How can I select my seat in advance?

You can usually select your seat during booking or by managing your booking online. Some airlines may charge a fee for selecting a seat.

Who do I contact for lost or delayed baggage?

Report lost or delayed baggage at the airline’s baggage counter as soon as you land. They will provide a tracking ID and updates on the status of your baggage.

How Much Is a Carry-On Pet Fee? Airline Cost Breakdown (2026 Guide)

By flightshelpcenter

Published on January 1, 2026

Airline carry-on pet fees vary widely, and many travelers are surprised to learn that there is no single standard price. While most U.S. airlines allow small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin, the cost depends on the airline, route type, and how strictly the carrier and pet size rules are enforced. Searching “How much is a carry-on pet fee?” usually means travelers want a realistic price range, not just a lowest advertised number.

In most cases, a carry-on pet fee is charged per one-way flight, not per trip, and approval depends on limited pet space per aircraft. Understanding typical fees, what those fees include, and how airlines differ helps pet owners choose the most cost-effective and stress-free option.

This guide explains current carry-on pet fees, compares airlines, and clarifies what travelers should realistically expect when flying with a pet.

How Much Is a Carry-On Pet Fee?

A carry-on pet fee generally ranges from $50 to $150+ per one-way flight, depending on the airline and the type of travel. Budget carriers like Allegiant offer the lowest advertised fees (around $50), while major airlines such as Delta ($95) and American, United, and JetBlue ($150) fall on the higher end. These fees apply only to small pets traveling in approved carriers under the seat, and availability is limited per flight.

At a glance:

Lowest advertised fee: $50 (cargo-only on some airlines)
Cheapest in-cabin fees: ~$95–$99
Highest common in-cabin fees: ~$150
Charged: Per carrier, per direction

Because airlines enforce size, carrier fit, and route rules strictly, paying the fee alone does not guarantee acceptance.

Typical Carry-On Pet Fees by Airline (2026)

Carry-on pet fees apply when a pet travels in the cabin, under the seat in front of the passenger. While prices may change, most U.S. airlines fall within a predictable range. These fees are separate from ticket prices and are usually non-refundable.

Below are commonly reported carry-on pet fees across major airlines:

Airline	Carry-On Pet Fee (One Way)
Allegiant Airlines	$50
Delta Air Lines	~$95
Frontier Airlines	~$99
Alaska Airlines	~$100
Spirit Airlines	~$125
JetBlue Airways	~$150
American Airlines	$150
United Airlines	$150

These fees are charged per flight segment, meaning round-trip travel usually doubles the total cost.

Cheapest vs Most Expensive Carry-On Pet Fees

Not all “cheap” pet fees offer the same value. Some airlines keep prices low but restrict pets to cargo or limit routes, while others charge more but allow broader travel options.

Cheapest Carry-On Options

Airlines like Delta, Frontier, and Alaska offer relatively affordable in-cabin pet fees under $100. These airlines appeal to travelers who want their pet in the cabin without paying premium prices, though availability can be limited.

Most Expensive Carry-On Options

Airlines such as American, United, and JetBlue charge around $150 each way. These fees are higher but often come with larger route networks and more frequent departures.

The difference is not just cost—it’s also flexibility and enforcement style.

Why Do Carry-On Pet Fees Vary by Airline?

Airlines price carry-on pet fees based on several operational factors. Cabin space is limited, and only a small number of pets can safely fit under seats on each aircraft. Airlines also factor in staff handling, liability concerns, and the complexity of managing pets onboard.

Other influences include:

Aircraft type and seat configuration
Demand on popular routes
Airline business model (budget vs legacy)

This explains why two airlines flying the same route may charge very different pet fees.

What Does a Carry-On Pet Fee Actually Cover?

Many travelers assume the pet fee includes special treatment, but in reality, it only grants permission for in-cabin travel. The pet must remain inside the carrier at all times, and no additional space or services are included.

The fee typically covers:

In-cabin transport of the pet
Use of under-seat space
Classification of the pet as a carry-on item

The fee does NOT include:

An extra seat
Priority boarding
Handling assistance
Exceptions to size rules

This is why airlines emphasize that eligibility matters more than payment.

Carrier Rules That Apply to All Carry-On Pet Fees

Regardless of airline, carry-on pet rules are similar across the industry. Airlines enforce these rules strictly at check-in and boarding to ensure safety and comfort.

