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Southwest Approved Pet Carrier

10 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Blue)

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Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Blue)

Petskd

10.0 score

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The Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier is a solid option for travelers looking to bring their small pets on Southwest or Allegiant Airlines. Its dimensions (18x13x9.5 inches) are designed to fit comfortably under the seat, making it a great choice for pets weighing up to 12 pounds. One of its key strengths is the excellent ventilation; the mesh sides allow for airflow and visibility, so pets can enjoy the journey without feeling trapped. The structural design also stands out, with reinforced materials that prevent sagging and ensure stability, which is important for your pet's safety. Additionally, the locking zippers and adjustable rope buckle provide extra security to keep your pet safe during travel. The carrier is made from durable, waterproof polyester, which is vital for easy cleaning and longevity. Plus, it comes with a decent warranty, offering reassurance in case of any quality issues.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,136
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1656 reviews

Size
This carrier fits perfectly under Southwest airplanes' seats but is rigid enough to protect pets during transit.
Material
The quality is absolutely amazing for the price! It’s very sturdy and durable.
Comfort
The expandable top is a huge bonus and makes a real difference in comfort for the pet.
Security
The clips that secure the zippers provide peace of mind, ensuring pets can't open them.
Ease of Use
Multiple zipper openings allow for easy petting, hydration, and treat administration during layovers.
#2
9.7 score

Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Black)

5%OFF

Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Black)

Petskd

9.7 score

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The Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier is designed specifically for small pets (dogs under 10 lbs and cats under 12 lbs) and meets Southwest Airlines’ under-seat size requirements. Its folded dimensions (18x13x9.5 inches) make it a good fit for traveling on Southwest and some other airlines, which is great if you need a reliable, approved carrier. It offers excellent ventilation with mesh panels on five sides, helping your pet stay cool and allowing you to keep an eye on them during travel. The carrier is made of durable, waterproof polyester with reinforced mesh to resist scratching and prevent escape, which adds peace of mind and longevity to the product.

Rating
9.7
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
528 reviews

Size
The expandable sections significantly increase space, letting pets stretch out comfortably during travel downtime.
Ventilation
Mesh panels on multiple sides provide excellent ventilation and allow constant visibility of the pet.
Material
The carrier’s sturdy frame maintains its shape well, even when carried on a shoulder through busy airports.
Comfort
Comfort can be enhanced by adding a small towel or blanket since the provided bed is somewhat thin.
Security
Locking zippers and an internal collar buckle offer reliable security to prevent escapes.
Ease of Use
Practicing opening and closing the expandable parts beforehand makes in-flight adjustments smooth and hassle-free.
#3
9.4 score

Sherpa Pet Carrier Airline Approved with Spring Wire Frame - Cat Carrier and Dog Carriers for Airline Travel and Vet Visits, Mesh Ventilation, Locking Zippers - Charcoal Grey, Large

Sherpa Pet Carrier Airline Approved with Spring Wire Frame - Cat Carrier and Dog Carriers for Airline Travel and Vet Visits, Mesh Ventilation, Locking Zippers - Charcoal Grey, Large

Sherpa

9.4 score

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The Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier in Charcoal Gray is a versatile and travel-friendly option for pet owners. Sized at 19 inches long, 11.5 inches wide, and 11.75 inches high, it fits pets up to 22 pounds, making it suitable for small dogs and cats. The patented spring wire frame allows the rear end to be pushed down to fit comfortably under seats, meeting the requirements for domestic rail and air travel, including Southwest Airlines. Ventilation is well-considered, with mesh panels ensuring plenty of air flow, and escape-proof locking zippers for added security.

Rating
9.4
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
4455 reviews

Size
The Sherpa carrier is praised for its manageable size, being big enough for pets yet small enough to carry comfortably.
Ventilation
The durable mesh material offers good ventilation while preventing escape and providing privacy for pets.
Material
Durability is a standout feature, with users noting the carrier's longevity and ability to withstand regular use without wear.
Comfort
Cats seem to love the carrier, often resting or sleeping in it even when at home, indicating no negative associations.
Security
The carrier's sturdy clip-on strap and seatbelt compatibility offer secure travel options.
Ease of Use
Multiple entry points, with both top and front loading options, make it convenient for different pets.

Top 10 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier 2026 in the United States

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Petsfit

‌Petsfit Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Small Dogs & Cats, 18x8x11 TSA Approved Carrier, with Removable Dual-Sided Padding (2-Way Placement) - Fits Under Most Airplane Seats, Escape Proof (Black)

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#1

Winner

10.0  score
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Petskd

Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Blue)

Size: 18x13x9.5 inches
Ventilation: Mesh sides
Material: Polyester, Metal
Security: Locking zippers, rope buckle
Ease of Use: Machine washable

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9% OFF

Chosen by 1136 this week

Sponsored

Slide 1

Petsfit

‌Petsfit Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Small Dogs & Cats, 18x8x11 TSA Approved Carrier, with Removable Dual-Sided Padding (2-Way Placement) - Fits Under Most Airplane Seats, Escape Proof (Black)

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#2
9.7  score
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Petskd

Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Black)

Size: 18x13x9.5 inches
Ventilation: mesh panels on five sides
Material: Metal, Polyester
Comfort: expandable top and side sections
Security: locking zippers, collar buckle, frame
Ease of Use: shoulder strap, washable mats, zipper

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5% OFF
#3
9.4  score
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Sherpa

Sherpa Pet Carrier Airline Approved with Spring Wire Frame - Cat Carrier and Dog Carriers for Airline Travel and Vet Visits, Mesh Ventilation, Locking Zippers - Charcoal Grey, Large

