How much does it cost to fly with a dog?

In-cabin on US domestic flights

The cabin pet fee on US domestic routes typically runs from $95 to $125 each way per pet. This is in addition to your own fare and is paid directly to the airline, usually at the time you add the pet to your booking. The fee covers your dog travelling in an approved carrier under the seat in front. Some airlines charge per segment rather than per flight, which matters on connecting itineraries. The fee is non-refundable if you cancel.

Cargo hold travel

Dogs travelling in the cargo hold are classified as either excess baggage or manifest cargo depending on the airline and the size of the dog. Excess baggage fees for a dog in the hold typically run from $100 to $200 each way for a dog under 70 pounds. Manifest cargo for larger dogs ranges from $200 to $500 each way on domestic routes. The airline-approved crate is an additional cost, from around $50 for a soft crate to $200 or more for a hard-sided IATA-compliant crate required for hold travel.

International routes

International flight costs for dogs vary enormously by airline, route and dog size. A small dog as cargo on a transatlantic flight can run $500 to $800 each way. A large dog as manifest cargo on the same route can exceed $1,000 to $2,000 each way. Added to that are the costs of the health certificate required for international travel, which typically runs $150 to $300 in the US and UK including the vet appointment, plus any USDA or APHA endorsement fees.

Total cost planning

Budget for the flight fee, the approved crate if you do not have one, the health certificate and any vet visits required for documentation, plus any pet fees at your accommodation. On a trip to Europe from the US, the total dog travel cost before the holiday itself can easily reach $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the dog's size and the airline. Plan this before you commit to the itinerary, not after.