Airplane carriers for in-cabin pet travel
Please note that this post refers to maximum carrier sizes accepted for in-cabin pet travel by the leading U.S. airlines.
Chloe in her SturdiBag (Large)
We bought SturdiProducts’ large-sized pet carrier in the belief that it was just barely acceptable to most airlines. We now know that it’s too big (12Hx18Lx12W). On the bright side, its support struts are very flexible, so it does, in fact, fit under every seat we’ve encountered (and Chloe’s been fine — the carrier has a lot of headroom). Also on the bright side, it’s a beautifully-made product, with great features like top ventilation panels (with privacy blinds) and a small top hatch that zips open to allow pats. It’s very light (the large size is 2 lbs., 10 oz., and the small size is 3 oz. lighter), which helps with the airlines’ weight limits. It also has built-in loops through which a seat belt can be buckled, making it an excellent car carrier. If you have a dog that fits into the small SturdiProducts carrier (which, at 10Hx18Lx10W, is pretty close to the major airlines’ maximums), I recommend it unhesitatingly.
I will keep on using our large SturdiProducts carrier, because it’s worked on every trip we’ve taken and Chloe’s comfortable in it. If you have a non-compliant carrier, I suggest keeping dog and carrier out of the ticketing agent’s line of sight as you check in for your flight — put your dog and carrier on the ground between your feet and the ticketing desk, not up on the counter. If you’re questioned about the size of a soft-sided carrier, point out and demonstrate its flexibility. An upbeat-but-anxious tone will go a long way towards persuading the ticketing agent to let the flight crew deal with the problem. (None of this will be of any use, ultimately, if your carrier does not actually fit under an airline seat, so don’t try bending the rules with an oversized hard carrier or a soft-sided carrier that really won’t flex sufficiently.)
Sherpa makes a very popular line of carriers. The small size (8.5Hx15Lx10W) will satisfy all the U.S. airlines Dog Jaunt lists; the medium (10.5Hx18Lx11W) is officially too large for all of them except Alaska/Horizon and Midwest. Although Sherpa suggests that their large size is acceptable for some airlines, at 11.5Hx20Wx11.75W it’s even larger than Chloe’s carrier. I’ve bought the medium and large sizes, and returned the large right away (if I’m going to break the rules, I’ll do it with the SturdiProducts carrier, which is better-designed and better-made). I hesitated over the medium, because I’d bought the rolling version and on the trip I used it I loved being able to wheel Chloe behind me. If she were slightly smaller I would have kept it (I gave it to a friend with Papillons). I don’t love the product, though. The only mesh openings are on the sides and end, so you can’t see into the bag when it’s in its usual spot under your feet. The privacy panels roll up, but where they’re secured in the SturdiProducts carrier with velcro straps, the Sherpa panels are secured with fiddly clips. Though the Sherpa and SturdiProducts carriers are in the same price range, the Sherpa bags feel cheesy.
Please note that this is the one time you won’t hear about Chloe’s beloved PetEgo messenger bag, since at 13Hx20L10W it’s substantially over the airlines’ limits and its wedge shape doesn’t make the best use of the space available. We pack it in her suitcase, for use when we arrive at our destination.
For smaller dogs, as always, there are far more choices, and some are very well-designed.
Creature Leisure, the maker of Chloe’s travel crate, sells a very nice carrier called the Carry-Den. The medium size (9Hx17Lx10W) is pretty close to the major airlines’ maximums, and the product is well-thought-out and well-made. The Carry-Den XT converts to a backpack. The same company offers a cleverly-designed rolling carrier called the Pet Pilot XL. In its normal configuration (14Hx19Lx9W), it’s within shouting range of the airlines’ maximum sizes (it lies horizontally under the seat), and it has a gusset that can give your dog several more inches of breathing room. It has useful external pockets, and it rolls. It’s for dogs who can be comfortable in a interior space measuring 12Hx17Lx7.5D (12” deep with gusset expanded).
PetEgo’s Jet Set Carrier, in the small and medium sizes, is worth considering. It can also be bought as part of a JS Travel Kit that includes two small suitcases (one rolling). I can’t get enthused about that option, because the suitcases seem small and fussy to me (and at least one of them would have to be checked), and would provide me with wheels only at the point I no longer really need them (I need them on layovers, to get out to pet relief areas, not at the end of my trip, when I can loop Chloe’s carrier ‘s handles over my own suitcase’s handle). The JetSet Carrier itself is a very nice product, though.
Teafco Argo’s Petascope Airline Approved Pet Carrier (Small) is chic, well-made and, at 9.25Hx16Lx11.5W, credibly close to the airlines’ maximums. I don’t love their regular carrier because it has small ventilation panels, but it’s certainly comparable to a Sherpa bag and is better-made. Here’s the Amazon link, if you want to check it out for yourself: Teafco Argo Aero-Pet Airline Approved Pet Carrier (Small). If you have a truly tiny dog, consider Teafco Argo’s Petaboard Airline Approved Carrier (Extra Small). It’s well-made, has plenty of ventilation, and includes a built-in sleeve/pocket that can be slipped over a suitcase’s handle. Fascinated as always by rolling carriers, I want to love Teafco Argo’s rolling option, the Tally-Ho Wheeled Pet Carrier (Medium), but I can’t, again because the ventilation panels are small.
