united airlines pet travel carrier dimensions

United Airlines Pet Travel: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling with a pet requires sorting out a whole lot of logistics—beyond making sure your own packing list has been properly ticked off, you’ll need to factor in the food, toys, and gear your pet will need on the road and wherever you’re headed. But even before that’s been mapped out, you’ll want to find a trustworthy pet carrier. Reliable, comfortable, and sturdy pet carriers to throw over your shoulder or on your back when your hands are full make navigating the airport a more streamlined experience, and keep your pet comfortable while in transit.

Whether you’re traveling with your furry friend on a month-long vacation to another state, heading to a rental house for a week or two, or just setting out on a quick weekend getaway, these airline-approved carriers will keep your pet safe on the go. Scroll down for a dozen great pet carriers for dogs and cats, including a space-age pod that's perfect for naps and an  Arlo Skye carrier that attaches to your favorite carry-on—but first, a few tips to keep in mind while you shop and plan.

What size pet carrier will fit under an airline seat? 

Size requirements vary by airline, so always double check with the one you’re flying for the latest pet guidelines before departure. Here are size and weight specifications for  JetBlue (17" x 12.5" x 8.5"),  American Airlines (18” x 11” x 11” for soft-sided bags, 19” x 13” x 9” for hard-sided kennels), and Delta and  United (both 18” x 11” x 11”). Make sure your pet has room to stand up and turn around while inside.

Does a dog carrier count as a carry-on?

Pet carriers must fit under the seat in front of you. However, they can effect your luggage allotment. On JetBlue, for fares above Blue Basic, a carry-on suitcase, backpack, or duffel is allowed so long as it fits in the overhead compartment. However, on other airlines, like American and Delta, your pet carrier replaces your carry-on bag, and your second item is limited to a personal item.

What type of carrier should I get? 

It depends on what size pet you have and how you travel. A soft side carrier or backpack carrier is easiest to fit under an airplane seat, and may be more comfortable and breathable for your pet. 

Think through your typical (non-pet) travel routine and how you’ll need to adjust it when your personal item is dedicated to your pet. If you often travel with another person, that person can store things you’ll want accessible during the flight in their personal item, but if you’re traveling solo, you’ll probably want to pick a carrier with additional storage for your boarding pass, earphones, and other small essentials. Backpack carriers are best for smaller dogs or cats, though all come with weight guidelines to help you determine whether it'll fit your pet.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

• Dimensions: 11"L x 20.5"W x 11"H
• Weight maximum: 20 pounds

One of the chicest new additions to the pet carrier world is Paravel's latest ideation, which is largely inspired by their wildly popular Cabana Tote (yes, the one that’s sold out seven times). The design team has resized it to fit a pet up to 20 pounds and added comfortable elements like a washable liner and mesh panels for airflow, all while maintaining the sustainability that the brand is known for by constructing it out of 38 upcycled plastic water bottles. It folds down to be completely flat for easy storage, even if you live in a tiny Upper West Side apartment like me. But the best part? The ability to embroider your pet's name or initials on the side of the carrier. Traveling with your pet has never been more fashionable—or sustainable. — Scott Bay, associate editor

Wild One Travel Carrier

• Dimensions: 17.5"L x 11"W x 10"H
• Weight maximum: 16 pounds

Tested by  Traveler  contributor Lauren Dana Ellman, Wild One’s design-friendly pet carrier comes in tan, spruce green, and black, and fits dogs that are 16 pounds and under. “It’s clear this carrier was designed with versatility, durability, and functionality in mind,” Ellman wrote. "There are mesh walls for added breathability, a built-in collar clip, a detachable shoulder strap that pulls double duty as a leash, and a cushion that can be rolled out to use as a plush dog bed or travel mat when you get to your destination.” That interior mat is machine washable, too.

Read a full review   here .

Sherpa Original Deluxe pet carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 17"L x 11"W x 10.5"H

A tried and true favorite, this carrier is just about perfect. The Sherpa Original comes equipped with non-slip shoulder straps for easy carrying, locking zippers, and a store pocket for those very important treats. While the design comes airline-approved, its special spring wire frame allows for the carrier to keep its shape, while still being flexible enough to conform to multiple under-seat dimensions.

Away pet carrier

• Dimensions: 18.7"L x 10.8"W x 10.75"H
• Weight maximum: 18 pounds

It should be no surprise that Away’s pet carrier is just as streamlined and chic as their hit luggage. The bag, which fits pets up to 18 pounds and comes in standard black or an au courant gray-blue, is incredibly thoughtfully designed. Standout features include plush, removable sherpa bedding, plenty of pockets for you to store travel documents, and a side pocket with drainage holes (so you can store your included collapsible water bowl inside). Plus, wide openings on both the side and top for easy access, mesh panels on three sides for maximum ventilation, and a roll-up screen so your pet can see what's going on outside. As for safety: Innovative exterior latches can fasten the carrier to a car seat belt, and an interior safety-collar clip prevents adventurous pets from scampering out as soon as you unzip the carrier, And, of course, it’s designed to strap onto any type of Away luggage, making toting this carrier a breeze, even through a crowded terminal. — Juliet Izon

Stacey Lastoe

Tonya Russell

Laura Kiniry

Nora Zelevansky

Texsens innovative traveler bubble backpack

• Dimensions: 12.6"L x 11.4"W x 16.5"H

If you’re looking for a bag for road trips or other non-plane travel (it can lay sideways under some airplane seats, but is a little large), this budget-friendly backpack carrier from Amazon is a solid option. Cat mom Becca Guthrie says her pet, Joe, likes to be able to see out from nearly every direction, and she likes that the sides unzip, making it easier to get him inside. It fits dogs up to 15 pounds or cats up to 18 pounds, and comes in a half dozen colors and patterns, with two side pockets to store treats, a leash, or personal items.

Arlo Skye Pet Carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 17.5"L x 11"W x 10"H
• Weight maximum: 25 pounds

Obsessed with your silver Arlo Skye suitcase? Well, now you can pair it with the brand's very own pet carrier, which manages to be totally practical while still looking chic (not an easy feat). With 360-degree ventilation, your travel buddy will be safe and secure nestled on top of the aluminum or polycarbonate Carry-On or Check-In suitcase, and the carrier includes a memory foam mattress so they'll feel like they're flying first class (even when you're not). When it's not in use, the foldable design makes it easy to pack.

Mark & Graham Buddy pet carrier

• Dimensions: 18"L x 11.5"W x 11"H
• Weight maximum: 50 pounds

If you're the type of shopper who puts a monogram on everything your pet owns, this is the carrier for you. The nylon bag comes in two neutral colors (ivory or navy) that'll match most any travel gear, and can be customized with your pet’s name embroidered on top for an additional $12. Inside, the carrier features a removable fleece lining for comfort, a built-in leash for security, and netted sides that can be rolled down if your pooch gets hot.

Sleepypod mobile pet bed

• Dimensions: 17"L x 17"W x 13"H
• Weight maximum: 15 pounds

Multi-use functionality is key, and this pet carrier triples as a carrier, car seat, and mobile sleep solution. The design is perfect to help your pet cope with long road trips, plus it works as a super-cozy bed once you reach your destination. Ready to hit the road again? Zip the bed up its sides to transform it into a portable carrier.

Petsfit double sided expandable carrier

• Dimensions (for large size bag): 19"L x 12"W X 12"H (not expanded)

This carrier is basically the animal world equivalent of a lie-flat seat on an overseas flight. The Petsfit Double Sided Carrier comes in standard, airline-approved sizing with machine-washable fleece bedding, padded shoulder straps, and a side strap for securing to the top of your suitcase handle. In the event that no one takes up the middle seat next to you, it also has two expandable compartments so your pet can stretch its legs out.

Natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier backpack

• Dimensions (for XXS bag): 14"L x 8.3"W x 8.3"H
• Weight maximum: 8 pounds

This multi-use 6-in-1 pet carrier is for travelers who love having a ton of options: It can be worn as a backpack, front pack, shoulder bag, hand bag, two-position carrier, or used as a car seat crate. Plus, the flexible frame helps keep its shape no matter which way you're carrying it, leaving your pet with plenty of room to lounge in. It comes in three sizes based on weight, with the largest made for pets up to 19 pounds.

