Dreaming of a sunny getaway with your furry best friend? Flying with your pet can be exciting, but the thought of navigating airline rules often brings a knot of worry. Have you ever wondered if that favorite carrier you own actually meets Southwest Airlines’ strict requirements for in-cabin travel? It’s a common hurdle for pet parents.
Choosing the wrong carrier means stress at the check-in counter, potential delays, or worse—being turned away. Southwest has specific size and material rules for under-seat storage. Finding a carrier that is safe, comfortable for your pet, and compliant with these rules can feel like solving a complex puzzle. You need certainty before you pack your bags!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down Southwest’s exact pet carrier policy step-by-step. You will learn exactly what dimensions work, which materials they prefer, and discover top-rated carriers that guarantee a smooth boarding experience. Get ready to travel with peace of mind. Let’s dive into the details and select the perfect travel companion for your next Southwest adventure!
Top Pet Carrier For Southwest Airlines Recommendations
- 【CHECK SIZE BEFORE BUYING】In order to fit the under-seat dimensions of airlines, this carrier can only fit small dogs and cats. We recommend that the pet size you carry be within 15"L x 10"W x 9"H(this carrer's inner size), please choose the carrier reference your pet's length and height. Reference pet weight: dog weight under 10LBS and cat weight under 12LBS.
- 【AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER 】Unfolded size:18"L×13"W×(9.5+3.5)"H, Petskd pet carrier is TSA approved and can be placed under the seat in the cabin, it is mainly designed for ①Southwest Airlines:18.5x13.5x9.5". We recommend you buy this carrier when you fly with the above-mentioned airlines.
- 【BETTER VENTILATION】Petskd pet carrier has mesh ventilation on 5 sides for good ventilation and good viewing—perfect for your pet to look out and for you to check on your pet;the Dog carrier has 3 openings, and each opening has two non-slip zippers to ensure pet safety.
- 【SAFE DESIGN】Soft dog travel carrier bag upgraded structural design of stainless steel and Fiber rod that makes our dog carrier bags for small dogs will not be out of shape or sagged and the top does not collapse, pet dog carrier bag preferable stability. Built-in adjustable rope buckle, easy to lock the collar. Zipped snap lock to avoid pets to open or grab open the zipper.
- 【DURABLE MATERIAL】Made of waterproof, non-toxic, scratch-resistant polyester fabric material, waterproof and wear-resistant; after comparing similar products, we upgraded the mesh material to effectively prevent pets from tearing the mesh with their nails and prevent pets from falling out of the carrier.
- 【AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER 】Unfolded size:17"L×13"W×9.5"H, Petskd pet carrier is airline approved and can be placed under the seat in the cabin, it is mainly designed for ①Southwest Airlines:18.5x13.5x9.5", but also compatible with Air Canada:21.5x15.5x10.5". We recommend you buy this carrier when you fly with the above-mentioned airlines.
- 【BETTER VENTILATION】Petskd pet carrier has mesh ventilation on 5 sides for good ventilation and good viewing—perfect for your pet to look out and for you to check on your pet;the Dog carrier has 3 openings, and each opening has two non-slip zippers to ensure pet safety.
- 【SAFE DESIGN】Soft dog travel carrier bag upgraded structural design of stainless steel and Fiber rod that makes our dog carrier bags for small dogs will not be out of shape or sagged and the top does not collapse, pet dog carrier bag preferable stability. Built-in adjustable rope buckle, easy to lock the collar. Zipped snap lock to avoid pets to open or grab open the zipper
- 【DURABLE MATERIAL】Made of waterproof, non-toxic, scratch-resistant polyester fabric material, waterproof and wear-resistant; after comparing similar products, we upgraded the mesh material to effectively prevent pets from tearing the mesh with their nails and prevent pets from falling out of the carrier.
- 【QUALITY GUARANTEE】: Petskd offers a 12 months after-sale service, quality problems within 12 months can be replaced on new models. So if you have any problems with your product, please contact us by amazon message and we will get back to you as soon as possible within 24 hours.
