General

6 tips for safer female solo travel during COVID-19

Published

4 months ago

February 12, 2023

Samara Ben

6 tips for safer female solo travel during COVID-19

March 16, 2021 By Hedy Phillips

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While a family vacation is fun, sometimes traveling alone is even better. Women specifically are traveling more and more on their own — several reports have shown. And in honor of International Women’s Day, which happened just last week, we want to do what we can to support women travelers.

A 2018 study conducted by British Airways reported the 50% of women worldwide had taken a holiday on their own and 75% of women were planning to take a solo trip in for the next few years. Despite concerns that face women more than men, specifically safety, women are still traveling solo — more so even than men.

Safety is an obvious concern for women when it comes to traveling. However, there are plenty of ways women can keep safety top of mind while vacationing, from selecting certain destinations to protecting their belongings and themselves. We’ll also share the best tips for using travel credit cards to protect your finances while you’re on the go.

You can still have a safe and socially distanced adventure to plenty of areas around the world — like Iceland! (Photo by Song_about_summer/Shutterstock)

Tips on protecting yourself

Safety should be your primary concern when you’re traveling, no matter who you are. For women, safety is especially a concern when you’re in an unfamiliar place. There are plenty of ways to keep yourself protected, though. Here’s what we recommend for women while they’re traveling:

Blend in: Try not to call too much attention to the fact that you’re alone. While you don’t necessarily have to be a wallflower everywhere you go, you might consider not broadcasting the fact that you’re traveling solo. You’re more vulnerable to predators when they know you have no one with you.
Plan ahead: Have a plan in place for most, if not all, of your trip. This is also helpful because you can share your itinerary with someone back home so they also know where you are. Whether it’s a family member or friend, give them a copy of your plan and check-in with them from time to time so they know you’re safe.

Research your destination: Before you head off, do some research on the destination as a whole, as well as various activities you’re interested in. Look up reviews or speak with others who have traveled there, if possible. Take recommendations to heart and listen if anyone says it’s an unsafe place.
Know self-defense: If you have a chance to take some self-defense training, it’s not a bad idea. Having this knowledge in the back of your head is useful if you need it, but it’ll also give you peace of mind while traveling.
Protect yourself in the hotel: Keep the hotel door locked at all times while you’re there and while you’re not. When you’re inside, lock all the locks and don’t answer the door if you don’t know who’s knocking.

Enroll in the STEP Program: The STEP Program connects you with the local consulate where you’re traveling so you can get safety and security updates.

How to protect your finances

Aside from physical safety, financial security is extremely important while you’re traveling. You need to plan ahead before your trip, as well as follow a few best practices while traveling to ensure your money is secure, which will in turn keep you secure as well.

Another thing to consider is getting a travel credit card, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. Cards like this are designed specifically with travel in mind, and while that means they’ll earn you points you can redeem for travel, it also means your information will be more secure. These cards also offer advantages like no foreign transaction fees when spending abroad.

Research travel credit cards before your trip and apply to whichever one(s) suits your travel needs best. Maybe it’s an airline credit card or maybe it’s one that’s tied to a hotel chain. Pick what works and start using it to book travel.

Here are some tips on what to do before and during your trip to ensure financial security:

Make copies of your cards: This is a tip you should follow in general — make copies of your credit cards, debit cards, and identification, just in case. Also, make a note of the phone numbers associated with all cards. You can jot this down on paper to keep in your wallet or take a picture with your phone. Anywhere you can keep track of it.

Let the card companies know you’re traveling: Though banks are much more advanced than they used to and may claim they don’t need to know when you’re traveling, it’s not a bad idea to give them a call anyway. Sometimes foreign transactions get flagged, so if your bank knows you’re traveling, you can hopefully mitigate those issues.
Limit your cash: We don’t recommend traveling with much cash on you at any time. Bring a little bit with you on the trip and consider getting small amounts from ATMs while abroad. When you’re out and about, only carry a small amount with you then as well.
Keep an eye on your accounts: Keep an eye on your bank account and credit card statements while traveling so you can quickly spot any fraudulent activity.

