Imagine this: you’re all packed and ready for your Southwest adventure, but your furry co-pilot is looking a little stressed. Finding the perfect pet carrier for Southwest Airlines can feel like a puzzle. You want your pet to be comfortable and safe, but you also need to follow the airline’s rules. It’s tricky to know which carrier is the best fit, and the thought of a denied boarding can be a real worry!
Don’t let the stress of choosing a pet carrier keep you from enjoying your trip. This blog post is here to help! We’ll break down exactly what Southwest Airlines looks for in a pet carrier. You’ll learn about the important measurements, what features make a carrier comfortable for your pet, and how to pick one that fits Southwest’s guidelines perfectly. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to choose a carrier that makes travel a breeze for both you and your four-legged friend.
Our Top 5 Pet Carrier For Southwest Airlines Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Pet Carrier For Southwest Airlines Detailed Reviews
1. Petskd Pet Carrier 17x13x9.5 Southwest Airline Approved
Rating: 9.2/10
Planning a trip with your furry friend? The Petskd Pet Carrier 17x13x9.5 Southwest Airline Approved is designed to make traveling with your small cat or dog, weighing between 1-15 lbs, a breeze. This soft carrier in a stylish grey is built with your pet’s comfort and safety in mind, and it’s even approved for under-seat storage on many flights.
What We Like:
- This carrier is airline approved and fits comfortably under the seat for Southwest Airlines and meets the size requirements for Air Canada, making travel planning easier.
- It offers excellent ventilation with mesh on five sides, so your pet can see out and you can easily check on them.
- The carrier features a strong, upgraded design with stainless steel and fiber rods that prevent it from collapsing or losing its shape, ensuring your pet always has a stable space.
- Safety is a top priority with a built-in rope buckle to secure your pet’s collar and a special lock on the zippers to keep curious paws from opening them.
- Made from durable, waterproof, and scratch-resistant polyester, this carrier is built to last and can withstand your pet’s natural instincts.
- The upgraded mesh material is tough, preventing pets from tearing it and escaping.
- Petskd offers a 12-month quality guarantee, so you can buy with confidence knowing any issues will be resolved.
What Could Be Improved:
- While airline approved for specific airlines, it’s always a good idea to double-check the exact dimensions with your airline before booking, as policies can vary.
- The carrier is best suited for pets up to 15 lbs, so larger small breeds might find it a bit snug for longer journeys.
This Petskd pet carrier offers a safe and comfortable solution for traveling with your small pet. Its thoughtful design and durable construction make it a reliable choice for your next adventure.
2. Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved
Rating: 9.4/10
Traveling with your small furry friend just got a whole lot easier with the Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier. This soft-sided carrier is designed to make trips smoother, whether you’re flying, driving, or just heading to the vet. It offers a comfortable and secure space for your pet, with thoughtful features to keep them safe and happy.
What We Like:
- Airline Approved: This carrier is TSA approved and designed to fit under the seat on many airlines, including Southwest and Air Canada. You can travel with peace of mind.
- Expandable Space: The carrier can expand, giving your pet extra room to move around when you’re not in flight. This is great for longer trips or when they just need a little more space.
- Great Ventilation: With mesh on five sides, your pet gets plenty of fresh air. They can also peek out and see what’s going on, which can reduce anxiety.
- Safe and Secure: The carrier has locking safety zippers to prevent your pet from accidentally opening it. It also has a built-in rope buckle to keep your pet securely attached to their collar.
- Durable Construction: Made from waterproof and scratch-resistant polyester, this carrier is built to last. The upgraded mesh material is strong and prevents pets from tearing it.
- Sturdy Design: The carrier won’t sag or lose its shape thanks to its upgraded internal support. It stays upright and stable for your pet’s comfort.
- Quality Guarantee: Petskd offers a 12-month warranty, so you can buy with confidence. They will replace it for free if you have any quality issues.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size Limitations: This carrier is specifically for small cats and dogs. If you have a larger pet, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Always check the inner dimensions and your pet’s size before buying.
This Petskd carrier is a solid choice for small pet owners who travel frequently. Its focus on safety, comfort, and airline compliance makes it a reliable travel companion.
3. Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved
Rating: 8.7/10
Traveling with your small furry friend just got easier with the Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier. This carrier is designed with both you and your pet’s comfort and safety in mind, making it a great option for trips, especially by plane.
What We Like:
- It’s airline approved for Southwest and Air Canada, fitting under the seat when the wheels are removed.
- The carrier rolls smoothly on four 360° rotating wheels, like pulling a suitcase, taking the strain off your shoulders.
- You can also use it as a shoulder bag or a handbag for versatility.
- It offers excellent ventilation with mesh on five sides, allowing your pet to see out and you to check on them easily.
- Safety is a priority with locking zippers and a built-in rope buckle to secure your pet’s collar.
- The durable, waterproof, and scratch-resistant material keeps your pet safe and the carrier looking good.
- The upgraded mesh is strong enough to prevent tears and keep your pet secure inside.
- Petskd offers a 12-month warranty for quality issues, giving you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s specifically designed for small pets, so be sure to check your pet’s measurements carefully before buying.
- The inner dimensions are 15″L x 10″W x 9″H, so confirm your pet fits within these limits.
This carrier is a fantastic choice for pet parents who travel frequently with their small companions. Its thoughtful design ensures a comfortable and secure journey for your pet.
4. Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved
Rating: 9.2/10
Traveling with your small furry friend just got a whole lot easier with the Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier. This carrier is designed with both your pet’s comfort and your travel needs in mind, especially if you fly with Southwest Airlines.
What We Like:
- The expandable sections give your pet extra room to stretch and relax, making travel less stressful.
- It’s designed to fit under the seat on Southwest Airlines and other carriers, making airport navigation smoother.
- Excellent ventilation with mesh on five sides keeps your pet comfortable and allows for easy viewing.
- Safety features like locking zippers and a built-in rope buckle prevent escapes.
- The durable, waterproof, and scratch-resistant material ensures it holds up to travel.
- The sturdy structure prevents the carrier from collapsing, even when expanded.
- Petskd offers a 12-month quality guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s specifically for small pets; larger breeds or heavier animals will not fit.
- You must carefully check the inner dimensions against your pet’s size before purchasing.
- The expansion areas need to be folded for airline compliance, meaning your pet only gets the extra space when not on the plane.
This carrier is a fantastic option for small pet owners who travel frequently. It offers a good balance of comfort, safety, and convenience for your pet’s journey.
5. Petskd Pet Carrier 17x13x9.5 Southwest Airline Approved
Rating: 9.4/10
Traveling with your furry friend just got a whole lot easier with the Petskd Pet Carrier. This soft carrier is designed for small cats and dogs, weighing between 1 to 15 pounds, and even meets airline requirements for under-seat storage, making your next trip a breeze.
What We Like:
- This carrier is airline approved! It measures 17″L×13″W×9.5″H, fitting perfectly under the seat for Southwest Airlines (18.5×13.5×9.5″) and is also in line with Air Canada’s size limits (21.5×15.5×10.5″).
- Your pet will enjoy great airflow with mesh ventilation on five sides, allowing them to see out and you to easily check on them.
- Safety is a top priority. The carrier features a sturdy, non-collapsing design thanks to its stainless steel and fiber rod structure. It also includes a built-in rope buckle to secure your pet’s collar and a safety lock zipper to prevent any escape attempts.
- The carrier is built tough with waterproof, non-toxic, and scratch-resistant polyester fabric. The upgraded mesh material is extra durable, preventing your pet from tearing it with their nails.
- Petskd offers a 12-month quality guarantee, so if you have any issues, they will replace your carrier.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it meets the size requirements for Southwest and Air Canada, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your specific airline before flying, as policies can change.
This Petskd Pet Carrier is a reliable and safe option for taking your small pet on the go. Its thoughtful design ensures comfort and security for your pet while making travel convenient for you.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: A Purrfect Choice for Southwest Travel
Taking your furry friend on a trip with Southwest Airlines? You need a carrier that’s safe, comfortable, and meets airline regulations. This guide will help you find the best pet carrier for your Southwest adventure.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a pet carrier for Southwest, some features are super important.
- Airline Compliance: This is the biggest one. Southwest has specific size and ventilation rules. Your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Size and Fit: Measure your pet! They need to be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside. A cramped carrier is no fun for anyone.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial. Look for mesh panels on multiple sides. This keeps your pet cool and lets them see out, which can reduce stress.
- Comfort: A soft, padded bottom makes the ride more pleasant. Some carriers even have removable, washable pads.
- Durability: Your carrier needs to hold up. Strong zippers, sturdy fabric, and a solid frame prevent escapes and last longer.
- Ease of Access: Top-loading or side-loading options can make getting your pet in and out easier.
- Security: Secure zippers and strong stitching keep your pet safely inside. A pocket for travel documents or treats is a nice bonus.
Important Materials
The materials used can tell you a lot about a carrier’s quality and durability.
- Nylon and Polyester: These are common fabrics. They are usually lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to clean. Look for denier ratings; higher numbers mean stronger fabric.
- Mesh: This is essential for ventilation. High-quality mesh is strong and tear-resistant.
- Frame: Some carriers have internal frames made of wire or plastic. These help the carrier keep its shape, which is important for under-seat storage.
- Padding: Foam or fleece padding adds comfort. Removable and washable pads are great for hygiene.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a carrier great or not so great.
- Improvements:
- Reinforced Stitching: Strong seams mean the carrier won’t rip easily.
- Smooth Zippers: Zippers that glide easily prevent frustration and potential escapes.
- Sturdy Base: A firm base prevents the carrier from collapsing, keeping your pet safe and comfortable.
- Multiple Entry Points: This offers flexibility for loading and unloading.
- Adjustable Shoulder Strap: A comfortable strap makes carrying easier for you.
- Reductions:
- Flimsy Material: Thin fabric can tear.
- Weak Zippers: Zippers that get stuck or break are a major problem.
- Poor Ventilation: Lack of airflow can make the carrier hot and stuffy.
- Collapsible Sides: If the carrier doesn’t hold its shape, it can be uncomfortable and unsafe.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good pet carrier makes travel stress-free.
- Travel: The primary use is air travel, especially with Southwest. It’s designed to fit snugly under the seat.
- Vet Visits: Use it for quick trips to the vet.
- Car Rides: Many carriers are also safe for car travel.
- Day Trips: For short outings where your pet might need a safe space.
A carrier that is easy to clean is a huge plus. Spills happen! A carrier that your pet feels secure in reduces their anxiety. Happy pet, happy traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Southwest Pet Carriers
Q: What is the maximum size for a pet carrier on Southwest Airlines?
A: Southwest allows pet carriers to be no larger than 18.5 inches long, 13.5 inches wide, and 8.5 inches high. Always double-check the current Southwest pet policy for the most up-to-date information.
Q: Can my pet stand up and turn around in the carrier?
A: Yes, your pet should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier. This is a key requirement for their well-being and often for airline approval.
Q: How many pets can I bring in one carrier on Southwest?
A: Southwest generally allows only one pet per carrier, though puppies or kittens from the same litter can sometimes travel together if they are small enough. Check their specific policy.
Q: What type of pets can I bring on Southwest?
A: Southwest allows small dogs and cats. Birds, reptiles, and other animals are generally not permitted in the cabin.
Q: Do I need to pay a fee for my pet on Southwest?
A: Yes, Southwest charges a pet fee each way for in-cabin travel. This fee is subject to change, so confirm the current amount when booking.
Q: Can the pet carrier have wheels?
A: No, Southwest Airlines does not permit pet carriers with wheels. The carrier must be able to fit entirely under the seat without wheels.
Q: What if my pet is too big for an in-cabin carrier?
A: Southwest does not currently offer pet travel in the cargo hold. Larger pets would need to travel via a cargo service like Southwest Cargo.
Q: How do I get my pet accustomed to the carrier before flying?
A: Leave the carrier out at home with the door open. Put treats or toys inside to make it a positive space. Gradually encourage your pet to go inside and stay for short periods.
Q: What are the ventilation requirements for a Southwest pet carrier?
A: The carrier must have adequate ventilation. This usually means mesh panels on at least two sides to allow for good airflow.
Q: Can I take my pet carrier through security?
A: Yes, you will take your pet carrier through the security checkpoint. You will likely need to remove your pet from the carrier during screening. Be prepared for this.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
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