General

The EU bans U.S. travelers: What that means & where you can go instead

Published

4 months ago

February 8, 2023

Samara Ben

The EU bans U.S. travelers: What that means & where you can go instead

July 1, 2020 By Alexandra Maloney

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The European Union announced it will ease restrictions on non-essential travel and allow residents of just 15 countries to enter their borders. But their list is pretty exclusive, and the United States didn’t make the cut.

This may seem like a downer, but if you’ve caught the travel bug during quarantine, don’t let the E.U. ban stop you from hopping a flight or booking a hotel, because there are many other international locations open to U.S. residents.

Here’s everything we know about the travel ban and our top five travel destinations (outside of the E.U.) that you can visit now.

Note: The U.S. government still advises against non-essential international travel. If you do travel internationally, make sure to check with your physician, follow health officials’ guidance and research local travel restrictions before you decide to book a trip.

What is the European Union travel ban?

In a nutshell, the travel ban means that as long as coronavirus cases continue to steadily increase in the U.S., the majority of Europe is off-limits to U.S. residents. For the 15 countries the E.U. has permitted, starting on July 1st, 2020, residents will be able to visit for tourism and non-essential purposes. For the United States, non-essential travelers will be kept out of these countries until the travel ban is lifted.

The European Union includes 27 European countries, and Schengen states like Iceland are also participating in the ban, so U.S. residents are not permitted in over 30 countries for the foreseeable future.

How long is the ban in effect?

The E.U. stated that the ban will be re-evaluated and updated every two weeks, allowing for more countries to enter as they meet the criteria the E.U. has created. Countries are evaluated on the basis of the epidemiological situation and containment measures, including physical distancing, as well as economic and social considerations, according to the report.

The E.U. specifically looks for available information on COVID-19 (such as test numbers, containment and treatment reporting), a steady 14 day decline in positive cases and a number of new cases to be below the E.U. average in a country. When a country meets these standards, its residents will be permitted to enter.

As of right now, there is no clear date or timeline for when U.S. residents will be able to enter the E.U. again.

Where other options do Americans have?

A travel ban on over 30 countries might seem like it limits travel options, but there are still amazing destinations Americans are allowed to travel to. Here’s a list of countries and US territories currently (or about to) open to US tourists:

Antigua and Barbuda
Aruba
The Bahamas

Barbados
Bermuda
The Dominican Republic

French Polynesia
Jamaica
Puerto Rico

The Maldives
Mexico
St Barths

St. Lucia
Saint Maarten
St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Seychelles
Turks and Caicos
Turkey

The U.S. Virgin Islands

We’ve highlighted a few of our favorites and how they’re accommodating tourists during this turbulent time:

Aruba

On July 10th, 2020, the happy island will officially open its borders to all leisure travelers from the United States. Aruba relies heavily on the revenue from tourists and is eager to get the industry back up and running post-coronavirus.

The opening comes with restrictions to keep everyone on the island healthy and safe, but it’s only a few extra steps to add to your travel to-do list. Those visiting Aruba need to apply for an Embarkment/Disembarkment card to enter. The process requires the following to be completed:

Provide basic information
Complete a personal health assessment

Present a negative COVID-19 test (or you take one at the Aruba airport)
Present insurance coverage
Consent to Aruba’s government rules.

As long as you fulfill these requirements and test negative for COVID-19, the island of Aruba welcomes tourists with open arms. The government encourages you to have your mask handy and follow social distancing protocol on the island. Besides that, you’re free to enjoy the sunny weather, beautiful beaches and lively entertainment Aruba has to offer.

Insider Tip: Check out Million Mile Secrets’ tips on how to arrive and stay in Aruba using points and miles!

Barbados

Non-essential travel to Barbados is expected to return on July 25th, 2020, with flights leaving from major hubs in the United States, like New York and Miami.

Similar to Aruba, there are a few stipulations for travel. All travelers entering Barbados must present a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of commencement of travel. Additionally, Barbados has its own version of an Embarkment/Disembarkment card that travelers get by answering questions about their personal health. This card and the negative COVID-19 test certificate must be kept with you at all times while in the country. Barbados offers travelers a variety of activities to partake in during their stay — everything from adventure courses, to beaches, to taste-tests of traditional island food are available to healthy tourists.

The Maldives

Tourism is the biggest contributor to the economy of The Maldives, and the president of the country announced he is excited to kick start the industry on July 15th, 2020 when it re-opens its borders for all international tourists.

The Maldives are taking a variety of measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 as they invite tourists back, and have elected to open up in phases. All travelers must book with tourism establishments that have been registered and approved by the Ministry of Tourism for the Maldives. Additionally, all travel accommodations must be booked on tourist-only/resort islands starting July 15th, 2020 until hotels, resorts and rental homes on inhabited islands open for bookings on August 1st, 2020.

