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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 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)

Petskd

10.0 score

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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 by1,214
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1637 reviews

Size
Perfect size for Southwest Airlines and fits under seats while providing enough protection.
Material
The quality is outstanding for the price, making it a sturdy and durable carrier.
Comfort
The expandable top significantly enhances comfort for pets.
Security
Locking buckles on the zippers ensure pets can't open the doors and escape.
Ease of Use
It's very roomy and easy to fold down for storage.
#2
10.0 score

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).

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).

pidipiti

10.0 score

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The pidipiti TSA-approved rolling pet carrier is designed specifically to meet size requirements for airlines like Southwest and Spirit, making it a solid choice for small dogs or cats under about 8 pounds and 17 inches in length. Its compact dimensions (18 x 13.5 x 9 inches) ensure it fits under airplane seats, though it is not approved for some other airlines like Delta or Alaska. One standout feature is the expandable top with mesh panels on five sides, which boosts ventilation and gives your pet a 360-degree view, enhancing comfort during travel. The carrier's soft polyester material, combined with soft padding inside, adds to your pet’s comfort.

Rating
10.0
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
296 reviews

Size
The carrier is perfectly sized for airplane and car rides, with extra pockets that make it convenient for treats and essentials.
Ventilation
The side opening offers extra ventilation and room for pets during flights, improving their comfort throughout the journey.
Material
High-quality construction and airline approval make it a reliable choice for small dogs and cats on Southwest and Spirit flights.
Comfort
Spacious enough to comfortably accommodate small puppies, ensuring they feel safe and relaxed during flights.
Security
Multiple top openings provide flexibility and ease of access while keeping pets comfortable and secure.
Ease of Use
Smooth-operating zippers and thoughtful pocket placement enhance usability and storage convenience.
#3
9.4 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)

9%OFF

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

9.4 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
9.4
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1637 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.

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

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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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15% OFF
#1

Winner

10.0  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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Chosen by 1214 this week

Sponsored

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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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15% OFF
#2
10.0  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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#3
9.4  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
#4
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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#5
8.5  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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11% OFF
#6
8.2  score
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Sherpa

Sherpa American Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board - Charcoal Gray, Medium

Size: 17" x 11" x 10.5"
Ventilation: mesh panels on multiple sides
Material: Polyester
Comfort: waterproof base, removable washable liner
Security: escape-proof locking zippers, reflective trim
Ease of Use: padded handle, detachable shoulder strap

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#7
8.2  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
#8
7.3  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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15% OFF
#9
7.0  score
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STURDI PRODUCTS

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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#10
7.0  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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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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