5 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carriers

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Rather than just any basic carrier, go the extra mile by gifting a carrier that offers premium amenities to pamper pets while traveling. From luxurious mats and bowls to built-in lights and storage, the options are endless for carriers that provide first-class comfort. With one of the top Southwest approved carriers for dogs, you’ll give a practical yet thoughtful gift the pet lover will reach for trip after trip. A high-quality carrier lets them jet off on adventures with their loyal companion by their side. Keep reading to discover some of the best Southwest-friendly carriers to gift the dog owners in your life.

Finding the perfect gift for a dog lover can be a challenge. You want to get them something unique that they’ll truly appreciate. One great option is a high-quality pet carrier that meets Southwest Airlines’ requirements, allowing them to bring their furry friend along on trips. Southwest has strict guidelines for in-cabin pet carriers to ensure comfort and safety during flights. When choosing a carrier to gift a dog owner, you’ll want to look for key features like proper sizing, ventilation, sturdy construction, conveniences like pockets and bedding, and of course stylish and modern designs that fit the recipient’s tastes.

Rather than just any basic carrier, go the extra mile by gifting a carrier that offers premium amenities to pamper pets while traveling. From luxurious mats and bowls to built-in lights and storage, the options are endless for carriers that provide first-class comfort. With one of the top Southwest approved carriers for dogs, you’ll give a practical yet thoughtful gift the pet lover will reach for trip after trip. A high-quality carrier lets them jet off on adventures with their loyal companion by their side. Keep reading to discover some of the best Southwest-friendly carriers to gift the dog owners in your life.

  1. Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board - Black Lattice, Medium

    The Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier is an airline approved pet carrier that provides a safe and comfortable way to transport small pets while traveling. This carrier is designed for cats and small to medium-sized dogs up to 22 pounds.

    Pros

    • Airline approved and guaranteed on board – The Sherpa Original Deluxe is guaranteed to be allowed in the cabin on most major airlines when following airline guidelines. This provides pet owners assurance their companions can travel with them.
    • Durable construction – Made with high-quality materials like mesh windows for ventilation, reinforced straps, and leak-proof interior. Provides security and prevents potential accidents while in transit.
    • Mesh windows for ventilation – Breathable mesh windows on multiple sides allow optimal airflow to keep pets comfortable on flights.
    • Padded carry straps – Adjustable and padded shoulder straps make the carrier easy to carry through airports. Top and side handles provide convenience.
    • Locking zippers – Zippers lock in place to prevent anxious pets from escaping.

    Cons

    • Size limitations – The medium size only accommodates pets up to 22 pounds, so large dogs may not fit comfortably.
    • Can be heavy with pet inside – Once occupied, the carrier can become heavy and straining to carry for long periods. Using wheels is recommended.
    • Interior space is not customizable – The interior space has a fixed dimension that cannot be adjusted for taller or longer pets.

    Summary

    The Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier provides pet owners a sturdy, airline-approved option for safely transporting cats and small to medium dogs on aircraft. Key features like breathable mesh windows, padded carry straps, and locking zippers make travel less stressful for both pet and owner. Just be aware of size limitations and weight when occupied. Overall, a solid choice for air travel with small animal companions.

  2. The Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier is a soft-sided option designed for transporting small cats and dogs on airplanes. With expandable sides and top, it provides extra interior space while still meeting most airline underseat requirements.

    Pros

    • Expandable design – The expandable sides and top allow for more interior space and comfort when needed, while collapsing to meet underseat size requirements.
    • Airline approved – Meets underseat dimensions for many major airlines like Southwest, Delta, United. Makes getting pets in cabin easier.
    • Ventilation – Mesh panels on ends and sides allow air flow to keep pets comfortable.
    • Padded bed & straps – Includes a removable, machine-washable fleece bed and adjustable shoulder straps for carrying.
    • Locking zippers – Zippers lock into place to prevent pet escapes.
    • Easy access – Top and side entries make accessing pet easy.

    Cons

    • Weight limit – Only suitable for pets under 15 lbs, so won’t work for larger animals.
    • Limited expandability – Even when expanded, interior space is still compact for larger pets.
    • Can be flimsy – Softer sides mean less structure and durability compared to hard carriers.
    • Hand cleaning only – Carrier exterior can only be spot cleaned by hand, limiting cleaning options.

