Your summer holiday might be more expensive this year if you are planning on flying with some European companies.
09.02.2024 - 18:43 / cntraveler.com
My cat, Isabelle, has accompanied me on more than 35 flights in the past two and a half years. She even has her own European Union pet passport, so she has definitely reached frequent flier status. We’ve flown between North America, South America, and Europe, accumulating thousands of miles and dozens of hours in the air.
Throughout that time, I’ve gone through a lot of trial and error to make flying as simple as possible for both of us. We are full-time digital nomads, learning lessons about what actually works (and what doesn’t). Below, my favorite gear to make flying with a cat (or dog) a breeze, even on long-hauls.
The most critical piece of gear when flying with a pet is the carrier. I’ve used the Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack for two and a half years, and I couldn’t recommend it more. It easily fits under the seat in front of you on almost any plane—from a first-class flight from North Carolina to Miami to a tiny economy-only plane flying from Bulgaria to Greece, the carrier has seen it all.
I prefer a backpack over a traditional carrier due to the ease of use while wandering through the airport or a city. The Pecute carrier is perfect because it’s expandable—so, when we sit in the lounge before boarding, I can open it up to give her some extra room. Bonus: The mesh is very strong, so no amount of claws will rip through it.
I am lucky that Isabelle is a very calm traveler. She never gets stressed, but she can get a little restless on extra long flights, like when we flew from Athens to New York, which was around 11 hours. It’s great to have some calming treats on hand to give to her when she starts wanting out of her container. I highly recommend the Pet Naturals Calming Chews for Cats. She loves their taste, and one or two treats will usually put her to sleep for a few hours.
Even the best carrier can be uncomfortable, so I recommend putting a small blanket inside for added comfort. I use a Shemagh, which one of my favorite digital nomad travel blogs recommended. It’s a multi-purpose item that can be used as protection in harsh conditions, a beach towel if you’ve forgotten yours, or a blanket in your cat carrier.
If it is your first time traveling with your pet, you'll want a high-quality harness and leash. You have to take your pet out of its carrier when you go through security, so if you’re worried about them getting scared and running off, it’s best to have a harness securely fastened. I don’t use it on Isabelle as often anymore because she’s used to traveling, but it’s still great for walks or excursions on the balcony.
Other accessories you should bring are your pet's favorite toys and a brush. Isabelle tends to shed a lot since we live in a warm climate full-time, so it’s helpful to have a
Your summer holiday might be more expensive this year if you are planning on flying with some European companies.
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This article originally appeared in the February issue of AGENTatHOME magazine. Subscribe here to receive your free copy each month.
“Welcome to the oldest bratwurst kitchen in the world,” says Sofia Hilleprandt, as I duck beneath the wooden ceiling beams. “This wood was cut in 1379.” One of the beams has a cushion attached to it, no doubt because it’s concussed a patron or two. On the walls are weathered pots and pans, alongside knick-knacks and trinkets such as old beer mugs and faded portraits.
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