Use your travel credit card: Make sure you know the benefits of your travel card. They might get you a hotel discount or a free checked bag on your airline. Many cards even grant you travel insurance or emergency assistance abroad. Familiarize yourself with this info before you start booking so you can be sure to get the full benefits.

COVID-19 precautions to consider

With the world still being in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel is very obviously affected. However, industries are figuring out a way to navigate this new normal, especially that of travel. While travel is still down significantly, the airlines are operating regularly, and hotels and restaurants have opened back up around the world to welcome guests.

Aside from worrying about your travel concerns as a woman, you now have to keep COVID-19 in mind as well — but by using some best practices, you can definitely still get out to see the world. Follow the CDC’s best practices for keeping yourself and others safe. That means wear your mask, sanitize everything, and wash your hands properly. This is especially important while you’re on an airplane in close quarters with people and interacting with any staff at hotels or restaurants.

Next, it’s important to pay attention to everyone’s booking policies. That includes car rentals, trains, airlines, hotels, etc. Most companies have flexible booking and cancellation in place right now due to COVID-19, but familiarize yourself with these policies before you book anything. If you have the flexibility, book plans that can be canceled just in case.

Also make sure you’re familiar with airline, hotel, and restaurant policies for safety. Most likely you’ll be required to wear a mask on any public transportation — planes, trains, etc. — so be prepared for that. Some airlines are also not selling middle seats, but you’ll want to double-check who you’re flying with so you know what to expect.

At the end of the day, be smart about traveling amid COVID-19. While the world may be coming back to some semblance of normalcy, it’s incredibly important to still keep yourself and those around you safe. One great idea for traveling right now is to book a rural Airbnb so that you’re still getting the feel of a vacation without having to interact with too many people.

What do the experts have to say?

We spoke with a few female travel bloggers to get their input on the places they’ve felt most safe. UK-based blogger Chelsea, who runs Cheap Holiday Expert, says that she’s felt the safest when traveling alone for work, largely due to the destinations and the purpose behind the travel. In particular, she says that Vietnam was one of her favorite places she visited that she felt safe, even “having never traveled to South East Asia beforehand. But I felt so safe there for somewhere so far from home.” She also echoed our recommendation of Iceland and Spain (specifically Madrid) as her favorite places.

Steph, an avid traveler who runs A Nomad’s Passport, totally agreed with Chelsea on Vietnam and said she didn’t expect to feel as safe as she did there. “While in Vietnam I did not hear as much as a sexist comment, so I felt absolutely safe to go places at night,” she shared. She also called Australia a great place for women to visit, adding that the locals are incredibly friendly and helpful. She said, “There are very few places where I’d feel comfortable to just leave my professional camera on some random rock before continuing down a gorge and returning more than 30 minutes later, but I have done so in Australia.”

Travel writer and photographer Dana Freeman said she’s currently in the Azores and feels incredibly safe there. She’s been sharing all her adventures on her Instagram and has nothing but delightful things to say about the picturesque destination — as does Florida-based travel writer Terry Ward! She recently traveled there amid COVID-19 and shared, “Everywhere I went in the Azores, mask-wearing was enforced indoors, and there didn’t appear to be any judgment, either, if I wanted to wear it on crowded streets.”

A first-hand account of a solo trip to Spain

The following story was provided by Nasha Addarich Martínez / MMS reader.

My very first experience traveling solo was back in 2014 when I decided to study abroad in the beautiful, small town of Toledo, Spain. A small group of students from my law school was accepted to an international program where we had the opportunity to learn about foreign and European Union laws and policies. Although classmates mostly accompanied me during my stay in Toledo, I also had the opportunity to travel alone to other cities within Spain and neighboring countries like Portugal, France, Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Hungary and Prague.