Mr. Peanut Gold-Series Dog & Cat carrier

• Dimensions: 18"L x 10.5"W x 11"H

When traveling with a pet, safety is key, and this carry-on pet bag is built with that in mind. It’s designed with self-locking zippers that don’t slide up or down, so you won’t have any worries about chasing your pet down the jetbridge. The bag also includes an ID tag holder, an interior leash attachment, and a safety seat belt in case your flight encounters unexpected rough air. Just as stylish as it is practical, the carrier features a fabric rollaway cover, faux fleece bedding, mesh windows on the top and sides, and an extra pocket. (If you often fly first or business and have slightly more room at your feet, spring for the expandable option .)

Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around 4-in-1 pet carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 14"L x 11"W x 20"H 

Thankfully, there are plenty of pet carriers out there with wheels, too. This one will let you roll through the airport with ease and comes equipped with side storage pockets, as well as a seat-belt loop to keep your pet safe—and the 4-in-1 design means it can also be carried as a backpack. A carry-on that only holds a puppy? Now that's our idea of "packing light."

United Airlines Pet Policy – Travelling with Pets in Cabin

AirlinesUpdates » Blog » United Airlines Pet Policy – Travelling with Pets in Cabin

Traveling with your beloved pet can be a deeply enriching experience, strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend. United Airlines Pet Policy understands the importance of this connection and extends a welcoming hand to pet owners through its pet-friendly policy. In this extensive guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at pet policy, paying special attention to the United Airlines dog policy. Our aim is to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of what it entails and to ensure that your journey with your pet is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

In this post

Overview of the United Pet Policy

The Policy outlines the rules and regulations governing the transportation of pets on United Airlines flights. United Airlines recognizes the importance of traveling with your furry companions and has established a comprehensive pet policy to ensure their safety and comfort.

Under this policy, United pet travel accepts cats and dogs for travel, both in the cabin and as cargo, depending on factors such as the pet’s size, breed, and health. In-cabin pet travel is available for small dogs and cats that meet specific size and weight requirements. Larger pets may need to travel in the cargo hold, where they are placed in a temperature-controlled, pressurized area to ensure their well-being.

It’s crucial to adhere to specific guidelines for united pets travel, including using an approved pet carrier, providing proper documentation (health certificates, vaccination records, etc.), and booking reservations for your pet in advance. United Airlines also offers a PetSafe program for cargo travel, with additional care and safety measures.

United pet policy aims to ensure the welfare and comfort of your pets during their journey, and it’s essential for pet owners to familiarize themselves with the details and requirements to ensure a seamless travel experience for both them and their beloved animals.

Accepted Pets Under Flying With Pets

United Airlines policy of accepting only cats and dogs for in-cabin travel is primarily designed to prioritize the safety and comfort of all passengers on board. Here’s an explanation for this policy:

• Size and Space Constraints: The cabin of an aircraft has limited space, and it’s important to ensure that pets can be accommodated safely and comfortably. Cats and dogs are generally smaller and more manageable in a confined space, making it easier for passengers to store them in approved pet carriers under the seat in front of them.
• Behavior and Noise Control: Cats and dogs are generally well-behaved and can be trained to remain calm during the flight. Other animals, like exotic pets or larger animals, might be less predictable and could potentially cause disruptions, stress, or allergies for other passengers.
• Allergies and Sensitivities: Many people have allergies to pet dander, and allowing a wide variety of animals in the cabin could lead to allergic reactions among passengers. By restricting in-cabin travel to cats and dogs, the airline can better manage potential allergenic issues.
• Safety Considerations: Cats and dogs are among the most common domesticated pets, and there is a better understanding of their needs and behaviors during air travel. United Airlines can provide appropriate guidance and safety measures for these animals, which may not be as well-established for other types of pets.

United Airlines policy to limit in-cabin pet travel to cats and dogs is grounded in considerations of space, behavior, safety, and passenger comfort. This approach helps ensure a smooth and pleasant travel experience for everyone on board, while also prioritizing the welfare of the pets involved.

United Airlines Pet Fee

Traveling with your pet is exciting, but it’s important to be aware of the associated costs:

• Pet Fee: United Airlines charges a fee of $125 for each one-way itinerary when your pet accompanies you in the cabin. However, there’s an additional consideration – United Airlines imposes an extra $125 fee for any one-way itinerary within the United States with a stopover of more than four hours or for international itineraries with a stopover exceeding 24 hours. If your travel plans include layovers, you should be prepared for these additional charges. While the fees may seem daunting, they are in place to accommodate your pet comfortably and ensure their safety throughout the journey. Ensuring a smooth journey for both you and your pet involves some reservation guidelines:
• Booking in Advance: United Airlines limits the number of in-cabin pets allowed on certain flights. Consequently, it is highly recommended to make a reservation for your pet when booking your flight. Also, it is applicable on cancellation as well. While United no longer imposes change fees, if your flight isn’t allowing additional in-cabin animals, you might find yourself having to reschedule your trip. This reservation system is in place to ensure that the airline can manage the inflow of pets effectively, keeping the travel experience comfortable for both humans and animals on board.

How to Make the Booking Under United Airlines Travel With Pets?

United Airlines offers several options for booking a pet on your flight, providing a hassle-free experience for both you and your furry companion.

Booking a New Trip with Your Pet

If you’re planning your journey and have your pet’s travel needs in mind in advance, you can use the dedicated link to book a new trip with your pet. This is an ideal option for those who want to secure their pet’s spot early in the travel planning process. By booking a new trip with your pet, you have the opportunity to choose flights and times that align with your pet’s comfort and well-being. This way, you can rest assured that your pet will have a smooth journey, as you can select flights that best suit your pet’s schedule and needs.

Adding a Pet to an Existing Trip

For travelers who have already booked their trip and later decide to bring their pet along, United Airlines offers a straightforward solution. Here’s how to do it:

• Visit the United Airlines website .
• Search for your existing flights, using your booking details.
• Within your specific itinerary, look for the “Special accommodations” dropdown menu.
• Select “Add pet” to update your reservation and include your furry friend in your travel plans. This feature allows flexibility, enabling you to add your pet to your travel plans even if you’ve already booked your flights.

Precautions to Take For United Airline Pet Travelling in the Airlines

Traveling with your pet, whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pet traveler, requires some essential precautions to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for both you and your pet.

• Pet Carrier Requirements: United Airlines has specific guidelines for pet carriers to safeguard your pet during the flight. You can choose between hard-sided and soft-sided carriers, each with their own specifications. Hard-sided carriers must not exceed dimensions of 17.5 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 7.5 inches in height. For soft-sided carriers, United Airlines recommends dimensions of no more than 18 inches in length, 11 inches in width, and 11 inches in height. The critical requirement for soft-sided carriers is that they must fit underneath the seat in front of you. These size requirements are in place to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety during the flight.
• Pet Limit: United Airlines stipulates that only one pet is allowed in each pet carrier. This restriction ensures that your pet has enough space to stand up and turn around comfortably. By limiting the number of pets per carrier, United Airlines aims to provide adequate space for each pet to move around, reducing stress and discomfort.
• Health and Documentation: Before your trip, ensure that your pet is in good health and up to date with vaccinations. It’s also wise to carry relevant health and vaccination records, just in case they are requested during your journey. These precautions are in place to ensure the well-being of your pet and the health of all passengers on the flight.
• Pet Comfort: Traveling can be stressful for pets, so it’s essential to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Bring familiar items such as your pet’s favorite toys or a blanket to help them feel at ease during the journey. Additionally, ensure your pet is well-fed, hydrated, and has had a bathroom break before the flight. This extra care will make the travel experience smoother for both you and your pet. Creating a comfortable and familiar environment for your pet can significantly reduce their stress levels during the journey.

Traveling with your beloved pet is a rewarding experience, and United Airlines strives to make it as convenient as possible. While their pet policy may have some restrictions, such as allowing only cats and dogs in-cabin and imposing size requirements for carriers, it ensures the safety and comfort of your pet during the journey. Reserving space for your pet in advance is essential due to limited availability on each flight. By following the guidelines and understanding United Airlines pet policy, you can embark on your travels with your four-legged companion, creating wonderful memories along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Unfortunately, United Airlines only permits cats and dogs to travel in the cabin. Other types of pets are not allowed on their flights. This policy is designed to prioritize the comfort and safety of all passengers and their pets.

United Airlines charges a $125 fee for each one-way itinerary for in-cabin pet travel. Additional fees may apply for layovers exceeding four hours within the United States or 24 hours on international itineraries. These fees are in place to ensure that pets are accommodated and cared for during their journey.

