Moving internationally, even if you’re just moving back to your home country, takes a lot of preparation and planning ahead. And if you plan on taking your pet with you, it can increase the stress of a big move tenfold. In this post, I’ll lay out all of the necessary steps you need to take in order to prepare your pet for their big international move.
My husband and I have been living in South Korea for the past two and a half years, and in that time we’ve adopted two adorable (but mischievous) cats. About six months into our marriage, I started to want a fur-baby that we could raise together. My husband, Alan, had never had a pet growing up, and he was against the idea of getting a pet while we were still in Korea. At that point, we knew that we weren’t going to stay in Korea long-term. Maybe only a year or two more, so it seemed silly to take in an animal with so little time left in Korea.
But once I got the idea in my head, it wouldn’t go away. So I finally convinced him that we should get a cat. I had heard about someone from a different city who took cats from a local shelter and fostered them until he could find them a forever home. He had posted about a cat that he was fostering, and I fell in love. So we contacted him about adopting his current foster, and about 2 weeks later we met him in Chuncheon to pick up our new family member.
We decided to call our new kitty Rumi. He is equal parts terrible and adorable. We soon discovered that he was a talkative cat. Boy, can he just meow and meow! But he’s also a cuddler, too. So I guess that makes up for the noise.
We had planned on having only one cat. But about six months later, my husband and I were eating dinner at a fried chicken restaurant near our workplace. There was supposed to be a big typhoon that weekend, and the rain was really starting to come down. We were seated next to the window, and out of nowhere, a tiny black kitten appeared. The poor thing was shaking and meowing and seemed to be looking for shelter from the rain. We asked the shop owner about the cat, and she said that she sometimes fed him, but he was just a stray.
After we finished eating, he was still outside the window. When we left, I thought I would see if he would let me near him. As I walked out the door, he came right up to me and crawled into my lap. That was it. There was no way I was going home without him. So we took him home, got him to a vet, got him healthy, and he was ours. We let our students name him, which is why he has the unusual name of Alan, Jr. But we just call him A.J. for short.
That’s how we ended up with two cats in Korea. But now that we’re leaving, we have the difficult task of moving them back to the U.S. Luckily, there are plenty of resources for ex-pats who want to take their animals back home. I hope this blog is helpful for you when bringing your pets out of Korea.
Table of Contents
Your Pet’s Paperwork
Step One: (Optional) Microchip
I say this step is optional, because you are not required to have your pet microchipped in order to bring them into the United States. However, I would highly recommend getting your pet microchipped before you go on a big trip together. Microchips are tiny (the size of a grain of rice!), easily inserted, and often make travel easier. They also provide peace of mind because if you’re ever separated from your pet, the chances of identifying them and returning them to you will greatly increase.
If you choose to get your pet microchipped before your trip, I’d also recommend getting a 15-digit pet microchip that meets ISO standards 11784/11785. It’s the world standard, and if you are ever traveling outside of the U.S. again, you won’t need to re-microchip your pet.
The U.S. has several different kinds of microchips that are available, and many of them carry shorter ID numbers, which means that each brand needs a different microchip scanner for detection. Microchips with shorter ID numbers are not accepted in other countries, so it’s easiest to just get an ISO standard microchip from the beginning.
Your local vet should be able to provide an ISO standard chip, or your vet should be able to order one very easily. My local vet had them on hand. We had our cats microchipped about 6 months ago, but I think the cost was somewhere around ₩50,000 for each of them. The whole process was quick and simple. The chip is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades. The needle for implanting the device is a little bigger than a regular needle, but neither of our cats even flinched when their microchips were inserted.
As soon as the microchip was implanted, our vet scanned our cats to make sure it worked. He then compared the number on the scanner with the number on the package that the chip came in to be sure it was exactly the same. Then he had me check the number as well. Next, he gave us some documentation to show that our cats had been microchipped, and that was it! You can have you vet fill out the form below to certify that your pet has been microchipped.
Step Two: Rabies Vaccination
To bring a dog into the United States, it will need an up-to-date rabies vaccination. This means that your pet should not be vaccinated less than 30 days before your flight, but no more than a year before. This is very simple to do! Just take your pet to their usual vet (or you can go to a vet that has more experience with filling out the rabies vaccination certificate), and have them administer the rabies vaccination. The vet who provides the rabies vaccination will also need to provide proof of vaccination. You can have you vet fill out the form below. You can also read more about regulations for bringing your dog into the U.S. here.