Size: 19"L x 11.5"W x 11.75"H
Ventilation: Mesh panels
Material: Polyester
Comfort: Removable washable cozy base liner
Security: Escape-proof locking zippers
Ease of Use: Multiple entry points, padded handle

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#4
9.4  score
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Petskd

Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels 18x13x9.5 Inches Southwest Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Black)

Size: 18 x 13 x 9.5 inches
Ventilation: Mesh on five sides
Material: Waterproof, scratch-resistant polyester
Comfort: High-quality, 360° rotating wheels
Security: Locking zippers, adjustable rope buckle
Ease of Use: Removable wheels, shoulder or handbag

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#5
8.8  score
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Sleepypod

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier, Strawberry Red

Size: 22 x 10.5 x 10 inches
Ventilation: mesh panels
Material: nylon exterior, plush polyester inside
Comfort: soft plush polyester, machine-washable bedding
Security: strong zippers, padded shoulder strap
Ease of Use: opens top and ends, compresses height

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#6
8.8  score
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pidipiti

pidipiti 18x13.5x9 TSA Approved top Expandable Rolling pet Carrier for Small Dog Puppy cat up to 8 lbs and 17'' in,Soft Sided for Spirit Southwest Airline,with 4 Wheels and 2 Pockets(Grey).

Size: 18 x 13.5 x 9 inches
Ventilation: Expandable top, mesh on five sides
Material: Polyester
Comfort: Soft padding inside
Security: Locking zippers
Ease of Use: 4 wheels, metal base, pull rod

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#7
8.2  score
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Petsfit

‌Petsfit Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Small Dogs & Cats, 19x9x12 TSA Approved Carrier, with Removable Dual-Sided Padding (2-Way Placement) - Fits Under Most Airplane Seats, Escape Proof (Black)

Size: 19x9x12 inches
Ventilation: four mesh ventilation panels
Material: durable waterproof polyester
Comfort: removable dual-sided padding
Security: lockable zippers, anti-escape rope
Ease of Use: handle, adjustable strap, suitcase sleeve

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#8
7.9  score
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Mr. Peanut's

Mr. Peanut's Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier, Low Profile Gold Series Tote, Premium Brand Self Locking Zippers, Under Seat Compatibility, Plush Faux Fleece Bedding with a Sturdy Plywood Base

Size: 17"x10.5"x11.5"
Ventilation: breathable mesh on all sides
Material: Nylon
Comfort: plush fleece bedding, sturdy plywood base
Security: self-locking zippers, seatbelt attachments
Ease of Use: lightweight, collapsible, 2.7 pounds

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#9
7.6  score
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Amazon Basics

Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel Single-Door Travel Pet Carrier with Metal Wire Ventilation, 23.6" L x 15.7" W x 13.0" H, Beige

Size: 23.6"L x 15.7"W x 13"H
Ventilation: metal wire door and side panels
Material: Metal, Plastic
Security: locking door mechanism
Ease of Use: top handle, one front door

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#10
7.0  score
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Petmate

Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel - Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs - Airline Approved Pet Carrier - Durable Plastic Shell - For Home and Travel - Made in USA - 24 Inches - Pale Aqua and Black

Size: 24.1"L x 16.7"W x 14.5"H
Ventilation: Ventilation on all four sides
Material: Durable plastic shell
Comfort: Room to stand, turn, lie down
Security: Strong wire door, easy-open latch
Ease of Use: Fold-down handle, no tools needed

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29% OFF
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Buying Guide for the Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier

Choosing the right pet carrier for your travels, especially when flying with Southwest Airlines, is crucial for ensuring the comfort and safety of your pet. The carrier must meet specific airline requirements while also catering to your pet's needs. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a Southwest-approved pet carrier.
SizeThe size of the pet carrier is one of the most important factors. It must fit under the seat in front of you, as required by Southwest Airlines. Typically, the maximum dimensions allowed are 18.5 inches long, 8.5 inches high, and 13.5 inches wide. Ensure your pet can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably within these dimensions. Measure your pet and compare it to the carrier's dimensions to ensure a good fit.
VentilationVentilation is crucial for your pet's comfort and safety during the flight. A well-ventilated carrier will have mesh panels on multiple sides to allow for proper airflow. This helps keep your pet cool and reduces stress. Look for carriers with at least two to three mesh panels. If your pet tends to get anxious, more ventilation can help them feel less confined.
MaterialThe material of the carrier should be durable yet comfortable. Soft-sided carriers are often preferred for air travel because they can fit more easily under the seat and provide a bit of flexibility. However, they should still be sturdy enough to protect your pet. Look for carriers made from high-quality, tear-resistant fabric with a solid base for support. If your pet is prone to chewing or scratching, ensure the material can withstand such behavior.
ComfortYour pet's comfort is paramount during travel. The carrier should have a soft, padded bottom to provide a comfortable resting place. Some carriers come with removable and washable pads, which are convenient for cleaning. Consider your pet's size and weight when choosing the padding thickness. A comfortable carrier can help reduce your pet's anxiety and make the journey more pleasant for both of you.
SecuritySecurity features are essential to prevent your pet from escaping. Look for carriers with secure zippers and locking mechanisms. Some carriers have additional safety straps that can be attached to a seatbelt for added security during the flight. Ensure that the carrier has a sturdy handle and shoulder strap for easy and secure transport. If your pet is particularly active or nervous, these features are even more critical.
Ease of UseThe carrier should be easy for you to handle and for your pet to enter and exit. Look for carriers with multiple entry points, such as top and side openings. This makes it easier to load and unload your pet. Additionally, consider carriers that are lightweight and easy to carry, especially if you have to navigate through busy airports. Features like pockets for storing pet essentials can also be very handy.

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