Spain is one of the most popular countries to visit for female solo travelers. And I found it to be very safe. But, if you happen to find yourself in one of the larger cities like Barcelona, Madrid or Sevilla, you want to be careful of pickpockets and ensure that you are aware of your surroundings. Here are my tips for women traveling solo in Spain:

Research any cities you’re interested in visiting and see if any neighborhoods historically have had high crime rates. These are neighborhoods you should try to avoid.
Make an itinerary of where you’ll be by day and send it to a close friend or family member. That way, you’ll make sure someone knows where you are at all times.
If you’re in Madrid, the Metro is the most effective way to get around the city. This means that many people will most likely be there, too, making it optimal for pickpockets. To avoid any unfortunate situations, keep any backpacks, purses or luggage in front of you and avoid having your phone or money in your back pockets.

Know that “112” is the emergency line in Spain. If anything were to happen to you, this is the number you should call for emergency assistance.

Bottom line

For female travelers, there should be nothing stopping you from continuing to get out and travel! There are plenty of places around the world that are incredibly safe for women and offer adventures and scenery alike. If you go into your travels well prepared and confidently, you should have an enjoyable time.

Let us know your favorite female-friendly destination! And for more posts like this delivered to your inbox once per day, subscribe to our newsletter.

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General

Published

20 hours ago

June 6, 2023

Samara Ben

Flying can be stressful for both people and animals, but especially for dogs. It can be very stressful to check in at a congested airport and board a busy plane. Due to this, many pet owners prefer traveling with their cherished furry friends in the cabin of the aircraft as opposed to the pet cargo compartment. Owners are able to keep their dog company and offer comfort and assurance in this way.

Flying can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience for both people and animals, but especially for dogs. Checking in at a crowded airport and boarding a busy plane can be an intimidating experience for our beloved furry friends. As a result, many pet owners choose to fly with their beloved pets in the cabin of the aircraft, rather than in the pet cargo compartment, so that they can stay close to their dog and provide comfort and assurance. This is a much more preferable option for many pet owners.

A medium-sized dog wearing a red bandana is sitting on the floor at a busy airport, looking up anxiously at its owner. The owner is standing in front of the dog, holding its leash and comforting the animal with a soothing hand on its head. The background features a bustling airport terminal with people and luggage moving around.

General

14 Airlines That Allow Pets in Cabin on International Flights [2023]

Published

21 hours ago

June 6, 2023

Samara Ben

Traveling with our furry companions has become increasingly popular, and many airlines have recognized the importance of accommodating passengers’ beloved pets. Instead of leaving them behind or entrusting them to a pet sitter, more and more pet owners are seeking airlines that allow flying with pets in the cabin on international flights. There are many airlines that allow pets in cabin on international flights.

This article will explore several airlines that go the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for both humans and their four-legged friends. From pet policies to cabin requirements for airlines that allow pets in cabin on international flights, let’s dive into the top airlines that warmly welcome dogs and cats on board.

The following airlines allow pets in cabin on international flights:

Aegean Airlines
Air Canada

Air Europa
Air France
Alaska Air

American Airlines
Delta
French Bee

JetBlue
Lufthansa
TAP Air Portugal

TUI Fly
United Airlines
Vueling

Which airlines allow pets in cabin on international flights?

Aegean Airlines Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 8 kg (including carrier)
Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm

Cost: 60 EUR (prices differ depending on time of year)

Additional information:

Transportation of dogs and cats to the UK is only permitted for flights to London Heathrow and only to be sent as cargo.

Visit Aegean’s website for more information.

Related post: Flying Pets in Cargo: Will My Pet be Safe?

