In‑Cabin Pet Fee: What You Pay to Fly With Your Dog or Cat

First thing most owners wonder is “how much will the airline charge to bring my pet in the cabin?” The answer changes by carrier, pet size and route, but the basic fee usually sits between £15 and £70 per person. Some low‑cost airlines charge a flat rate, while full‑service carriers add a surcharge that varies with distance.

Factors That Influence the Fee

Weight is the biggest driver. Most airlines let pets up to 8 kg (including carrier) sit on your lap. If your dog or cat is heavier, you’ll need a larger carrier, which often pushes the fee up. Long‑haul flights tend to be pricier than short hops because the airline has to reserve more space and provide extra ventilation.

Season matters too. Summer holidays see higher demand, so airlines may raise the fee or limit the number of pets per flight. Booking early usually locks in the lower price, while last‑minute spots can cost double.

Cabin class and loyalty status also play a role. Business‑class tickets sometimes include a pet allowance for free, and frequent‑flyer members may get a reduced surcharge. Check your airline’s loyalty programme before you book.

Destination rules can differ. Flights to the US often have stricter health certificate requirements, which add paperwork fees. Within Europe the paperwork is simpler, so the total out‑of‑pocket cost can be lower.

How to Keep the Cost Down

Tip #1: Compare airlines side by side. Budget flyers like Ryanair or EasyJet may have a lower pet fee, but they often require you to bring your own carrier that fits under the seat. Full‑service airlines such as British Airways include a higher fee but offer more flexibility with carrier size.

Tip #2: Use a lightweight carrier. A soft‑sided carrier that meets the airline’s dimensions can shave off a few pounds, keeping you under the weight limit and saving on the surcharge.

Tip #3: Bundle the fee with other travel expenses. Some travel agencies let you add the pet fee to your ticket and claim a small discount. It’s worth a quick call.

Tip #4: Keep an eye on promotions. Airlines occasionally run “fly with your pet for free” weeks. Subscribe to newsletters or follow their social media to catch these offers.

Tip #5: Leverage loyalty programmes. If you’re a frequent flyer, use your miles or status to waive or reduce the pet surcharge. Even a modest discount adds up over multiple trips.

Tip #6: Book round‑trip at once. Many airlines charge the same fee each way, but they’ll only lock in the price if both legs are booked together, avoiding surprise price hikes on the return leg.

Lastly, always double‑check the airline’s pet policy before you book. Rules can change, and a missed detail (like a required health certificate) could add unexpected costs at the airport.

Understanding the in‑cabin pet fee helps you budget correctly and avoid surprise charges at the airport. With a little research and the right carrier, you can bring your furry friend aboard without breaking the bank.