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10 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
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)
The Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels is a versatile and convenient option for pet owners traveling with airlines like Southwest and Allegiant. It measures 18x13x9.5 inches, making it suitable for small pets. The carrier features mesh ventilation on five sides, ensuring your pet gets plenty of fresh air and you can easily check on them. The material used is waterproof and scratch-resistant polyester, providing durability and protection against wear and tear.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,286
Size
Material
Comfort
Most important from
1545 reviews
#2
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(Black)
The Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier is a soft-sided, airline-approved carrier designed mainly for small cats and dogs under 10-12 pounds. Its dimensions (18x13x9.5 inches, expandable by 3.5 inches in height) fit Southwest Airlines’ under-seat space requirements, making it a reliable choice for travelers with small pets. The carrier offers excellent ventilation with mesh panels on five sides, allowing pets to see out and stay comfortable during trips. The mesh is upgraded to be scratch-resistant, helping prevent pets from damaging it or escaping.
Rating
8.5
Size
Ventilation
Material
Most important from
1545 reviews
#3
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)
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
8.5
Size
Ventilation
Material
Most important from
450 reviews
Top 10 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
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)
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
Chosen by 1286 this week
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(Black)
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(Black)
Size: 18x13x9.5 inches, expandable 3.5 inches
Ventilation: mesh panels on five sides
Material: Polyester, Metal
Security: locking zippers, leash clip, reinforced frame
Ease of Use: multiple openings, non-slip zippers, washable
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 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
Sherpa Pet Carrier Airline Approved with Spring Wire Frame - Cat & Dog Carrier for In-Cabin Travel, Mesh Ventilation, Locking Zippers - Charcoal Grey, Large
Sherpa Pet Carrier Airline Approved with Spring Wire Frame - Cat & Dog Carrier for In-Cabin Travel, 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
Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier, Strawberry Red
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
Related Products
ROVERLUND Airline-Compliant Pet Carrier | Includes Leash | for Pets up to 20lbs
ROVERLUND Airline-Compliant Pet Carrier | Includes Leash | for Pets up to 20lbs
Size: 18.5"L x 11.8"W x 11.5"H
Ventilation: three sides
Material: marine and mountaineering grade
Ease of Use: folds flat
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
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
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
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
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24", Blue
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24", Blue
Size: 24.05"L x 16.8"W x 14.5"H
Ventilation: multiple holes for air and visibility
Material: Plastic
Comfort: space to add cushion
Security: steel doors with simple latches
Ease of Use: two doors, foldable handle, assembly
#10
SturdiBag XL Pet Travel Carrier: Flexible Height for Cat and Dog Soft Sided with Safety Clips and Seatbelt Straps | Bordeaux, 20" x 16" x 12" (PN: SB3-PRO-BX)
SturdiBag XL Pet Travel Carrier: Flexible Height for Cat and Dog Soft Sided with Safety Clips and Seatbelt Straps | Bordeaux, 20" x 16" x 12" (PN: SB3-PRO-BX)
Size: 20" x 12" x 16"
Ventilation: mesh panels, privacy flaps
Material: 600 denier polyester, fleece, leather
Comfort: soft-sided with fleece and leather
Security: security clips, tether, 4-point straps
Ease of Use: lightweight, straps and clips tricky
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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.