Air Canada Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 22 pounds (including carrier)
Maximum carrier size: 27 x 40 x 55 cm (soft-sided crate) & 23 x 40 x 55 cm (hard-sided crate)

Cost: $100-118 CAD

Additional information:

Pets cannot travel with you if you:
- Are an unaccompanied minor
- Are seated in an exit or bulkhead row
- Are travelling in Premium Economy

On flights operated by their Aribus fleet, pets may not travel in the First Class cabin.
On Boeing 789 and 788 aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H20 x W40 x L43 cm
On Boeing 777-300ER and 777-200LR aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H21 x W38 x L43 cm

For more info, visit Air Canada’s website.

Related post: Requirements for Taking Pets to Canada [Pet Passport Guide]

Air Europa Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 8kg (10kg including carrier) or 6kg on flights operated by ATR
Maximum carrier size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm

Cost: 27-55 USD within Europe and 165 USD long-haul

Additional information:

Prices subjects to possible surcharges for taxes in certain countries.

Dogs must be at least 3 months old to travel on medium and long haul flights.
Passengers are not permitted to bring pets in the Business cabin.
Pets in the cabin may not fly in an emergency or XL seat.

Visit Air Europa’s website for more information.

Related post: How to get an EU Pet Passport

Alaska Air Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 9kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
Maximum carrier size: 43 x 28 x 24 cm (soft) / 43 x 28 x 19 cm (hard)

Cost: 100 USD each way

Additional information:

You may not occupy an emergency exit row, or any seat with an airbag safety belt.

On flights operated by their Aribus fleet, pets may not travel in the First Class cabin.

Visit Alaska Air’s website for more information.

American Airlines Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)

Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (call the airline for specific restrictions)
Cost: 125 USD each way

Additional information:

Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin on international flights over 12 hours, or transatlantic flights.
Due to the lack of under-seat storage space, carry-on dogs are not permitted in First or Business on the following Boeing planes:
- 777-200
- 777-300
- 787-8
- 787-9

For more info on additional restrictions, visit AA’s website.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

Air France Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)
Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 24 cm (soft carriers recommended)

Cost: 30-125 EUR international

Additional information:

Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin on international intercontinental flights.

Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin in business on international flights.
Each passenger may travel with only 1 pet.

For more info, visit Air France’s website.

Delta Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: No limit, but pets must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (check the under-seat dimensions on your aircraft here)
Cost: 125 USD within North America, 200 USD international and 75 USD to Brazil

Additional Information:

The following age restrictions apply:
- Pets must be at least 16 weeks old for travel to/from the U.S.
- Pets must be at least 15 weeks old for travel to/from the EU.
For any travel to or from the following destinations, pets are not permitted in the cabin:
- Australia
- Barbados
- Dubai
- Hong Kong
- Iceland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- Republic of Ireland
- South Africa
- United Kingdom
- United Arab Emirates

For more info on additional restrictions, visit Delta’s website.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

French Bee Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)

Maximum carrier size:43x35x20cm
Cost: 50€ each way

Additional information:

Sub-nosed animals are not permitted on their flights
- Breeds include: pugs, bulldogs, boxers, Pekinese and shih tsus
Category 1 (attack dogs) and Category 2 dogs (guard and defence dogs) are not permitted to be taken by any one under the age of 18, or by adults subject to guardianship.
- For more information on category 1 and 2 dogs check the French Bee website here.

For more info, head to French Bee’s website.

JetBlue Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)

Maximum carrier size: 17″L x 12.5″W x 8.5″H
Cost: 125 USD each way

Additional information:

For any travel to or from the following destinations, pets are not permitted in the cabin:
- London
- Jamaica
- Barbados
- Trinidad & Tobago
- St. Lucia
- Cayman Islands

For more info, head to JetBlue’s website.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

Lufthansa Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17.6 pounds (including carrier)

Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
Cost: 60 EUR international within Europe and 80-110 EUR international outside Europe

Additional information:

You must complete this form before boarding your flight.
You are not able to fly into the UK with a pet.

Visit Lufthansa’s website for more information.

TAP Air Portugal Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (including pets and carrier)
Maximum carrier size: 40 x 33 x 17cm
Cost: cost varies – check here

Aircraft Restrictions:

Pets are not permitted to be carried in Executive Class on long haul flights.
You are not able to fly into the UK with a pet.