Additionally, a health declaration card must be completed on the flight over and anyone displaying symptoms of COVID-19 will not be admitted to enter the country.

The Maldives is 99% water and only 1% land, so it’s the perfect destination for those who enjoy the beach, the thrills of the water, or want a luxury getaway with beautiful ocean views. There are plenty of great points hotels in the Maldives where you can get great value from your points, like the Park Hyatt Maldives or the St. Regis Maldives.

St. Lucia

This Caribbean island is excited to welcome back tourists and has been operating with open borders for U.S. residents since June 4th, 2020.

Like other island and tropical destinations, St. Lucia will require presentation of a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Tourism is an industry St. Lucia takes seriously, as it accounts for 65% of total GDP. Therefore the island wants to keep tourists safe and has required all hotels, taxi services and tourism groups to apply for COVID-19 certification, where they will be assessed by the government and deemed eligible to accommodate tourists. The country is only in phase one of its reopening plan, so things like rental cars and indoor dining will not be available. Additionally, masks are required in public settings.

Until July, 31st, 2020 when phase two starts and more things begin opening, St. Lucia will be a relaxing, lowkey getaway. Not too many tourist attractions and sites are currently open, (but a few can be booked through your hotel) but you shouldn’t have a problem enjoying beaches or pools around the country.

Turkey

The Turkish government announced the reopening of its borders on June 11th, 2020 and Turkish Airlines has restarted some of its nonstop flights between Turkey and the U.S. and will resume more U.S. routes through July.

The country has developed a Safe Tourism initiative to ensure travelers and citizens are healthy and safe during their time in Turkey. The program includes thermal temperature checks upon arrival, government-certified safe accommodations, restaurants and tour/transfer vehicles. All guests of the country will be required to wear masks and maintain social distancing protocols throughout their stay.

Istanbul has recently reopened it’s Grand Bazaar, one of the largest markets in the world. That, along with the plethora of shops and museums, could make Turkey a great destination for someone looking for a more fast-paced and exciting city getaway.

Insider Tip: Turkish Airlines has a great rewards program, and you can transfer Citi ThankYou points to them for incredibly cheap mileage redemptions!

Things to consider before booking a trip

You may get stuck or have to quarantine in a country if you contract the coronavirus

While travel is fun and exciting, the pandemic isn’t over and there’s still a chance you’ll contract the coronavirus while traveling. Throughout your trip, make sure you are conscious of your surroundings, wear a mask and maintain social distancing whenever possible. If you are feeling sick, make sure you self-isolate immediately and see a doctor if necessary.

But even with those precautions, the possibility of contracting the virus is heightened because you’ll likely be around larger crowds than you would be at home. If you decide to travel, make sure you are aware, willing and able to self-quarantine in the country you are visiting for an extended amount of time. All places that are opening their borders for international travel are taking the pandemic seriously and exercising extreme caution, so it’s possible you won’t be able to travel back home until you test negative. Just be prepared in case your vacation turns into quarantining alone in a hotel room!

Tourist sites may be closed, so expect a different type of trip than normal

As many travel destinations are re-opening in phases, a lot of attractions and tourist destinations may not be ready for visitors yet, or they may be operating at lower than normal capacity. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it just means your vacation will be a little more low-maintenance than you’re used to.

Before visiting a destination, be sure to research what you can and cannot do in that location. If a must-see attraction for you isn’t open yet, wait to book your trip. If there are no deal-breakers, go ahead and enjoy a relaxing vacation filled with nature, scenery and self-guided exploring.

Travel restrictions can change quickly, so try and avoid non-refundable bookings

As we’ve seen with the E.U. travel ban, places where people can and cannot travel change rapidly and with little warning. Because of this, it’s a good idea to book refundable travel. That way, you’ll be able to get your money (or points and miles) back, as well as change your trip to a later date if you find out a travel ban has been implemented in a country you were planning on visiting.

Bottom line

The combination of the coronavirus pandemic and the E.U. travel ban definitely makes it more difficult for U.S. residents itching to travel, but it’s not impossible. Slowly but surely, destinations are opening up their borders to U.S. residents. These five countries and more are taking steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of travelers and to fight against the spread of the coronavirus.

If you’re thinking about traveling internationally, your trip will look a little different than what you’re used to — as long as you practice safe and correct protocol. While the E.U. travel ban is in place, the rest of the world awaits you until it lifts, even during the coronavirus pandemic!

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General

Published

22 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

22 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.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

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: