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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 18
Petsfit

Petsfit 18 x 11 x 11 Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Upgraded Patented Car Buckle Soft Sided Cat Carrier, 4 Side Ventilated with Adjustable Shoulder Straps and Soft Cushion.Blue

#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)

Fast Delivery
10.0
1 468 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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1 115 bought in past month

Sponsored

Petsfit 18
Petsfit

Petsfit 18 x 11 x 11 Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Upgraded Patented Car Buckle Soft Sided Cat Carrier, 4 Side Ventilated with Adjustable Shoulder Straps and Soft Cushion.Blue

#2
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)

Fast Delivery
9.7
444 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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1 013 bought in past month
Last Purchases
L***a
Dallas, TX
3d ago
Am***ia
Atlanta, GA
3d ago
Vi***or
Boston, MA
1d ago
#3
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)

14%OFF

Fast Delivery
9.1
1 468 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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911 bought in past month
Great quality at a fair price.
AlexanderNashville, TN
#4
ROVERLUND
ROVERLUND

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

Fast Delivery
9.1
762 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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809 bought in past month
Curated products trusted bytrust us brands
#5
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(Blue)

Fast Delivery
9.1
122 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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707 bought in past month
#6
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

Fast Delivery
9.1
62 095 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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605 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)

Fast Delivery
8.8
422 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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503 bought in past month
#8
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
8.5
20 826 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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401 bought in past month
#9
Sleepypod
Sleepypod

Born in the USA

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier, Strawberry Red

Fast Delivery
7.3
842 reviews

Solid Value from a Trusted Brand

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299 bought in past month
#10
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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7.0
8 504 reviews

Item still has Pre-Tariff price

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197 bought in past month

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RUFF LIFE
RUFF LIFE 101

Born in the USA

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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Sherpa Del
Sherpa

Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board - Black, Medium

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6 013
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Sherpa Ori
Sherpa

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

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Cozy Cruis
Cozy Cruiser

Born in the USA

Cozy Cruiser Airline Approved Top-Expanding Pet Carrier on Wheels- Extra Spacious Soft Lined Carrier! 18x11x11 (Black, Original Mesh Sides)

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Sherpa Ori
Sherpa

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

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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 by1,115
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1468 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 by1,115
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1468 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

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)

Rating
9.7
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
444 reviews

Size
The carrier provides ample space for small pets to stand, move comfortably, and observe their surroundings, making it ideal for longer journeys or multiple pets.
Ventilation
Excellent ventilation through mesh windows keeps pets cool and reduces travel stress by allowing them to see outside.
Material
The lightweight nylon design and included bag make it easy to fold, store, and transport the carrier when not in use.
Comfort
The combination of a soft interior and an inner leash hook ensures pets stay secure and comfortable throughout the trip.
Security
The combination of a soft interior and an inner leash hook ensures pets stay secure and comfortable throughout the trip.
Ease of Use
Six wheels on the base make maneuvering the carrier effortless, whether rolling through airports or local areas.

The Katziela Pet Carrier is designed as a small, soft-sided carrier that meets airline and TSA approval, making it suitable for travelers who need a reliable way to bring small dogs or cats onboard. Its dimensions (about 19 x 13 x 15 inches) fit well within common airline size restrictions, and the lightweight nylon material helps keep it easy to carry. One of its standout features is the excellent ventilation provided by mesh windows on the top and sides, allowing your pet to see outside and stay cool, which is great for reducing travel stress.

Comfort is taken into account with a soft interior and an inner leash hook to keep pets secure, while the shoulder strap and six wheels add convenience, giving you options to carry or roll the carrier depending on your preferences. Because it’s designed for small pets, it won’t be suitable for larger dogs. The structure may be less sturdy compared to hard carriers, and the nylon material may not offer as much protection against rough handling.

This carrier offers a good balance between comfort, ventilation, and portability for small pets traveling by air, especially if you value a lightweight, breathable design with rolling wheels for ease of movement.

Rating
9.7
Size
Ventilation
Material

Most important from
444 reviews

Size
The carrier provides ample space for small pets to stand, move comfortably, and observe their surroundings, making it ideal for longer journeys or multiple pets.
Ventilation
Excellent ventilation through mesh windows keeps pets cool and reduces travel stress by allowing them to see outside.
Material
The lightweight nylon design and included bag make it easy to fold, store, and transport the carrier when not in use.
Comfort
The combination of a soft interior and an inner leash hook ensures pets stay secure and comfortable throughout the trip.
Security
The combination of a soft interior and an inner leash hook ensures pets stay secure and comfortable throughout the trip.
Ease of Use
Six wheels on the base make maneuvering the carrier effortless, whether rolling through airports or local areas.
#3

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
9.1
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1468 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
9.1
Size
Material
Comfort

Most important from
1468 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.

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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