Flying Southwest With Your Pet
Pet travel planning has gotten complicated with all the airline advice flying around. As someone who lived as a digital nomad for 8 years and navigated pet-friendly travel across three continents with my rescue terrier, I learned everything there is to know about flying with furry companions. Today, I will share it all with you.
I’ve flown with my dog on Southwest a few times. Here’s what you need to know.
The Rules
Small cats and dogs only, in-cabin only. No cargo. Your pet stays under the seat in front of you the entire flight. That’s what makes Southwest endearing to us pet travelers — they don’t do cargo, which eliminates the scariest option.
Only 6 pets allowed per flight, so book early and call to confirm a spot. Pet fare is $125 each way. Probably should have led with this section, honestly — those 6 spots fill up fast during peak travel.
The carrier counts as either your carry-on or personal item. So if you have a pet, you get one less bag. Pack strategically.
Carrier Requirements
Maximum dimensions: 18.5″ x 8.5″ x 13.5″. Has to fit under the seat. Soft-sided carriers work better than hard-sided for this. The flexibility helps squeeze into tight spaces.
Needs ventilation. Has to be sturdy enough not to collapse. Your pet has to be able to stand and turn around inside. That’s what makes proper carrier sizing endearing to us pet owners — it’s about their comfort, not ours.
What Actually Works
Get a soft-sided carrier that’s specifically airline-approved. Sherpa and Sleepypod make popular options. Measure your pet before buying – they need room to move. I learned this the hard way with my first carrier purchase.
Do a test run at home. Let your pet get used to the carrier for a few weeks before flying. A stressed pet makes the flight miserable for everyone. That’s what makes preparation endearing to us travelers — success happens before you get to the airport.
Day-of Tips
Arrive early. You need to check in at the counter to get your pet’s boarding pass. Add an extra 30 minutes to your normal airport arrival time.
Exercise your dog before security. A tired pet is a calmer pet. I always do a 20-minute walk in the parking lot before heading in.
Limit food and water the morning of to avoid accidents. But bring water for after you land. That’s what makes pet travel endearing to us wanderers — the detailed planning required.
The carrier stays closed and under the seat during the flight. No exceptions. Don’t be that person who takes their dog out. I’ve seen people get seriously reprimanded for this.
Is It Worth It?
Driving is less stressful for pets when possible. But for cross-country trips, Southwest is a decent option if your pet handles confinement okay. Start with a shorter flight to see how they do. That’s what makes Southwest endearing to us pet travelers — consistent policies and reasonable fees compared to other airlines.
