Can You Take a Hermit Crab on a Plane: Keeping Hermit Crabs Safe in Travel

Traveling with hermit crabs is a great way to explore new places and meet new people. Traveling with them in small containers is safe – they can even travel without issue. Just be prepared for additional charges when traveling with your crab, and be sure to purchase a TSA-approved container. 

Provided they are given enough food and water; these hardy creatures will be delicate on their journey! Some airlines allow them in the cargo hold, while others do not. You can take your hermit crab on an air-conditioned bus or train. However, if flying is your only option, get them a carrier that will protect them from being squished during travel.

How Far Can A Hermit Crab Travel?

As for the distance, your hermit crab can travel, it can go up to over 3 miles from the water’s surface. Traveling with a hermit crab can be a lot of fun, but it’s essential to be aware of some critical factors. For example, bring your hermit crab in a small container, so it doesn’t get too wet or squished on the way home! 

Condition of a Hermit Crab After Travel

Usually, hermit crabs will be pretty nervous upon arriving at their new destination, but they’ll eventually adjust. So, patience is essential – and remember to pack a travel cage just in case! Make sure you give them plenty of space and do not handle them too much during transport. If your crab gets lost in transit, don’t worry – many online resources are available to help find them. 

Best Time to Handle Your Hermit Crab During Travel

Some people believe that hermit crabs do not like being handled while traveling, but this is not always the case. However, if you feel your crab is uncomfortable or stressed out, it’s best to avoid handling them and let them adjust to their schedule. For example, hermit crabs are one of the more common animals to be transported in the cargo hold, and for a good reason – they’re surprisingly tolerant of changes in the environment and surprisingly easy to handle.

Can Hermit Crabs Recognize Their Owners During Travel?

If you’re traveling with a crab that you know recognizes you, have a contingency plan in case things don’t go as planned. For some hermit crabs, this may be as simple as recalling their owners’ voices. Others may not recognize their owners at all and may need some extra TLC before they’re ready to travel. But, regardless of the situation, be sure to have a blast!

Proper Handling of Hermit Crabs During Travel Period

Keep Hermit Crabs Together

Keeping hermit crabs together during a trip can be tricky, but you can do it with some planning. First, ensure the tank is large enough to accommodate them and provide them with food and fresh water. If you’re bringing your hermit crabs in the car, keep them safe by placing them in their travel container- this way, they won’t get seasick! 

Temperature and Humidity

Keeping your hermit crab safe and healthy is essential, no matter where you take them. Here are some guidelines to follow: 

  • Always keep your hermit crab safe, dry, and warm before transporting it in a car.
  • Hermit crabs are very sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. They can get stressed out if these conditions aren’t followed correctly. 
  • The best time to take your hermit crab on a plane would be during the cooler months – around December to February. This will help reduce his chances of getting sick during travel and also help keep him calm.

Traveling on Land With a Hermit Crab

If you have a small container, they can travel in your car. However, if your hermit crab is large enough or if the car has no room for them, they will not be able to travel. So, check your car’s size and space before planning your hermit crab’s adventure!

Hermit crabs can live anywhere for approximately 15 years and are active; meanings mean they can explore their surroundings and live happy lives. 

Flying With a Hermit Crab 

First and foremost, ensure the plane’s temperature, and humidity levels are compatible with your hermit crab. Second, ensure your hermit crab has enough food, water, and a secure place to live while on the plane. 

Third, be prepared to ask a pet store employee for help if you’re unsure how to transport your hermit crab properly. Fourth, carefully read the care instructions for your specific hermit crab before transporting them. If everything goes according to plan, flying your hermit crab should be a smooth experience!

Airline Requirements for Transporting Hermit Crab 

For more information on flying with hermit crabs, please consult your airline’s website or contact them directly. In addition, make sure to purchase an airline-approved container for your crab, as they cannot fit into most luggage containers. 

When taking a hermit crab on a plane, it’s essential to know first what airlines allow them. Airlines typically allow hermit crabs if they are in a sealed container and the animal’s total weight is less than 10 pounds. So if you’re traveling with your crab, pack a cage in advance. 

Southwest Airlines Conditions for Hermit Crab Transport

If your pet is wet and cannot survive outside of water for more than two hours, it will not be able to fly on Southwest Airlines with you! If you’re flying with a hermit crab, you’ll need to buy a small one and place it inside a sealed container. Make sure to buy a hermit crab cage that’s big enough for the crab to move around and avoid any problems during the flight. 

United Airlines Regulations for Hermit Crab Transport

It might be tough to part with your hermit crab, but it’s essential to know that United Airlines does not allow them on planes. Other airlines, however, do allow them. For example, check the airline’s policies first if you want to bring your pet on a plane. Make sure to pack a bag of fresh water and food for your pet if you get stuck on the tarmac. And last but not least, be sure to download the United Airlines app so you can check the airline’s policies in real-time.

Things to Consider When Transporting and Shipping Hermit Crabs 

Supplies Needed When Transporting Your Hermit Crab

Here are some things you’ll need to pack when transporting your hermit crab:

  • A water bowl 
  • Special food 
  • Shells 
  • An enclosure (if using one) 
  • Airtight container

Risks and Benefits of Shipping a Hermit Crab in a Container

The risks of shipping a hermit crab in a container are that the animal may not survive the journey, it may be too crowded and suffer from stress, and there is always the potential for theft. The benefits of shipping a hermit crab in a container are that you can keep your pet safe and secure, it will arrive at its destination healthy and unharmed, and you won’t have to worry about food or water availability.

Taking Care of a Sick Hermit Crab During Transport

If your hermit crab gets sick during transport, the best thing to do is isolate them from other pets and food. Next, make a makeshift “crab hospital” by placing dampened paper towels on the bottom of a container and filling it with fresh water. Finally, give your crab plenty of salt water to drink while keeping an eye on them – if necessary, take them to the vet.