Dreaming of taking your furry best friend along on your next Southwest Airlines adventure? Many pet parents face a common hurdle: finding the perfect carrier that meets strict airline rules. It’s stressful trying to figure out which bags fit under the seat and which ones your dog or cat will actually tolerate for the flight. You worry about getting to the gate only to be turned away because your carrier is just a little too big!
Navigating Southwest’s specific pet policies can feel like solving a puzzle. You need a carrier that is safe, comfortable for your pet, and, most importantly, compliant with their size requirements. This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what Southwest looks for in an in-cabin pet carrier.
Keep reading to discover the top-rated, approved carriers that make flying stress-free for both you and your companion. We will show you the dimensions you must follow and the features that matter most. Get ready to choose the best travel buddy for your upcoming trip!
Top Pet Carriers For Southwest Airlines Recommendations
- 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. Kindly note: pet size you carry be within 17"L x 12"W x 8.5"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
- 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 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 1-year protection plan, Quality problems within 1 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.
- 【AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER 】Unfolded size:18"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.
- AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER - Pet carrier for dog cat is TSA approved and placed under the seat in the cabin, mainly designed for ①Alaska Airlines, ②Delta Airlines, ③United Airlines, ④Hawaiian Airlines, ⑤American Airlines, We suggest checking carrier size with the airline before traveling. Kindly note: pet size you carry be within 16"L x 10"W x 8.5"H (inner size) and weight recommended max load of 12 LBS small cats or dogs, Please refer to your pet's length and height to choose the size of the carrier
- 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
- 【AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER 】Unfolded size:18"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.
- 【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:19"L×13"W×(9+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" ②Allegiant Airlines:19x16x9", but also compatible with Air Canada:21.5x15.5x10.5". We recommend you buy this carrier when you fly with the above-mentioned airlines.
- 【CHECK SIZE BEFORE BUYING】In order to fit the under-seat dimensions of airlines, this carrier can only fit small dogs. We recommend that the pet size you carry be within 17"L x 11"W x 11"H ,dog weight under 12lbs and cat weight under 15lbs. Please don't choose the carrier only based on weight but also reference your pet's length and height.
- 【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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Traveling Safely with Southwest Airlines
Flying with your furry friend requires the right gear. Southwest Airlines has specific rules for in-cabin pet carriers. This guide helps you choose the best carrier so your trip goes smoothly.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, focus on these important features. These details make travel easier for you and your pet.
- Size Compliance: This is the most important part. Southwest requires the carrier to fit completely under the seat in front of you. Check the airline’s current dimensions before buying. The carrier must not block the space needed for your feet.
- Top and Side Access: Look for carriers with zippers on both the top and the side. Top-loading carriers make it much easier to place a nervous pet inside at the airport.
- Ventilation: Your pet needs fresh air. Good carriers have mesh panels on at least three sides. These panels allow plenty of airflow and let you peek at your pet easily.
- Shoulder Strap and Handle: You will carry this bag through busy airports. A comfortable, padded shoulder strap and sturdy handles are necessary for easy carrying.
Important Materials for Durability and Comfort
The material of the carrier affects how long it lasts and how comfortable your pet feels.
Most recommended carriers are soft-sided. Soft-sided carriers are better because they can slightly compress if needed to fit under the seat. Look for durable, heavy-duty nylon or polyester fabric. These materials resist tearing and are usually easy to wipe clean.
The frame should be lightweight but strong. Metal or rigid plastic supports keep the carrier’s shape, which is crucial for ventilation and space. Waterproof bottoms are a bonus. They protect your car seats or the plane floor if your pet has an accident.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one carrier great and another a headache? Quality often comes down to the small details.
Quality Boosters:
- Self-Locking Zippers: High-quality zippers often have locking mechanisms. This stops clever pets from unzipping their way to freedom inside the cabin.
- Fleece or Removable Pad: A soft, washable liner inside provides comfort. It also absorbs small spills, making cleanup faster.
- Airline-Specific Design: Some bags are specifically designed to meet the under-seat dimensions of major airlines like Southwest. These often offer the best fit guarantee.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Mesh: Thin, easily punctured mesh panels compromise safety and ventilation.
- Poor Stitching: If you see loose threads around stress points like handles, the carrier might fail when you need it most.
- Rigid Structure: While some hard carriers exist, they rarely fit under the seat and might get rejected by gate agents.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the carrier. Will you walk long distances in the airport? Are you just traveling once, or frequently?
For frequent travelers, investing in a carrier with wheels (if allowed by the airline, check first!) might save your back. However, most standard in-cabin carriers do not have wheels because they must fit under the seat.
A good user experience means you can handle the carrier, your luggage, and your boarding pass all at once. Choose a carrier that allows your pet to turn around comfortably inside. They should be able to stand up and lie down naturally. If your pet feels cramped, the experience will be stressful for both of you.
10 FAQs About Pet Carriers for Southwest Airlines
Q: What is the maximum size carrier Southwest allows?
A: Southwest does not publish one single size because the under-seat dimensions can vary slightly between aircraft types. Always check the current Southwest website for the most up-to-date general guideline, but assume the carrier must be small enough to slide completely under the seat in front of you.
Q: Can I use a hard-sided carrier?
A: Southwest strongly prefers soft-sided carriers because they offer flexibility to fit the space. Hard carriers usually do not fit under the seat and are often not permitted for in-cabin travel.
Q: Does my pet count as a carry-on item?
A: Yes. Your pet carrier counts as your one personal item. You are still allowed one standard carry-on bag in addition to the pet carrier, provided it fits in the overhead bin.
Q: How many pets can travel in one carrier?
A: Only one pet is allowed per carrier. The pet must be able to move around comfortably inside the container.
Q: Can the pet stick its head out of the mesh?
A: No. For safety and security, your pet must remain completely inside the carrier with the zippers fully closed for the entire flight, including boarding and deplaning.
Q: Should I put a water bowl in the carrier?
A: It is best not to put a bowl inside during the flight, as it can spill. Instead, offer water before you get to the airport, and ask a flight attendant for water once you are seated.
Q: Do I need to book a seat for my pet?
A: You do not book a seat for your pet, but you must notify Southwest when you book your ticket that you plan to travel with a pet in the cabin.
Q: Are there extra fees for bringing a pet?
A: Yes. Southwest charges a one-way pet fee, which you pay at the airport ticket counter on the day of travel.
Q: What is the best way to introduce my pet to the new carrier?
A: Start weeks before the flight. Leave the carrier open in a common area with soft bedding inside. Feed your pet treats near or inside it to build positive associations.
Q: What happens if the gate agent says my carrier is too big?
A: If the agent determines the carrier will not fit under the seat, you must check the pet into cargo. This is why confirming the dimensions beforehand is vital. Check Southwest’s policies on cargo travel well in advance.