- Kindly note: pet size you carry be within 16"L x 11"W x 9.5"H (inner size) and weight recommended max load of 15 LBS small cats and dogs, Please refer to your pet's length and height to choose the size of the carrier. AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER - Pet carrier for dog cat is TSA approved and placed under the seat in the cabin, mainly designed for ①Frontier Airlines, ②Southwest Airlines, We suggest checking carrier size with the airline before traveling
- EXPANDABLE SPACE - Top-expandable designe Gaining more space to move around. It is easy for pets to stand and stretch, also creates a safe environment to avoid stress reactions anxiety while traveling
- BETTER BREATHABILITY - The small dog cat carrier has breathable mesh on three sides for a breathable, wide-open view for your pet to look out and for you to view and communicate with your pet
- MORE SAFELY - The pet carrier for dog cat is designed with upgraded structure of stainless steel and fiber rods, it is deformation or sagging, collapse and better stability. Zipper snap lock prevents pets from opening or scratching the zipper open
- STURDY FABRIC - Comparison of similar products made of waterproof, non-toxic, scratch-resistant and wear-resistant new fabrics, mesh material has been upgraded to effectively prevent pets from tearing the mesh with their nails, preventing pets from falling out of the pet carrier for dog cat
- 【CHECK SIZE BEFORE BUYING】In order to fit the under-seat dimensions of airlines, this carrier can only fit small dogs and cats. We recommend that the pet size you carry be within 15"L x 10"W x 9"H(this carrer's inner size), please choose the carrier reference your pet's length and height. Reference pet weight: dog weight under 10LBS and cat weight under 12LBS.
- 【AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER 】Unfolded size:18"L×13"W×(9.5+3.5)"H, Petskd pet carrier is TSA approved and can be placed under the seat in the cabin, it is mainly designed for ①Southwest Airlines:18.5x13.5x9.5". We recommend you buy this carrier when you fly with the above-mentioned airlines.
- 【BETTER VENTILATION】Petskd pet carrier has mesh ventilation on 5 sides for good ventilation and good viewing—perfect for your pet to look out and for you to check on your pet;the Dog carrier has 3 openings, and each opening has two non-slip zippers to ensure pet safety.
- 【SAFE DESIGN】Soft dog travel carrier bag upgraded structural design of stainless steel and Fiber rod that makes our dog carrier bags for small dogs will not be out of shape or sagged and the top does not collapse, pet dog carrier bag preferable stability. Built-in adjustable rope buckle, easy to lock the collar. Zipped snap lock to avoid pets to open or grab open the zipper.
- 【DURABLE MATERIAL】Made of waterproof, non-toxic, scratch-resistant polyester fabric material, waterproof and wear-resistant; after comparing similar products, we upgraded the mesh material to effectively prevent pets from tearing the mesh with their nails and prevent pets from falling out of the carrier.
- 【CHECK SIZE BEFORE BUYING】In order to fit the under-seat dimensions of airlines, this carrier can only fit small dogs and cats. We recommend that the pet size you carry be within 15"L x 10"W x 10"H(this carrer's inner size), please choose the carrier reference your pet's length and height. Reference pet weight: dog weight under 10LBS and cat weight under 12LBS.
- 【AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER 】Unfolded size:18"L×(13+5.5)"W×(9.5+3.5)"H, Petskd pet carrier is TSA approved and can be placed under the seat in the cabin, it is mainly designed for ①Southwest Airlines:18.5x13.5x9.5". We recommend you buy this carrier when you fly with the above-mentioned airlines. When you take the carrier on airplane, please fold the top and side expansion areas for the size of airline seat.
- 【BETTER VENTILATION】Petskd pet carrier has mesh ventilation on 5 sides for good ventilation and good viewing—perfect for your pet to look out and for you to check on your pet; the dog carrier has 3 openings, and each opening has two non-slip zippers to ensure pet safety.
- 【SAFE DESIGN】Soft dog travel carrier bag upgraded structural design of stainless steel and Fiber rod that makes our dog carrier bags for small dogs will not be out of shape or sagged and the top does not collapse, pet dog carrier bag preferable stability. Built-in adjustable rope buckle, easy to lock the collar. Zipped snap lock to avoid pets to open or grab open the zipper.
- 【DURABLE MATERIAL】Made of waterproof, non-toxic, scratch-resistant polyester fabric material, waterproof and wear-resistant; after comparing similar products, we upgraded the mesh material to effectively prevent pets from tearing the mesh with their nails and prevent pets from falling out of the carrier.
