Are you ready to embark on an adventure with your beloved furry friend, but scratching your head about what kind of pet carrier Southwest Airlines will actually allow on board? You're in the right place! Flying with a pet can be a breeze if you know the rules, and getting the carrier dimensions just right is one of the most crucial steps. Let's break down everything you need to know, piece by piece, to ensure a smooth journey for you and your companion.
Understanding Southwest Airlines' Pet Carrier Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Southwest Airlines has specific requirements for in-cabin pet travel, primarily focusing on safety, comfort, and the ability for the carrier to fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike some airlines, Southwest does not transport pets in cargo, so your pet must fit in a carrier that can go in the cabin with you.
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| How Big Can A Pet Carrier Be On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Let's Talk Dimensions – What's the Magic Number?
The very first thing you need to grasp is the size limit. Southwest Airlines is quite precise about this.
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The maximum dimensions for a pet carrier on Southwest Airlines are:
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18.5 inches (Length) x 13.5 inches (Width) x 9.5 inches (Height)
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It's critical that your chosen carrier adheres to these measurements. Even a slight deviation can lead to issues at the airport. Remember, this applies to both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers.
Sub-heading: Why are these dimensions so important?
These dimensions are not arbitrary. They are designed to ensure the carrier fits comfortably and safely under the seat in front of you. This is non-negotiable for the airline's safety regulations and to prevent your pet from obstructing the aisle or other passengers' space. Think of it as your pet's cozy, temporary home for the flight.
Step 2: Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided Carriers: Which is Best?
Southwest Airlines allows both soft-sided and hard-sided pet carriers, but each has its nuances.
Sub-heading: Soft-Sided Carriers – The Flexible Friend
Soft-sided carriers are often a popular choice for in-cabin travel because they offer a little more flexibility. If your carrier is slightly over the height limit (e.g., 10 or 11 inches high), a soft-sided carrier might be able to compress enough to fit under the seat. However, do not rely on this as a guarantee. The pet must still be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably within the compressed space.
QuickTip: Look for contrasts — they reveal insights.
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Key features of a good soft-sided carrier:
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Durable, breathable mesh panels for ventilation.
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Leak-proof bottom (a must-have!).
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Secure zippers to prevent escapes.
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Comfortable padding for your pet.
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Sub-heading: Hard-Sided Carriers – The Sturdy Sanctuary
Hard-sided carriers offer more rigid protection. If you choose a hard-sided carrier, it must strictly adhere to the 18.5" L x 13.5" W x 9.5" H dimensions without any give.
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Key features of a good hard-sided carrier:
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Robust construction for protection.
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Adequate ventilation on at least three sides.
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Leak-proof bottom.
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Sufficient space for your pet to move naturally.
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Step 3: Ensuring Your Pet's Comfort and Safety
Beyond just the dimensions, the carrier must be appropriate for your pet's well-being.
Sub-heading: Room to Move: The Golden Rule
Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier. This is a critical requirement from Southwest and ensures your pet isn't stressed or cramped during the flight. Imagine being stuck in a tiny box for hours – not pleasant!
Sub-heading: Ventilation and Leak-Proofing
The carrier must be well-ventilated to ensure your pet has enough airflow. Look for carriers with ample mesh windows or air holes. Additionally, the carrier needs to have a leak-proof bottom. This is crucial for hygiene and to prevent any accidents from affecting the aircraft or other passengers. Often, a removable, absorbent pad at the bottom is a good idea.
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Step 4: Booking Your Pet's Spot: Reservations are Key!
It's not enough to just show up with an approved carrier. Southwest Airlines has a limited number of pet carriers allowed per flight (typically six, though this can vary).
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You MUST make a reservation for your pet in advance. Space is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't wait until the last minute!
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Call Southwest Airlines directly to add your pet to your reservation. This cannot be done online.
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The pet fee ($125 each way, subject to change) is paid at the airport ticket counter on the day of travel.
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
Step 5: Understanding Your Carry-On Allowance
Here's an important detail: your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag.
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This means you can bring your pet carrier AND either a personal item OR a standard carry-on bag. You cannot bring a pet carrier, a personal item, and a carry-on bag. Plan accordingly!
Step 6: Airport and Onboard Procedures
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Knowing what to expect at the airport will make your travel day much less stressful.
Sub-heading: At the Airport Ticket Counter
This is where you'll pay the pet fee and get your pet's boarding pass. Ensure your pet is already secured in its carrier.
Sub-heading: Security Checkpoint
At the TSA security checkpoint, you'll need to remove your pet from its carrier. You will carry your pet through the metal detector, and the empty carrier will go through the X-ray machine. Practice this at home if your pet is new to it!
Sub-heading: Boarding and Onboard the Aircraft
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Pets must remain in their carriers at all times while in the gate area, during boarding/deplaning, and for the entire duration of the flight. Do not take your pet out of the carrier.
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You cannot sit in an exit row seat or a seat without under-seat stowage in front of you when traveling with a pet.
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Your pet carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you.
Step 7: Additional Important Considerations
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Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old to travel with Southwest.
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Domestic Flights Only: Southwest Airlines accepts pets only on domestic flights within the United States and to/from Puerto Rico. Pets are not permitted on international flights, or flights to/from Hawaii (though they are allowed between Hawaiian islands).
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Behavior: Pets exhibiting disruptive behavior (excessive barking, growling, biting) may be denied boarding. Ensure your pet is calm and well-behaved for travel.
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Health: Your pet should be healthy and vaccinated. While Southwest doesn't typically require health certificates for domestic travel, it's always a good idea to have your vet's contact information and any relevant medical history handy.
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Unaccompanied Minors: Unaccompanied minors are not allowed to travel with pets.
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
10 Related FAQ Questions: Your Quick Answers
How to choose the right size pet carrier for Southwest Airlines?
Choose a carrier that is no larger than 18.5" L x 13.5" W x 9.5" H and allows your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside.
How to make a pet reservation on Southwest Airlines?
Call Southwest Airlines directly to add your pet to your flight reservation. Pet reservations cannot be made online.
How to pay the pet fee for Southwest Airlines?
The pet fee ($125 each way) is paid at the airport ticket counter on the day of your departure using accepted credit cards.
How to prepare my pet for flying in a carrier on Southwest Airlines?
Familiarize your pet with the carrier beforehand by having them spend time in it at home. Ensure they are comfortable, and consider a short practice run in the car.
How to get through airport security with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
At the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your pet from its carrier and carry it through the metal detector, while the empty carrier goes through the X-ray machine.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
How to ensure my pet stays comfortable during the flight on Southwest Airlines?
Provide a familiar blanket or toy, and ensure the carrier has proper ventilation. Do not take your pet out of the carrier during the flight.
How to find out if my flight has pet availability on Southwest Airlines?
When you call Southwest Airlines to make a pet reservation, they will inform you of the pet availability on your desired flight, as space is limited.
How to understand the carry-on allowance when flying with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. You can bring one pet carrier and one additional personal item OR one additional standard carry-on.
How to know if my pet is too big for a Southwest Airlines carrier?
If your pet cannot comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally within a carrier that meets the 18.5" L x 13.5" W x 9.5" H dimensions, then it is too big to fly in-cabin on Southwest.
How to deal with pet relief during a layover on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines destinations typically have pet relief areas. However, the airline will not delay a flight for you to take your pet to a relief area, so plan your layover times accordingly.
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