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Top-10 Southwest Approved Pet Carrier
Loved in the USA

Handpicked for quality & trusted by thousands of customers

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Petsfit Ca
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

#1
Top Rated in the USA
Petskd Top
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)

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9.9
1 364 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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1 254 bought in past month

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Petsfit Ca
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

#2
Petskd Top
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)

9%OFF

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9.8
1 364 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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1 152 bought in past month
Last Purchases
L***y
Denver, CO
4d ago
Be***in
San Francisco, CA
4d ago
Sa***el
Atlanta, GA
2d ago
#3
Sherpa Ori
Sherpa

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

11%OFF

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9.6
4 262 reviews

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1 050 bought in past month
Premium quality and flawless performance. My best purchase, worth every penny!
JessyChicago, IL
#4
RUFF LIFE
RUFF LIFE 101

RUFF LIFE 101 Airline Approved Expandable Premium Pet Carrier on Wheels- Two Sided Rolling Carrier- Designed for Dogs & Cats- Extra Spacious Soft Lined Carrier! (Black) (RL-PET-CARRIER-WHEELS)

17%OFF

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9.4
914 reviews

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948 bought in past month
Curated products trusted bytrust us brands
#5
Wakytu Air
wakytu

Wakytu Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Collapsible Cat Carrier, Expandable Dog Carrier, 900D High Density Oxford Cloth, Wear-Resisting, Anti Tearing, Safety Lock Zipper, Reflective Tape

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9.2
1 697 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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846 bought in past month
#6
Katziela R
Katziela

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

30%OFF

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9.0
491 reviews

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744 bought in past month
#7
Petskd Top
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(Blue)

5%OFF

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8.7
370 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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642 bought in past month
#8
ROVERLUND
ROVERLUND

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

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8.5
756 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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540 bought in past month
#9
Katziela P
Katziela

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

30%OFF

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8.3
491 reviews

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438 bought in past month
#10
Petskd Top
Petskd

Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier 19x13x9 Inches Southwest Allegiant Airlines Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Dog Under 12 lbs and Large Cat Under 15 lbs(Blue)

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8.0
74 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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336 bought in past month

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pidipiti 1
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pidipiti 19x13x9 TSA Approved top Expandable pet Carrier for Small Dog Puppy cat up to 10 lbs Weight and 18'' Length, for Southwest Spirit Canada Airlines(Black)

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Petskd Pet Carrier 17x13x9.5 Southwest Airline Approved,Pet Travel Carrier Bag for Small Cats and Dogs, Soft Dog Carrier for 1-15 LBS Pets,Dog Cat Carrier with Safety Lock Zipper (Grey)

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Petsfit Ex
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Our Top Picks

#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)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,254
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1364 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.

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.

Comfort-wise, it offers a smooth travel experience thanks to its high-quality, 360° rotating wheels. These wheels can be removed, allowing the carrier to be used as a shoulder bag or handbag when needed. Security is well-addressed with locking safety zippers and a built-in adjustable rope buckle to keep your pet secure inside. The sturdy frame ensures the carrier maintains its shape and does not collapse.

One downside is the carrier's weight—7.05 pounds—which might be a bit heavy when carrying. Additionally, it's essential to check your pet's dimensions, as it is designed for small pets under 12 pounds. The carrier also comes with a 12-month warranty, which provides some peace of mind regarding its quality and durability. This carrier is best suited for those who frequently travel with small pets and need a reliable, airline-approved option that offers both convenience and security.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,254
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1364 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

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)

Rating
9.8
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1364 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.

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.

On the downside, the carrier is only suitable for small pets, which limits its appeal to pet owners with larger animals. It’s essential to check your pet's dimensions before purchasing, as not all small pets will fit comfortably. While the material is scratch-resistant, some users may find that the mesh can be vulnerable to sharp claws over time, despite it being upgraded to resist tearing. Also, the carrier being machine washable is a plus, but frequent washing could wear down the materials more quickly.

This carrier suits pet owners who travel frequently with small cats, dogs, or even rabbits, offering a comfortable and secure traveling experience. However, potential buyers should ensure their pets fit the specified size limits to avoid issues during travel.

Rating
9.8
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1364 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

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

Rating
9.6
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
4262 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.

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.

The carrier’s comfort features include a removable and machine washable cozy base liner and multiple entry points for easy loading of your pet. It's made from durable polyester, providing a robust yet soft-sided crate that can double for vet visits and daily outings. The padded handle and detachable shoulder strap offer flexible carrying options, while the large storage pocket and luggage strap that also serves as a seatbelt pass-through add to its practical design.

However, some owners may find the carrier slightly bulky for very tight spaces, and the weight limit requires careful consideration to ensure your pet isn't cramped. If ease of use and comfort for both pet and owner are top priorities, this carrier is a solid choice.

Rating
9.6
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
4262 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.

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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