- 1.Recommended size :【extra-small dog/small cat shorter than 16'',weight is up to 5 lbs】Please measure your pet length firstly,length is more important than weight to judge a pet can be carried or not. Make sure your pet is shorter than 16 inches. This carrier is designed specially for Alaska and Hawaiian airlines,the height is very low(only 9.5 inches), SO NOT Recommend for a oversize pet.
- 2.【Designed for Alaska / Hawaiian airlines】 size of carrier is 17''(L) x 11''(W) x 9.5''(H),it can be putted under the seat in cabin,it conform to the requirement of Alaska (17''x11''x9.5'')/ Hawaiian (17''x11''x9.5'') /Southwest airlines (18.5''x13.5''x9.5'')
- 3.【Expandable Top and 1 side to provide more space for your pet】 This carrier have a 3'' height expandable top(fully extended),you can fold it down to put carrier under seat in cabin and pull it up to giving more space for pet in other travel time.Not like other similar products, expandable top in our product have a 5 sides meshes to provide better Air mobility and 360 degrees visual field for your pet.
- 4.【Stable and safety】 2 hard metal frames in 2 sides to keep stable and prevent collapse(frames only has a little elasticity to keep shape well,them can not bend to a lot lower height),a hard wood padding to prevent bottom sinking. Double zipper lock,anti-scratch mesh and a tether in carrier to prevent pet escaping.
- 5.【A carrier for multi use,match your needs in travel】 this carrier can be used for other airlines that have a more than 9.5 inches height under-seat,it also work in a short distance car trip,like vet visit.Adjustable shoulder strap make carrying easily,2 pockets with zippers for storing objects for your pet in travel,soft padding in bottom is washable.A adaptive training(load your pet into carrier and keep it away from anxiety) for your pet before travel is important.
- 🐶【CHECK SIZE BEFORE PURCHASE】In order to match the airline's under-seat size, this carrier can only accommodate small dogs and cats. We recommend that you carry pets that measure 17.7 "long x11" wide x8.3 "high and weigh under 13LB cat or 9LB dog. Please do not only choose the luggage rack based on the weight, but also refer to the length and height of the pet. Maximum size requirements of major airlines for soft-sided pet carriers: ①American Airlines: 19x13x9"②United Airlines: 18x11x11"③Southwest Airlines: 18.5x13.5x8.5"④Alaska Airlines:17x11x11"⑤Air Canada:21.5x15.5x10.5"⑥Delta Air Lines: 21.5x15.5x10.5"
- 🐶【3 ENTRANCES & 5 SIDE VENTILATION】: The zippered design of the top, front and side entrances of the case makes it easy to put in and carry out your pet, making it faster and easier to remove your pet from pet carrier while traveling through security checks. 5 breathable mesh windows are designed to enhance visibility and ventilation, which can make them feel relaxed and calm.
- 🐶【STURDY & WASHABLE】: ①Wakytu cat carrier's 8mm fiber frame provides enough support to prevent the top from sagging. ②This pet carrier floor mat has a built-in 4mm honeycomb panel that is sturdy and durable to prevent the base from sagging when carried. ③The bottom is equipped with soft cushions for your pet to rest, and also absorbs moisture and some stains for easy cleaning.
- 🐶【WATERPROOF & ANTI-ESCAPE】: This cat carrier is made of high quality polyester fabric, strong and durable, light weight and waterproof. The rip-stop mesh design is not easily broken and prevents your pet from scratching, clawing or chewing through the pet bag in stressful situations. Built-in adjustable rope buckle, easy to lock the collar. Zipped snap lock to avoid pets to open or grab open the zipper.
- 🐶【QUALITY GUARANTEE】: Wakytu offers an 3-year warranty service, Quality problems within 3 years can be replaced for free new models. So if you have any problems with your product, please feel free to contact us by email and we will get back to you as soon as possible within 24 hours.
