Traveling with pets—or leaving them behind—can get expensive fast. From airline fees to pet boarding to pet-friendly hotels, costs can pile up quickly if you’re not strategic. The good news? With a few smart choices and digital tools like Fluz, you can cut those costs without compromising your pet’s comfort or safety.
This guide will help you compare boarding vs. pet-sitting, identify pet hotel discounts using cashback apps, and understand budget airline fees for traveling with your pet in 2025.
1. Boarding vs. Pet-Sitting: Which Saves More?
When you can’t bring your pet with you, you typically have two options: professional boarding or hiring a pet sitter. Here’s how they compare:
| Option | Average Cost (Per Day) | Pros | Cons |
| Boarding | $25–$75 | 24/7 care, social interaction | Can be stressful for some pets |
| Pet-Sitting | $20–$60 | In-home comfort, one-on-one care | Less structured, depends on sitter quality |
Tips to Save:
- Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pet-sit in exchange for a favor or small fee.
- Compare rates on apps like Rover and TrustedHousesitters.
- Look for multi-pet discounts if you have more than one animal.
2. Use Fluz for Pet Hotel & Travel Discounts
If you’re bringing your pet along, you’ll likely need pet-friendly accommodations or services like grooming or boarding near your destination. That’s where Fluz can help you earn cashback and lower out-of-pocket costs.
How Fluz Works:
Fluz gives you cashback when you purchase digital gift cards through the app, which can be redeemed at participating merchants. Several Fluz-partnered brands are perfect for pet travel needs, including:
- Petco – for last-minute travel crates, calming treats, or supplies
- 1-800-PetSupplies – stock up on travel accessories and pet meds
- Chewy – great for auto-ship before your trip
- Hotels.com – find and book pet-friendly hotels at a discount
Stack Your Savings:
- Combine Fluz cashback with promo codes or hotel loyalty programs
- Use Fluz to buy exact-amount gift cards to cover your travel budget
- Earn additional cashback by referring fellow pet parents
3. Budget Airlines and Pet Travel Fees (2025)
Airline fees for pets can vary dramatically depending on the carrier, size of the pet, and whether they’re in the cabin or cargo. Here’s a snapshot of current (2025) pet travel fees on popular budget airlines:
| Airline | In-Cabin Pet Fee | Cargo Option | Notes |
| Southwest | $125 (each way) | No | Only small pets in-cabin |
| Frontier | $99 | No | Cheapest major airline option |
| Spirit Airlines | $110 | No | In-cabin only |
| Alaska Airlines | $100 | Yes | Limited cargo availability |
| JetBlue | $125 | No | JetPaws program offers extras |
Cost-Saving Tips:
- Book early—some airlines cap the number of pets allowed per flight.
- Check for bundle deals that include bags and pet fees (Frontier often offers these).
- Use airline credit cards for discounts on ancillary fees.
Pro tip: If your pet doesn’t meet airline cabin guidelines, compare ground travel options or in-city pet boarding through Rover or local kennels.
Pet travel doesn’t have to be expensive if you plan ahead. Whether you’re finding a reliable sitter, booking a pet-friendly hotel, or flying with your dog or cat, the key to saving is combining traditional budget tips with digital tools like Fluz.Start by comparing care options at home, then use Fluz to reduce travel-related purchases. You’ll protect your budget—and your pet’s comfort—no matter where the journey takes you.