Also suitable for a tiny dog is the very cool Sleepypod Mini. The base can be used as your dog’s everyday bed; add the mesh dome, and the bed is ready for car travel (pass the seatbelt around the base and through the top handle) and, potentially, air travel. Both sizes of Sleepypod exceed the airlines’ height allowances (the regular is 13.5″ high; the Mini is 11″ high), and I fear that the 17″ diameter of the regular size would allow too much of the carrier into the area that flight attendants yearn to keep clear. The Mini, however, would likely work as an airplane carrier: the mesh dome is flexible, and it’s a more modest 13″ in diameter . Remember to subtract a couple of inches for padding when you eye your dog; she’ll need to fit in an interior space measuring 9″ high, 11″ diameter.
RoccoAndJezebel.com’s Brody Bag is equally cool, but with a different vibe — the Mini (8.5Hx14Lx8W) would satisfy any airline, and the Medium (9.5Hx16Lx10W) is within spitting distance of the airlines’ requirements.
Here are three more rolling carriers for your consideration. FetchDog’s Travel Easy Tote is 10.5Hx16Lx13W, which isn’t too far off the maximums. Since the tote converts to a backpack and includes wheels and handle apparatus, I wish the company provided its interior dimensions. I’d also like to see the product, to determine whether the back (which will be the bottom, once the bag is under the seat) has enough padding over the handle apparatus.
Pet Gear offers a line of I GO2 rolling carriers that convert to backpacks. The Weekender, at 13Wx17Hx10L (I write the measurements that way, because the bag will be on its back under a seat), is pretty close to the airlines’ maximums. I worry, though, about the 13″ height of the bag, since this particular product is made of less flexible material than other Pet Gear carriers. The carrier does include a pad to cushion your dog from the handle apparatus. It’s too small for Chloe, but would likely do well for a dog under 10 lbs. The Traveler, at 11.5Wx17Hx13L, is a bit roomier, but still within eyesight of the airlines’ limits; the Escort (9Wx17Hx16L) provides a different, and not particularly pleasing, configuration; the Traveler Plus (14.5Wx22Hx17L) is just too big for airplane use.
In the Company of Dogs offers The Clever Trolley as “airline carry-on approved,” but it’s really too large to go under a seat (9.5Wx21Hx15L — this is another product that lies on its back). Though the 9.5″ height isn’t too bad (especially since the ballistic nylon exterior has some give), the 21″ length is fixed and can’t be fudged. That’s a shame, because the trolley is very attractive, provides good ventilation and (as a bonus) can convert to a backpack.
The last carrier on our list is an intriguing oddball: a rolling carrier that can be collapsed (when not in use) to 3.5″ wide. Pawprint Essentials’ rolling pet carrier comes in two sizes, small (9Wx17Lx13H) and medium (9Wx20Lx13H). It has large ventilation panels on the top and three sides (the fourth side has a large storage pocket). All of the edges are rigid, so there’s no fudging with this one: you’d be safest with the small size. I can’t think of a reason that I’d want the collapsibility feature of this carrier, but maybe you can.
More Amazon links:
SturdiProducts Pet Carrier (Large) — Black
Sherpa Original Deluxe Bag (small)
Sherpa Original Deluxe Bag — Medium
Petego-EGR Jet Set Pet Carrier Travel Kit+Grooming Bag+Trolley Bag
Sleepypod Mini – Jet Black
[I wrote this post early in Dog Jaunt's history. Since then, I've reviewed many more aspiring in-cabin carriers, so please look at the related posts (listed below) and my other blog, called Pet Carrier Reviews, for additional ideas.]
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- Rolling in-cabin airplane carrier for a small dog: Creature Leisure’s Pet Pilot XL I have long wanted a rolling airplane carrier for Chloe, and I think Creature Leisure’s Pet Pilot XL is the answer....
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Hi,
I have been struggling trying to figure out whether my dog would work under a seat on the airplane. He is about 14 lbs. and tall (long legs, probably 12 inches standing) but would be okay when laying down. I’ve seen the carriers that are rolled (with about a 17 inch height) and then flip down – would that be appropriate for the airline? I liked your recommendations, could you clairfy what the approx. measurements and weight of your dog?
Thanks for your help!
Hi, Melinda! It sounds like your dog, like Chloe, is right at the upper end of what size dog will fit under an airplane seat. Chloe’s just under 13 lbs., but she too is pretty tall (about 12″ tall at her shoulders, and about 14″ long from shoulder to rump). If you want a rolling carrier, the biggest one I’ve found that will still work (barely) is Creature Leisure’s Pet Pilot XL. Here’s what I wrote about it: http://www.dogjaunt.com/2009/08/rolling-in-cabin-airplane-carrier-for-a-small-dog-creature-leisures-pet-pilot-xl/
It’s bigger than the airlines’ maximums but I think it can squeak by, since it’s a hair under 19″ long. It also weighs a lot (about 10 lbs.), so you and I officially will have problems with JetBlue, Northwest, Sun Country and Virgin America: http://www.dogjaunt.com/guides/us-airline-pet-policies/
To date, though, no one has weighed Chloe on the trips I’ve taken. Fingers crossed…. I hope that helps — have fun traveling with you dog!!
