10 Best Southwest Approved Pet Carrier 2025 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 ROVERLUND Airline-Compliant Pet Carrier is a suitable option for pet owners traveling by air, particularly with Southwest Airlines. It supports pets up to 20 lbs and complies with the in-cabin sizing of most major airlines, which is a significant advantage for frequent travelers. With three sides of ventilation, it ensures your pet gets plenty of fresh air during trips, enhancing their comfort. The carrier is constructed from marine and mountaineering grade materials, promising durability, and it comes with a one-year warranty for added peace of mind. However, pet-induced damage is not covered by the warranty.

A distinctive feature is its leak-resistant bottom, which is particularly useful for long journeys. The carrier also folds flat, making it convenient to store when not in use. Additionally, the shoulder strap can be converted into a leash, adding versatility.

On the downside, the carrier's weight at 3.2 pounds might be slightly heavy for some users, especially with a pet inside. Also, while it is designed to be durable, some users might find the material to be somewhat rigid. This pet carrier is best suited for pet owners who travel frequently by air and need a reliable, airline-compliant solution for their small dogs or cats.

The Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier is designed specifically for small pets (dogs under 10 lbs and cats under 12 lbs) and meets Southwest Airlines’ under-seat size requirements. Its folded dimensions (18x13x9.5 inches) make it a good fit for traveling on Southwest and some other airlines, which is great if you need a reliable, approved carrier. It offers excellent ventilation with mesh panels on five sides, helping your pet stay cool and allowing you to keep an eye on them during travel. The carrier is made of durable, waterproof polyester with reinforced mesh to resist scratching and prevent escape, which adds peace of mind and longevity to the product.

Comfort-wise, it features an expandable top and side sections that increase space by about 80%, letting your pet sit, stand, or stretch when not restricted by airline rules. Security is well addressed with locking zippers, a collar buckle, and a sturdy frame that prevents sagging or collapsing. The carrier also includes practical extras like a shoulder strap and washable mats, making it easy to carry and clean.

This carrier is suitable only for very small pets, which limits its use if you have a larger animal. Also, you need to fold down the expandable parts during flights to meet size restrictions, which reduces space for your pet at that time. Pet owners flying Southwest with small dogs or cats will find this carrier a safe, breathable, and airline-compliant travel option.