Yes, United Airlines restricts the number of in-cabin pets on certain flights to ensure that each pet has enough space and attention during the journey. It’s advisable to make a reservation for your pet when booking your flight to ensure availability.

Traveling with your cat or dog in the cabin on United Airlines offers the advantage of keeping your pet close to you throughout the flight. This minimizes the stress of separation and ensures your pet’s comfort. You also have the peace of mind that your pet is in a climate-controlled, pressurized cabin, and you can attend to their needs during the journey.

United Airlines does not offer frequent flyer miles for your pet’s travel. Frequent flyer miles are typically earned based on the fare and class of service purchased for human passengers. However, United MileagePlus members may earn reward miles for the cost of transporting their pet as part of the PetSafe program for cargo travel.

If your pet exceeds the size and weight restrictions for in-cabin travel, United Airlines provides the PetSafe program for safe and comfortable transportation of pets in the cargo hold. While your pet won’t be with you in the cabin, this option ensures their well-being with climate control, pressurization, and special handling to make their journey as stress-free as possible.

You might also like:

• Icelandair Pet Policy : Learn the Do’s and Don’ts
• JetBlue Pet Policy – A Travel Petiquette Guide For Your Fur Ball By JetBlue 
• Southwest Airlines Pet Policy – Travelling With Pet In Cabin & Cargo

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• Aer Lingus Pet Policy – Travelling With Pet In Cabin & Cargo
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Simple Flying

Explained: united airlines' pet policy.

Find out what you need to do to travel with a pet when flying with the major US carrier.

• United Airlines does not allow pets to be checked in as cargo, except for US military and State Department personnel traveling between Honolulu and Guam.
• Travelers can bring their pets in-cabin for a fee of $125 each way, but there are size restrictions, and pets must remain in their carriers throughout the flight.
• Traveling internationally with pets on United Airlines can be challenging, as specific rules and restrictions depend on the destination.

With travel demand soaring over the past few months , more and more people are looking to travel with their pets. However, rules on traveling with pets can be tricky, and they can be very different from one airline to another.

United Airlines is not known to be the most pet-friendly airline in the sky. In fact, NerdWallet ranked United last out of the nine major US carriers in terms of pet-friendliness. So, what exactly are the rules for traveling with pets on United Airlines flights?

No pets in cargo

To start, it is essential to note that United Airlines does not allow pets to be checked in . The carrier stands out as one of the few airlines in the US not to have a program that facilitates checking pets into the cargo hold as checked luggage.

Some might be familiar with the PetSafe program United used to have, which allowed some pets to be checked in as cargo on United-operated flights. However, the program has been suspended and has yet to make a comeback, so it has proven to be a challenge for some travelers who wish to travel with their furry friends.

There is a single exception to the rule. If you are a US military or State Department personnel traveling between Honolulu and Guam on a flight operated by United Airlines, you are in luck. Qualified travelers can transport their pets as checked baggage on flights between the two cities with a few limits and rules .

Traveling with pets in-cabin

When it comes to traveling with pets in the cabin, there are a series of rules to follow. Before traveling, travelers need to choose the 'travel with pets' option when booking and ensure that their pets are over two months old if traveling domestically and over four months old when traveling internationally. It can also be added as an additional option later on, and there is a $125 fee each way for traveling with pets.

There are some size restrictions on pet carriers, and the pets must be able to stand up and move around. Once on the plane, the pet carrier goes under the seat, and pets must not be let out at any time. Last year, a cat escaped on a United flight from Dallas and wandered around the cabin.

Internationally, it can be tricky as travelers must adhere to local rules and are often required to complete additional paperwork. For example, it is not possible to travel with pets to a number of countries that United flies to, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Ireland, and several more. It is best to check United's "Flying with Pets" page before traveling to keep up with the latest rules.

Your Stress-Free Guide To Traveling With Furry Friends

What about service animals.

On United Airlines, service animals can fly for free with their owner or trainer if they are over four months old. Travelers flying with service animals must indicate their choice after booking through United's website and fill out several DOT forms. More information can be found on United Airlines' page on service animals.

United Airlines

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The 9 best airline-approved pet carriers of 2024 + tips from experts.

Find the purr-fect travel carrier for your favorite furry travel companion.

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Courtesy of Sleepypod

Flying with your pet requires its share of homework. Regulations on bringing your pooch or feline aboard an airplane include providing updated paperwork as well as picking a pet carrier that adheres to baggage requirements and size restrictions . (For other things to consider when flying with a pet and advice from animal experts, jump to the tips section .)

If you plan to bring your cat or dog with you on your next flight but aren't sure which pet carrier is best – or allowed – U.S. News is here to help. Start with this list of the top airline-approved pet carriers for your jet-setting four-legged friends.

Best Overall: Henkelion Pet Carrier – Medium

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Runner-up: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier – Medium

Best expandable: petsfit expandable pet carrier – medium, best convertible: natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier – small.

• Best Pet Carrier Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Best Luxury: Away The Pet Carrier

Best compressible: sleepypod air, best for dogs in cargo: sportpet rolling plastic kennel.

• Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate 2-Door Kennel

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

What sets this carrier apart: Designed with airline approval in mind, the medium size of this traveler-favorite carrier accommodates cats or small dogs with its spacious interior. Mesh panels zip open on three sides of the carrier as well as the top, ensuring a well-ventilated bag. The outer material is a lightweight and durable polyester. A removable, machine-washable woolen mat makes the interior comfy for your pet; there's also a safety leash you can use to secure your pet inside.

You can use the connectable loop handles and padded shoulder strap for easy carrying, and this carrier bag folds up when you're ready to store it away. The Henkelion Pet Carrier even comes in several fun colors, such as purple or green.

Travelers appreciate: "I have used the Henkelion soft-sided carrier many times," says Robbie Parker of travel blog Expat in Paradise , who travels with his small dogs. "These are great carriers as they are hardy for travel, collapse for storage, and fit perfectly under the seat for in cabin travel. Also, I like that they have one side that is mesh and the other side is solid with a pocket. You can face solid side toward the aisle so people walking around the plane don't upset your dog." He adds, "Overall, I would recommend it for in-cabin plane travel."

Frequent traveler and luxury travel advisor Ashley Les, founder of Postcards From , also appreciates that the design puts her cats at ease when flying. "I find that with more mesh, cats are exposed to more light and sight – it gets them more anxious," she says, adding: "There are multiple ways to get my cats in the carriers, from the sides or above, as well. I love that you can take out the bottom to wash it separately."

Price: $28.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Sherpa

What sets this carrier apart: Beyond a patented, crash-tested flexible wire frame that keeps your little buddy safe, Sherpa provides a Guaranteed on Board program that offers a refund for your flight and airline pet fee if you're denied boarding because of the small or medium sizes of this carrier. This mesh and polyester bag is an industry standard with good airflow. The front and top entries have locking zippers, and this collapsible carrier also features a removable (and machine-washable) faux-lambskin liner, a rear pocket for storage, and a seat belt safety strap that doubles as a luggage strap.

Travelers appreciate: This Sherpa carrier is renowned for its reliable functionality and amazing value. Recent travelers say the medium carrier fits well under the seat and keeps their pet comfortable in transit.

Price: $70 or less for medium

What sets this carrier apart: This Petsfit carrier's medium size adheres to most airline requirements (as does the small carrier). One of the mesh windows can be unzipped to form an extra compartment, expanding the carrier by 9.4 inches for an extended width of 20.4 inches. This product is a great option if you need a carrier for air travel but still want your pet to enjoy a bit more space to stretch out when not tucked under the airplane seat.

The sturdy solid wire construction ensures the bag won't collapse but is flexible enough to tuck into a small space, though you may need to remove the rods on either side if the carrier is too tall to fit easily underneath. There's a side pocket for storage, double zippers and a water-repellent inner cloth.

Travelers appreciate: "The Petsfit carrier was flexible enough to squeeze under most airplane seats, but still was sturdy enough to hold," says Alexandra Lauren of the travel blog The Bucket List Mermaid , who has used this carrier to fly with her cat. "My kitty could look around the airport with the built-in leash in the carrier. The expandable portion was an added bonus because it allowed for more room for my pet when on long layovers or when I had an empty seat on the airplane." Lauren also recommends Petsfit's expandable backpack-style carrier for a hands-free option.