Hello -
This is an extremely informative site. Thank you. So I have a 16 pound beagle, Lucy, who I want to fly home for Christmas. She is roughly 12 inches tall (a hair under) and I was thinking that the SturdiBag Large may be the way to go. But my airline carrier is requesting a height max of 8 inches on the carrier, which by the way, is impossible to find. The smallest height I have seen is 8.5 inches. Based on your experience with the Sturdibag, would you recommend it?
Many thanks! Tara
Hello, Tara! Thanks so much for your comment! I’ve traveled with Chloe in her large-sized SturdiProducts carrier on all of the U.S. airlines that officially require that carriers be only 8″ tall, except Sun Country. We’ve only been questioned once, by either Virgin America or Jet Blue (can’t remember right at this moment), and showing them how flexible the top was and looking piteous did the trick. They deferred to the cabin crew, which never even looked twice at the bag. So I’d risk it — I really like that carrier.
I’m not so fond of Sherpa bags, and your dog is probably too large for the Sherpa medium-sized carriers — but many of the airlines have a deal with Sherpa where the medium bag is okay (even though it’s over the maximums). Northwest reportedly accepts the large-sized Sherpa carrier, if that’s your airline (which is WACKY, because the large Sherpa is even larger than the large SturdiProducts, and it’s well over Northwest’s stated maximums). I can’t recommend buying the large Sherpa, even if NW is your airline, because it’s too large for other airlines and it’s really just too large, period — but you could print out the part of the Sherpa site that says the large Sherpa is okay and then if you’re questioned about your SturdiProducts carrrier you could point to Sherpa dimensions and argue that your bag should be okay too.
Good luck to you and Lucy, and safe travels! Please let me know what you decide to do, and how your trip goes — I’d love to know!
Hello,
Your blog has been so helpful with planning my upcoming trip which I’m hoping is with my Leo. I am a bit worried about his weight and measurements since he is right at the limit coming in at 18.5 lbs. Being a Shih Tzu I have no idea how he’s that heavy and to top it off he’s pretty long to, from neck to base of tail is 17″ and he’s 11″ tall. I would love to purchase the Sturdi bag you speak highly about but do you think he’ll fit? I’ve reviewed the other recommended bags but none seem any big enough for him either. Any suggestions?
Hi, Theresa! You’re right, Leo is at the upper limit of what will work. I do think he’ll fit in a large SturdiProducts bag — he’ll be able to stand up, just, and turn around, and the fact is that he’ll spend the trip curled up (and hopefully asleep). It helps that the SP bag is light, because you’re close to the maximum weight for a carry-on dog (that said, no one’s yet weighed Chloe). I suggest that you keep Leo and carrier off the counter agent’s radar as much as possible. If the agent brings out a measuring tape, you’ll be able to show that Leo can move around comfortably inside the carrier, and that the sides and top of the carrier are so flexible that the carrier can adjust to fit in the stated maximums. Don’t be belligerent if you’re questioned (not that you would be!) — project concerned, anxious responsibility and show the agent what the carrier can do. Let me know what you decide, and thank you so much for your kind comment!
Hi, we have a CKCS similar to Chloe except that she turned out to be a little bigger than planned- on the order of 27 pounds (on a diet and down from 31!). We want to take her when we travel but have thus far not tried because we know she won’t pass the 20 pound test. It doesn’t help that the top of her head stands 14″. Just wondering if you’ve ever heard of anyone taking a pooch that heavy/tall without going cargo? Any good stories? Bad stories?
Given the cost of boarding her for two weeks at a time, we’d probably be willing to buy her a seat if they’d let us. You’d think someone would be willing to sell something like that.
Thanks for your time,
Bill
Hi, Bill! That’s a big girl! Good for you for putting her on a diet. Your dog’s height isn’t really a problem, since, like Chloe, she’s probably about 12″ tall at the shoulder. Chloe fits well into the large SturdiProducts bag, which is 12″ tall. Chloe can, however, turn around and curl up in the bag, and I fear your girl won’t be able to do that for a while. Try her when she gets to the 18 lb. range and see how comfortable she seems. Also, do you travel anywhere that Pet Airways goes? (Wouldn’t it be nice if you could just buy another ticket and plop her bag on the seat next to you?! Alas.)
