How Much Does It REALLY Cost to Fly Your Pet in Australia? (We Crunched the Numbers)
Share
Moving interstate can be stressful enough, but when you're bringing your pet along for the ride, the stakes feel even higher. You want to make sure your furry friend gets to your new home safely, but what often surprises people is how much it can cost to fly a pet domestically. It’s not as simple as booking a ticket for yourself—there are extra costs involved, and they can add up quickly.
I’ve seen many pet owners get caught off guard by the final bill for flying their pets. Pet transportation isn't cheap and In this article, I’m going to break down exactly what goes into the cost of flying a pet in Australia, so you’ll be fully prepared and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Flying Your Pet
The total cost of flying your pet depends on several factors, and it can vary significantly based on your pet's size, the distance you're traveling, and the airline’s policies. Let’s dive into the key cost factors you need to consider.
Airline Cargo Fees for Pet Travel
First things first, in Australia, pets must travel as cargo. Whether you’re flying with Qantas, Virgin Australia, or Rex Airlines, your pet will be in the cargo hold, not in the cabin with you. While the cargo hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled, this arrangement comes with extra fees.
Cargo Fees Based on Pet Size and Weight
The fees you’ll pay depend on your pet’s size and weight, and airlines will charge you based on the space your pet’s crate takes up. The larger your pet, the higher the cost. For example Qantas pet travel for a small dog might cost you around $300 - 500 for a domestic flight, but a large dog could easily push the cost to $1300 - 1600 or more. The pricing will be specific to size plus also the routing you are looking to take.
When I helped relocate a client’s Labrador from Brisbane to Tasmania, they were surprised to learn that their pet’s weight and crate size meant the cargo fee was almost double what they initially expected. The pet weighed over 20 kg, and with the crate included, the costs quickly added up.
Qantas Pet Freight Charges
Qantas is one of the most popular choices for pet transport in Australia, and they provide clear pricing based on your pet’s weight and destination. For example:
- Small pets (under 10 kg): Expect to pay around $300-500, depending on distance.
- Medium pets (10–25 kg): You’re looking at $700-1200, depending on distance.
- Large pets (over 25 kg): This could range from $1300 and over, depending on distance.
Qantas also offers a special service for pets flying long distances or in extreme temperatures, which can add to the cost if you’re flying across the country or during the hot summer months.
If you would like to make a booking you can book through www.freight.qantas.com/pets.html
Virgin Australia Pet Freight Fees
Virgin Australia also charges based on the weight of your pet and their crate. Their pricing is similar to Qantas, but they may have slightly different rates depending on your destination and whether your flight is direct or requires connections.
If you would like more information about Virgin's pet travel you can reach them on their website www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/travel-info/specific-travel/pets/#pet-travel
The Cost of an Airline-Approved Crate
One of the biggest costs that people often forget about is the crate. If your pet’s crate isn’t approved by the airline, they won’t be allowed to board the flight. The crate needs to meet IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards, which means it has to be sturdy, well-ventilated, and secure.
What Does an Airline-Approved Crate Cost?
For a small dog or cat, you might be able to find a crate for around $90 to $150. But for larger pets, the crate can easily cost between $200 and $800. These crates aren’t cheap, but they’re an essential investment to ensure your pet travels safely.
One of my clients had a large Great Dane and had to purchase a special IATA-compliant crate for around $1200. They weren’t too happy about the cost, but once they understood how much comfort and safety it provided for their dog, they saw it as money well spent.
Vet Costs for Pre-Flight Health Certificates
Before your pet can board a flight, some Australian states and airlines require a health certificate from your vet. This ensures that your pet is healthy and fit to fly, and most importantly, that they’re not carrying any diseases. Typically this is only required if your pet is over the age of 12 years.
How Much Does a Vet Check-Up Cost?
A basic health check for your pet in Australia will generally cost around $100 to $150, depending on your vet. If your pet needs additional vaccinations or treatments before the flight, that will add to the bill.
Additional Costs to Consider
While the cargo fee, crate, and vet check are the main expenses, there are a few other costs that pet owners often overlook when budgeting for air travel.
1. Ground Transport Fees
If you can’t personally transport your pet to the airport, you may need to hire a pet transport service. This can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the distance from your home to the airport.
2. Pet Insurance
While not mandatory, pet travel insurance is something to consider. It’s an extra layer of protection in case something goes wrong during transit. Insurance can cost anywhere from $40 to $200, depending on the level of coverage and the length of your trip.
3. Pet Comfort Items
Many pet owners want to make sure their pets are comfortable during the flight, so don’t forget to budget for things like travel mats, absorbent pads, and water bowls for the crate. These items may seem small, but they can add another $30 to $100 to your total costs.
Common Mistakes That Can Lead to Extra Charges
Now that you know the key cost factors, let’s talk about a few common mistakes that can lead to extra charges.
Last-Minute Bookings
Booking your pet’s cargo space at the last minute can lead to higher fees. I’ve had clients who waited too long to book, and as a result, they had to pay a premium to secure their pet’s spot on the plane. Always try to book as far in advance as possible to avoid these additional costs.
Wrong Crate Size
If you arrive at the airport with the wrong size crate, not only will your pet be unable to fly, but you’ll likely have to scramble to buy a new one on the spot. Often the crates at the airport come at a premium price.
How to Save Money on Pet Air Travel
While flying a pet isn’t cheap, there are ways to keep costs down.
1. Book Early
As mentioned earlier, booking your pet’s flight well in advance is the best way to secure lower cargo fees.
2. Buy a Quality Crate That Lasts
While a high-quality crate may seem expensive upfront, it’s an investment that will last through multiple flights. Buying a well-made, IATA-approved crate will save you from having to replace it down the line.
3. Look for Pet Travel Promotions
Some airlines occasionally offer promotions or discounts on pet travel. If your dates are flexible, keep an eye out for these deals to save a bit on cargo fees.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead and Budget Smartly
Flying your pet interstate in Australia isn’t cheap, but by understanding the costs upfront and planning carefully, you can avoid unexpected expenses. From airline cargo fees to vet checks and crate costs, every little bit adds up.
The most important thing to remember? Don’t cut corners when it comes to your pet’s comfort and safety. Flying with an approved crate, having the necessary paperwork, and booking early will ensure a smooth experience for both you and your furry friend.