There are three basic ways you can fly with your pets and depending on your situation may have to use one or some of them. These different modes of transportation each have different costs and preparation requirements so we’d like to break them down for you. Knowing about the different methods of air travel with pets will make the planning process much easier and help you save money as well. It boils down to understanding how the airlines view your pets in transit – either as carry-ons, luggage, or cargo. The difference between each of these is comfort and cost for you and your pet.
Pets As Carry On
When flying with pets one of your options if your cat or dog is less than usually) 25lbs is to have them in the cabin with you. You’ll need the proper carrier and pet that can handle air travel in general. The cost is usually a bit cheaper than for larger animals who have to be checked in as special luggage. You can usually get a spot for $150-250 in the cabin but must remember to call ahead. Almost all of the airlines limit the total number of pets allowed in the cabin to 2 so notify them as early as you can.
Pets As “Luggage”
Don’t worry, your pets aren’t going to be placed in a suitcase but they will be considered by the airline to be luggage. This will be for any pet that’s over 25lbs or whatever the specific cabin weight limit is for dogs and cats. For flights that already have 2 pets booked for the cabin you’d need to have your pets placed as luggage as well. Basically you’ll check in your pet and crate at the checkout counter where you’ll have to take them out of their crate as it’s inspected for security. Once that process is done, they’ll be taken care of by airline staff. You’ll have to pick up your pets upon arrival near the baggage claim area. Typically this costs more than the cabin option and runs about $250.
Pets As Cargo
This is probably the least attractive option for a number of reasons. For one it means that you’ll be sending your pets on their travels without you on the same flights. You’d likely do this to send your pets to relatives or for whenever you would not be able to take the exact same route as your dog or cat. They’ll still go through the airline to make the journey except that being considered as cargo, you’ll be charge shipping rates accordingly. To say it will be expensive is an understatement. Based on the weight and size of your pet, as well as the total distance to be traveled, you could end up paying well over $1,500. We’d recommend you avoid this route if at all possible and make every attempt to travel with your pets. This will also make the customs process much easier and give you less paperwork to fill out prior to the trip.
No related posts.
