Traveling with your furry friend can be a stressful experience, especially when navigating airline pet policies. Spirit Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares, has specific requirements for pet carriers that you must meet to ensure a smooth journey. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information regarding Spirit Airlines pet carrier size, ensuring you're well-prepared for your trip.
Understanding Spirit Airlines' Pet Policy
Before diving into the specifics of carrier size, it's crucial to understand Spirit Airlines' overall pet policy. They permit only cats and dogs to travel in the cabin as carry-on pets. Unfortunately, Spirit Airlines does not allow pets in the cargo hold. This means your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
What are the Spirit Airlines Pet Carrier Dimensions?
Spirit Airlines doesn't explicitly list exact dimensions. Instead, they focus on the carrier fitting comfortably under the seat in front of you. This means the carrier must be small enough to fit snugly without obstructing the aisle or other passengers. Think of it as fitting a standard-sized purse or laptop bag underneath the seat.
While there isn't a hard number, a safe bet is to choose a carrier with maximum external dimensions of approximately 16 x 14 x 8 inches (or 40 x 35 x 20 cm). This is merely a guideline, and you should always measure the space under your seat on the aircraft you'll be flying. Remember, airline policies can change, so always check the most up-to-date information on Spirit's website before your flight.
What Type of Pet Carrier is Best for Spirit Airlines?
The ideal carrier for Spirit Airlines is a soft-sided carrier. These are flexible, making them easier to squeeze under the seat and more comfortable for your pet during the flight. Hard-sided carriers are generally too bulky. However, a small, hard-sided carrier might work if it meets the size restrictions and fits comfortably under the seat.
Key features to look for in a Spirit Airlines-approved pet carrier:
- Breathable Material: Ensure good ventilation to keep your pet cool and comfortable.
- Secure Closure: The carrier needs to be securely fastened to prevent escape attempts.
- Comfortable Padding: Provide cushioning for your pet's comfort during the flight.
- Easy-to-Clean Material: This is important for any potential accidents during the journey.
How Much Does it Cost to Take a Pet on Spirit Airlines?
Bringing your pet on board a Spirit Airlines flight incurs a fee. This fee is added to your overall ticket cost and can vary. To find the exact current fee, you should check the Spirit Airlines website or contact their customer service directly. Be sure to factor this cost into your travel budget.
What if My Pet Carrier is Too Big?
If your pet carrier doesn't meet the size requirements, Spirit Airlines will not permit your pet to fly. You will need to arrange alternative travel arrangements for your pet or reschedule your flight. Planning ahead and carefully measuring your pet and its carrier is essential to avoid last-minute complications.
Can I use a Pet Backpack for Spirit Airlines?
A pet backpack could work, provided it meets the size requirements and fits comfortably under the seat. However, a soft-sided carrier is usually more preferable for the comfort of your pet and ease of access during the flight. Again, measure carefully!
Are there any weight restrictions for pets on Spirit Airlines?
In addition to size restrictions, there are usually weight restrictions for cabin pets. This includes both the weight of the pet and the weight of the carrier itself. Consult Spirit Airlines' official website for the most current information on weight limits as these restrictions can change.
Remember, always check the most current Spirit Airlines website for updated policies and fees before your flight. Thorough preparation will ensure a smoother, less stressful journey for both you and your pet.