Visit TAP Air’s website for more info.

TUI Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (excluding carrier)
Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (soft-sided crates only)

Cost: 50 EUR

Additional information:

On all long-haul international flights, pets are not allowed in the cabin.

On all non-European destinations in combination with Antwerp, dogs or cats are not allowed

Visit TUI’s website for more information.

United Airlines Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: No limit, but must fit comfortably in carrier under seat

Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 28 cm (soft-sided) / 44 x 30 x 19 cm (hard-sided)
Cost: 125 USD (+ 125 USD service charge for each stopover of more than four hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours outside the U.S)

Additional information:

Pets are not permitted in cabin on the following aircrafts:
- Boeing 757-200
- Boeing 767
- Boeing 777
- Boeing 778
United doesn’t allow pets to fly in-cabin on international flights to and from:
- Australia
- Cuba
- Guam
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Hawaii
- Hong Kong
- India
- Ireland
- Marshall Islands
- New Zealand
- Palau
- Panama
- Philippines
- Singapore
- South Africa
- Tahiti
- Trinidad and Tobago
- UK

Visit United’s website for more info.

Related post: How to get a US Pet Passport

Vueling Pet Policy.

Maximum weight: 10 kg (including carrier) or 8kg on flights operated by Iberia
Maximum carrier size: 45 x 39 x 21 cm (soft-sided crates only)
Cost: 50 EUR international

Additional information:

Vueling doesn’t allow dogs to fly in-cabin on flights to and from:
- UK
- Ireland

Visit Vueling’s website for more information.

Prepare for flying with a pet in cabin on international flights.

1. Select an appropriate, cabin-approved travel carrier.

As mentioned above, different airlines and aircrafts have different size restrictions for carriers. Be sure to check the restrictions for your specific airline, and aircraft.

For example, Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.

We would recommend using a soft sided carrier as they usually give your pet more space.

2. Get your pet used to it’s travel carrier.

When flying with a pet in cabin, they will need to stay in its travel carrier for the duration of the journey. So, it’s very important that you spend some time to get your dog used to its travel carrier.

When first introducing your pet to its carrier, take it slow. Lure your dog into their carrier with plenty of treats, and let him/her play and sleep in there as much as possible. You want to avoid forcing your pet into the carrier as this may stress him or her out and may cause a negative association to the carrier.

3. Train your pet to stay calm.

Your pet will need to be calm and well behaved when flying in cabin. If they show disruptive behaviour, they risk being sent into the cargo area of the plane.

4. Exhaust your pet before the flight.

5. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

When flying with a pet in cabin, your pet won’t be able to go potty. So, it’s a good idea to limit your pet’s access to food before the flight. Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before. Air Canada suggest feeding your dog four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel.

Line the bottom of your pet’s travel carrier with a pee pad, just incase they do have an accident.

6. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.

7. Bring along your pet’s favourite comforts.

To maximise comfort and minimise stress, pop your pet’s favourite blanket or toy in the travel carrier with them. If your pet suffers from separation anxiety, you could even pop one of your t-shirts in the carrier.

Which dog and cat breeds are not allowed in cabin on international flights?

Unfortunately, some airlines have restrictions on the dog and cat breeds they permit on their flights.

This is because of their anatomical abnormalities, short-nosed breeds may be more vulnerable to changes in air quality and temperature in the cargo hold of a plane.

Only certain airlines have these breed restrictions, so while you may not be able to fly with one airline, you may be able to fly with another. However, it’s important that you are confident your pet is healthy enough to fly.

