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Southwest Approved Pet Carrier

10 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 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

9.9 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
9.9
Chosen by1,120
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1281 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
9.8 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

9.8 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
9.8
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1281 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.
#3
9.7 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(Black)

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(Black)

Petskd

9.7 score

Check price

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
9.7
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
1281 reviews

Size
Its expandable top increases interior height without compromising under-seat fit, making it perfect for airline travel.
Ventilation
Scratch-resistant mesh panels provide excellent ventilation while preventing damage and escape attempts.
Material
The waterproof polyester material is easy to clean, maintaining practicality alongside style.
Comfort
The carrier feels like a luxury suite on wheels, offering pets a comfortable and inviting space they willingly enter.
Security
Locking zippers and a built-in leash clip ensure pets stay secure during transit.
Ease of Use
Lightweight yet sturdy construction makes it easy to carry and durable for frequent use.

Top 10 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier 2025 in the United States

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Slide 1

Petsfit

Petsfit Cat Carrier Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Pet Carrier with Patented Car Buckle, 3 Carrying Ways, Lightweight, Breathable, Escape Proof, with Adjustable Shoulder Strap and Soft Cushion,Grey

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#1

Winner

9.9 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 1120 this week

Sponsored

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Petsfit

Petsfit Cat Carrier Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Pet Carrier with Patented Car Buckle, 3 Carrying Ways, Lightweight, Breathable, Escape Proof, with Adjustable Shoulder Strap and Soft Cushion,Grey

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#2

9.8 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
#3

9.7 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(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

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9% OFF
#4

9.5 score

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Sherpa

Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board - Charcoal Gray, Small

Size: 15 x 10 x 8.5 inches
Ventilation: Mesh panels
Material: Polyester
Comfort: Removable, washable base liner
Security: Escape-proof zippers
Ease of Use: Padded handle, detachable strap

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#5

9.3 score

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Katziela

Katziela Rolling Pet Carrier - Airline Compliant Dog Carrier - TSA Approved Pet Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats - Soft FAA Travel Airplane Dog Carrier Luggage - White/Blue Trim

Size: Medium
Ventilation: Mesh top, side windows
Material: Polyester, Nylon, PVC
Comfort: Plush fleece bed
Security: Inner safety leash hook
Ease of Use: 6-wheel, telescopic handle

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9% OFF

Related Products

Up to 13% off

#6

9.1 score

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Sherpa

Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved - Charcoal Gray, 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
#7

8.9 score

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ROVERLUND

ROVERLUND Airline-Compliant Pet Carrier | Includes Leash | Suitable for Pets up to 20lbs

Size: 18.5"L x 11.8"W x 11.5"H
Ventilation: three-sided ventilation
Material: marine grade polyester
Ease of Use: folds flat for storage

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#8

8.7 score

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Katziela

Katziela Rolling Pet Carrier - Airline Compliant with Removable Wheels - TSA Approved for Small Dogs and Cats - Soft FAA Travel Airplane Underseat Wheeled Luggage

Size: 19.2"L x 12.5"W x 14.5"H
Ventilation: Mesh windows on sides, front, top
Material: Plastic and fabric
Comfort: Plush, removable bed
Security: Safety leash
Ease of Use: Removable wheels, telescopic handle

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#9

8.5 score

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Katziela

Katziela Pet Carrier - Airline Compliant - TSA Approved Pet Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats - Soft FAA Travel Airplane Dog Carrier Luggage (Black/Red)

Size: 19.2"L x 12.5"W x 14.5"H
Ventilation: mesh windows on top and sides
Material: Nylon
Comfort: spacious, breathable interior
Security: closures with zippers and seams
Ease of Use: rolling design with six wheels

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#10

8.2 score

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Sherpa

Sherpa Forma Frame Crash-Tested Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board - Black, Medium

Size: 19.68 x 9.84 x 9.84 inches
Ventilation: claw-proof mesh panels
Material: polyester
Comfort: washable quilted mat
Security: crash-tested design, seatbelt-style straps
Ease of Use: padded handle, detachable shoulder strap

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18% 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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