Flying with your pet?

Your Ultimate Guide to Flying With Pets in 2026 — What Every Traveller Needs to Know

Travelling with a pet can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences — letting you share unforgettable moments with your loyal companion. Whether you’re heading on holiday, relocating abroad, or just planning a short escape, figuring out how to navigate pet travel in 2026 is now essential. Airlines and regulations have shifted in the last year, with many carriers tightening rules over where pets can fly and how to prepare them for air travel. Here’s everything you need to know before you book that ticket.

Which Airlines Allow Pets in the Cabin (and Which Don’t)

If you’ve ever dreamed of your small pup curled up safely under the seat beside you, it’s important to know that UK-based airlines generally do not allow pets in the passenger cabin except for recognised assistance dogs. That means airlines like easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2 and most UK carriers will only carry service animals in the cabin, and all other pets must travel in the hold or as cargo.

Even when flying internationally from the UK, pets typically must travel as manifest cargo — a system that gets them to pet-checking facilities on arrival and meets strict biosecurity rules. Assistance dogs remain the rare exception allowed with you in the cabin.

However, if you’re flying from or through other European airports, there are airlines that let small dogs and cats stay in the cabin under defined conditions (e.g., weight limits and soft-carrier rules). Carriers such as KLM, Lufthansa, Air France, Turkish Airlines, Aegean and some North American airlines do still allow in-cabin pet travel — typically with strict size and booking limits.

Before You Book: Essential Planning Tips

Airline pet spots (especially for cabin travel) are often limited and booked well in advance. Here are key ways to make sure your trip goes smoothly:

✔️ Book Early and Confirm Policies
Airlines that allow cabin pets often sell out quickly. Always reserve your pet space before booking your own ticket, and confirm the airline’s pet requirements — carrier size restrictions, total weight (pet + carrier) and route customer policies — as they can change frequently.

✔️ Know Your Airline’s Rules
If your dog isn’t classed as an assistance animal and you’re departing or arriving in the UK, they’ll usually travel as cargo or in the hold — even if your journey has a short-haul segment where cabin pets are accepted elsewhere.

✔️ Health Certificates & Documentation
For international travel — especially outside the UK — there may be import documentation such as a health certificate, rabies vaccination records, microchip proof and additional travel certificates required. Always start this process well before your flight date.

✔️ Crate Training and Familiarisation
Getting your pet comfortable with their travel carrier weeks or even months before your departure can make a huge difference. Let them explore it at home, use treats and positive reinforcement, and practise small crate sessions to reduce anxiety.

🐶 Feeding and Preparation Tips for Flight Day

Food and hydration on travel day can significantly affect your pet’s comfort:

✔️ Light Meals Ahead of Time
Experts recommend feeding your dog several hours before the flight rather than right before boarding — a heavy meal close to departure can cause nausea or increased gas due to cabin pressure changes.

✔️ Avoid Foods that Cause Bloating
Keep your dog’s pre-flight diet simple. Avoid rich, fatty foods, dairy, large portions and unfamiliar treats on the day of travel, as these can upset their digestion.

✔️ Exercise Before Travel
A brisk walk or play session before heading to the airport can help your pet expend nervous energy, making them more likely to rest during the journey.

✔️ Hydration is Key
Offer water up until boarding time, and if your pet will be travelling in the hold, freeze a small amount in a bottle or bowl to keep them hydrated without spills.

🐾 Safety and Comfort First

Sedatives are widely discouraged unless specifically recommended by a veterinarian due to the impact of altitude on blood pressure and breathing patterns. If you’re concerned about anxiety, talk to your vet about safe calming sprays or familiar comfort items like their favourite toy or blanket.

Additionally, plan to arrive at the airport early — especially if your pet is flying in cargo — as drop-off points for animal processing can be separate from passenger check-in zones.

Flying with your pet in 2026 may require more planning than booking a holiday for yourself, but with the right preparation and up-to-date knowledge of airline rules, it’s absolutely achievable. From understanding airline policies to preparing your dog’s meals and crate comfort, every step helps reduce stress and ensures a happier journey for both of you.

Travelling with pets isn’t just logistics — it’s about creating memories that include your best friend by your side (or safely in their carrier). It might take a little extra organisation, but the reward of seeing their tail wag beside you in a new destination is well worth it.

By Stephen Forster at 20 Feb 2026