- 【ALASKA AIRLINE APPROVED PET CARRIER】17 x 11 x 9.5 IN (LxWxH), the TAS-approved cat pet travel bag will be allowed onboard Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines. Please check with the airline before your flight
- 【SOUTHWEST AIRLINE FRIENDLY】Cat traveling crate features soft sides to conform to airline under-seat requirements without restricting the pet's space. An adjustable shoulder strap and luggage handle sleeve for easy carrying in the airports
- 【AIRPLANE UNDERSEAT CAT BAG】Secured with auto-locking zippers, your kitten can't escape easily by pushing against the zipper from the inside. The small animal carrier features an inner tether for extra safety
- 【READY TO TRAVEL】5-Sides mesh ventilation maximizes airflow to keep your puppy dog cool and comfy, while roll-up privacy curtains help you check and interact with them during the journey
- High-quality 600D Oxford cloth fabric along with the sturdy interior steel frame for durable construction. Roll-up mesh top entrance with Velcro and side zippered openings make it easy to load your kitty and provide a stress-free travel environment
Your Essential Guide to Southwest Airlines Pet Carriers
Traveling with your furry friend on Southwest Airlines is exciting! Choosing the right carrier makes the trip smooth. This guide helps you pick the best in-cabin carrier that meets Southwest’s strict rules.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on features that guarantee comfort and airline compliance.
- **Size Matters Most:** Southwest requires the carrier to fit completely under the seat in front of you. Most airlines prefer dimensions around 18.5” L x 13.5” W x 8.5” H for soft-sided carriers. Always double-check the current Southwest website before buying!
- **Ventilation:** Good airflow keeps your pet happy. Look for mesh panels on at least three sides. This lets your pet see out and lets you check on them easily.
- **Top and Side Entry:** Carriers with openings on the top and the side are very useful. Top entry helps you place a nervous pet inside without forcing them.
- **Shoulder Strap and Handles:** A comfortable, padded shoulder strap and sturdy handles make moving through the airport much easier.
Important Materials
The material affects durability and comfort. Soft-sided carriers are usually best for under-seat storage because they can slightly compress.
Look for durable, water-resistant fabrics like heavy-duty nylon or polyester. These materials clean up easily if accidents happen. Sturdy zippers are crucial. Metal hardware generally lasts longer than plastic buckles.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality directly impacts your travel experience.
What makes a carrier high quality? A carrier that holds its shape well, even when fully loaded, offers better protection. Internal padding adds comfort for your pet during the flight. Strong stitching prevents blowouts during busy travel days.
What lowers the quality? Flimsy frames that collapse easily are a problem. Thin, cheap mesh can tear easily. Carriers that smell strongly of chemicals right out of the box might not use safe materials for your pet.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use the carrier daily, not just on the plane.
A good carrier works well as a temporary den at your destination. If you travel often, choose one that folds flat for easy storage at home. For nervous travelers, carriers with removable fleece pads offer a familiar scent, which reduces stress. Remember, the carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, even though it must fit under the seat.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Southwest Pet Carriers
Q: Does Southwest have specific size limits for in-cabin carriers?
A: Yes, Southwest requires the carrier to fit under the seat in front of you. While they don’t list exact dimensions on every page, standard soft-sided carriers that meet the general 18.5” x 13.5” x 8.5” size usually work well. Always check their official site before booking!
Q: Can I use a hard-sided carrier on Southwest?
A: Southwest prefers soft-sided carriers because they can bend slightly to fit under the seat. Hard-sided carriers rarely fit correctly and are usually not allowed in the cabin.
Q: How many pets can travel in one carrier?
A: Only one pet is allowed per purchased carrier reservation. Your pet must have enough room to move naturally inside the carrier.
Q: Do I need to tell Southwest I am bringing a pet?
A: Yes, you must notify Southwest when you book your ticket. They limit the number of pets allowed per flight, so reserve your pet’s spot early.
Q: Can the pet stick its head out of the mesh windows?
A: No. For safety, your pet must remain fully inside the carrier with the door closed for the entire flight, including boarding and deplaning.
Q: What is the fee for bringing a pet on Southwest?
A: Southwest charges a one-way pet fee, which is usually around $125 per carrier. This fee is subject to change, so confirm the current rate.
Q: Are there any weight limits for the pet?
A: Southwest does not list a specific weight limit for the pet itself. The main requirement is that the combined weight (carrier plus pet) must allow you to comfortably lift and store the carrier under the seat without assistance.
Q: What kind of paperwork do I need for domestic travel?
A: For most domestic flights within the U.S., Southwest generally does not require health certificates. However, always bring proof of vaccination, especially rabies, just in case.
Q: Should I put a puppy pad in the carrier?
A: Absolutely. Placing an absorbent puppy pad or a towel on the bottom of the carrier helps manage any accidents and makes cleanup much easier.
Q: Is a carrier with wheels okay?
A: Carriers with wheels are usually not recommended for in-cabin travel. The wheels and handle often make the bag too tall to slide completely under the seat in front of you.