The following brachycephalic and snub-nosed dog breeds are often not allowed in the cabin on international flights:

Affenpinscher
American Staffordshire Terrier
Boston Terriers
Boxers
Brussels Griffon
Bulldogs (all breeds)
Cane Corso
Chow Chow
Dogue De Bordeaux
English Toy Spaniel
Japanese Chin
Lhasa Apso
Mastiff (all breeds)
Pekingese
Pitbulls
Presa Canario
Pug
Shar Pei
Shih Tzu
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Tibetan Spaniel

Related post: 21 Dog Breeds That Can Fly in Cabin

The following brachycephalic and snub-nosed cat breeds are often not allowed in the cabin on international flights:

Burmese Cat
Exotic Shorthair Cat
Himalayan Cat
Persian Cat

Documents required for taking pets in cabin on international flights.

The documents required when flying with a pet in cabin will vary depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying from and to.

You will need more paperwork when traveling internationally, in most cases you will usually require the following:

Microchip certificate
Rabies vaccination certificate
Animal health certificate
Additional vaccination certificates
Rabies titer test results
Parasite treatment certificate

a) Microchip.

Many airlines require microchip documents when flying with a dog or cat in cabin. Not only is it usually a requirement, it is in your best interest. If your pet was to go missing whilst abroad, then you are far more likely to be reunited with a microchip.

Your pet can get microchipped at your local vet or a charity, such as RSPCA.

b) Rabies vaccinations.

If you want your take dog or cat on flights, it is likely that he/she requires a valid rabies vaccination. Particularly when you are taking your pet on an international flight as this is a requirement for entering most countries.

Most countries require dogs and cats to have their rabies vaccination between 30 days and 12 months prior to importing.

Related post: How Often Does a Dog Need a Rabies Shot?

c) Animal health certificate.

Most airlines will require an official animal health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian when flying with pets in cabin.

In most cases, your health certificate will also need to be endorsed by the country’s authority responsible for the import and export of animals. For example, if you are traveling from the US, you will need your documents endorsed by the USDA. If you are traveling from Canada, you will need to have your documents endorsed by CFIA.

They are normally valid for 10 days.

d) Additional vaccinations.

Depending on where you are flying to, your pet may also require additional vaccinations or treatments.

For example, Turkey requires that all dogs are vaccinated against parainfluenza, leptospirosis, parvovirus, bordetella, hepatitis and distemper before being allowed into the country.

e) Rabies titer test.

Some countries require pets to have a rabies titer test before entering. This is usually the case when you are traveling from a country that is considered high risk for rabies.

If your pet requires a titer test the process is as follows:

Your pet will have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
Your vet will then send the blood sample to an approved blood testing laboratory.
Your pet’s blood test results must show a rabies antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/ml.
You must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before you travel.
The vet will give you a copy of the test results.

f) Parasite treatment.

To enter many countries, dogs are required to be treated against internal and/or external parasites before entering. This includes treatment for tapeworm, fleas, ticks, nematodes and cestodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have to pay extra to fly with my dog in cabin?

You will yes. The amount you pay however, will differ between airlines as they charge different amounts. The charge also depends on where you are flying to and from. International flights usually cost more.

Can I fly with my pet in cabin on international flights?

You may be able to, depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying to and from. Some airlines allow dogs and cats in cabin on international flights, such as Aegean Air. Southwest, however, do not let pets in cabin on international flights.

Can I fly with my puppy or kitten in cabin?

This depends on how old your puppy is, and which airline you are flying with. Different airlines have different restrictions on the age of pets that can fly in cabin. Some require puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old, where others require them to be 16 weeks old.

Can I fly with a large dog in the cabin?

Unfortunately, unless your dog is an official service dog, only small dogs are permitted. Most airlines require that pets and travel carriers must have a combined weight of no more than 8kg. There are however some semi-private airlines that will allow large dogs in cabin.

Conclusion

Traveling with your pet is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories. Thankfully, several airlines have recognized the importance of allowing pets in the cabin on international flights and have established comprehensive pet policies to accommodate furry travellers. Whether you choose Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, or JetBlue Airways, you can rest assured that your dog will be treated with care and enjoy a safe and comfortable journey by your side.

