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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
1 274 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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1 438 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
1 274 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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1 336 bought in past month
Last Purchases
Seb***ian
Los Angeles, CA
4d ago
E***a
Houston, TX
3d ago
J***s
Philadelphia, PA
3d ago
#3
Katziela R
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

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9.7
475 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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1 234 bought in past month
Premium quality and flawless performance. My best purchase, worth every penny!
JessyChicago, IL
#4
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(Black)

9%OFF

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9.5
1 274 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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1 132 bought in past month
Curated products trusted bytrust us brands
#5
Sherpa Ori
Sherpa

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

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9.3
4 221 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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1 030 bought in past month
#6
ROVERLUND
ROVERLUND

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

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9.1
746 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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928 bought in past month
#7
Sherpa Ori
Sherpa

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

11%OFF

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8.8
4 221 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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826 bought in past month
#8
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

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8.6
475 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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724 bought in past month
#9
Sherpa For
Sherpa

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

16%OFF

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8.4
5 959 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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622 bought in past month
#10
Katziela P
Katziela

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

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8.1
475 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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520 bought in past month

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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)

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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)

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Petskd Top
Petskd

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

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Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels 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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Wakytu TSA
wakytu

Wakytu TSA Approved Pet Carrier for Small Medium Cats and Dogs | Dog Carrier with Adequate Ventilation | 4 Mesh Windows, 3 Entrance, Locking Safety Zippers, Padded Shoulder Strap, Black

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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 by1,438
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1274 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 by1,438
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1274 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
1274 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
1274 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

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

Rating
9.7
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
475 reviews

Size
The carrier's dimensions offer ample space, ensuring pets can sit comfortably or lie down with room to spare.
Ventilation
Generous mesh windows provide excellent ventilation and visibility, easing travel anxiety for pets.
Material
Quality construction is evident, with durable materials promising longevity and reliability.
Ease of Use
The carrier's detachable trolley feature allows for seamless rolling onto planes, avoiding the hassle of hand-carrying.

The Katziela Rolling Pet Carrier is designed to meet the needs of pet owners seeking a Southwest-approved carrier for small dogs and cats. Its dimensions—19.2 x 12.5 x 14.5 inches—are suitable for small pets, ensuring compliance with airline regulations. Ventilation is addressed through mesh top and side windows, which not only provide breathability but also allow pets to see their surroundings, reducing travel anxiety.

The carrier features a 6-wheel design, enhancing maneuverability. This is particularly beneficial in busy airport settings where ease of movement is crucial. The double telescopic handle remains accessible, though it does not tuck away completely, which might require careful handling to avoid inconvenience during storage or when navigating tight spaces.

Constructed from polyester, nylon, and PVC, the carrier is both durable and lightweight, weighing just under 6 pounds. Its plush fleece bed ensures comfort for your pet, and the bed is removable and washable, helping maintain hygiene and freshness. For security, there is an inner safety leash hook, which provides peace of mind that your pet is securely contained. Additionally, outer storage pockets are a practical feature for carrying essential pet supplies like treats or medications. The Katziela Rolling Pet Carrier is a reliable option for pet owners prioritizing comfort, security, and ease of travel for small pets, with minor trade-offs in handle convenience and design aesthetics.

Rating
9.7
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
475 reviews

Size
The carrier's dimensions offer ample space, ensuring pets can sit comfortably or lie down with room to spare.
Ventilation
Generous mesh windows provide excellent ventilation and visibility, easing travel anxiety for pets.
Material
Quality construction is evident, with durable materials promising longevity and reliability.
Ease of Use
The carrier's detachable trolley feature allows for seamless rolling onto planes, avoiding the hassle of hand-carrying.

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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