If you are bringing a cat into the United States, it’s even easier. The U.S. doesn’t require proof of rabies vaccination for importing cats into the country. However, some states DO require a rabies vaccination for cats. So you should really check with the state authorities of your final destination.
Just on a personal note, even if a rabies vaccine isn’t required, it’s a really good idea to have your pet vaccinated against rabies to keep them healthy. They are your fur-babies after all!
Step Three: Animal Health Certificate
No more than 10 days before your departure, you will need to visit your vet again in order to obtain an animal health certificate. A health certificate is just a general statement that your pet is fit enough for travel. You can find a blank animal health certificate below. All you need to do is have your vet fill out the form, sign, and date it. Simple!
Step Four: Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency
Once you have a signed animal health certificate from your vet, you will take your animal and their paperwork (Rabies Certificate and Health Certificate) to the Korean Animal Quarantine office to have the necessary papers filed before you leave. You can either do this at a local quarantine office (no more than 10 days before your departure) or at the one in the Incheon Airport on the day of your flight, whichever is the easiest option for you.
Because we have a quarantine office in our city, we decided to take the cats and their paperwork a few days before our flight to cut down on stress and give us a little extra time on our departure day. You can look for local quarantine offices on this list here.
If you choose to go to the quarantine office in Incheon Airport on the day of your flight, you will find it in the Departures Area. The location of the office depends on which terminal you are departing from.
**Please keep in mind.**
If you fly out early in the morning or late in the evening, you will need to visit one of the satellite offices prior to your flight. Please be aware of the office hours listed below and plan accordingly. Also, if your flight leaves earlier than 11 a.m., you will probably not have enough time to get through quarantine, check-in, go through security and immigration, and get to your gate before your flight departs.
It’s a relatively simple process at the Animal Quarantine Office. You must have both your animal and your paperwork ready. A staff member will check your forms, verify your pet, and then issue you an official form with a seal. You will be required to pay the Animal Quarantine Office a revenue stamp fee. At the time that I am writing this, that fee costs approximately ₩10,000. This will only take about an extra hour. So I recommend that you arrive about 3 to 3.5 hours early if you will be going to the quarantine office in Incheon Airport.
Making a Pet Airline Reservation
Pets In-Cabin
In-cabin means that your pet will fly with you on the plane. You will put your pet under the seat in front of you (like a carry-on) for the duration of your flight. If you are bringing your pet with you in-cabin, then it’s relatively simple, but you do need to make sure that you pet meets all of the requirements of the airline. Here is a list of airlines that allow pets in-cabin on flights between South Korea and the U.S.
- Korean Air
- Asiana
- Air Canada
- United
- Delta (please check aircraft/route restrictions with airline)
If the airline is not on the above list, then in-cabin pets are not allowed on routes between Korea and the U.S.
Also, please be aware that if you are flying with either Delta or Korean Air, you should book your flight directly with the operating airline and avoid codeshare flights.
Pricing
Below are the prices for in-cabin pets on international flights (from Korea to the U.S.). These prices are for one-way only. If you plan on taking your pet round-trip, you will pay this fee twice (once on your trip out of Korea and again on your trip back into Korea). The prices are subject to change, so I recommend always checking with your airline regarding their current pet fees. You will pay this fee for your pet when you check-in for your flight at the airport.
- Korean Air
- $200 USD / ₩200,000
- Asiana
- $200 USD / ₩200,000
- Air Canada
- $100 USD
- United
- $125 USD
- Delta
- $200 USD
Weight Restrictions
Weight restrictions vary by airline, and the weight limits listed are for the total weight of the animal plus their carrier. The airlines will follow these rules strictly.
- Korean Air and Asiana: 7 kg (15 lbs)
- United, Delta, and Air Canada: no weight limit
Carrier Size Restrictions
It’s important that your pet will fit comfortably in a carrier that meets the airline’s size requirements. You can expect airline agents to check that your animal fits comfortably inside its carrier. If the carrier appears too small for your pet, you may be required to buy one from the airline at the check-in desk, or you may be turned away completely. Below are the carrier dimensions for each airline.
- Korean Air and Asiana
- A maximum total dimension of 115 cm.
- For economy class, the height should be less than 20 cm for hard-sided carriers or 26 cm high for soft-sided carriers.