    Summary

    With its expandable design the Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier provides a bit more interior space than typical underseat carriers, while still collapsing to meet airline requirements. The well-ventilated mesh panels and included bedding aim to keep pets comfy when traveling by air. Just note the maximum weight limit of 15 pounds and be diligent about measuring your pet to ensure the compact interior when collapsed will accommodate them. For small cat and dog owners needing an airline approved soft-sided carrier, it can make air travel less stressful.

  3. The Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier is a soft-sided airline-approved pet carrier designed to provide extra interior room for small cats and dogs while traveling by air. Its expandable top allows more headspace when needed.

    Pros

    • Expandable top – The carrier’s top can expand to give pets more headroom and interior space while still meeting underseat size limits when collapsed.
    • Airline approved – Meets most airline underseat size requirements, including Southwest, Delta, United. Allows pets in cabin.
    • Ample ventilation – Mesh panels on the sides and ends allow optimal air flow to keep pets comfortable.
    • Padded fleece bed – Includes a removable, machine-washable padded bed for pet’s comfort.
    • Locking zippers – Zippers securely lock in place to prevent pet from escaping.
    • Easy access – Top and end entries make accessing pet straightforward.

    Cons

    • Weight limit – Designed for pets under 15 lbs, so won’t accommodate larger animals.
    • Limited expandability – Even when expanded, the interior space remains quite compact for bigger pets.
    • Minimal structure – The soft sides mean less sturdiness and rigidity compared to hard carriers.
    • Hand cleaning only – Carrier exterior can only be spot cleaned by hand, limiting cleaning methods.

    Summary

    The Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier offers a bit more interior space than typical underseat carriers thanks to its expandable top, while still collapsing to meet most airline guidelines. The breathable mesh panels and included padded bed aim to keep pets comfortable when traveling by air. Be mindful of the 15 pound weight limit and measure pets to ensure the compact interior when collapsed will properly accommodate them. For owners of small cats and dogs needing an airline approved soft-sided carrier, it can make air travel less stressful for both pet and owner.

  4. The Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier is an airline approved soft-sided carrier designed to safely transport small pets in aircraft cabins. It is guaranteed for in-cabin use on Delta flights when airline guidelines are followed.

    Pros

    • Guaranteed for Delta flights – Specifically designed to meet Delta’s carry-on requirements, providing assurance pets can fly in the cabin.
    • Durable materials – Constructed using high-quality durable mesh, straps, zippers and waterproof interior materials for security.
    • Mesh windows – Breathable mesh windows on multiple sides allow optimal ventilation on flights.
    • Padded straps – Adjustable padded shoulder straps make carrying easy through airports. Top and side handles offer convenience.
    • Locking zippers – Zippers lock in place to prevent pet escapes during travel.
    • Interior tether – An interior tether safely secures pets and prevents accidents.

    Cons

    • Size limitations – Only suited for pets under 20 pounds, so won’t work for larger animals.
    • Fixed interior dimensions – The inner dimensions are fixed and can’t be adjusted for tall or long pets.
    • Difficult to clean – Spot clean exterior by hand only, limiting cleaning options.
    • Can be heavy when occupied – Once occupied, the carrier weight on shoulders can become straining over time.

    Summary

    The Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier provides assurance for Delta passengers that their small cats or dogs can fly comfortably in-cabin. Its durable construction, mesh panels for ventilation, padded straps and locking zippers aim to make pet air travel safe and stress-free. Just be conscious of size and weight limitations based on your pet. For Delta travelers with small animal companions, it’s a great option to consider.

  5. The Petskd Pet Carrier is a soft-sided airline approved pet carrier designed to comfortably transport small cats and dogs during air travel. It meets underseat size requirements for Southwest and other major airlines.

    Pros

    • Airline approved – Meets underseat size limits for Southwest, Delta, United and other airlines. Allows pets in cabin.
    • Ample ventilation – Breathable mesh panels on ends and sides allow optimal airflow.
    • Padded fleece bed – Includes a removable and machine-washable padded bed for pet’s comfort.
    • Expandable sides – Side flaps can expand to create a bit more interior room when needed.
    • Locking zippers – Zippers securely lock in place to prevent pet from escaping.
    • Easy access – Top and side entries make accessing pet straightforward.

