Traveling with pets: fares, rules, and tips for a stress-free flight

Travelling with your dog, cat, or another pet is more common than you might think. But to make sure everything goes smoothly when departing from Spain, planning is essential: knowing airline fees, meeting health requirements, and choosing the right carrier. At aparca&go, we explain what you need to know to fly with your furry companion from Spain without any surprises.

1. What requirements must you meet to fly with your pet from Spain?

Although details vary depending on the airline and destination, these are the basic requirements:

Microchip and rabies vaccination
Your pet must be identified with a microchip (or an approved tattoo if allowed) before or at the same time as the rabies vaccination. The vaccination must also be valid.

Passport or health certificate
To travel within the EU, a “pet passport” is usually required. For travel outside the EU, specific health certificates may be required.

Approved carrier and weight limit
If your pet travels in the cabin, many airlines require that the combined weight of the carrier + pet does not exceed approximately 8 kg and that the carrier dimensions meet their requirements.

Verification with the airline
Each airline defines its own policy: which breeds are allowed (for example, brachycephalic breeds often have restrictions), which routes permit pets, and whether the pet can travel in the cabin or in the hold. Example: Iberia sets an 8 kg limit including the carrier for cabin travel and has clearly defined fees.

2. How much does it cost to fly with a pet from Spain?

The fees you can expect for flights departing from Spain are generally as follows:

• On domestic or European routes, bringing a pet in the cabin may cost around €40.

• For travel in the hold (larger dogs/cats that cannot travel in the cabin), prices may rise to approximately €80–120 on European routes.

• On long-haul flights, for example to the USA or Asia, fees can increase to approximately €150–300 or more.

• For Iberia: for example, for pets weighing up to 10 kg, the hold fee from Spain is €85 per segment.

From aparca&go, we recommend booking your pet’s spot in advance when purchasing your ticket. Airlines have limited capacity for animals. Always check the current fee for your specific flight and destination, as additional charges may apply depending on connections, destination, and weight.

3. Specifics in Spain and what to check before your flight

If you are departing from Spain, keep these key points in mind:

• Some Spanish airlines prohibit transporting pets in certain seats (for example, Business Class) or on specific routes.

• If you have a layover in another country, transit requirements may vary (and both you and your pet may be subject to the regulations of the transit country, not only the departure or arrival country).

• Within Spain, in addition to air transport procedures, make sure your pet’s health record is up to date, the rabies vaccination is valid (in regions where it is mandatory), and your pet is properly identified.

4. Tips to make your pet’s journey as comfortable as possible

Here are some best practices to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Get your pet used to the carrier in advance: let them feel comfortable and use it at home a few days before the flight.

• Feed your pet moderately a few hours before the flight (for example, 4–6 hours), and avoid giving water right before boarding; bring water for later.

• Avoid sedation without veterinary supervision: flights involve pressure and environmental changes that can affect animals.

• Make sure the carrier has a label with your contact details, is the right size, and complies with airline regulations.

• Carry or print all documents: pet passport, health certificates, vaccination records, microchip information, etc.

• Arrive at the airport with plenty of time, as check-in for pets usually takes longer.

Travelling with your pet can be a very rewarding experience if properly planned. At aparca&go, we encourage you to plan ahead, check the conditions of your chosen airline, review your pet’s documents, and make sure everything is in order.

Ready to fly with your furry companion? Start by checking:

• The airline’s pet policy.

• Health requirements for your destination and any layovers.

• Booking your pet’s spot as early as possible.

Have a great trip!