Just a couple of days ago, SW chose not to have a 15-lb. dog travel in-cabin — here’s a link: http://www.elliott.org/blog/help-southwest-airlines-stranded-my-puppy-in-little-rock/
I have been doing extensive research on flying with my pup and your website has by far been the most helpful! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it. I have a terrier mix (about 12 – 13 lbs) who I think should just barely fit underneath the seat – he does have long legs and would not be able to stand up but is very small when lying down/curled up (and though I don’t think there is a need, I am absolutely unwilling to put him in cargo)… while I am nervous about meeting all of the requirements – namely, getting on the plane and the carrier not fitting or Max being uncomfortable for the 4 hour and 20 minute flight – I am even more nervous about the risk of my dog being upset and whining/barking during the flight due to all the noise, pressure changes, and just general confusion. Do you have any suggestions for this issue should the situation arise? I absolutely do not want to upset the flight attendants or passengers… and especially not my dog! Any advice would be greatly appreciated – who knew that this could be such a stressful issue! Thanks so much -
Hi, Caroline! Thanks so much for the praise — I really appreciate it. Your dog sounds like a workable size for an in-cabin dog (Chloe too is long-legged and 13 lbs., and she does well). She’s a naturally good traveler, so all I can do is pass along advice I’ve seen elsewhere. First is to give him a good walk before you leave, so he’ll be tuckered out — it’s a tricky balance, because you want him to be tired, but not so exercised that he needs to suck down a lot of water afterwards…. Also, some people think highly of a product called ComfortZone with D.A.P. — it’s like Feliway, but for dogs (apparently it mimics a mother dog’s pheromones, and is naturally soothing). You spray it into your dog’s carrier about a half hour before you tuck him into it. If your carrier doesn’t come with privacy panels, you may want to create a dark, private environment for him by draping a scarf or tee shirt over one end of the carrier — some dogs are overwhelmed by the airport environment, and really like being cut off from it. Tuck a favorite toy and a pre-laundered tee-shirt of yours in with him, so he has comforting smells around him. Those are my best tips. Sedatives are generally a bad idea, even in the cabin area, but if you trust your vet and (s)he recommends them, who am I to object? If your pup has an extreme aversion to flying, they may be the right choice for him. Good luck, and safe travels — the time goes by pretty rapidly, you’ll see, and next time it’ll be even easier!
After booking a last minute flight two days ago, I have been searching for the right size dog carrier for days! I have the same problem, my dog is way too tall for the medium sherpa bag. I found other carriers but they were all 19inches long and it just didn’t seem possible. After reading your article I went out and checked out this carrier and it’s perfect!!!!
I haven’t traveled yet, so I’ll report back.
Delta seemed incredibly flexible about having a pet on board (at least on the phone) saying that there was no weight limit and that our carrier just had to fit under the seat. However, Continental (my flight on the way home) was very rude over the phone about my 15 lb. beagle mix (they don’t like dogs over 10 lbs in cabin, apparently), so I was really nervous about finding a carrier in which he can stand up since he also has long legs! But I’m going to take your advice and put the carrier on the floor in front of the desk and pray they are too busy with other things to really examine it.
At least on the Continental website it mentioned that only “hard” kennels have to adhere to the guidelines. We’ll see if that holds true. Just in case they don’t let my poor baby on the flight I have a health certificate from my vet ready to go so that I’ll be able to ship him.
Thank you for the article, it really was so helpful for me. I literally bought and returned 3 other carriers before finding this one!
Hi, Amanda! Thanks for your comment! I’m betting that you bought the SturdiProducts carrier, and I hope it works as well for your pup as it does for Chloe — please do report!!
I did get the Large SturdiProducts carrier and it was great! Someone actually came up to me in Atlanta and asked me what kind of carrier it was. I had no problems on either Delta or Continental with its size. I also noticed that the carrier fit under the seats on all aircrafts with no problems… It didn’t even have to squish down that much! I also found it comfortable to carry with the padding on the shoulder strap.
The zipper on the top was a lifesaver because as long as my dog had his head poking out while in the airport and in the terminal he was content. Not so happy once he had to go back inside but everytime I peeked in he was curled up in a corner with tons of space around him.
I also recommend getting the carrier in black. It was really inconspicuous. Although it hung out a little bit under the seat, no one seemed to notice.
your blog is very helpful. I have a King Charles as well, she’s about 16 pounds, all legs (about 14-15 inches total heights feet to back) but the skinny type. The other thing I want to mention she is pretty long. About 18 inches from neck to beginning tail. How long is Chloe?
) Cargo seems like a total no go. She’s never even been caged.
I am leaving to Europe for 4 months and I am planning on taking her with me. (belgium). She has never been on a plane. My little girl has total seperation anxiety. (she sleeps in my bed…
I purchased the medium sturdy bag and tried to squach her in there. Mmm. She didnt like that very much. The bag is simply too small, especially height wise. Im thinking of buying the large sturdybag you recommended… Do you think she will fit? Since this blog is mostly about traveling within the US , I was wondering if anyone, or if you, have any experience with international travel with continental and the large sturdybag. Do you think it makes a difference? Their website clearly states the max. HARDCASE is 8 H, but since you say the sturdibag is very flexible?
Im just worried because if she doesn’t fit on the plane or they dont let us board I could loose a lot of money. (the tickets overthere ain’t cheap at all) and time. Also, Im just worried she’s too big to fit period. I just dont know how id put my girl in cargo in NYC in february. (cold!!!!) and I know how much she will freak out. thanks in advance! Lynn and Blondie
Hi, Lynn! I think the large SturdiProducts bag should work, just. Chloe is only about 13″ from neck to beginning of tail, and about 12″ tall (to shoulders). She can just stand up in the SP bag, but she has plenty of room to turn around, so your longer dog should be okay. Your dog is also taller, but the carrier does flex, so if she has to stand up she should be able to. She’ll spend most of her time lying or sitting, though, so I think it’s not so dire that she’s tall. I would buy the carrier in black, which looks smaller than the grey, and I would keep it at your feet when you are in the airport (it looks smaller down there). I would also keep her entirely within the carrier as soon as you enter the airport — seeing dog heads poking out irritates some agents, and you want to be as inconspicuous as possible. Buy the large carrier now so you have a chance to see if she fits comfortably, and see what you can do to reconcile her to being in it for a period of time — take her on fun short trips in it, and bring out your very best treats, etc. We’ve traveled on Continental in the U.S. with our SP bag, but I haven’t tried it on overseas Continental. Given your dog’s needs, I would go for it. Keep her at your feet and invisible in the airport, and if pressed, show the agent how flexible the carrier is. I believe you’ll be fine. Please report back, when you get a chance, and safe travels! (If you’d like to send back stories and/or pictures of where you guys go together while you’re over there, we’d all love it!)
Hi! I have been doing a lot of research on the SturdiBag and am very interested. My fiance and I will be flying from Cali to Puerto Rico to live for a little while, so obviously we must take our kids(3lb chihuahua Daisy, and 20lb pug Rugby). I have no worries about Daisy I can put her in anything but Rugby is pretty tall but thinner than most pugs. I was thinking about the Large Sherpa but I think it will be way to big for American Airlines since it doesn’t squish down too well. The sturdibag however seems alot better with squising into smaller areas. Do you think a pug would be comfy in the large Sturdibag? We cant put him in cargo because they don’t allow pug nosed dogs in temps over 75 and its never below that in PR(not even winter time!). Please write back!!!! Thank You.
Lindsay
Hi, Lindsay! The large SturdiProducts bag is a hair smaller than the large Sherpa, and I’ve found that it works well on U.S. airlines, even though it’s officially too big (buy it in black, keep it down by your feet, keep a low profile in general — e.g., keep dog in bag as soon as you enter the airport, except, of course, for security). The problem, though, is that I don’t know if a 20 lb. dog will fit comfortably in a large SturdiProducts bag. Generally speaking, I think any dog over 15 lbs. is just too large to fit under the seat in front of you. The large SturdiProducts bag does flex to fit under an airplane seat, but how much can it flex if Rugby fills it completely? Your best bet is to find one in a local store (the higher-end stores in Seattle have them) and give it a try. The interior space should be as tall as Rugby is to his shoulders, and there should be enough space on either side of him that he can turn around and curl up. It might just work, esp. if most of Rugby’s weight is muscle. Boy, that’s a tough one. Tell me what you end up doing, and good luck!
Hi!! I also have been doing a research what to buy for my 15 lbs girl. I was so happy to read
about Chloe’s trip and about the possible carriers. What I wanna know is how picky are the airlines regarding Sturdi bags. I mean is it better to buy Medium Sherpa or Large Sturdi Bag??? (yet I am not sure whether my dog will fit in those, she is probably 17 ” long and 12 ” H) Sounds like Sherpa bags hves more respect from airlines??? Is that true???
By the way is there anyone who traveled to Europe with a pet in cabin?? I am soooooo anxious about our trip, just don;t know how I am gonna fight with agents in case try to send my girl in cargo. I was hoping to read the back report from Lynn about her trip to Europe.
Thank you!
Mariana
Hi, Mariana! I’d love to hear back from Lynn too! Until we do, though, I can point you to Dog Jaunt’s list of international airlines’ requirements: http://www.dogjaunt.com/guides/international-airline-pet-policies-for-in-cabin-travel/
Take a look, and you’ll see that international airlines are a little kinder to in-cabin dogs regarding maximum sizes of carriers. Even in the U.S., however, a large SturdiProducts bag will work for you. Sherpa bags are better-known, but your dog won’t fit in a medium Sherpa bag, and a large Sherpa bag is REALLY large — larger than a large SturdiProducts bag. I’ve seen people using them on planes, but that would be a real nail-biter for me. If your dog fits in a large SturdiProducts bag — try one out, and make sure she can turn around in it and that it’s as tall as her shoulder height — I believe that you will both be fine.
I know that’s a long flight, and here’s a copy of an e-mail I just wrote to a lady who’s traveling with her dog from Amsterdam to SFO in April (she worried about keeping her dog entertained on a long flight, and handling a pee break en route):
“We haven’t yet taken Chloe to Europe, so the longest flight she’s been on has been about 6 hours. She did fine — we made sure to exercise her before we left, and she tends to curl up in a ball on planes anyway. You have three more hours to deal with, though, and even Chloe might get cabin fever on a flight that long. My only suggestion is saving up a chew toy Maya really adores and give it to her at Hour 6. Does she have any interest in those puzzle games you find in high-end dog shops (where you hide the treat in a device that has to be manipulated by the dog)?
And a lot depends on your flight crew and fellow passengers. Officially, Maya has to stay completely within her carrier for the entire flight, but with the right people around you, you can put the carrier on your lap and unzip the opening (perhaps with a blanket over the illegal opening). That way, you can pet her, or play a gentle game of tug, or hold her chew toy in a tantalizing way.
