February 12, 2022, was one of the scariest days of my life. I had been working at an international school in Kyiv when the U.S. Embassy issued an urgent evacuation notice—we had just 72 hours to leave. My first thought? We need to get the cats ready. There was no way we were leaving without them.

The next 48 hours were a blur. We raced across Kyiv—navigating a city where we didn’t speak the language—doing everything we could to prepare our two cats, who were 5.5 years old at the time, for evacuation. With only the essentials—some belongings, our passports, and, most importantly, our cats—we fled to Armenia.

Here we all are safely on a flight on February 14th, 2022. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Armenia made sense. We had lived there before, there was a direct flight from Kyiv to Yerevan, and, most critically, we knew our cats would be able to enter without issue.

That experience shook me to my core. But it also sparked something I hadn’t expected: the realization that traveling with my cats wasn’t nearly as difficult as I had imagined.

Since then, we’ve traveled the world together—from bustling airports to bumpy ferry journeys—and I’ve never looked back. People often ask, “Isn’t it hard to travel with pets?” My answer? “Why wouldn’t I travel with them?”

Leaving pets behind for weeks can cause them far more stress than bringing them along. With the right preparation, traveling with small pets—like cats and small dogs—is easier than you think. So, why not travel with your pet?

Safe and sound in Armenia with our humans

The Myth: Traveling with Pets is Hard

I used to believe that taking pets on planes, trains, and ferries would be a nightmare. But after years of experience, I’ve realized that the biggest barrier is mindset. Yes, there are airline regulations, documents to prepare, and some planning involved, but once you know the process, it becomes second nature.

Take my first flight with my cats: I was worried they’d panic, claw their way out of their carrier, or jump out of my arms as I took them through security, but they slept through most of the journey. 

The hardest part was my own stress, not theirs!

Why Bringing Your Pet is the Best Choice

Less Stress for Your Pet

Imagine being left alone in an unfamiliar place for two weeks while your human disappears. Sounds terrifying, right? That’s how many pets feel when left behind. Instead, bringing them along means they stay with their person (you!), which is their ultimate comfort zone.

Stronger Bonding

Traveling together deepens the connection between you and your pet. My cats have learned to trust me in new environments, and I’ve become more in tune with their needs.

They Adapt Better Than You Think

People assume pets will freak out, but most adjust quickly. After only a few trips, my cats started adjusting to a new house or apartment within minutes. Small pets are adaptable, especially when they feel safe with you.

Ginger on his first ferry journey to Guadeloupe in the Caribbean

How to Travel Easily with Small Pets

1. Choosing the Right Carrier

A good carrier is essential. Look for:
✔ Airline-approved sizing
✔ Soft yet sturdy design
✔ Ventilation and security

2. Booking Pet-Friendly Flights & Accommodations

• Most airlines allow small pets in the cabin—always check their policies.
• Choose pet-friendly hotels or Airbnbs in advance.
• Message ahead to confirm pet rules at accommodations.

3. Navigating Different Transport Methods

• Planes: Go for direct flights when possible. Keep your pet calm with familiar scents.
• Trains: Many European and North American trains allow small pets. Your pet will love looking out the window!
• Ferries: Some ferries offer pet-friendly cabins—research ahead.
• Buses: Pet policies vary, but it is possible! Always check before booking.
  
  

Sandy and Ginger admiring the view in Dominica

Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Hesitate

Traveling with pets isn’t just possible—it’s rewarding. With the right mindset and preparation, your furry friend can accompany you anywhere. Instead of worrying about how they’ll cope without you, why not bring them along?

So next time you plan a trip, ask yourself: Why not travel with your pet?