Travel Guide

Travel with Your Pet

Don't leave your best friend behind when you travel. With proper planning, you can safely bring your dog or cat on planes, road trips, and to pet-friendly hotels around the world. The key is preparation: understanding airline policies, acclimating your pet to travel, and knowing how to keep them safe and comfortable throughout the journey.

✈️
37%
Of pet owners travel with pets
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$75-200
Airline pet cabin fee
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6 months
Lead time for international travel
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2-3 hrs
Max between rest stops (road)
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Air Travel

Flying with pets requires advance booking, health certificates, and approved carriers. Some airlines allow small pets in the cabin; larger pets must travel as cargo.

⚠️ Note: Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced) are banned from many airline cargo holds due to breathing risks.

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Road Trips

The most flexible option for pet travel. You control the schedule, stops, and environment. Always secure your pet in a crate or crash-tested harness.

⚠️ Note: Never leave pets alone in parked cars — temperatures can become fatal within minutes.

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Hotels & Airbnbs

Many accommodations welcome pets, but policies vary. Always confirm in advance and expect pet deposits or fees. Be a considerate guest.

⚠️ Note: Never leave your pet unattended in a hotel room — they may bark, damage property, or escape.

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International

International pet travel is complex. Requirements vary by country and may include microchipping, vaccinations, blood tests, and quarantine.

⚠️ Note: Start the process 6+ months early. Some countries have strict requirements that take months to fulfill.

✈️Air Travel Guides

✈️ Airline Pet Policy Quick Reference

🐕 In-Cabin

Small dogs and cats (typically under 17-20 lbs with carrier) can fly in-cabin. Must fit under the seat in front of you in an approved soft-sided carrier.

📦 Cargo

Larger pets travel as cargo in temperature-controlled, pressurized holds. Avoid cargo travel during extreme temperatures.

💵 Fees

In-cabin fees range from $75-200 each way. Cargo fees vary by animal size and distance.

📅 Booking

Book your pet spot when you book your ticket. Airlines limit pets per flight.

🚗Road Trips & Accommodations

💡Quick Travel Tips

Start with short practice trips to get your pet comfortable with travel
Update microchip and ID tags with your cell number before traveling
Pack food, medications, and health records in your carry-on
Bring familiar items (blanket, toy) for comfort in new environments
Research emergency vets at your destination before you arrive
Consider calming aids (Adaptil, Feliway, ThunderShirt) for anxious pets

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with my dog or cat in the cabin?
Yes, if your pet (in carrier) weighs under 17-20 lbs typically. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. You'll need to book a pet spot in advance and pay a fee ($75-200). Health certificates are usually required for domestic travel and always for international.
Is it safe for pets to fly in cargo?
Cargo travel carries more risk than cabin travel but is generally safe on reputable airlines with proper precautions. Risks include temperature extremes, stress, and handling issues. Avoid cargo travel for brachycephalic breeds (they're banned by many airlines anyway), during summer or winter extremes, or for very young, old, or anxious pets.
What documents do I need to travel with my pet?
Domestic US travel usually requires a health certificate (issued within 10 days by a vet) and proof of rabies vaccination. International travel is more complex: requirements vary by country and may include microchipping, specific vaccines, blood titer tests, import permits, and USDA endorsement. Check destination country requirements 6+ months early.
How do I find pet-friendly hotels?
Use filters on Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Airbnb. Specialized sites like BringFido focus on pet-friendly travel. Chains like Motel 6, La Quinta, and Kimpton are known for pet-friendly policies. Always call to confirm the specific property's policy, as it can vary by location.

Planning a Trip with Your Pet?

Our AI can help you plan your pet-friendly trip, from airline policies to destination pet regulations.