And yes, I like the pee-pad tactic. Here’s a post I wrote about it, a while back: http://www.dogjaunt.com/2009/06/tip-for-long-plane-flight/
In fact, even if Maya doesn’t have to pee, a trip to the bathroom would give her a chance to get out of her carrier for a moment or two. If she has some tricks she does, you could run through them (e.g., sit, down, shake, dance) in an effort to exercise her mind a bit en route.”
I hope all this helps, and please let us know how your trip goes!
Hi!!!
Thank you so much for your reply. Your blog is really helpful.
I might have a trip with my dog to Amsterdam in May. She is a good traveler. She flew to US
from my home country Armenia with my mother 2 years ago with russian airlines (Aeroflot). Saying the truth the crew was sooo nice, that she slept 12 hours on my mom’s lap. Now I am worried what I am gonna do with American airlines. I think it’s a matter of luck. The nicear the staff the easier the trip. Let’s see what’s gonna happen. First I am going to check the Large Sturdi bag. You have an experience with Large Sturdi bag, does it fit under the seat???
In the beggining of your blog you wrote ” We now know that it’s too big (12Hx18Lx12W)”.
Does this mean it will face a problem???
My trouble is that I am not that good in English and can’t even argue properly with the agent in case of disagreement:((( I wish I could fly with the same airline, but there is no flight to AMS.
I will report you back with my news. Maybe this will help somebody esle.
Thank youuuu
Hello again, Mariana! The large SturdiProducts bag should be absolutely fine on American international — American’s official international maximum size for an in-cabin carrier is 19x13x9, and the large SturdiProducts meets that except for the height BUT because the carrier is so flexible, the height will not be a problem for your girl and it will not be a problem for the airline. You’re exactly right that whether you can bend the rules during flight will depend on the people you meet on the plane. Bring a photo of your dog with you and show it to your flight attendant and your seatmates, so they know how adorable she is, and see where things lead. I’m really looking forward to your report! Safe travels, Mary-Alice
Thanks a loooot Mary-Alice!!!
I will report you back with my news!!! Meanwhile I have to find a vet for health documents and
also do microchipping (which I really don;t want to but have to:(((
Take care, bye
Sincerely,
Mariana
This website has been sooo helpful! I just adopted a terrier/Lhasa mix from the shelter last week. He is 12 lbs and pretty skinny, but leggy. I think this Sturdibag Large carrier will fit him so I am going to buy it from Petsmart online. I called my local Petsmart and they said I could return it locally if it didn’t work out.
My dog is very afraid of everything at the moment so I’m really hoping that I can get him used to the carrier by the time we fly (the end of April). I need to order this carrier ASAP before they sell out!
THanks again for you blog!
btw, I am flying American on an MD-80. We have an aisle and middle seat. Everything I have read on American is that they are one of the more strict domestic airlines. And it’s 100.00 each way! But, i would be paying that for boarding, and I can’t really bare to do that to him after being in a shelter.
I also checked w/ American Airlines and they told me I could go the day before and pay for his ticket. I live close to the airport so I think I am going to do that. Maybe it will be less cause for drama??
Hi, Julie! Thanks so much for your comments! Good luck with your travels — it sounds like you’re on the right track. Let me know how the prep work goes, and how your day of travel goes! I like the idea of paying for him a day early — it’s extra legwork for you, but it should allow you to leave his carrier at your feet when you check in on the actual day (removing that moment of concern that they’ll bust you for his carrier). Don’t be surprised, though, if they want to attach a tag to his carrier even so, to show that he’s been paid for — and don’t be too worried. I’ve never had a problem with Chloe’s large SturdiBag. Fingers crossed, and I know you’ll love having him with you.
Hi dear Mary-Alice!
As my trip date is coming closer I am starting to worry even more. First of all I couldn’t find Large sturdi bag, so I bought large Sherpa. This was the best size for my dog. She can turn around and feels really good in it. I was so worried about the size that after I bought a bag I tool it to the airport to show. I talked to United rep. as well as Delta and both said the size is OK for in cabin travel. Anyway I am still anxious about the size. Do you think that Airline employees would have given a wrong information???
My second concern is the pet relief area for my baby. We will be travelling through Chicago (O’Hare airport) and most probably we will be in Terminal 1. Do you think I can find any areas to walk my dog without leaving the Terminal??? We’ll be transit passengers flying to Europe, so I am afraid we can’t go out.
Thank you in advance!
Mariana
Hello again, Mariana — I really do believe that the large Sherpa bag is too large to work as an in-cabin pet carrier. It is not only larger than the official maximum measurements for U.S. airlines (see Dog Jaunt’s “Guides” section) but it’s also, in fact, longer than will fit in the measured under-seat areas I’ve encountered (look at the under-seat measurements in the “Guides” section). When I’ve seen it in action on a plane, its owner had to turn it front-to-back, since it couldn’t fit sideways, and that made it stick out into her legroom area by 5-6 inches. That’s uncomfortable, and also not allowed — a strict flight attendant won’t approve.
