — and are responsible for all pet-related fees. Keep proper documentation on hand should you need to present it.
More Pet Travel Gear You’ll Want for Any Trip
2-in-1 water and food travel bottle dispenser
Having water and food on hand while traveling with a dog is essential. Look for a bottle with a built-in bowl that you can dispense water into, allowing your dog to drink or eat on the go.
Back seat hammock
If you’re heading out on a road trip or plan to rent a car, a back seat hammock can protect seats from pet hair, scratches and other potential damage while keeping larger dogs safe.
Portable travel litter box
Traveling with a cat is trickier than traveling with a dog, largely because of the litter box. A portable, packable litter box can make travel much easier on you and your pet.
Pet seat belt
To ensure your pet is safe while driving, add a car seat belt for pets to your road trip essentials. Look for a universal design that is compatible with most seat belts and easy to install.
Is It Cheaper to Travel With My Pet or Leave Them at Home?
This depends on your travel plans. If you’re gone for only a few days, the cost of airline fees, gear and paperwork might be much higher than boarding your pet or getting a sitter for the weekend. However, boarding and pet sitter costs aren’t cheap and can rack up quickly. If you plan to be gone for an extended period of time, it might be worth traveling with your pet — or asking a family member to take them in — to save money.
Can My Pet Fly in the Cabin With Me?
Cats and dogs are allowed to fly in airplane cabins, as long as they meet size and weight requirements. Unless your pet is a service dog, all pets in the cabin must fit in a carrier bag under the seat in front of you. When booking travel, verify your airline’s pet policy and requirements.
What Paperwork Do I Need to Travel With My Pet?
In some cases, you won’t need paperwork to travel with your pet, especially domestically. However, some airlines require health certificates and vaccination records, and international requirements can vary. Before traveling, check with your airline and your vet, as they can give you the specific paperwork requirements based on your destination.
How Can I Save Money When Traveling With a Pet?
With additional fees at the airport, car rental, and hotels, traveling with pets can get expensive. To save money, look into pet-friendly hotel chains like La Quinta Inn & Suites, Best Western or Days Inn. If you can drive to your destination, a road trip might also be a more affordable option for you, your pet and your wallet. Investing in reusable gear can also save you money in the long run, since you won’t have to rebuy items every time you travel.
This article was originally reported by Jessie Quinn for USA TODAY.
Add a Comment