Bringing your pet into the cabin during a flight — more and more airlines allow it, but each one sets its own rules for the maximum carrier size and weight. Finding out at check-in that your bag is just a bit too big is a frustrating surprise. In this article we've gathered the key size limits and help you pick the right carrier.
1. Why do carrier dimensions matter so much?
Unlike checked baggage, there's no single European standard for in-cabin pets: each airline sets its own maximum length, width and height for the carrier, as well as the maximum combined weight of pet and carrier. These limits are often slightly smaller than "normal" carry-on baggage sizes, since the carrier needs to fit flat under the seat in front of you during take-off and landing.
A carrier that's accepted by one airline may be just too big for another. That's why it pays to check your specific airline's requirements before you buy a carrier or book your flight.
2. Pet carrier size chart by airline (cabin)
Below is an overview of the maximum cabin size for a number of popular European airlines. This overview is based on our own size guide for European airlines (PDF), which we also use on our product pages.
| Airline | Max. carrier dimensions (cm) | Max. weight |
|---|---|---|
| KLM / Air France | 46 x 28 x 24 cm | 8 kg |
| Lufthansa / SWISS / Brussels Airlines | 55 x 40 x 23 cm | 8 kg |
| Finnair | 55 x 40 x 23 cm (soft) / 35 x 30 x 20 cm (hard) | 8 kg |
| TAP Air Portugal | 45 x 30 x 23 cm | 8 kg |
| Iberia | 45 x 35 x 25 cm | 8 kg |
| Vueling | 45 x 39 x 21 cm | 10 kg |
| ITA Airways | 55 x 40 x 23 cm | 8 kg |
| SAS | 40 x 25 x 23 cm | 8 kg |
| Norwegian | 43 x 31 x 20 cm | 8 kg |
| Aegean Airlines | 55 x 40 x 23 cm (Airbus) / 40 x 25 x 25 cm (ATR/DH8) | varies by aircraft |
Important to know: airlines update their policies regularly, and rules can vary by aircraft type or route. The figures above are a guideline based on the most recent information we could find. SalesDepot.eu and TAVO are not responsible for changes to airline policies. Always check the exact dimensions, weight limits and conditions directly with your airline well before your departure date.
3. Which carrier fits these requirements?
At SalesDepot.eu you'll find several carriers designed to meet the main European cabin requirements:
- TAVO Dupree II — crash-tested ISOFIX car seat that also fits under the seat in front of you during the flight thanks to its flexible frame. One bag for both car and plane, from €269
- Sleepypod Air 2 — compresses to fit under the airline seat and expands for extra legroom, certified up to 8 kg, from €219
- Sleepypod Atom — extra compact airline bag, ideal for smaller dogs and cats, from €199
- Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed — luxury 3-in-1 pet bed, carrier and car seat, from €269
Torn between two models? Always compare the exact outer dimensions of the carrier (folded and unfolded) with the table above, and with your airline's current rules.
4. Practical tips for a stress-free flight with your pet
- Book early — most airlines only allow one or a few pets per flight in the cabin, so register your pet as early as possible.
- Let your pet get used to the carrier — set it up at home several weeks before departure so it feels like a familiar, safe space.
- Weigh pet and carrier together — most airlines count the combined weight of your pet and the bag itself towards the limit.
- Bring the right documents — think of your pet's passport, any required health certificate, and your destination country's entry conditions.
- Make sure there's enough ventilation — choose a carrier with mesh panels on multiple sides, like the TAVO and Sleepypod models above.
Looking for more travel solutions for getting around with your pet — by car, train or plane? Browse the full travel range at SalesDepot.eu.
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