I still believe that a large SturdiProducts bag is your best choice. They’re sold at higher-end pet stores and on line: http://www.sturdiproducts.com/4111/xcart/product.php?productid=2&cat=1&page=1
I have seen too much variation in what airline reps do to reassure you. It may well be that your actual ticket agent (or gate agent) will object to your carrier even though the reps you spoke to said it would be OK. If they do, they’ll have the rules on their side, since the large Sherpa is larger than their stated maximums. (The large SturdiProducts bag may be too, but it is smaller than the large Sherpa and does, in fact, work, unlike the large Sherpa.)
The only pet relief areas at O’Hare are the ones I mention in my post: http://www.dogjaunt.com/2009/06/chicago-ohare-international-airport-pet-relief-areas/
However, if you work with your dog ahead of time, you can train her to pee on pee-pads. If so, you can take her into a handicapped stall in a bathroom and have her pee on pee-pads in there — making absolutely sure to clean up afterwards, of course.
Hope that helps!
Hi dear Mary-Alice!
I am writing to inform that at last we arrived home (Europe). Saying the truth my trip was very exhausting, especially for my poor baby. She was sooo good during all trip that even flight attendants didn’t notice her.
You were right!!! Large sherpa bag is really big for in cabin travel. I have no idea how small is Sturdi bag, but large sherpa was big for A 319 and I had a hard time pushing it under the seat (flight attendant was really mean and didn’t let me put it on my lap). Thanks God our transatlantic flight was much better cause the plain was bigger (Boeing 777) and I could put my sherpa bag on the floor, between the seats. I was very suprised that nobody asked my pet’s health certificates nor in the US neither in the Netherlands and I think if my dog was a bit smaller I could have hidden her and nobody would even notice that I am flying with a dog. If anybody has any question regarding US-Europe pet travel I will be happy to help.
Your blog helped me a lot, thank you so much!!!
Sincerely,
Mariana
Thanks so much for the report, Mariana! I’m so glad you two are home, and that your flights were relatively uneventful. Yes, that large Sherpa bag is a beast — hopefully people will read your comment and purchase something smaller. I too have been impressed by how seldom I’m asked for Chloe’s papers, but I always have them — the times I have been asked for them, it was clear to me that I wouldn’t be traveling without them!
One last thought — I know it’s tempting to sneak a small dog onboard, but it’s a bad idea for a variety of reasons, from personal embarrassment when you’re found out, to the harm you may cause an allergy sufferer who doesn’t know your dog is nearby until too late, to the general bad effect that breaking the rules has on the future of pet travel. (Not that you would! Your comment just gave me a chance to get up on my soapbox and make a speech!)
You’re so welcome — and three cheers for your quiet, patient little dog!
I recently ordered the XL size Sturdibag carrier for my 18lb cockapoo. At 20x12x16, the carrier is clearly larger than the airline maximums, but due to its flexibility, might it fit under a middle seat (Delta A320)? I was informed by a Delta rep that carriers should conform to 18x12x12, which is larger than I’d expected, and I wonder whether the XL carrier would flatten to that size. I’m concerned that the large size (18x12x12) would not be tall enough for my (skinny but tall and long) dog to stand in and turn comfortably. Thanks!!
Hello, Danielle! I’m sorry to say that the XL Sturdibag is really too large for in-cabin airplane use. The SturdiProduct carriers do flex, it’s true, but that’s requiring a lot of flexing — and they can’t flex in length at all. A 20″ long carrier is about 2″ too long to work on a plane. I’m concerned, in fact, that your dog is too large for in-cabin travel. An 18 lb. cockapoo, plus a carrier that’s going to be at least 3 lbs., makes for a weight that’s flirting with many airlines’ maximums. You aren’t often weighed, but there’s always the risk (we were weighed once in Long Beach, and Chloe just squeaked under Virgin America’s maximum — it was clear to me that if she’d been overweight, she wouldn’t have been allowed on board).
Your carrier needs to be at least as tall as your dog is at his shoulder. Chloe just fits in the large SturdiBag because she is just 12″ tall at the shoulder. If your pup needs the 16″ height of the extra-large SturdiBag, I fear that he’ll be too tall for even the most generous in-cabin under-seat space. I realize that this is not what you want to hear, and I’m sorry about that. Start by measuring your dog at the shoulder, and see if he’s 12″ tall there — if so, try the large SturdiBag. If not, take a look at where Pet Airways flies (it sounds like you’re trying to avoid making him travel in cargo, and I totally understand that).
Hi. What a great blog. I only accidentally landed on it after 3 long days researching carriers for a small 9lb Eskie I am rescuing (saved 10 minutes before going to be put down). The foster tells me his shoulder height is 13″, (body length 17″) and that he could do in a 12″ high crate because he goes in the cat crate, but that “he would appreciate any height”. Because of this I didn’t want to get the Sherpa, although I was on the verge of taking the risk of the Large one, thinking I could squish it. I have couple questions re: StrudiBag — Does the fact that it is NOT a Sherpa (but a different shape) draw attention to it? It looks flimsy to me, so I am surprised you say it is better built than the Sherpa. And I’m not clear where any “windows” are for air, as no photos show that. How much air circulation do you need? (I will be coming and going from Mexico, where it does get hot, so air flow is a consideration.) Thanks!! PS: any other recommendations for relaxing a dog new to flying?
