10 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier 2026 in the United States

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.

The Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier in Charcoal Gray is a versatile and travel-friendly option for pet owners. Sized at 19 inches long, 11.5 inches wide, and 11.75 inches high, it fits pets up to 22 pounds, making it suitable for small dogs and cats. The patented spring wire frame allows the rear end to be pushed down to fit comfortably under seats, meeting the requirements for domestic rail and air travel, including Southwest Airlines. Ventilation is well-considered, with mesh panels ensuring plenty of air flow, and escape-proof locking zippers for added security.

The carrier’s comfort features include a removable and machine washable cozy base liner and multiple entry points for easy loading of your pet. It's made from durable polyester, providing a robust yet soft-sided crate that can double for vet visits and daily outings. The padded handle and detachable shoulder strap offer flexible carrying options, while the large storage pocket and luggage strap that also serves as a seatbelt pass-through add to its practical design.

However, some owners may find the carrier slightly bulky for very tight spaces, and the weight limit requires careful consideration to ensure your pet isn't cramped. If ease of use and comfort for both pet and owner are top priorities, this carrier is a solid choice.

The pidipiti TSA-approved rolling pet carrier is designed specifically to meet size requirements for airlines like Southwest and Spirit, making it a solid choice for small dogs or cats under about 8 pounds and 17 inches in length. Its compact dimensions (18 x 13.5 x 9 inches) ensure it fits under airplane seats, though it is not approved for some other airlines like Delta or Alaska. One standout feature is the expandable top with mesh panels on five sides, which boosts ventilation and gives your pet a 360-degree view, enhancing comfort during travel. The carrier's soft polyester material, combined with soft padding inside, adds to your pet’s comfort.

The metal base with four double wheels and an adjustable double pull rod make it easy to roll through airports, and you can detach the carrier from the base to stow it under seats. Security is addressed through locking zippers, but damage caused by pets biting or scratching isn’t covered by the warranty. The carrier includes two side pockets for small essentials, which is handy for quick access. However, the carrier is on the heavier side at 6.5 pounds, and while roomy for pets under 8 pounds, it can feel tight if your pet is near the upper limit of the size recommendations.

This carrier suits short trips, like flights or vet visits, rather than longer journeys. If you have a slightly larger pet or need compatibility with other airlines, this might not be the best fit. For small pets traveling on Southwest or Spirit, it offers a convenient, comfortable, and well-ventilated option with thoughtful features like rolling wheels and an expandable top.