Introduction
As summer vacation plans take shape, many pet owners are considering bringing their furry friends along for the adventure. Whether it’s a flight to an international destination or a hotel stay, understanding the requirements and additional costs is crucial for a smooth journey with your pet.
Air Travel
When flying with your pet, there are two primary options: in the cabin with you or as checked baggage. The in-cabin choice has weight restrictions, typically not exceeding 12 kilograms. Checked baggage requires a suitable pet carrier.
Aeroméxico’s Policies:
According to Aeroméxico, pets traveling in the cabin must be transported in a special carrier that doesn’t inconvenience other passengers or pose a safety risk during takeoff and landing. Each flight allows a maximum of two pets in Premier cabin and four in the tourist cabin. Pets must be at least eight months old, have up-to-date vaccination records, and a health certificate from a vet.
Microchipping is mandatory for countries like the US or EU. The chip should be scannable, and the cost ranges from 480 to 1,000 pesos, depending on whether it includes a pet passport with all necessary certifications.
Documented pets must weigh no more than 45 kilograms and travel in a carrier as checked baggage. The documentation process is similar, and sedation might be recommended based on your pet’s temperament and a vet’s advice.
Travel costs vary by airline: Aeroméxico charges 1,350 pesos for domestic flights and 3,250 pesos for international ones. VivaAerobus offers a cheaper option at 1,100 pesos for documented pets.
Pet-Friendly Hotels
Finding a hotel that welcomes pets and ensures a pleasant stay is equally important. Not all hotels allow animals, and those that do may charge extra fees.
Gretel Perera’s Advice:
Gretel Perera, a director at Expedia, suggests using travel agency platforms to filter for pet-friendly hotels. She advises checking each property’s specific policies regarding the number of pets per room, weight limits, nightly charges, and included services.
Some hotels offer welcome kits for pets, special beds, and open areas. Pet fees vary by property; some charge nothing, while others may reach 50 USD (approximately 1,000 pesos) per night.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What are the options for traveling with pets by air? A: You can choose to have your pet in the cabin with you (up to 12 kg) or as checked baggage.
- Q: What are Aeroméxico’s requirements for in-cabin pets? A: Pets must be in a special carrier, be at least eight months old, have updated vaccinations, and a health certificate from a vet. Microchipping is mandatory.
- Q: How much does it cost to travel with a pet on Aeroméxico? A: The cost ranges from 1,350 pesos for domestic flights to 3,250 pesos for international ones.
- Q: How can I find pet-friendly hotels? A: Use travel agency platforms with filters for pet-friendly accommodations and review each property’s specific policies.
- Q: What are the typical pet fees at hotels? A: Some hotels charge nothing, while others may reach around 1,000 pesos per night.