- Air Canada
- Hard-sided carrier maximum dimensions:
- 23 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm (H x W x L)
- Soft-sided carrier maximum dimensions:
- 27 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm (H x W x L)
- Maximum dimensions for Boeing 777-300ER and 777-200LR aircraft
- 21cm x 38 cm x 43 cm (H x W x L)
- Hard-sided carrier maximum dimensions:
- United
- Hard-sided carrier maximum dimensions:
- 19cm x 30 cm x 44 cm (H x W x L)
- Soft-sided carrier maximum dimensions:
- 28cm x 28 cm 46 cm (H x W x L)
- Hard-sided carrier maximum dimensions:
- Delta
- Their website states, “Check the under seat dimensions of your aircraft.”
- I recommend that if you are flying with Delta, you directly ask what the dimensions are for the aircraft you are flying when you make the reservation.
- If you are transferring to a different plane at some point in your journey, be sure to check each plane’s under seat dimensions and make sure you carrier will fit under the smallest under seat dimension.
Flying with Animals Other Than Cats and Dogs
The following airlines accept animals other than cats and dogs in-cabin on routes between South Korea and the U.S.
- Korean Air and Asiana: Birds
- United: Rabbits and Birds (excluding Cockatoos)
If the airline is not on the list above, you can’t fly with any animal other than a cat or a dog in-cabin on routes between South Korea and the U.S.
Booking Your Ticket
Ideally, you should book a direct flight from South Korea to your destination in the U.S. However, sometimes that’s just not possible. If you do have a layover, you should aim for a minimum of 2 hours. You’ll need plenty of time to navigate a plane change while carrying your pet around. Some people choose long layovers of 12-24 hours in order to give their pets time to rest and recuperate at a pet-friendly hotel near the airport.
Before booking your ticket, you need to call the airline that you want to book with and check that there is space for your pet on the flight that you want. Each flight only allows a certain number of pets onboard in-cabin. For example, we are flew with Delta. Delta only allows 4 animals in-cabin in the economy section on an international flight. That means those spots could fill up fast, and those reservations are on a first-come, first-serve basis. You don’t want to book your ticket and then discover that you can’t bring your pet onboard.
Once you’ve checked that there is space for your pet, you can go ahead and book your ticket. You can either book your ticket through a third-party website (and then call the airline to reserve a spot for your pet using your reservation number) or you can book your ticket directly with the airline and reserve a spot for your pet at the same time. I recommend booking directly with the airline.
When we were reserving their spots, we were required to provide each cat’s age, breed, length, height, and weight to make sure that our animals fell within the airline’s guidelines. When you reserve a space for your pet, you won’t be paying any extra fees at that time. You will pay the extra fee at the airport when you check-in for your flight.
It’s important to note that just because the airline allows you to reserve a spot for your pet doesn’t guarantee that your pet will be allowed on the flight. You must have the proper paperwork, and your pet + carrier must meet the size and weight restrictions in order to board the plane.
Pets as Excess Baggage (Accompanied Cargo)
If your pet cannot fly in-cabin, another option is for your pet to fly as excess baggage, or accompanied cargo. This means that your pet will fly on the same plane as you, but in the cargo hold with luggage. This is fine for most dogs and cats except for giant breeds.
When most people think of the cargo area, they view it as unsafe. But actually the cargo area where pets fly is temperature and pressure controlled just like the regular cabin. Also, all airline personnel who handle your pet have been specifically trained for this purpose. I have heard from pet shippers that flying under the plane as excess baggage is sometimes easier for pets than flying in-cabin. There are fewer sights, sounds, and smells to overstimulate or scare your pet .
Often a heat/cold embargo is put into place for animals as excess baggage, so please be aware of temperature when booking a ticket for your pet. A heat or cold embargo means that certain airlines will not accept a pet during times of extreme heat or extreme cold to ensure that they are not exposed to extreme temperatures in the animal holding areas, terminal facilities, when moving the animals between terminal and aircraft or on an aircraft awaiting departure. So if your pet is flying as accompanied cargo, you should try to book your ticket during seasons without extreme temperatures (like spring and fall). Here is a list of airlines that allow pets as accompanied cargo on flights between South Korea and the U.S.
If the airline is not on the above list, then accompanied cargo pets are not allowed on routes between Korea and the U.S.
*Special Note about United: There isn’t much information about accompanied pets on United’s website. I reached out to them to nail down more specifics, but was told it was largely a case by case situation. According to the spokesperson I dealt with, United offers accompanied cargo pets to all of its customers, however you will have to go through their PetSafe Program. For pets traveling to and from an international location, Delta requires a member of IPATA (International Pet and Animal Transport Association) to make the reservation.
