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5 Must-Have Products for Flying with Your Dog
Traveling with your dog by plane? Make it smoother and less stressful with these trusted essentials.
Flying with your dog—whether across the country or across the globe—takes more than just booking a ticket. From airport chaos to cabin restrictions, the right gear can make a huge difference for you and your furry co-pilot.
Here are five must-have travel products to keep your pup safe, calm, and comfortable on your next flight.
1. Airline-Approved Pet Carrier
If your dog is small enough to fly in the cabin, an airline-approved soft-sided pet carrier is essential. Look for one that’s lightweight, collapsible, and easy to stow under the seat in front of you.
💡 Pro tip: Start crate training several weeks in advance! Let your pup nap or hang out in the carrier at home to build positive associations.
✅ Check out this top-rated soft-sided carrier on Amazon
Flying cargo? Larger dogs will need a hard-shell kennel that meets airline guidelines. Click here to read our comparison guide to heavy-duty travel crates.
2. Two-Point Support Harness
Navigating busy airports, escalators, and terminal chaos can be overwhelming, especially for older dogs or those with mobility challenges. A two-point support harness gives you better control and allows you to help your pup up stairs or over obstacles without straining them.
✅ View this highly recommended support harness on Amazon
3. Kennel-Mounted Water Bowl
If your dog is flying in cargo, fixed-position water and food bowls are often required by airlines. They ensure your pet has access to hydration throughout the flight and can be given a meal by airline crew in the event of unexpected delays, and unlike loose bowls, they won’t spill or slide around!
✅ Shop this airline-compliant kennel water bowl on Amazon
💡 Tip: Before the pandemic it was common for airlines to provide these for your trip, however now many airlines may no longer do and require you to plan ahead and pack your own.
4. Hands-Free Travel Backpack (for You!)
When you’re managing leashes, documents, and possibly an anxious pup, you don’t want your hands tied up with roller bags or totes. A comfortable travel backpack lets you move freely through security and terminals, with all your essentials right on your back.
✅ Browse this sleek and travel-friendly backpack on Amazon
💡 Tip: Maximize space with these smart packing cubes:
✅ Get organized with these top-rated cubes on Amazon
5. Calming Pheromone Spray
Airports and airplanes are full of new sounds and smells that can stress out even the chillest of pups. A calming pheromone spray mimics the soothing scents a mother dog gives off, offering comfort without sedation.
✅ Explore this vet-approved pheromone spray on Amazon
💡 Bonus tip: Rub your dog’s bedding with your hands or snuggle with it in advance. Your scent can help comfort them when you’re apart!
Final Thoughts
Preparing your dog for air travel takes more than just a leash and good intentions. With the right gear—and a little advance training—you can make the journey safer, calmer, and more enjoyable for both of you.
Safe travels and tail wags! 🐶✈️
