Most airlines allow small pets to be transported in a travel carrier, but what happens if you need to transport your hamster? Are hamsters allowed on planes?
Hamsters are allowed on planes, but Frontier Airlines is the only American airline that allows them in the cabin. Many other airlines transport hamsters but require them to travel in a secure carrier in the luggage hold.
In this article, I’ll provide an in-depth explanation of the rules around taking hamsters on planes. I’ll also give you some helpful tips on making your hamster comfortable in transit. Let’s get started!
Can You Take a Hamster on a Plane?
You can take a hamster on a plane and keep them in the cabin, but the only US-based airline that allows this is Frontier Airlines. Other airlines allow hamsters, but they must travel in a carrier in the luggage hold.
If you want to travel with your hamster on a Frontier Airlines flight, here’s what you need to know:
- You must pay a $99 one-way fee to bring your hamster on the flight.
- Your hamster must travel in a carrier, and you are allowed to transport two pets in one carrier.
- The carrier should be small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you.
Rules for Taking a Hamster on a Plane
Taking a hamster on a plane can be tricky since each airline has its own pet travel policy.
Aside from Alaska and Frontier Airlines, below here are some other non-US airlines that allow hamsters on flights:
- Air Europa
- KLM
- British Airways
- Air France
If they allow hamsters on board, airlines have similar rules regarding hamster transportation:
- The hamster must be in a carry-on travel container with ventilation holes on two sides and be leak-proof.
- Some airlines do not allow hamsters in the cabin. In such cases, your hamster will travel in the luggage hold, which is pressurized and climate controlled.
- The travel container should only be big enough to go under the seat in front of you and counts as one of your allotted carry-ons.
- Your hamster must stay in the carrier throughout the flight (including the time spent at the airport).
- Each airline reserves the right to deny your pet when boarding.
How To Make Your Hamster Comfortable for a Flight
Making your hamster comfortable will make the flight less stressful for both of you. Below are some essential tips for keeping your hamster safe and comfortable while traveling:
- Hamsters do not require vaccinations, but the airline may ask for proof of a veterinarian visit. You should take your hamster to the vet within two weeks of your travel date.
- Ensure your hamster has a water bottle at all times. Ensuring that your hamster has a supply of fresh water can help prevent dehydration. You may also want to include some pieces of cucumber for additional hydration.
- Keep your hamster cool. Hamsters can overheat quickly, so ensure that the carrier has plenty of ventilation holes. If your hamster is allowed on board, bring a battery-operated fan to help keep them cool.
- Include some familiar items in the carrier. Place some of the hamster’s current bedding or favorite items in the travel crate. The familiar scent can help calm them.
Conclusion
If you want to travel with your hamster, you should use an airline, such as Frontier Airlines, that allows hamsters on board. Many other airlines transport hamsters, but they require hamsters to travel in the luggage hold, which is pressurized and temperature controlled.
If you ensure that your hamster’s carrier is well-ventilated and comfortable, they should have a hassle-free flight.