Most airlines require:

Soft-sided or approved carriers
Carrier fits fully under the seat
Pet can stand and turn inside
One pet per carrier
Carrier stays closed during flight

Even minor deviations—such as a rigid carrier that doesn’t compress—can lead to denial.

Booking and Payment Rules for Carry-On Pet Fees

Carry-on pet fees are usually paid in advance or at airport check-in, but approval depends on available pet slots. Many airlines require travelers to call reservations to add a pet because online systems may not display pet availability accurately.

Showing up at the airport without a confirmed pet reservation often results in denial, even if the traveler is willing to pay the fee on the spot.

Carry-On Pet Fee vs Cargo Fees

Carry-on fees apply only to pets traveling in the cabin. Cargo fees apply to pets traveling in the aircraft hold and often involve higher costs, stricter breed rules, and additional paperwork.

Key differences:

Carry-on: Fixed fee, pet stays with owner
Cargo: Variable pricing, more restrictions

For most travelers with small pets, carry-on travel offers better peace of mind.

Is the Carry-On Pet Fee Refundable?

In most cases, carry-on pet fees are non-refundable. If an airline denies a pet because of size, carrier issues, or documentation problems, it may not return the fee. Airlines usually issue refunds only when they cancel the flight and the pet does not travel. This makes advance verification critical.

Final Verdict: How Much Is a Carry-On Pet Fee?

In 2026, most travelers should expect to pay between $95 and $150 per one-way flight for carry-on pet travel. While some airlines advertise lower prices, the best value comes from balancing price, in-cabin access, and route flexibility. Choosing the right airline—and preparing properly—matters as much as the fee itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a carry-on pet fee on most airlines?

Most U.S. airlines charge a carry-on pet fee between $95 and $150 per one-way flight for small dogs and cats traveling in the cabin. Budget airlines may charge less, while legacy carriers usually fall on the higher end. Fees vary by airline, route, and availability.

Is the carry-on pet fee charged per flight or per trip?

Carry-on pet fees are charged per direction, not per round trip. A round-trip journey typically requires paying the pet fee twice, which many travelers overlook when budgeting.

What airlines have the cheapest carry-on pet fees?

Among major U.S. airlines, Southwest and Delta consistently offer some of the lowest in-cabin pet fees at around $95 one way. Budget carriers like Frontier are close behind, while Allegiant is cheaper only for cargo travel, not in-cabin pets.

Does the carry-on pet fee include the pet carrier?

No. The carry-on pet fee does not include the carrier. Passengers must purchase an airline-approved carrier separately, and it must fit fully under the seat to avoid boarding denial.

Does a carry-on pet count as a carry-on bag?

Yes. In most cases, the pet carrier replaces a standard carry-on bag. Some airlines allow an additional personal item, while others do not, so checking baggage rules in advance is important.

Can I pay the carry-on pet fee at the airport?

Some airlines let passengers pay for pets at the airport, but they do not guarantee availability. Since airlines limit pet slots per flight, waiting until the airport increases the risk of denial at boarding.

Is the carry-on pet fee refundable if my pet is denied?

In most cases, airlines do not refund carry-on pet fees. If an airline denies a pet due to carrier size, weight limits, or missing documentation, the airline usually keeps the fee unless it cancels the flight.

Why do carry-on pet fees vary so much between airlines?

Airlines set pet fees based on cabin space, aircraft type, demand, and operational costs. Budget airlines often use lower fees as an incentive, while legacy carriers price pet travel as a premium service.

Is carry-on pet travel cheaper than cargo pet travel?

Not always. Cargo travel may advertise lower base fees but often includes extra handling costs and stricter requirements. For small pets, carry-on travel is usually safer and more predictable.

What happens if my carrier is slightly too big?

Airlines judge carriers based on whether they fit fully under the seat, not just listed dimensions. Soft-sided carriers may compress, but rigid or oversized carriers are often denied at check-in.

Are carry-on pet fees the same for domestic and international flights?

On eligible short-haul international routes, many airlines charge passengers the same carry-on pet fee as domestic flights. However, airlines often prohibit pets in the cabin on long-haul international routes.

Do service animals pay a carry-on pet fee?

Trained service animals travel free of charge under government-regulated policies. Airlines now treat emotional support animals as standard pets, so they no longer qualify for fee exemptions.