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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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10.0
1 546 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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1 206 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 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)

20%OFF

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9.1
450 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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1 104 bought in past month
Last Purchases
El***or
Nashville, TN
4d ago
Ol***ia
San Francisco, CA
3d ago
Be***in
Charlotte, NC
4h ago
#3
Sherpa Pet
Sherpa

Sherpa Pet Carrier Airline Approved with Spring Wire Frame - Cat & Dog Carrier for In-Cabin Travel, Mesh Ventilation, Locking Zippers - Charcoal Grey, Large

11%OFF

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8.5
4 384 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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1 002 bought in past month
Feels more expensive than it is.
HannahAustin, TX
#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)

20%OFF

Fast Delivery
8.5
1 546 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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900 bought in past month
Curated products trusted bytrust us brands
#5
Sleepypod
Sleepypod

Born in the USA

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier, Strawberry Red

Fast Delivery
7.9
860 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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798 bought in past month
#6
ROVERLUND
ROVERLUND

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

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7.9
760 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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696 bought in past month
#7
Amazon Bas
Amazon Basics

Born in the USA

Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel Single-Door Travel Pet Carrier with Metal Wire Ventilation, 23.6"L x 15.7"W x 13.0"H, Beige

20%OFF

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7.9
62 685 reviews

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594 bought in past month
#8
Petmate Pe
Petmate

Born in the USA

Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel - Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs - Airline Approved Pet Carrier - Durable Plastic Shell - For Home and Travel - Made in USA - 24 Inches - Pale Aqua and Black

29%OFF

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7.3
8 553 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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492 bought in past month
#9
Petmate Do
Petmate

Born in the USA

Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24", Blue

Fast Delivery
7.3
20 913 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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390 bought in past month
#10
Sherpa Ori
Sherpa

Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board - Black, Medium

17%OFF

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7.0
8 373 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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288 bought in past month

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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(Black)

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SturdiBag
STURDI PRODUCTS

Born in the USA

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)

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pidipiti 1
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).

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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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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
10.0
Chosen by1,206
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1546 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
10.0
Chosen by1,206
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1546 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 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)

Rating
9.1
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
450 reviews

Size
The expandable sections significantly increase space, letting pets stretch out comfortably during travel downtime.
Ventilation
Mesh panels on multiple sides provide excellent ventilation and allow constant visibility of the pet.
Material
The carrier’s sturdy frame maintains its shape well, even when carried on a shoulder through busy airports.
Comfort
Comfort can be enhanced by adding a small towel or blanket since the provided bed is somewhat thin.
Security
Locking zippers and an internal collar buckle offer reliable security to prevent escapes.
Ease of Use
Practicing opening and closing the expandable parts beforehand makes in-flight adjustments smooth and hassle-free.

The Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier is designed specifically for small pets (dogs under 10 lbs and cats under 12 lbs) and meets Southwest Airlines’ under-seat size requirements. Its folded dimensions (18x13x9.5 inches) make it a good fit for traveling on Southwest and some other airlines, which is great if you need a reliable, approved carrier. It offers excellent ventilation with mesh panels on five sides, helping your pet stay cool and allowing you to keep an eye on them during travel. The carrier is made of durable, waterproof polyester with reinforced mesh to resist scratching and prevent escape, which adds peace of mind and longevity to the product.

Comfort-wise, it features an expandable top and side sections that increase space by about 80%, letting your pet sit, stand, or stretch when not restricted by airline rules. Security is well addressed with locking zippers, a collar buckle, and a sturdy frame that prevents sagging or collapsing. The carrier also includes practical extras like a shoulder strap and washable mats, making it easy to carry and clean.

This carrier is suitable only for very small pets, which limits its use if you have a larger animal. Also, you need to fold down the expandable parts during flights to meet size restrictions, which reduces space for your pet at that time. Pet owners flying Southwest with small dogs or cats will find this carrier a safe, breathable, and airline-compliant travel option.

Rating
9.1
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
450 reviews

Size
The expandable sections significantly increase space, letting pets stretch out comfortably during travel downtime.
Ventilation
Mesh panels on multiple sides provide excellent ventilation and allow constant visibility of the pet.
Material
The carrier’s sturdy frame maintains its shape well, even when carried on a shoulder through busy airports.
Comfort
Comfort can be enhanced by adding a small towel or blanket since the provided bed is somewhat thin.
Security
Locking zippers and an internal collar buckle offer reliable security to prevent escapes.
Ease of Use
Practicing opening and closing the expandable parts beforehand makes in-flight adjustments smooth and hassle-free.
#3

Sherpa Pet Carrier Airline Approved with Spring Wire Frame - Cat & Dog Carrier for In-Cabin Travel, Mesh Ventilation, Locking Zippers - Charcoal Grey, Large

Rating
8.5
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
4384 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
8.5
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
4384 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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