Price:  $56.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Natuvalle

What sets this carrier apart: For travelers seeking versatility, this Natuvalle cat or dog carrier can be used like a backpack, shoulder bag, tote with carrying handles or even – if worn on your front – a baby carrier. This convertible choice can also be used as a car seat crate with built-in seat belt loops, and you have the option of using it either in the upright or side position. Other features include zipper locks, mesh panels, reinforced stitching, two walk-through doors and a photo ID tag. The carrier is foldable and has reflective stripes for night travel. While there are medium and large size options, the extra-small and small sizes are your best bet when it comes to fitting under an airplane seat.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the versatility of this bag; some travelers say the carrier fits best under the seat when on its side, as the upright position can be too tall.

Price:  $119.90 or less for small

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Best Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Courtesy of PetAmi

What sets this carrier apart: Go hands-free with this PetAmi backpack-style carrier. A sturdy frame maintains its shape while you traipse through airport terminals, with chest and waist buckles for extra support. Four-sided access makes loading easy, and a rollaway mesh top means your furry friend can stick their head out the top when you're not in the air. The safety strap and buckle are designed to thwart even great escape artists, and a sherpa-lined bed entices fur babies to relax. The backpack carrier color options include red and purple.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the easy carrying this style provides, though they advise that you'll need to store this bag on its side in the plane cabin, and it won't fit on every airline.

Price: $39.99 or less

Courtesy of Away

What sets this carrier apart: It's a splurge, but this cat and dog carrier is made by Away, a popular luggage brand known for its sleek design and functionality. The same applies to this nylon and leather tote, which comes in black or a coast blue. The water-resistant lining is paired with sherpa bedding and exterior pockets that can hold a phone, keys or waste bags. If you already have an Away suitcase, this carrier will fit seamlessly over the handle with its trolley sleeve.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners who travel with this bag like that it's roomy, saying their pets seem comfortable inside. This carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds but is a bit on the larger side of an airline-approved carry-on, so be sure to research your airline's policies before taking it aboard.

Price: $225 or less

What sets this carrier apart: The Sleepypod Air is designed to compress to fit under the seat during takeoff and landing; when the seat belt sign is off, your pet can enjoy slightly more room (but be aware that it doesn't hold its reduced size in a freestanding position, only when tucked into a small space). This unique carrier employs sturdy luggage-grade ballistic nylon for its base, with a panel of mesh running along the front, top and back. A removable privacy panel can be slid over part of the mesh. Available in multiple colors, this crash-tested model also has a seat belt strap, a trolley sleeve and a comfortable shoulder strap for carrying it.

Travelers appreciate: Users like the carrier's many features and say it's a good option especially for larger cats traveling by air, but some pet owners felt there was not enough airflow (especially with the privacy panel) for longer flights.

Price: $199.99 or less

What sets this carrier apart: Any furry friends larger than about 20 pounds will likely have to travel in the cargo hold if they're not a service animal. You'll want a very sturdy dog crate for the journey that meets every regulation, and SportPet's kennel passes the test for many travelers. This carrier meets International Air Transport Association guidelines with two snap-on water dishes and four stickers that indicate a live animal is inside; a "floor gutter" contains messes for easy cleanup. The durable plastic frame is connected with metal nuts and bolts and features airline-required tie holes for bungees.

This travel crate comes in six sizes, from small up to XXX-large, so be sure to determine the right size for your pet. A cushioned bed is not included and costs extra. For more information on pets traveling in cargo, consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the sturdy construction and the compliance with airline regulations, but the traveler-favorite feature is the removable wheels, which are included with the carrier (except with size small).

Price: Ranges by size from $76 to $385

Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate Two-Door Kennel

Courtesy of Petmate

What sets this carrier apart: This option made of hard plastic and steel wire is tough enough to protect your cargo-contained cat, according to recent travelers. (Keep in mind that airlines do not recommend hard-sided carriers for in-cabin travel, and this kennel is too large to fit under airline seats.) The two front and top doors assist with entering and exiting, and color options like hot pink or blue will make this kennel easy to spot. The carrier comes in small (24-inch) and extra-small (19-inch) sizes, so choose accordingly based on the measurements of your cat. As with most hard-sided crates, you will have to purchase a plush bed separately.

Travelers appreciate: "I haven't traveled by air with this carrier, but I've owned it for years and really appreciate how sturdy it is," says Catriona Kendall, associate editor of travel at U.S. News. "The assembly of the carrier is straightforward, and my cats feel safe enough to hang out in it at home."

Price: $66.99 or less for 24-inch

How to choose the best pet carrier

There are a few major points to consider when choosing a carrier that will serve as your pet's safe space during a flight:

Size: Selecting the right carrier size for your pet is essential not only for your pets' comfort but also for their safety, according to Sara Hogan, hospital manager at Clarendon Animal Care in Virginia. "Please ensure the measurements for your carrier meet a standard that allows for your pet to comfortably turn around AND lay down," she says. But be aware that if the carrier is too large for your furry friend, they could end up injured in transit. The best way to determine the right size is to take measurements of your pet; to be as precise as possible, use the IATA's formula .

Keep in mind that only carriers able to fit under the seat in front of you are allowed in the plane cabin – a space that will vary by airline. Consult the next section on airline policies for more information.

Airflow: Don't underestimate the importance of adequate airflow. "Carriers and crates really need to have proper ventilation for short or long-term travel," Hogan says. "There IS a difference between taking your pet down the street to a friend's house or the vet and taking your pet on a trip with any sort of additional time involved."

Stability: Check the quality of all the zippers and materials − you want this to be an escape-proof carrier, and any malfunction can put your pet at risk. "If something has previously broken or fallen off the carrier or crate look to replace the piece or the entire crate/carrier," Hogan advises.

Soft-sided vs. hard-sided: If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, most airlines highly recommend a soft-sided carrier, which gives the most flexibility. Airlines are often slightly more lenient with the dimensions for soft-sided carriers in the cabin as long as they are able to fit underneath the seat without blocking the aisle of the airplane. Another bonus: Soft pet carriers often come with removable fleece bedding for extra comfort.

Note: Crates and carriers destined for the cargo hold of the plane must be hard-sided. Find more details on carrier specifications for the cargo hold in the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Airline pet carrier dimensions

Each airline sets its own specifications and safety rules for pets in the plane cabin with you, so be sure to check with your intended airline for dimension limits, breed restrictions and other guidelines. Be aware, too, that most major airlines based in the U.S. do not offer an option to transport animals in cargo.

Use the links below to find more information on the specific pet policies for the following U.S.-based airlines. Each airline's size limit for soft-sided pet carriers in the cabin is also listed, with dimensions given in length by width by height.

• Alaska Airlines : 17 x 11 x 9.5 inches
• Allegiant Air : 19 x 16 x 9 inches
• American Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Delta Air Lines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Frontier Airlines : 18 x 14 x 8 inches
• Hawaiian Airlines : 16 x 10 x 9.5 inches
• JetBlue : 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches
• Southwest Airlines : 18.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches
• Spirit Airlines : 18 x 14 x 9 inches
• Sun Country Airlines : 16 x 10 x 8 inches
• United Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches

How to prepare to fly with a pet

Help your pet acclimate.

When preparing to travel with your furry companion, planning ahead is key, especially if your pet isn't used to being confined in a crate or carrier. "I recommend buying the carrier as far in advance of travel as possible to allow your dog to become comfortable relaxing in the carrier in a familiar home environment before traveling," says Amanda Farah, CPDT-KA, national training and behavior coordinator for Best Friends Animal Society.

Some pets are sensitive to loud noises, so one way to prepare them for the journey is by playing recordings of sounds they might encounter in transit, Farah says. "I'd say a good general rule is that because so much of what they encounter during air travel will be new and potentially stressful, you should familiarize them to many factors as possible in the weeks or even months leading up to travel."

Book your travel far in advance

Keep in mind that airlines limit the number of pets allowed on a flight, so book early and try to secure a direct flight to cut down on travel time.

Familiarize yourself with your departure airport

Before you set off on your journey, familiarize yourself with the airport you're departing from – such as where to find a pet relief area – and how to go through security with a pet in tow. For example, you must never place your pet on the security conveyor belt (only the empty carrier goes through the X-ray tunnel).

Research your destination

This is a crucial step. Some countries will not allow pets in at all, while other destinations (such as Hawaii) may have strict rules about rabies vaccines or require all animals to travel in cargo. Christine Barton, a veterinarian with The Vets , recommends checking the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website to learn about requirements for health certificates, vaccines and more.