Pricing
Below are the prices for pets as accompanied cargo from Korea to the U.S. These prices are for one-way only. If you plan on taking your pet round-trip, you will pay this fee twice (once on your trip out of Korea and again on your trip back into Korea). The prices are subject to change, so I recommend always checking with your airline regarding their current pet fees. You will pay this fee for your pet when you check-in for your flight at the airport.
- Korean Air
- Pets weighing less than 32 kg → $200 USD / ₩ 200,000
- Pets weighing 32 kg ~ 45 kg → $400 USD / ₩ 400,000
- Asiana
- Pets weighing less than 32 kg → $200 USD / ₩ 200,000
Pets weighing 32 kg ~ 45 kg → $400 USD / ₩ 400,000
- Pets weighing less than 32 kg → $200 USD / ₩ 200,000
- Air Canada
- $270 USD
- United
- Contact United for specific rates.
Weight Restrictions
Weight restrictions vary by airline, and the weight limits listed are for the total weight of the animal plus their carrier. The airlines will follow these rules strictly.
- Korean Air, Air Canada, and Asiana: 45 kg (100 lbs)
- United: no weight limit*
*Special Note about United: Again, I reached out to a Delta representative to double-check that there is no weight limit. I was told that there is no weight limit as long as the animal fits in the 30-inch maximum height crate that Delta accepts. There is conflicting information about this on the internet, so if you are flying with Delta, I definitely recommend that you contact them directly regarding your animal’s specific situation.
Carrier Size Restrictions
If your pet is flying as excess baggage, there are also different pet carrier requirements that you need to consider. Crates must:
- Be made of sturdy wood, plastic or metal and have a solid bottom.
- Have a solid roof with no doors or ventilation openings.
- Have a crate door with a spring lock so your pet is unable to open it.
- Have metal hardware to fasten the top and bottom halves of your pet’s crate together.
- Have ventilation on 4 sides for international travel.
It’s also important that your pet will fit comfortably in a carrier that meets the airline’s size requirements. Your pet must be able to sit up, stand up, and turn around in the crate without touching the top of the crate. You can expect airline agents to check that your animal fits comfortably inside its carrier. If your crate does not meet the airline’s requirements or is not the appropriate size for your pet, the airline will not accept your pet for travel. Below are the carrier dimensions for each airline.
- Korean Air
- A maximum total dimension of 291 cm (114 in).
- The height of the crate must not exceed 84 cm (33 in).
- Asiana
- A maximum total dimension of 285 cm (112 in).
- The height of the crate must not exceed 84 cm (33 in).
- Air Canada
- A maximum total dimension of 292 cm (115 in).
- United
- Maximum dimensions of 76 cm x 68 cm x 100 cm (H x W x L)
- The height of the crate must not exceed 76 cm (30 in).
If you are transferring to a different plane at some point in your journey, be sure to check each plane’s cargo restrictions and make sure your carrier will be accepted in the smallest cargo hold dimensions.
Booking Your Ticket
If you are booking a ticket for a pet as excess baggage, you will follow the same procedures as booking an in-cabin pet. You will need to phone the airline and request a spot for them in the cargo compartment of the airplane. If your pet is flying as accompanied cargo, you must be on the same flight together. You will be asked for your booking confirmation number when you reserve a space for your pet as accompanied cargo.
I suggest that you check with your airline regarding their rules and regulations for pets as accompanied cargo. I have not personally flown with a pet as excess baggage, so I recommend that you speak directly with your airline regarding the requirements.
Special Note: Pets as Unaccompanied Cargo
If your pet is a giant breed or cannot fly on the same day as you, your pet will have to fly as unaccompanied cargo. This means that your pet will fly on a cargo-only plane, not a passenger plane. The cost depends on the size of the crate needed for your pet. This requires a pet shipping company to arrange everything with the airline. If this is the route that you are taking, most airlines will not deal with an individual pet owner. They will only deal with an established pet shipping company. You should be aware that this is the most expensive option, and you will need to request a quote from a pet shipper in order to get an estimate. Here are a few pet shipping companies that have good reviews.
At the Airport
Pre-Departure
If you are planning on visiting the Animal Quarantine Office in Incheon Airport on the day of your flight, you should arrive at least 3.5 hours before your flight departs so that you will have enough time. However, if you are planning on visiting a satellite quarantine office before the day of your flight, you only need to arrive 3 hours before your flight.