    Cons

    • Weight limit – Only suitable for pets under 15 lbs, not bigger animals.
    • Limited expandability – Even with side flaps extended, interior space remains compact.
    • Minimal structure – The soft sides mean less sturdiness and rigidity vs. hard carriers.
    • Hand cleaning only – Carrier exterior can only be spot cleaned by hand, limiting options.

    Summary

    The Petskd Pet Carrier provides a secure, airline-approved way for small dog and cat owners to travel by air with their companions in the cabin. Its durable mesh panels allow ventilation, while the included padded bed aims to keep pets comfy. The expandable side flaps offer a bit more interior room too. Just be mindful of size and weight limits. For owners needing a soft-sided underseat carrier for Southwest or other airlines, it’s a great choice to consider.

Tips for Choosing Best Southwest Approved Pet Carriers

When traveling with your pet on Southwest Airlines, it’s important to choose the right pet carrier to ensure a smooth journey. As one of the most pet-friendly airlines, Southwest has clear guidelines on the types of carriers allowed onboard. By picking a carrier that meets Southwest’s requirements, you can avoid issues at check-in and keep your furry companion comfortable during the flight. Here are some top tips for choosing the best Southwest approved pet carrier:

Look for Proper Size Requirements

Southwest allows small cats and dogs to fly in the cabin if they can fit comfortably in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you. For hard-sided carriers, the maximum dimensions are 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. Soft-sided carriers can be slightly larger at 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. Make sure to take measurements of your pet both standing and laying down to find a carrier that allows them to sit and move around a bit. Proper sizing helps avoid cramming your pet into an uncomfortably small space.

Ensure Sturdy Construction

Pet carriers must be well-constructed and secure enough to contain your pet safely. Hard-sided kennels made of plastic or metal with metal door rails and locking mechanisms are ideal. For soft-sided bags, look for durable fabrics like canvas or nylon with reinforced seams and zippers. The carrier should have ventilation on at least two sides and a sturdy handle for carrying. Steer clear of flimsy materials that could bend or warp. Proper construction prevents injuries and escapes.

Pick Proper Interior Features

The interior of the carrier should allow enough room for your pet to turn around and lie down comfortably. Ample headroom is also important so your pet can sit up without hitting their head. Interior features like plush bedding, built-in food bowls, and padded mats add comfort. Absorbent layers are useful for accidents.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation helps keep your pet from overheating in the enclosed space. Look for mesh panels or ventilation holes on at least two sides of the carrier. Avoid solid plastic shells with minimal air flow. You can also bring battery-powered fans or frozen gel packs to add extra cooling if needed.

Pick Convenient Carrier Types

Common Southwest approved carrier options include traditional kennels, soft-sided bags, backpack carriers, and collapsible bags. Traditional kennels offer sturdy containment but can be heavy. Backpacks allow you to carry pets hands-free. Soft-sided and collapsible bags fold up for easy storage when not in use. Pick the style that best fits your pet’s needs and your carrying capacity.

Check for Proper Labeling

Your pet carrier must have proper ID both inside and out. Be sure to label it with your name, phone number, address, and your pet’s name. Stickers, tags, or permanent marker can be used. Proper ID ensures your pet can be identified in case of an emergency.

Bring Proper Documents

Don’t forget to bring all necessary paperwork when traveling with your pet. Have their health certificate and vaccination records available, as this may be requested. You’ll also need your pet’s boarding pass to accompany them in the cabin.

Take a Test Drive

Before the big trip, have your pet try out the carrier at home. This helps them get accustomed to being inside. Reward them with treats for calmly being in the carrier. Getting them comfortable ahead of time prevents stressful struggles at the airport.

Choosing the ideal Southwest approved pet carrier takes a bit of planning, but it ensures a smooth, comfortable flight with your furry companion. Just be sure to stick to the size guidelines, pick a durable and well-ventilated carrier, include proper amenities and ID, and take time to get your pet accustomed to it. With the right carrier, you and your pet can soar the friendly skies together.

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