Best Pet Carriers for Flying in the Cabin with Virgin Australia

It’s fabulous that Virgin Australia has started allowing pets to fly in the cabin on flights within Australia. But there’s a long list of rules that you’ll need to follow, including the selection of a pet carrier. Find out more about the carrier rules and some pet carriers that fit the requirements.

Rules for Pet Carriers in the Cabin on Virgin Flights

All pets flying in the cabin on Virgin Australia flights will need to fly in an approved pet carrier bag – they aren’t allowed to simply fly on your lap! Virgin Australia have listed a number of rules for pet carriers.

The pet carrier will need to be a soft-sided bag that fits underneath the seat in front of you. Throughout the flight, your pet will need to remain securely zipped up inside of it.

Virgin have stipulated that the pet carrier should be a maximum size of 44cm long x 26cm wide x 28cm high. I believe they check the carrier size for every pet. I don’t know if there’s any wiggle room if your carrier is over by a 1 or 2cm, like often occurs overseas – it’s best to stick to the given dimensions.

The carrier needs to be secure and escape-proof, with all but one of the openings secured with cable ties, prior to your arrival at the airport. (And I believe the final opening is secured with a cable tie for the duration of the flight.) Totes that don’t zip up aren’t allowed.

The carrier should be well-ventilated, with mesh on multiple sides. The base needs to be leakproof and it should be lined with an absorbent mat.

It’s also important the carrier is large enough for your pet to stand up, sit down, turn around and lay down comfortably inside of it, when it is zipped up. A maximum weight of 8kg also applies for your pet and the carrier combined, so lighter carriers are better for pets closer to the limit.

Possible Pet Carriers for Virgin Flights

Pet stores in Australia have not traditionally sold carriers for pets flying and on public transport, unlike overseas in Europe and the United States where they are common. However, a growing number of stores are stocking som suitable carriers. Check out these options…

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Petbarn: All Day Pet Carrier

The All Day Pet Carrier from Petbarn is exactly the maximum dimensions provided by Virgin Australia, meaning it’ll fit on the flight and provide the most room for your pet. It’s lightweight with mesh windows on the side and top, and has a handy pocket. It’s also available in grey.

PetCircle: All for Paws Pet travel Cabin Carry Bag

The All for Paws Pet Travel Cabin Carry Bag from Pet Circle is slightly smaller, at 43cm long x 25cm wide x 26cm high. But it’s quite an affordable option (just $27.99 when I last checked) and it only weighs 660g. It has both padded handles and a shoulder strap, plus multiple pockets.

Preparations Before Your Flight

Once you purchase your pet carrier and well before your flight, double check everything. Make sure that the carrier does indeed meet all the requirements, including the maximum size. Plus make sure your pet comfortably fits in the carrier, including standing up and turning around.

It’s also a good idea to get your pet used to their carrier before the flight. Take them on other trips in the carrier, whether in your car or on public transport where permitted (such as the trains and trams in Melbourne). Also encourage them to sleep in the carrier. During the flight they’ll need to be happy staying inside – you won’t be able to take them out.

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