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General

4 Things to Know About Pet Travel Insurance

Published

2 days ago

June 5, 2023

Samara Ben

Traveling with your pet can be so rewarding; but it can also be a huge hassle. Between ever-changing airline policies regarding emotional support animals, to needing to shell out a few hundred dollars for a round-trip flight for your furry friend, traveling can get complicated (and costly) fast.

And that’s if everything goes according to plan. If your pet gets sick or injured while traveling or you have to cancel a trip for an unexpected surgery, things can get really hairy. So it pays to make sure that not only you and your trip are covered by travel insurance, but your pet is, too. Here are four things to know about pet travel insurance.

1. Pet travel insurance vs. pet health insurance

First things first, is pet travel insurance different from pet health insurance? In short, yes. Pet health insurance covers your furry companion’s healthcare needs, whereas pet travel insurance is offered by businesses hired to relocate your pet and only applies to what happens between the beginning and end of a trip.

Pet health insurance covers needs like vet visits, surgery, injuries and dental work. Like your own health insurance, you will pay a monthly or annual premium and can expect deductibles of varying amounts depending on your level of coverage.

Pet travel insurance, on the other hand, only covers your pet during a set period of time. This is usually from point to point and when your pet is traveling unaccompanied, like when you are hiring a service to relocate your pet. The most important distinction is only businesses can buy pet travel insurance, not the pet owner.

🤓Nerdy Tip

“Pet flight insurance” doesn’t exist.

Fortunately, many pet health insurance policies may cover some travel cancellation and health care costs for your pet if your trip gets interrupted because your pet gets sick or injured. To find out if that’s the case, be sure to read your individual policy for details.

» Learn more: How to make traveling with your pet affordable

2. Pets aren’t covered under most normal travel insurance and trip cancellation policies

Travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance is a handy thing to have when the unexpected happens, as it can help reimburse travel costs if you have to cancel a trip or call it short due to an emergency. Unfortunately, travel insurance and trip cancellation coverage don’t typically cover pets, only human travelers.

In fact, trip cancellation insurance rarely considers pet emergencies, deaths or overbooked pet reservations on an airline as valid reasons for cancellation — though there may be exceptions made in the case of registered service animals.

That said, if you still want the option to cancel travel plans and get reimbursed for your investment in the case of a pet emergency, there may be a way: You can select a travel insurance policy with “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage, which would include pet emergencies.

» Learn more: The most pet-friendly airlines

3. Some pet insurance only covers your pet in the U.S.

While there are some pet health insurance companies that offer cat and dog travel insurance coverage in the form of health care treatment when you’re away from home, not all provide coverage in all places. Some may only cover health issues and care within the U.S. and Canada, while others may reimburse you for services abroad, too (though they may be limited to certain countries).

So before you pick a plan, make sure to read the fine print to know if your pet is covered wherever you plan on traveling together, especially if you’re headed overseas.

» Learn more: How to fly with a dog

4. Pets may require additional info to fly

Do pets need insurance to fly? Generally no, though depending on the airline, you may be required to bring other information and documentation with you when you travel with an animal. Check with your specific airline before booking to ensure you’re following protocol and you don’t miss your flight for lack of appropriate paperwork.

If you’re traveling internationally with your pet and your destination country allows four-legged visitors (not all do), you’ll need an international health certificate and will be required to adhere to any specific requirements set forth by that country.

You can check the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service site from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for regulations by country.

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Pet travel insurance considerations, recapped

Traveling with a pet can be complicated and costly, but pet insurance can bring peace of mind whether you’re road tripping across the country or flying around the world.

Just make sure before you head off on your adventure to check and make sure that your pet’s health insurance policy covers veterinary treatment where you’re headed, find out whether your travel insurance offers coverage for trip cancellation or interruptions insurance because of sick pets, and consider getting a “Cancel For Any Reason” policy so you can change your plans for any and all pet-related reasons.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for: