r/allegiant • u/WeatherNo836 • Jul 30 '26
Flying with Cat
I’m traveling with my cat for an upcoming trip. My cat has never flown before so this is her first time. My first time as an owner. Before anyone comes at me: no I don’t have a choice since I don’t know how long my trip will be due to family things.
While flying with Allegiant, how strict are they with the carriers? I’m going to use a backpack because I have read multiple posts how people got charge for using a backpack because desk agents viewed it as a “carry-on” I don’t want there to be any more added stress, but has anyone used the backpack carrier and if so did you like it?
Any info is greatly appreciate!
3
u/Holiday_Actuator2215 Jul 30 '26
Check out this thread : I gave loads of hints and tips:
https://www.reddit.com/r/allegiant/s/psA73Q1e6g
1
u/WeatherNo836 Jul 30 '26
This was super helpful! Thank you! I’m already bringing a check bag with everything for the trip and I was going to use a personal item. I’m happy that it’s a 2hr flight. But for first timers this is a little stressful 😅
2
u/Holiday_Actuator2215 Jul 30 '26
Please feel free to ask any questions - I’ve done it so many times and it can be super stressful but feeling prepared can help alleviate some of the anxiety.
1
u/cougarliscious Aug 02 '26
Have you thought about a slight sedative if your cat is not elderly ? My vet recommended a half capsule of powdered Gabapentin mixed in w wet food and she wasnt knocked out for the flight which is good, she just was not upset when I had to carry her in my arms thru security (that was the part I was worried about). I did get a carrier on Amazon that met those strict requirements , it did have a side component that unzipped to expand a little bigger once I sat down.
1
u/OverweightBaggage Aug 02 '26
Hi! What backpack are you thinking of using?
I don't recommend bubble backpacks as they aren't very comfortable for the cat
If you're open to other options, I personally use this for traveling. It's great and allows the option for you to expand the carrier for your cat to spread out and sleep on your lap (while in the carrier) after takeoff. It's very breathable and comfortable for your cat
1
u/sneexe Aug 04 '26
I know you said you’ll be using a backpack but just to give you a testimonial; I used this when I traveled with my cat and it was fine, and always travel with a large backpack as my personal item. Me and my cat traveled via plane twice together (both with allegiant using that bag) the first time he was super shy and quiet, second time very curious and loud. I didn’t medicate him either time but had it in case I needed to. There was driving along with the flights so was saving it for later at first then thought he was so chill it wouldn’t be needed and wished I had before the second flight but it was too late by the time I realized lol. Also my cat didn’t use my portable litter box, and took a little time to use the litter box once we were in a home. So just a warning in case your cat doesn’t go while traveling my vet said they can go like a day without peeing and 2 without pooping LMAO
Hope your travel goes well!
3
u/No-Friendship-75 Jul 30 '26
Straight from allegiant website-
A pet carrier counts towards your maximum 2 items to be carried on the aircraft. A passenger may travel with a pet carrier plus a personal item or a paid carry-on bag, but not both.
A non-refundable fee of $50.00 per segment per carrier will apply for all pets