If you already have all of your documentation when you arrive at the airport, then you can go straight to the airline check-in desk. If you have yet to get your certificate issued by the quarantine office, you’ll go there first and then proceed to the airline check-in desk. At the airline check-in desk, the agent should see that you have a pet on your reservation and will ask you to confirm this. Depending on the airline, they may ask to weigh your pet and/or check to see how your pet fits in its carrier. The agent will also ask to see the pet’s documents. Do not allow them to keep the originals. Ask the agent to make copies if necessary. Most airlines will then put a tag on your pet’s carrier or they will issue a ‘boarding pass’ for your pet.
If your pet is traveling as excess baggage, some airlines will take your pet from you when you check-in. Otherwise, you will then bring your pet to the oversize baggage area. At the oversize baggage area, you will be asked to fill out some more paperwork, and they will probably also ask you to provide a phone number. After you’ve handed off your pet, you’re free to make your way over to security.
If your pet is traveling in-cabin, you’ll proceed to a security checkpoint once you’re all checked-in. When you go through security, you’ll be asked to take the animal out of its carrier so that they can put the bag through the x-ray machine. You will carry your pet as you walk through the metal detector. If you are traveling with a cat, it’s recommended that you prepare a metal-free harness or a towel or blanket to help keep control of your animal during this time. In some airports, you may be asked to put your pet back in its carrier after it goes through the x-ray machine, and then go back and stand in the millimeter wave detector (the one where you raise your arms above your head). In the U.S. it’s also common to have you hands swabbed for drugs when you are traveling with an in-cabin pet.
After you’ve gotten through security and immigration, it’s generally acceptable to take your pet out of their carrier as long as it’s restrained (on a leash or in your arms) and well-behaved. But obviously, know your pet. If you think Fido will try to run away once you let him out of his carrier, then it’s best just to leave him in there.
If you’re traveling with a cat, it might be best to have a small blanket or towel to drape over the carrier to reduce anxiety. This was a main concern of ours when traveling with our cats, and it was a deciding factor in the carrier that we purchased as it had privacy flaps on all of the window sections.
During the Flight
Some tips for a comfortable journey.
- Prior to takeoff, you should inform the people seated in your immediate vicinity that you have a pet. Some people have allergies and airlines don’t really tell people about pets on board. If someone needs to change their seat because of an allergy or another reason, it’s best to get that done before the plane is in the air. You really don’t want to be seated next to someone who is angry at you and sneezing nonstop for 14 hours.
- I also don’t recommend sedating your pet for the flight. Even if a vet gives you medication to sedate your pet, it’s not a good idea to use it. The effects of tranquilizers on animals at higher altitudes are unpredictable.
- During the flight, your pet is technically supposed to remain in its carrier under the seat in front of you at all times. However, most carriers feature a short leash attachment inside that can be clipped onto an animal. After the lights are dimmed, you might like to give your fur-baby a bit more space by opening up the front or top opening of the carrier and attaching the leash (to make sure your animal can’t get away). You can use your blanket to further disguise your pet’s freedom. But do this cautiously! If you think your pet will attempt to escape or will be disruptive, I strongly advise that you just leave your pet in its carrier.
- Also, be polite and cooperative with the flight attendants. If they see your animal outside of its carrier and tell you to close it, you must comply. They are only doing their job and trying to preserve a good environment for all of the passengers on the plane. That being said, I’ve heard of many cases where the flight attendants didn’t mind an animal being outside of its carrier as long as it was calm and not disrupting other passengers.
- If your pet is trained to use a pee pad, you might want to take it to the bathroom during the flight to give it a potty break. If you try this, you should bring your pet to the bathroom inside its carrier and choose a time when there isn’t a long line of people waiting for the bathroom. But don’t be surprised if your pet refuses to go. Many animals aren’t comfortable enough to go to the bathroom during the flight and would rather hold it until they are in a more relaxed situation. This isn’t anything to be overly worried about.
- It’s recommended that you don’t feed your pet for approximately 8 hours prior to their flight. If your flight leaves in the morning, I’d recommend stopping food the night before or only feeding a small breakfast. You can also try hand-feeding some dry food during the flight, but don’t be surprised if your pet isn’t hungry. Again, they’re in a stressful situation and probably won’t want to eat. BUT! Do be sure to offer water throughout the flight. Pets are just as prone to dehydration on flights as humans are. Just use a small collapsible bowl that can clip onto your pet’s carrier.
Landing
During the flight, you’ll be given a customs declaration form. On this form, you will need to check the box stating that you are declaring an animal. After deplaning, you’ll go first through passport control/immigration and then you’ll proceed to baggage claim. You will pick up your checked luggage, and then you’ll go through customs. You must complete immigration and customs with your pet at your first port of entry into the United States, even if you have a connecting flight.
At customs, go to the line for passengers with something to declare. Show your customs declaration form to the customs agent and inform them that you are declaring an animal. They will direct you to the appropriate station. There you will present your animal’s documentation, and you might be asked to send your bags through an x-ray machine again. If everything is in order, you’re free to go. From this point, you will either exit the airport into the arrivals area, or re-check your bags and go through TSA security before heading to the gate for your connecting flight.
If you have a layover in a U.S. airport, you should make sure that you have plenty of time between your flights. Remember, you will need to go through immigration, collect you bags, go through customs, re-check your bags, and go through security again. This all takes up time. You should schedule a minimum of 2 hours between flights so that you have enough time to get everything finished.
Once you’re back in the terminal for your connecting flight, you should try to get your pet to a designated pet relief area. Many airports have them, so check your airport’s website ahead of time and plan accordingly. If your airport doesn’t have a designated pet relief area, you can try using a family restroom to give your pet a chance to go to the bathroom. But don’t be surprised if your pet decides to keep holding it in.
Once you’re inside U.S. borders, you won’t have to go through any more customs or immigration sections. You can freely bring your pet onto your next flight and take them straight out of the airport when you land.
Pet Travel Supplies
You can buy an astonishing amount of gear and supplies to make traveling with pets less expensive and more manageable. And it can probably seem a bit daunting trying to choose the best products for your pet. Below I’ve put together a list of essential pet travel items and recommended carriers/crates to help save you time. After all, you’ve got a lot of planning to do in order to get your pet ready for your big trip!
*Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Carriers & Crates
Below are some of the most popular and highly recommended pet carriers and crates. The soft-sided carriers are best used for in-cabin pets, while the hard-sided crates should be used for accompanied cargo pets.
SturdiBag (Large)
After a lot of research, my husband and I decided to purchase a SturdiBag for each of our cats for their trip. The SturdiBag is a larger carrier, with a flexible top that allows you to squish the carrier down to fit underneath the flight cabin seat very conveniently. It’s very lightweight (coming in at about 1.5 lbs), but still very durable.
One of the key points that we liked were the privacy flaps on all of the mesh windows that will allow us to give our cats some privacy if they need it. Another great point is the 4-strap system for carrying the bag on your shoulder.
A few other features that we really liked were the zipper security clips, the back zippered storage pocket, and the washable inner fleece pad. You can hear more about the SturdiBag in my review below. If you decide that the SturdiBag is right for you, it can be purchased here. The black SturdiBag is strangely listed separately, so you can find the black one here.
Sherpa Travel Pet Carrier
The Sherpa Travel Pet Carrier is also highly recommended. It’s often featured on ‘best pet carrier’ lists. The medium size is included in Sherpa’s Guaranteed on Board Program. It comes with adjustable, padded straps, locking zippers, and plenty of mesh ventilation panels. Some other nice features are the top entry, horizontal luggage strap, and zippered pocket for storage. The back part of the frame can also be pushed down to accommodate smaller under seat dimensions. If you decide that the Sherpa Travel Pet Carrier is the one you want to go with, you can find it here.
Pet Peppy Expandable Pet Carrier
The Pet Peppy Expandable Pet Carrier is another carrier that often appears on ‘best pet carrier’ lists. This carrier comes with expansions on both sides and is made with a thick wire frame on top so that when it’s expanded it doesn’t sag. The expandable sides allow your pet plenty of space while inside their carrier. Also, each of the expandable sides are made with mesh which provides lots of ventilation, in addition to the top ventilation section. Additional features include a fleece lining on the bottom, a pouch for storage (not zippered), and a shoulder strap.
However, this carrier is not waterproof and the shoulder strap isn’t very padded. Additionally, because of the thick wire frame, the carrier doesn’t squish much to fit underneath a seat. But if your first priority is giving your pet plenty of space to lay out, then this is a great bag for you. You can find it here.
Petmate Sky Kennel
If your pet is flying in cargo, you will need to purchase a crate that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements. This carrier is one of the standard models that is recommended by numerous airlines. It features a heavy-duty plastic shell, non-corrosive plastic wing nuts (see notes below about metal fasteners), a 4-way vault door for extra security, tie-down holes, and ventilation on all sides. It also comes with ‘Live Animal’ stickers, Pet ID stickers, and a clip-in dish for food and water. You can purchase it here.
Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel
If your pet is flying in cargo, you will need to purchase a crate that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements. The Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel is another standard model that is recommended by numerous airlines. It features a durable plastic shell, non-corrosive plastic wing nuts (see notes below about metal fasteners), a secure door, tie-down holes, and ventilation on all sides. Some of the key differences between this model and the Sky Kennel are that the Sky Kennel has a tougher plastic shell and more sizes available. However, this model has a floor moat for accidents which the Sky Kennel lacks. If you’d like to purchase the Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel, you can find it here.
*Metal Fasteners
The above crates come close to being airline compliant, but there are still some changes that you will have to make in order to meet airline requirements. Pet carrier metal fasteners will ensure your crate fully meets the IATA airline requirements. However, do also check the website of the airline you are thinking of flying with, or inquire directly with them. They may have additional requirements that you’ll need to adhere to. Please see the link to the metal fasteners below.
Inside the Carrier
You shouldn’t have too many things inside your pet’s carrier or crate. You don’t want to use up their precious space inside. However, there are probably a few things that you should include inside the carrier/crate. These would include pet pads, a blanket or something soft for your pet to lie down on, a toy (if your pet is in-cabin), and something that smells like you (like a T-shirt). Being able to smell its owner’s scent will help to keep your pet calm during the trip. Below I’ve listed some recommendations for items to put inside your pet carrier/crate.
DryFur Pet Carrier Insert Pads
When you travel with a pet (especially on a long international flight), you have to prepare for the fact that your pet might go to the bathroom in its carrier. I recommend DryFur Pet Carrier Insert Pads because they are super absorbent, reducing your clean-up time and eliminating pet urine odor. They are also more rigid, which means no bunching inside of the carrier or crate. You can find them here.
Yeowww! Banana Catnip Toy
Catnip toys provide natural calming for your cat. Cat nip is a dried flowering herb that contains natural oils. The scent of cat nip attracts cats, which like rolling around and playing in the herb. Cats quickly experience a relaxed, euphoric feeling from cat nip. Inexpensive cat nip-filled toys don’t make a mess, and quickly help your cat relax during their flight.
The Yeowww! Organic Catnip Banana Toy was a big hit with our cats. A.J. likes to just sit in our living room and lick the outside of it over and over again. He’s a bit strange. If you travel with a dog, bring a chew toy or beloved stuffed animal to increase your pet’s sense of security during your travels. You can find the Yeowww! Catnip Banana here.
Helpful Travel Pet Accessories
Below are some more helpful travel pet accessories. Either I have personally bought and tested these or I know someone who has used these items and recommended them to me.
TSA Fast Pass Harness & Leash
If you are taking your pet in-cabin, you will need to bring them through security. This can be a tricky time if your pet is nervous. You need to have them restrained well. This is why the TSA Fast Pass Harness & Leash is a good purchase for your trip. It contains no metal, so it can be worn by your pet the entire time that it is taken out of its carrier and walked through the metal detectors. The harness is made out of black mesh, has an easy step-in design, and snap buckle closures. It also comes with a metal free leash and a set of pet ID tags. Please be aware that it runs small, so you need to consult the size chart and measure your pet carefully. You can purchase it here.
COMSUN Collapsible Bowls
These bowls are light and compact. Made with food-grade silicone and BPA free, they’re great for giving your pet food and water on-the-go. The hold as much as 16 oz. (2 cups). And when you’re finished, they fold up and attach onto your bag with a sturdy carabiner clip. You can find them here.
Bach Rescue Remedy for Pets
Medications help relax nervous pets or pets that get anxious in unfamiliar environments. Try Bach’s Rescue Remedy for Pets, a natural medication made of five flower essences and that comes in a small bottle with an eye dropper. The product soothes and calms pets naturally. You can add Rescue Remedy for Pets to your pet’s drinking water, or apply the natural medicine directly with the eye dropper under your pet’s tongue. You can purchase it here.
Feliway Wipes
Another great calming product claims to mimic a “natural comforting facial pheromone of your animal,” allowing your pet to adjust to a new environment. Feliway wipes are made specifically for cats. Feliway offers spray and pet wipe products for dogs and cats. We used Feliway when we first introduced our two cats to each other, and it worked really. Feliway calms your pet in a variety of situations. I’ve specifically listed the wipes here, because wipes are not counted as liquids. So you can save space for yourself in your liquids bag by bringing the wipes instead of the spray. You can find Feliway Wipes here.
PetPeppy Portable Litter Box
Made from waterproof nylon canvas, this is a great accessory to have if you’re traveling with cats. It folds up easily, and our cats were fine to use it right when it arrived. One of the nicer features is that it can be zipped closed from the top so that you can minimize spillage and odors. You can purchase it here.
Travelon Bag Bungee
If, like me, your pet carrier does not have a luggage strap, you may want to purchase a bag bungee to solidly attach your pet carrier to the top of your carry-on luggage. You pet will probably start to get heavy if you are carrying it around the airport. This bungee ensures that if you rest your pet on top of your carry-on, the pet carrier will stay put.
It has a black nylon webbing strap on one end that can be passed around the handle of your supporting suitcase and clipped in place. Stretch the Bag Bungee around your pet’s carrier, and then pass the end panel over the handle of your suitcase. We have the SturdiBag pet carriers, and this does squish the top down a bit, but it does keep the carrier in place on top of our carry-on luggage. You can purchase the Travelon Bag Bungee here.
Pet Carrier Metal Fasteners
If your pet is traveling as accompanied cargo, you will need a set of metal bolts, nuts and washers for your pet’s crate. These should be used to replace the plastic wing nuts that come standard with the Sky Kennel and Ultra Vari Kennel. Many airlines insist that the crate is securely held together only with metal nuts and bolts. You can find them here.
Miscellaneous Supplies
Once you’ve packed the essential pet travel items and found a good carrier, consider bringing some miscellaneous supplies to make your trip easier. You can save money when you prepare for almost any event, and your pet can have a fun, enjoyable vacation.
Plan ahead of time so you have everything you need to make your trip comfortable for your pet and to avoid paying overinflated prices for basic supplies in the airport while you travel. Bring the following essential items and supplies to ensure a stress-free trip when flying with pets:
- Dry Pet Food. Bring enough non-perishable dry pet food in pre-measured Ziploc bags to last for the duration of the trip.
- Pet Treats. Pet treats help to soothe your pet during a long trip. Your pet will also be more likely to eat their favorite treat than dry food, so if you’re worried about your pet getting hungry, it’s a good idea to bring some treats along.
- Pet Medication. Keep medications with you in your carry-on bag for safety, and in case of a flight delay. Bring a list of prescription medications in case of emergency. If your veterinarian has approved the use of over-the-counter medications for your pet, include those in your carry-on bag too.
- Wet Wipes. Bring a box of wet wipes when traveling with any pet. Use wipes for cleaning your pet’s kennel, for cleaning up accidents, and for cleaning your hands after handling your pet.
- Pet Hair Roller. Bring a pet hair roller when traveling. Pet hair seems to multiply when you want to look fresh, so carry a travel-sized pet hair roller to always look your best.
- Microchip Information. If you haven’t had your pet microchipped yet, I strongly recommend that you do this before you travel. Also make sure that your pet’s travel tags mention that your pet has a microchip. In addition, I recommend writing down your pet’s AVID number on your pet travel documents.
Final Note
Before you travel on any airline, review the guidelines for traveling with pets on the airline’s website. Also, be sure to take your pets to the veterinarian for check-ups before you travel. If your pets have any issues or problems, including an illness or old age, please carefully consider whether they should travel with you. It may be hard to hear, but it’s sometimes in the best interest of a pet if it doesn’t take a big international trip.
If you have any questions about an airline’s policy, call them directly to discuss your concerns before you plan your travels. In addition to packing supplies for the trip, think about what supplies you need once you arrive at your destination. Items from home can help you and your pet to relax once you arrive at your final destination.
I hope that by using these travel tips and insights, you can feel confident traveling and moving with your pet. I have gotten much of this information from a mixture of my own experience, extensive research on the internet, and from the Facebook group Airborne Animals. This is a network of knowledgable and experienced people who have traveled with pets in and out of Korea numerous times. They volunteer their time and experience to answer questions of expats hoping to move their pets from Korea to other countries. If you’re planning on moving a pet to/from Korea, I strongly recommend that you join the group.
Have you ever traveled in the air with your beloved pet? What essential items do you pack to prepare? Do you have any good recommendations? Let me know in the comments!