Other considerations will depend on what type of vacation you're planning; if it involves hiking or camping with your dog, Barton suggests checking the expected weather, making a small emergency kit for you and your pet, and considering a GPS tracker for remote areas. Wherever you're headed, locate the closest emergency animal hospital just in case and make sure to book pet-friendly accommodations .

Consult your vet

Once you've done your research, your veterinarian can help ensure your pet has everything you both need to travel, such as microchipping, required or recommended vaccines (and proof of them), testing, and health records, Barton says. A vet can also address any health concerns. "Doctors can discuss risks, precautions, and things to monitor while traveling," Barton explains, adding that you should make sure your pet is up to date on needed preventive medications, such as treatment for fleas or heartworm.

If your furry friend struggles with anxiety, your vet can prescribe them a medication to make the journey less stressful for both of you. "Talk to your veterinarian before administering any sort of medication to your pet, but definitely consider it for future travel," Hogan says.

Frequently Asked Questions

A carrier being "airline-approved" typically means it adheres to the airline's size requirements, is leakproof, provides adequate airflow and keeps your pet securely inside.

You can find a pet carrier on wheels, such as the  Snoozer 4-in-1 Roll Around Pet Carrier  or the  SportPet Rolling Plastic Kennel , but keep in mind that most wheeled pet carriers are too large to fit under the seat on most airlines, even with detachable wheels. Wheeled options can make your furry friend easier for you to transport, but they also tend to make for a bumpy ride for your pet, so consider carefully whether a carrier on wheels is right for your cat or dog, especially if they're easily frightened.

Most major airlines in the U.S. do not allow pets to travel in cargo; some, like American Airlines, only offer this service for active military or diplomatic personnel. Of the major U.S. airlines, only Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines currently accept animals in the cargo hold, so keep that in mind if you have a medium or large dog – or if your intended destination does not welcome in-cabin pets.

Most animals who fly in the cargo hold are fine, but there's still a risk of your pet being killed, injured or lost, according to the Humane Society of the United States. The most common dangers are excessively hot or cold temperatures, poorly ventilated crates, and rough handling. Be sure to follow all IATA guidelines for cargo crates to ensure your pet's safety. Before you book a flight, you may also want to research the airline's history with companion animals in the cargo hold.

The kennel you choose for cargo travel must allow your pet enough room to stand, sit upright, turn around while standing and lie in a natural position, according to the IATA. Carriers must made of rigid materials and include a solid roof, a leakproof base, a door with well-maintained hardware, working handles and ventilation on all four sides. Labels that say "Live Animal" and "This Way Up" are also required by the IATA.

A water dish must be securely affixed to the inside of the carrier, with open access for your pet to drink and for someone to refill it from the outside without opening the crate. A food container can either be inside the carrier if it's sealed or attached to the outside.

A pet carrier usually counts as either a personal item or a carry-on. Depending on the airline policy, you may be able to bring either a personal item or a carry-on bag (not both) in addition to your carrier. Check your airline's carry-on luggage allowance and pet policy to see what you can bring.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old to travel, but airlines may impose their own age restrictions on top of that. On Delta, for example, companion animals must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic flights. United Airlines says your pet should be at least 4 months old for international travel to comply with rabies vaccine requirements.

Your furry friend will incur certain fees for flying, but the cost will vary by airline. American Airlines, as an example, charges a $125 service fee for a carry-on pet, while Allegiant's fee is $50. Cargo fees may depend on trip details: Hawaiian Airlines charges $60 in fees for domestic flights and $225 for flights between Hawaii and North America, while the cargo fee on Alaska Airlines is $100. Service animals typically fly at no charge as long as they meet the airline's requirements.

It depends on your pet, according to Hogan. "If they're quite anxious you may want to offer food with a bit more advanced time prior to the flight to avoid vomiting in the carrier or on themselves, however, not too much time where they'll be hungry throughout the travel day," she advises. "Water is important to offer as often as possible in any setting. Access to using the bathroom more than once prior to travel is also advised so as not to miss an opportunity for output!"

Conveniently, some airports may have pet relief areas your dog can use either before or after you go through security, but that's something you'll have to research beforehand.

No. Unless your pet is a service animal of a certain size, airlines typically require pets in the cabin to be secured in their carrier and stowed under the seat in front of you.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Catriona Kendall is a frequent traveler and longtime cat owner who knows the importance of a sturdy and secure pet carrier. Her cats haven't managed to damage or escape from the Henkelion and Petmate carriers she's owned for years (despite their best efforts). She also recommends this pop-up Pet Fit for Life carrier for road trips. Kendall compiled this list of airline-compliant carriers using her experience as a pet owner, advice from animal experts and extensive research.

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What Counts as a Personal Item on a Flight?

I t’s a common scenario while boarding a crowded flight: Flight attendants start Tetris-ing suitcases, backpacks, briefcases, jackets, and other items into overhead bins, trying to make sure there’s room for everyone’s luggage. A key piece of the what-fits-where puzzle is the personal item, which generally refers to the small purse , backpack , or tote bag that airlines allow passengers to carry on board for free—and which must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.

But with packed flights on the horizon as the holiday season approaches, and more travelers trying to avoid paying checked-bag fees (along with the risk of the airline losing said checked bag), it’s essential for fliers to understand airline rules around personal items—and remember common courtesy when it comes to flight attendants, fellow passengers, and shared spaces on the aircraft. Here’s what you need to know about personal items for your next flight.

What counts as a personal item?

• Does a pet carrier count?
• What are the guidelines from major US airlines?
• What about low-budget airlines?
• What are the best personal items for travel?

Almost universally, carriers allow passengers to bring onboard a personal item like a purse, backpack, or briefcase, at no additional charge. This item is in addition to the free carry-on piece , such as a small wheeled suitcase, allowed by most major airlines (except, generally, on the cheapest fare class such as basic economy).

Except for mobility devices (such as crutches, canes, and wheelchairs) and items like car seats, personal items must be able to fit under the seat in front of you—a specification airlines clearly state on their websites. “A well understood, and accepted by the majority of airlines, definition of a personal item is a bag that can be stored under the seat in front of you,” explains Anton Radchenko, CEO of AirAdvisor , a Boston-based passenger claims management company. Radchenko also says that the exact dimensions can differ between airlines.

There are some notable exceptions to the personal item rule as well. Most major US carriers don’t count kid-specific items such as diaper bags, strollers, and car seats (the latter to be used onboard) as a personal item. In addition, most airlines allow passengers to bring extras—duty free purchases, food and drink bought after clearing the security line, and jackets, coats, or umbrellas, for example—that don’t count toward their personal item. And that’s where things can get complicated, especially on full flights.

“Often passengers will arrive with a suitcase, personal items, coats, and sometimes even shopping bags,” says Josephine Remo , a Copenhagen-based former flight attendant with Scandinavian Airlines. “Obviously, all of that does not fit under the seat.”

Cue a scenario sure to happen more often as the holiday travel season ramps up: flight attendants removing personal items like small backpacks, jackets, or shopping bags from the overhead bins and requesting owners to place them under the seat in front of them. “In general, passengers need to understand that the overhead bins are for everyone and no one is entitled to a certain amount of space,” Remo says. If you're boarding with more than one personal item, know that you'll likely need to condense your belongings to fit on your person or under the seat in front of you—additional overhead space is not guaranteed.

Does a pet carrier count as a personal item?

It depends on the airline, but generally, most major US airlines allow a pet carrier as a piece of carry-on luggage. But the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you (meaning your second bag may have to go in the overhead compartment), and passengers must make a reservation ahead of time, as most airlines have limits on the number of pets traveling in the cabin. There’s also usually an additional fee.

What are the guidelines for major US carriers?

American requires personal items to have dimensions less than 18" x 14" x 8". Good news for travelers flying basic economy on American: The carrier has announced those fares now come with one carry-on for free, in addition to a personal item, to all destinations.

Delta does not list specific dimension requirements for personal items on its website, but like other airlines, requires them to fit under the seat in front of you.

All JetBlue fares include a personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you and must not exceed 17" 13" x 8." Passengers with Blue, Blue Plus, Blue Extra, and Mint fares can bring a carry-on bag (space permitting) that fits in the overhead bin, plus a personal item. The airline also specifies that any additional or larger carry-on bags brought to the gate will incur a fee ($65 for the first or second checked bag) and need to be checked.

Blue Basic fares only include one personal item. There are a few exceptions, however: Mosaic members; travelers on a JetBlue transatlantic flight; those who combine a Blue Basic fare with an Even More Space seat (on all legs, if connecting); active US military; and unaccompanied minors.

Southwest allows a personal item for all passengers such as a purse, small backpack, food container, or laptop. The carrier does not specify the required dimensions of personal items, but states the item must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.

Personal items on United flights must not exceed total dimensions of 17" x 10" x 9". United has an online baggage fee calculator to estimate costs to check a bag, noting that it’s cheaper to pay for these fees ahead of time.

What about personal items on budget airlines and low-cost carriers?

The personal item issue gets a bit trickier when it comes to budget carriers, which generally allow passengers one free personal item but charge for full-size carry-on luggage. Spirit Airlines, for example, has a range of fees for a carry-on beyond the personal item included in ticket prices. But, as its website notes, if you know you’ll have a larger carry-on bag, it’s advisable to pay during the booking process to avoid paying more later in the game (like a recent $99 at-the-airport carry-on fee we found on the carrier’s “Spirit Bag-O-Tron” baggage calculator ).

Not surprisingly, passengers adamant about not paying such hefty fees sometimes try to pass off larger bags as personal items. While social media is full of viral videos showing space-saving tips for carry-on luggage, some travelers take their packing hacks even further by stuffing travel pillows with clothes or making a small purchase in the airport and then using the store bag to fill with additional items, since airport purchases and duty free items are technically allowed by most carriers. However, travelers who egregiously flout an airline’s policy on personal items should proceed with caution, Radchenko advises.

“We have been made aware of instances where passengers have tried to pass off larger bags as personal items, which we strongly advise against,” he says. “Airlines have safety obligations to meet in terms of the size of bags that can be placed in seating areas, and they take these obligations seriously. Trying to get away with using a large bag as a personal item can result in passengers having to pay high on-the-day prices for an additional cabin or hold item, which they will also not be able to access easily, or at all, during a flight.”

Editor-approved personal items

Below, eight bags Traveler editors regularly take on the road.

MZ Wallace Nik Duffel

$315.00, MZ Wallace

Calpak Luka duffel

$128.00, Calpak

Herschel Kaslo Daypack Tech

$130.00, Herschel

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

$155.00, Dagne Dover

Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop tote

$98.00, Calpak

Pond LA Transform tote

$235.00, Pond LA

Monos Metro Duffel

$230.00, Monos

Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper tote

$298.00, Cuyana

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Where does my pet travel on the plane?

Where can i get a strong, comfortable travel crate, how much will it cost to relocate my pet, will my pet have to stay in quarantine, what we’re talking about on the blog.

Our entire team are pet owners as well as pet relocation specialists . So, when we say that we live and breathe pet relocation, we really mean it.

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Soft Cat Carriers

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Whisker City ® "Meow" Soft-Sided Cat & Dog Carrier, 19-in

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When you’re traveling with your cat, whether it’s just down the road to the vet’s office or across the country, you want to keep your pet happy and comfortable. PetSmart’s soft cat carriers are the perfect way to keep your feline friend comfortable, give them enough room, and help keep them calm. We carry soft cat carriers in many colours, types, sizes, and materials so it’s easy to find one that is just right for you and your cat. 

We know how difficult it can be to travel with pets, so we want to make it as simple as possible for both you and your cat to get where you need to go. Our collection of soft cat carriers can be found with many options that are specifically made for your convenience and your cat or kitten’s comfort, with options like:

Carry your cat in comfort and style with deluxe soft cat carrier bags at PetSmart. Shop our collection for traditional pet carriers, as well as slings, wheeled duffle bags, backpacks and wearable pouches you and your cat will love.

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United Airlines' pet policy: Here’s how to fly with your cat or dog on United

Traveling can be a stressful experience under the best of circumstances. Bringing along your pet can make the process much more complicated.

While service animals are widely permitted, the United Airlines pet policy for other animals has several key details that can trip you up. In this piece, we'll cover the most important details you need to know about United Airlines pet travel, including the United Airlines dog policy.

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United Airlines' pet policy

United Airlines will only accept cats and dogs as in-cabin pets. There is a $125 charge for each one-way itinerary where your pet accompanies you in the cabin. Additionally, United will charge another $125 for any one-way itinerary within the U.S. with more than a four-hour stopover or any one-way international itinerary with more than a 24-hour stopover.

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One of the most important details of the United pet policy is that your pet will need a reservation. United limits the number of animals it allows in-cabin on certain flights. So, although United will allow you to add a pet to your booking any time after you book, it's best to make sure there's availability for your pet when you book your flight. Even though United no longer has change fees , you'll be stuck rescheduling your trip if your particular flight isn't allowing more in-cabin animals.

Related: A comprehensive guide to traveling with pets

United Airlines' pet carrier requirements

The United pet policy allows for both hard-sided and soft-sided carriers. Hard-sided carriers must be no more than 17.5 inches long by 12 inches wide by 7.5 inches high. Meanwhile, United recommends that soft-sided carriers be no larger than 18 inches long by 11 inches wide by 11 inches high. However, the only firm requirement for soft-sided pet carriers is that the carrier fits under the seat in front of you (hard-sided carriers must also fit underneath the seat in front of you).

United stipulates that only one pet is allowed in each pet carrier . Additionally, the United pet policy states that the animal must be able to stand up and turn around in its carrier.

Related: 8 things to consider before flying with your pet

United Airlines' pet cargo policy

United Airlines does not currently allow any pets in cargo. Previously, the United pet policy did allow pets to travel as cargo. However, United's program for pets in cargo, PetSafe, was suspended a few years ago after some tragic pet deaths . There is no indication when (or if) this program will resume.

Related: What you need to know about traveling with dogs on a plane

How to use the United pet policy

United has multiple options for booking a pet on your flight. First, there's a link to book a new trip with your pet . But, if you already booked your trip, you can add a pet to your existing trip by searching for your flights on the United website.

Once you have the specific itinerary in front of you, scroll down for the drop-down menu labeled "Special accommodations" and look for "Add pet."

Related: How to change or cancel a United Airlines flight

Bottom line

The United Airlines pet policy can make it challenging to travel with your pet. After all, United is one of many airlines that doesn't allow animals to travel in the cargo hold on flights. Further, the United pet policy is restrictive regarding the types of pets that can travel. In particular, you'll only be able to fly with cats and dogs that can fit into a pet carrier of the appropriate size.

Finally, United will only accept a certain number of pets in the cabin per flight, so you'll need to reserve space for your pet early.

Watch CBS News

American Airlines revises its policy for bringing pets and bags on flights

March 29, 2024 / 7:11 PM EDT / CBS/AP

American Airlines is relaxing part of its pet policy to let owners bring their animal companion and a full-size carry-on bag into the cabin.

Until this week, people who carried a pet into the cabin, which involves paying a $150 fee, could only have one other small item that fit under the seat. Anything bigger, like a carry-on bag with wheels, needed to be checked for a $35 fee. Or they could put the pet in the cargo hold.

Now American is letting passengers bring a pet in the cabin and also bring either a regular carry-on bag or a personal item — just not both bags. The old policy struck some pet owners as unfair, since they were already paying a pet fee. Passengers must still pay a fee, but their pet no longer counts as a carry-on.

An American spokeswoman confirmed that the rules change took effect Thursday. She couldn't explain the reason because the airline's corporate offices were closed for Good Friday, and decision-makers were not available. 

Gary Leff, a travel blogger who first wrote about the change, recalled traveling years ago with a Yorkshire terrier.

"It was always frustrating that the dog counted as the carry-on even though I was paying the extra (pet) fee that was sometimes more than the ticket for me," he said Friday.

Leff said he thinks American Airlines' new policy will reduce the urge for travelers to falsely claim that their pet is a service animal that flies for free, enabling them to bring a carry-on as well.

Even with the new policy, however, traveling with a pet takes a lot of planning and research ahead of time, and many factors could prohibit Fido or Felix from being allowed into the cabin. For one thing, there is a maximum total number of pets allowed per cabin, which varies depending on the type of aircraft.

On United, the total maximum of four pets is allowed in Economy class on the Airbus 319, while Economy on the Airbus 319 allows a total maximum of six pets. In all instances, individual passengers are allowed to bring a maximum of pets in one single carrier. 

Other U.S. airlines that allow pets on board include Delta, American, Southwest, Alaska and Frontier. On most, pet carriers count as carry-ons, according to the American Kennel Club.