Hello, Tuck! Thanks so much for the praise! It sounds like the SturdiBag would be a better choice than a medium Sherpa, since it has that extra height (and I agree that he’ll be okay in it — Chloe travels pretty well in her Sleepypod Air carrier, which is only 10″ high, and she’s 12″ high). The large Sherpa is really too large — once you see one in real life, you’ll see what I mean. On to your questions: No, I do not believe that the SturdiBag’s shape is an attention-grabber — it’s pretty discreet, esp. in black. Re quality: If you saw them side by side, you’d see what I mean. The SturdiBag has great-quality zippers, lots of ventilation panels (one entire end, half of the other end, and the whole top — Sherpa bags do not have the mesh on top), and impressive design details. It’s lighter than the Sherpa, because of the fabric choices and thoughtful design (perhaps that’s what you are seeing as flimsy!). Ours has stood up beautifully to nearly two years of hard wear. [And no, I'm not in SturdiBag's pay! In fact, I'm pretty sure they don't know I exist -- after all this praise of them, wouldn't you think they'd have thanked me by now for my vigorous evangelizing?!]
As for tips for new travelers — please check out this post of mine (http://www.dogjaunt.com/2010/04/how-to-make-your-dog-more-comfortable-in-her-carrier/ ) and this post from a blog called Will My Dog Hate Me? (http://willmydoghateme.com/dog-travel/calming-your-car-crazed-canine-part-2 )
Have fun, and safe travels! And let me know how it goes!
We leave tomorrow for our Boston Terrier puppy’s virgin in cabin flight cross country in his new L Sturdibag, thanks to this website’s recommendations. I found out you can take off the shoulder strap, put it through the side straps openings on the carrier, criss cross the end straps over and snap them onto the top handles and then put the whole bag on top of a rolling carrier to wheel through the airport rather than carry. Ends up attaching like a briefcase that has a piece designed for flying would. I tried it out at home yesterday wheeling him around to get used to it. Also, it seems the foam base CAN be removed if needed while in flight (not while walking with the pet in the carrier) and therefore be shortened, if airline requirements need to be met. Of course, all these things need to be done with the pet out of the carrier!
I’ll let you know how it all goes, we have three airports to get through!
Fantastic, Sue! Please do let me know how it goes! We’re able to just put the Velcro-ed together handles over our rolling luggage handles, but your strap-weaving idea sounds very secure. I had totally not thought of taking out the base to allow the bag to flex lengthwise — very clever! (I assume you’d put the padded cover back in for your pup to lie on, just take out the stiff internal board.)
This site is an absolute God-send. My partner was recently offered and accepted a job in Zurich. So, at some point in the next few months, we’ll be moving with our 11 lbs. dachshund and our 15 lbs. Norwich terrier from NYC to Switzerland.
The dachshund has traveled to Paris and, with AirFrance’s weight restrictions — she was heavier back then –, she had to travel as cargo, but did so beautifully. The old girl isn’t afraid of anything! (well, except rowdy boys on skateboards) The Norwich, though, is a bit of a nervous dog, has never traveled, has a long list of things which scare him, and the thought of having him travel underneath as “Accompanied Luggage” was keeping me awake at night.
As we’ve decided to take a non-stop Business Class flight on SwissAir — which allows us two pieces of carry-on luggage — and both our dogs are fine weight-wise (we will work to get the Terrier down slightly just in case), we’ve decided to go with the SturdiBag. That they’ll be down by our feet is very comforting and, with all the excitement, I have no doubt they’ll both sleep very well.
Not sure which size bags to get yet — have yet to measure pooches … any suggestions based on your experience would be great! –, but as neither are unusually tall or long or big, I doubt it’ll be a problem. I just wanted to thank you and those who Commented for giving me so much information and helping to make this process a bit easier.
I’m such a nervous dad. ;^)
Thanks so much for your comment, Jonathan! And how EXCITING to be moving to Zurich!! I’m thrilled for you both. I think your Norwich Terrier will be happiest in the large Sturdibag, but your doxie might fit in the small. Even still, I’d probably get her the large too (heck, it’s a long trip).
I was a little concerned that there wouldn’t be, physically, enough space under a Business Class seat for a dog (the space is sometimes taken up by electronics), so I called Swiss Air just now and they guy assured me that yes, a small dog can fit under those seats. Not every seat, though, so you should call ahead to reserve the seats that work (and as you know, there are limits on the number of pets allowed per flight, so that’s another reason to call early).
Please let me know how it goes, and all good wishes to all four of you — what an exciting new chapter in your lives!
Love the SturdiBag! It has so many great features, it’s super lightweight, and it was perfect for the several flights we took recently. We also use it in the car for safety since it is easy to buckle in. Our dog loves the SturdiBag too – we leave it open during the day and he often naps in there. We wouldn’t have known about this product if not for your blog, so thank you!!
Oh, I am SO GLAD — thanks for your comment! I’m always so happy and relieved when advice that works for us also works for someone else. Woo hoo!