How to Book a Flight With Your Pet: A Step-by-Step Guide for Stress-Free Travel

Heather Kent
6 hours ago
3 min read

Planning a trip with your pet? Whether you're off on a weekend escape or relocating to another country, flying with your furry companion takes a little extra prep. With the right tools — and a few PadsPass tips — it can be smooth, safe, and stress-free for you both.

Here’s a simple, pet-parent-friendly guide:

1. Start With the Airline’s Pet Policy

Before booking your ticket, check your airline’s pet policy. Each one has its own rules on in-cabin vs cargo travel, breed and size restrictions, and carrier requirements. Some won’t allow pets in the cabin on international or long-haul flights, so read the fine print.

PadsPass Tip:

Coming in September, our Digital Pet Passport will automatically present you with available airlines for your trip to save you from scrolling through all the options for 2+ hours like most of our users have had to do in the past.

2. Book a Flight with your Pet Early

Pet spots on planes are limited - there’s usually just a few in-cabin spaces per flight - so it’s best to book early. After securing your seat, you’ll need to contact the airline to reserve a spot for your pet and confirm details like weight limits and carrier dimensions. This differs for every airline and can be a bit stressful to complete if you’re dealing with a chatbot or telephone line to add your pet.

You’ll also likely need to pay a pet fee, which varies depending on whether your pet is flying in the cabin or in cargo.

PadsPass Tip:

Another purrfect feature coming in September - the pre-depawture checklist will keep track of your booking confirmation, pet reservation, and fee receipts — all in one place.

3. Visit the Vet and Upload Your Docs

Some airlines require a health certificate dated within 10 days of travel. Some destinations also require specific vaccinations, microchips - or even quarantine - so double-check entry rules well in advance.

PadsPass Tip:

After your vet visit, upload your pet's health certificate and/or certificate of veterinary inspection to your Digital Pet Passport. This feature of our new app helps travelers keep all documentation digitally organized, eliminating the need to search for papers at check-in. Our internal compliance checks will verify that your pet is cleared for takeoff, giving you peace of mind.

4. Pick the Right Carrier

Choose a well-ventilated, airline-approved carrier that gives your pet space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For in-cabin travel, soft-sided carriers that fit under the seat are best. Introduce the carrier at home ahead of time. Add a familiar blanket or toy to make it feel cozy and safe.

PadsPass Tip:

Check our in-app checklist to make sure your carrier meets airline requirements. You can even tag which carrier you used for which trip, so it’s easier to prep next time.

5. Stay Calm — Your Pet Will Follow Your Lead

Your energy sets the tone. If you're calm and confident, your pet is more likely to feel secure too. Speak gently, offer reassurance, and if your pet is traveling in cargo, trust that airlines have safety protocols in place for animal handling.

Safe Travels Start With Smart Planning

Flying with your pet doesn’t have to be complicated — especially with tools like PadsPass to guide the way. Trust our research and prepare your furry friend. With our digital pet passport in hand, you can take off with confidence.