How to Fly with a Snake (Including Airline Rules)

Flying with a snake is not as straightforward as traveling with a dog or cat, but it is possible with the right planning. Most airlines have strict policies about reptiles, and the rules vary significantly between carriers. Here is a complete guide to help you navigate the process.

Can You Bring a Snake on a Plane

The short answer is that most major US airlines do not allow snakes in the cabin or as checked baggage. Snakes are specifically excluded from most airline pet policies, even when other animals are permitted. This applies to both carry on and checked pet options.

Airlines that typically do not allow snakes include American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and most other major carriers. Their pet policies are designed primarily for dogs and cats, and reptiles are almost universally excluded from both cabin and cargo pet programs.

How to Ship a Snake by Air

The most common and legal way to transport a snake by air is through a specialized reptile shipping service or cargo shipping. Several companies specialize in reptile transport and know exactly how to package and ship snakes safely and legally.

Reptile specific shippers like Ship Your Reptiles and Reptiles Express handle thousands of snake shipments each year. They use insulated shipping containers with heat or cold packs (depending on the season) to maintain safe temperatures during transit. Snakes are typically shipped via overnight delivery services like FedEx or UPS.

Airline cargo is another option for larger snakes or longer distances. Some airlines accept reptiles through their cargo division even though they do not allow them in the passenger cabin. Delta Cargo and United Cargo, for example, may accept properly packaged reptiles. Contact the cargo division directly for their current policies and requirements.

Packaging Your Snake for Shipping

Proper packaging is critical for your snake’s safety during air transport. The snake should be placed in a cloth bag (like a pillowcase) tied securely at the top. This bag goes inside a sturdy, ventilated container with insulation to protect against temperature extremes.

The container should be clearly labeled as containing a live animal and should include your contact information and the recipient’s contact information. Include a heat pack or cold pack as needed based on current weather conditions. The goal is to keep the temperature inside the container between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the journey.

Never ship a snake that has eaten recently. Wait at least 5 to 7 days after the snake’s last meal before shipping to avoid regurgitation during transit. A snake with food in its stomach that experiences temperature fluctuations or stress is at risk of regurgitating, which can be dangerous.

Driving with a Snake Instead

For many snake owners, driving is a simpler and less stressful option than flying. When driving with your snake, place it in a secure, ventilated container or cloth bag inside a hard sided carrier. Keep the temperature in the vehicle comfortable and avoid placing the container in direct sunlight.

If you are traveling through multiple states, be aware that some states have laws restricting which snake species can be transported across their borders. Venomous snakes, certain large constrictors, and species listed under the Lacey Act may have transport restrictions. Research the laws of every state you will be passing through before your trip.

International Travel with Snakes

International travel with snakes is significantly more complicated than domestic transport. Most countries have strict import regulations for reptiles, and many require CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) permits. Some countries ban the import of snakes entirely.

If you need to transport a snake internationally, contact the destination country’s agriculture or wildlife department well in advance. You will likely need health certificates from a veterinarian, export permits from your home country, and import permits from the destination country. The process can take weeks or months, so plan ahead.

Tips for Minimizing Stress on Your Snake

Regardless of how you transport your snake, minimizing stress should be your top priority. Keep the environment dark and quiet, as snakes are calmer in dark, enclosed spaces. Maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. Avoid feeding for at least 5 days before travel. Keep handling to an absolute minimum during and immediately after transport. Once you arrive at your destination, give your snake several days to settle in before attempting to handle or feed it. For more about snake care basics, explore our guide to popular pet snake breeds.