Cargo Versus In-Cabin: Which One Should You Choose for Your Pet?
Many pet owners believe that if their pet can’t fly near them in-cabin, it’s not worth putting them through the potential stress of air travel.
Apart from the fact that you may not have a choice in the matter, whether that’s due to pet size, airline regulations, or country restrictions, flying your pet in cargo is often the better choice.
Our guide takes a look at your options to make sure you’re well-equipped with the information you need for a safe, comfortable flight for your pet.
When to Fly Your Pet in Cargo
Despite misconceptions about flying your pet in cargo — rest assured that it’s well-ventilated, temperature-controlled, and manageable for anxious pets — it’s generally our preferred option.
At Tailwind Global Pet, we take the health and safety of pets very seriously. We know it can be stressful to think about sending your pet into a space that is out of sight, but some prep and planning ahead of their flight can alleviate many of those concerns.
Here are a few situations where flying your pet in cargo really is the best option:
- Cabin options are limited to small pets. You’ll need to make sure that you meet more restrictive sizing requirements when it comes to their crate, as well.
- Booking your pet on a cargo flight itinerary can minimize their travel time if you’re flying on a long-haul international flight with layovers.
- Fewer transitions on that international trip can reduce stress from handling, unfamiliar environments, and prolonged exposure to confined spaces and their travel crates.
- Flying your pet in cargo means they have ample space in an airline-approved crate. You can even size up if your pup is on the cusp of size requirements.
- Cargo travel is the only option on some airlines. Many no longer offer in-cabin travel, particularly for longer journeys.
- Cargo travel is also often required to meet country restrictions, particularly in those with strict rules around travel from high-risk countries for rabies.
- If you’re an anxious flyer, the cargo hold is the less stressful option. You won’t worry about carrying your pet with the rest of your luggage and getting them to the gate on time.
Planning an international flight with your pet? We can help.
When to Consider In-Cabin
Unless your pet is a service animal, they’ll need to be small enough to meet airline restrictions for in-cabin travel. Generally, most airlines only allow carriers up to about 20 inches or less in length. Some domestic carriers are even more strict, limiting in-cabin carriers to a maximum of 18 inches.
Assume that your pet carrier should fit underneath the seat in front of you. Traveling cats and dogs should remain inside their carriers for the duration of their flight.
Some airlines don’t have weight restrictions as long as your pet fits comfortably inside their carrier, but others may have a limit of 20 pounds or less for both your pet and their carrier. Your pet’s carrier generally counts as your carry-on bag allowance.
Situations where in-cabin travel may be the better option are short-haul domestic flights with small pets used to flying. (Airlines don’t want disruptions on their flights from anxious pets in-cabin, and neither do other passengers!)
Small pets that would otherwise not be allowed to fly due to airline restrictions against pets in cargo are also good candidates for in-cabin travel.
Flying in-cabin is also generally less expensive than booking a pet in the cargo hold, but you shouldn’t let the cost of traveling with your pet become the primary driver of your decision.
Choose the option that’s best for you and your pet. That includes considering airline and destination requirements.
Airline Policies
We have a detailed guide to airline policies on the main U.S. airlines, but generally, airline policies vary widely when it comes to requirements for traveling pets.
While all airlines will want to see crates that meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards for size, ventilation, and durability, size restrictions can vary by carrier. Some aircraft can’t handle jumbo-sized dogs due to limited space in the hold. Others require reinforced or custom crates for certain breeds.
Some airlines only allow pets in-cabin. Others only allow pets in the cargo hold. Airline policies also vary by destination. Many countries have strict rules around meeting rabies vaccination requirements, especially for pets coming from countries at high risk for rabies.
Your pet’s breed matters, too. Some airlines ban dog breeds they deem too dangerous to fly. Others place limits on snub-nosed breeds, or brachycephalic cats and dogs.
No airline allows sedated pets, whether they’re traveling in-cabin or in the cargo hold. Sedation is dangerous once pets are in the air, as it can make it hard for them to regulate their breathing and body temperature.
Apart from working with a professional pet shipper who can navigate all of these hurdles for you, it’s always best to investigate airline rules around pet travel before you even book your ticket. You may find your pet isn’t even a candidate for that airline.
Other Things to Remember
We’ve already mentioned avoiding sedation as you prep your pet for travel, but there are a few more things to consider, no matter how your pet is getting to their destination. Here are a few extra tips:
- Create positive associations with your pet’s crate or carrier. Your pet’s travel day shouldn’t be the first time they’re seeing their crate. Use treats and praise to get them used to spending increasing amounts of time inside.
- Pack the essentials. Use our detailed packing list to help you narrow down the essentials for both in-cabin and cargo travel. Both options require ISO-compliant microchips and identification tags. Consider familiar bedding or comfort items.
- Make sure your pet is healthy enough to fly. You’ll need to schedule a vet checkup for any flight requiring a health certificate and vaccination history, but your pet should also be cleared to fly by their vet. Your vet can help with natural anti-anxiety measures, too.
- Exercise your pet before their flight. They’ll be much less anxious when it’s time to get in their crate or carrier. Aim for a long walk or extra playtime the night before or the day of travel.
- Adjust their feeding schedule. Avoid feeding your pet 4-6 hours before their flight to reduce the chance of accidents and prevent motion sickness. Some carriers may ask that you attach a small bag of food for pets traveling in the hold on long-haul flights.
You’ll also need to ensure you’re meeting any specific requirements set by your carrier or destination country. In addition to rabies histories, some countries want to see additional vaccines and treatments before entry, particularly for traveling dogs.
This is where a professional pet shipper becomes invaluable.
Using a Pet Transport Service
Your work isn’t done once you decide whether to fly with your pet in the cabin or the cargo hold. Navigating complex itineraries and requirements set by international destinations can feel overwhelming.
At Tailwind Global Pet, it’s our mission to ease your burden and get your pet to its destination safely and efficiently. We’ve helped thousands of pet owners and pets of all breeds and sizes get to where they’re going from start to finish.
Ready to get started? Each pet relocation situation is different, so to get an idea of the costs involved, fill out a quote request.