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American Airlines Makes Traveling With Pets Cheaper and Easier

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American Airlines Changes Pet Policy

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Traveling with pets is already a hassle, let alone the stress that goes into taking them through an airport, past security, and onto a plane. While the brave of heart have done this song and dance for years, it’s always incurred plenty of additional cost.

While American Airlines hasn’t changed the fees they’ll charge for bringing a pet with you, it altered the policy for the luggage you can bring with you while traveling with a pet. As first noted by View From the Wing, those traveling with pets are now able to bring full-size carry-on luggage with them .

Here’s what’s going on.

As it stands, those wanting to travel with their pets have to comply with a variety of policies, including kennel size, pet weight, and, of course, paying actually to bring their pet with them. This is true of all 3 big U.S. airlines, including American Airlines , United Airlines , and Delta Air Lines .

Historically , bringing a pet with you meant that you weren’t able to bring a full-size carry-on as well. Although the pet’s carrier needed to fit (and stay) under the seat in front of you, the kennel counted as your carry-on bag. You could, however, bring a personal item such as a backpack or purse.

Now, American Airlines has updated its policy to allow those traveling with pets to also bring a carry-on bag with them . Why is this such a big deal?

Because those without status or airline credit cards will have needed to pay for any checked luggage. Given the fact that American has recently hiked the cost of a checked bag to $40 within the U.S. (and $35 if paid online), that stings. Combine this with the $150 fee for traveling with a pet, and you can quickly see how the costs add up — on top of airfare.

Delta and United still maintain that a pet counts as a carry-on, so travelers of those airlines are out of luck.

Of course, jury is still out on how uncomfortable it’s going to be to bring both a pet carrier and a rolling suitcase with you at the same time, but those are the sacrifices we make for the ones we love.

Give checked bag fees a miss with our tips in the ultimate guide to avoid paying for baggage fees.

American Airlines has updated its policy to make traveling with pets easier. Rather than needing to check additional luggage, this allows passengers to bring their full-sized carry-on with them onboard.

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About Carissa Rawson

Carissa served in the U.S. Air Force where she developed her love for travel and new cultures. She started her own blog and eventually joined The Points Guy. Since then, she’s contributed to Business Insider, Forbes, and more.

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United Airlines bag policy: What you can carry on and how much it costs to check luggage

Following the lead of American Airlines , United Airlines has raised the cost of checking bags.

Under the updated United Airlines baggage policy , the cost to check a bag is now $40 for the first bag ($35 if paid online at least 24 hours before the flight) and $50 for the second bag ($45 if prepaid online) for flights within the U.S.

United's checked bag fees were previously $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second.

The cost of checking bags for international travel depends on the destination. For example, it also costs $40 for the first bag and $50 for the second bag for travel to and from Canada and Mexico.

Here's what to know about United Airlines' baggage policy.

How much does United charge for checked bags?

For domestic travel, United Airlines charges $40 for the first checked bag and $50 for the second checked bag. The fees are $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second bag if you pay online at least 24 hours before your flight.

The fees are the same for international destinations in the Americas such as Canada and Mexico, as well as the Caribbean. However, The Arizona Republic found there was no discount to prepay for checked bags for flights to and from Canada when we used United's Bag Fee Calculator to price the cost of checking luggage for Phoenix-Toronto and Phoenix-Calgary itineraries.

Does United Economy include a checked bag?

United Economy fares do not include a checked bag.

Can I bring a carry-on with United Economy?

United's Economy and Economy Plus fares include one free carry-on that can go in the overhead bin plus a personal item. United Basic Economy fares permit one personal item that fits under the seat. Carry-on sized bags must be checked.

Are prepaid baggage fees refundable on United?

Passengers may be able to get refunds for checked luggage if they prepay for more bags than they check, or if their flight is cancelled, according to United.

How can I get a free checked bag on United Airlines?

Certain fare classes and loyalty program tiers include free checked bags on United.

Members of United's MileagePlus rewards program who have MileagePlus Premier status can check at least one bag for free, and the number of free bags depends on their tier. To reach the minimum Premier level, Premier Silver (one free checked bag), passengers must either take 12 qualifying flights and earn 4,000 qualifying points or earn 5,000 qualifying points in a calendar year.

United Explorer Card credit card holders, plus a companion, get one free checked bag when they purchase their plane tickets with that card. The credit card has an introductory annual fee of $0, which increases to $95 annually after the first year.

Active U.S. military members with ID and their dependents can check up to two bags free for personal travel and up to five bags free when traveling on military orders, according to United.

What is United Airlines' baggage allowance?

The baggage weight allowance on United depends on a passenger's fare class and MileagePlus status. For economy and premium economy passengers, checked bags must weigh 50 pounds or less. Fees for overweight bags start at $200.

First class passengers, business class passengers and MileagePlus Premier members can check bags that weigh up to 70 pounds.

Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes and crutches are free to check regardless of size and weight.

How many bags does United Airlines allow for free?

United Airlines passengers may board with one carry-on bag and one personal item for free.

What is the carry-on size restriction for United?

Carry-on bags can measure no more than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high, including handles and wheels.

What is the personal item size restriction for United?

The size limit for personal items, which include purses, small handbags, backpacks and laptop bags, is 17 inches long, 10 inches wide and 9 inches high.

Does United allow a backpack and carry-on?

If you have a carry-on bag, you can also bring a backpack as long as it meets the size limit for a personal item, which is 17 inches long, 10 inches wide and 9 inches high. Passengers may not bring two carry-on size bags.

Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?

No weight limits for carry-on bags are noted in United's carry-on bag policies. Carry-on bags and personal items within the size limits can fly regardless of weight as long as the carry-on can fit in the overhead bin and the personal item can fit under the seat.

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Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

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American Airlines just made it easier and cheaper to bring pets on flights

• American Airlines updated its policy to make flying with pets easier.
• Now, flyers can board with a pet in addition to a carry-on bag or a personal item.
• Before, flyers with a pet could only bring one small item. Any other carry-ons had to be checked.

American Airlines has streamlined its policy for passengers traveling with pets.

The airline is now allowing passengers to bring pets inside the cabin alongside a regular carry-on bag or a personal item, according to the Associated Press . However, passengers can not bring both a carry-on bag and a personal item.

Related stories

Previously, passengers who traveled with a pet could only bring one small item that fit beneath the seat in front of them, the outlet reported. Larger carry-on bags had to be checked for a $35 fee on top of the standard $150 pet fee .

Carry-on pets refer to cats or dogs that meet the specified requirements for age, size, and destination, according to its policy. Pets can also be placed in American Airlines cargo.

"On March 28, American updated its cabin pet policy allowing customers who are traveling with a pet to bring a personal item or a carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bins," an American Airlines representative told BI. "We made the change to provide a more convenient and comfortable experience to customers whose pets fly American."

The latest policy update comes after American Airlines announced in February it will raise checked bag fees . One checked bag used to cost $30, and the second was $40. Now, the first checked bag for domestic flights is $35, and the second is $45.

The airline also changed how customers earn frequent flyer miles and loyalty points.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

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Banned From Russian Airspace, U.S. Airlines Look to Restrict Competitors

Because of the war in Ukraine, U.S. carriers have to take the long way on flights to and from Asia, giving an advantage to foreign rivals flying the same routes.

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By Kate Kelly and Mark Walker

WASHINGTON — Unable to fly through Russian airspace because of the war in Ukraine, U.S. airlines are stepping up a lobbying campaign on Capitol Hill and at the White House to address what they say is a growing problem: They are losing business to foreign competitors who can take passengers between the United States and Asia faster and more cheaply.

Effectively banned from the polar routes that save time and fuel between the United States and an array of destinations on the other side of the world, U.S. carriers say they are being forced into an aeronautical version of Twister to get passengers where they want to go without taking undue risks.

They have altered trans-Pacific flight plans to ensure they would have somewhere to land in an emergency, reduced passenger and cargo loads to hold down costs as they fly longer distances, and put on hold more than a dozen planned new routes to Mumbai, Tokyo, Seoul and other cities.

On its route from New Delhi to New York City, American Airlines has been forced to stop flights in Bangor, Maine — an hour and a half short of the mark — on 19 occasions, a person familiar with the recent history said. Those stops, which were typically caused by unfavorable winds or weather that depleted the jet fuel supply and ran out the flight crew’s duty hours, delayed passengers and forced a swap-out of 14 pilots and flight attendants.

Those flights were already operating with dozens of the seats deliberately left unfilled, the person added, because less weight on board was required to make the fuel last as long as possible.

