If you’re planning to travel with your beloved pet this holiday season, it’s essential to be aware of the regulations and how to ensure their comfort throughout the trip.

According to Jennifer Kopczynski, a former pet flight nanny with three years of experience, there are several tips that can help make the journey as comfortable as possible for your pet.

• Choose a nonstop flight whenever available
• Book the earliest flight of the day to minimize delays
• Pack your bags the night before and arrive at the airport early to avoid long check-in lines

Kopczynski also advises against using designated pet relief areas, especially with puppies, due to potential germs.

For pets traveling in the cabin, she suggests using a soft-sided carrier with mesh panels for visibility.

“I always talk to them and pet them when possible,” she shared.

Additionally, Kopczynski recommends providing ice for pets. This not only helps keep them hydrated but can also serve as a fun distraction during the flight.

For pets traveling in cargo, the ice method remains effective. It’s mandatory to attach a water bottle to the kennel, and freezing it beforehand can prevent spills. While many airlines have stopped accepting pets in cargo, Alaska Airlines still does. Kopczynski also highlights that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has useful information regarding pet travel paperwork.

Moreover, make sure to carry extra blankets and pads in case your pet has an accident during the trip.

American Airlines pet policy

American Airlines charges $150 for pets traveling in the cabin and only allows checked pets (in cargo) for active-duty U.S. military and foreign service families.

Pets need to stay in their carriers, which must fit under the seat in front of you during the flight.

Delta Air Lines pet policy

Delta Air Lines permits up to two pets in the cabin for domestic first and business class flights and up to four in the main cabin. Pets are not allowed in international first or business class. The fee for in-cabin pets in the U.S., including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, is $95. For flights to or from Brazil, the fee is $75, and other international routes incur a fee of $200 (or 200 euros where applicable).

Delta accepts checked pets (in cargo) only for active-duty U.S. military and foreign service families.

Southwest Airlines pet policy

Southwest charges $125 per pet carrier each way, and there’s a limit on the number of pets allowed onboard, making it advisable to reserve your spot by phone. The airline does not permit pets to travel in cargo.

United Airlines pet policy

United Airlines charges $150 for pet travel on tickets purchased after April 26, 2024. There is a limit on the number of pets allowed in the cabin, and they do not accept pets as cargo, except for active-duty military and foreign service families. Service animals are allowed, but therapy and emotional support animals must be transported as pets.

(This article was updated to fix a typo.)