Yet many foreign airlines are not banned from flying over Russia, U.S. airlines and their lobbyists say — and are winning more passengers on routes to and from the United States as a result. Continued access to the shorter and more fuel-efficient routes that Russian airspace provides is giving carriers like Air India, Emirates and China Eastern Airlines an unfair advantage, the industry lobbying group Airlines for America said in a recent presentation on Capitol Hill.

Airlines for America estimated the lost annual market share of U.S. carriers at a collective $2 billion per year.

“Foreign airlines using Russian airspace on flights to and from the U.S. are gaining a significant competitive advantage over U.S. carriers in major markets, including China and India,” the presentation, dated February, said. “This situation is directly to the benefit of foreign airlines and at the expense of the United States as a whole, with fewer connections to key markets, fewer high paying airline jobs” and a dent in the overall economy.

U.S. airlines for years had access to Russian airspace through a series of agreements with Moscow. In exchange for that access, they — and other foreign airlines — paid fees to the Russian government for air traffic control support that amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars per year, according to an airline official and an industry advocate.

But after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year prompted government officials in the United States, Britain, Canada and Europe to ban Russian aircraft from flying over their airspace, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia immediately prohibited the United States and other supporters of Ukraine, including Canada and much of Europe, from flying through his skies.

Now airlines are pressing the White House and Congress to fix the problem by subjecting foreign carriers from nations not already banned from Russian airspace to the same restrictions applied to U.S. airlines, effectively forcing them to fly the same routes as their American competitors.

The Biden administration should “take action to ensure that foreign carriers overflying Russia do not depart, land or transit through U.S. airports,” said Marli Collier, an Airlines for America spokeswoman.

The proposal appears to have gained traction with the Transportation Department, which recently drafted an order that would ban Chinese carriers that fly passengers to the United States from flying through Russian airspace, according to three people who were briefed on the order. The order was presented to a group of Biden administration officials, including members of the national security team, on Monday, two of those people said, and has been under consideration this week along with other proposed policy measures.

Transportation Department officials declined to comment. But national security officials are mindful of the potential diplomatic consequences of steps aimed at a longtime ally like India, or of adding further tension to the already strained relationship with China.

A spokesperson at the State Department, which is involved in an interagency government review of the airspace issues, said the department was aware of the concerns and regards the safety of U.S. citizens on foreign soil as a top priority.

“It’s just unfortunate for our air carriers that this has been a collateral issue,” said Manisha Singh, a former assistant secretary for the bureau of economic and business affairs at the State Department who now runs a consulting firm in Washington. “I think we should do anything we can,” she added, noting that the United States should “be careful” before taking steps that might offend foreign countries and affect U.S. tourism and commerce as a result.

Representatives for Delta, American, and United Airlines, the domestic carriers most involved in the lobbying effort, referred questions to Airlines for America, which praised a recent letter by Senate Foreign Relations Committee members to Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg echoing the group’s talking points.

“When foreign airlines overfly Russian territory, even if they do not expect to land on Russian soil, they run the risk of unplanned diversions in Russia for safety, medical, mechanical or more nefarious reasons,” wrote Senator Bob Menendez, Democrat of New Jersey, the panel’s chairman, and Senator Jim Risch of Idaho, its senior Republican. The State and Transportation Departments have not yet responded to the letter, according to someone who has been briefed on the exchange.

Representatives for Air India declined to comment, and representatives for Emirates and China Eastern did not respond to requests for comment.

Arjun Garg, a former chief counsel and acting deputy administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, said the Biden administration has the legal authority to remedy the complaints from U.S. carriers.

Mr. Garg said both the safety concerns the airlines have flagged and the way in which the current regulations have disadvantaged them are serious dilemmas.

“The foreign air carriers get the benefit of shorter flight times, lower costs, less fuel consumption, all those kinds of advantages that are shut off for U.S. carriers by order of the U.S. government,” Mr. Garg said.

At a time when U.S. fliers are already fed up with fundamental issues like cramped seats, flight cancellations and a cascade of service fees, access to Russian airspace may not be the most pressing worry. Depending on winds, air traffic and other factors on any given day, on a 14-hour flight, avoiding Russian airspace can mean less than an hour of extra flying time in some cases. But it can also mean more than two hours.

But the cost differential is notable. As of Wednesday, the outbound leg of an April round-trip journey from New York’s Kennedy Airport to New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport cost about $1,500 and was estimated at 13 hours and 40 minutes on Air India, according to Travelocity. The most comparable flight on a U.S. carrier: a $1,740 American Airlines trip with estimated flying time of 14 hours and 55 minutes.

But Airlines for America and the major carriers it represents are also highlighting security concerns for Americans who fly over Russia, even on foreign airlines. And history suggests there is cause for anxiety.

In 2014, a Malaysia Airlines flight was shot down over Ukraine , killing 298 people. A Dutch court later convicted, in absentia, two Russian separatists and a pro-Russia Ukrainian with murder.

In 2021, a Ryanair flight from Greece to Lithuania was diverted to Belarus , a close Kremlin ally, after officials in that country alerted air traffic controllers to a supposed bomb threat on the plane. Their true purpose, U.S. prosecutors said , was to arrest a dissident journalist who was a passenger by inventing a false safety issue. (The journalist, Roman Protasevich, was recently put on trial in Belarus, and the officials who the Justice Department says organized the diversion have been indicted in the United States and charged with conspiracy to commit airline piracy.)

Last year, the American basketball star Brittney Griner was detained at an airport near Moscow and later sentenced to nine years in a penal colony for carrying vape cartridges of hashish oil in her luggage. She was freed in December .

There are also operational challenges stemming from the longer routes being flown by U.S. carriers.

Delta Air Lines has redrawn trans-Pacific flight maps repeatedly to comply with both U.S. regulations and the Russian overflight ban, according to internal documents and two people familiar with the changes.

F.A.A. rules require that for long flights, commercial planes must always be within 180 minutes of a suitable airport in case an emergency landing is needed (with certain aircraft, which Delta flies, it can stretch to 207 minutes).

But without access to Russia as an emergency stop, Delta’s Detroit-to-Shanghai flights are now being forced to fly near obscure Pacific landmasses like Shemya Island southwest of Alaska. And if the tiny Shemya airport is too full to handle an emergency landing, Delta pilots must divert to an even farther-flung airport like the one on Midway Atoll in the middle of the Pacific, these people said — adding up to an hour and 40 minutes and more than 3,000 gallons of fuel to the journey when the closer stops are not available.

“You can sometimes think of it as a little bit of an obstacle course,” said Jim Higgins, an aviation professor at the University of North Dakota who flew as a commercial pilot for seven years. Federal regulation around emergency landings, while well-intentioned, he added, “does increase the operational complexity.”

Hari Kumar contributed reporting from New Delhi, and Keith Bradsher from Beijing. Li You contributed research.

Kate Kelly covers money, influence, and policy as a correspondent in the Washington bureau of the Times. Before that, she spent twenty years covering Wall Street deals, key players and their intersection with politics. She is the author of three books, including "The Education of Brett Kavanaugh." More about Kate Kelly

Mark Walker is an investigative reporter in the Washington bureau. He was part of a team that won a Pulitzer Prize for its coverage of Covid-19 in 2020. He grew up in Savannah, Ga., and graduated from Fort Valley State University. More about Mark Walker

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

Ahead of the U.S. elections, Russia is intensifying efforts to elevate candidates  who oppose aid for Ukraine and support isolationism, disinformation experts say.

President Vladimir Putin said that claims Russia planned to invade other countries were “nonsense,” but warned them against hosting  warplanes meant for Ukraine.

A large-scale Russian missile and drone attack damaged power plants  and caused blackouts for more than a million Ukrainians in what Ukrainian officials said was one of the war’s largest assaults on energy infrastructure.

Symbolism or Strategy?: Ukrainians say that defending places with little strategic value is worth the cost in casualties and weapons , because the attacking Russians pay an even higher price. American officials aren’t so sure.

Elaborate Tales: As the Ukraine war grinds on, the Kremlin has created increasingly complex fabrications online  to discredit Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelensky, and undermine the country’s support in the West.

Targeting Russia’s Oil Industry: With its army short of ammunition and troops to break the deadlock on the battlefield, Kyiv has increasingly taken the fight beyond the Ukrainian border, attacking oil infrastructure deep in Russian territory .

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We monitor and authenticate reports on social media, corroborating these with eyewitness accounts and interviews. Read more about our reporting efforts .