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Can betta fish travel in a car?

My cousin has asked me to help him with his move. In addition to cramming my car with his stuff, he expects me to safely transport his two prized betta fish across two states. Can betta fish travel in a car for eight to nine hours?

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Rachel Rigolino · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
What an honor to be chosen for such a responsibility! While transporting betta fish for that amount of time can be tricky, here are some basic tips.
  • Don’t put the two fish in the same container together. Why? The nickname for betta fish is fighting fish.
  • Invest in a travel tank with a divider. (Well, ask your cousin to make this investment.) Don’t attempt such a long car ride with the fish in glass tanks. Not only will the water slosh around, but you’ll also run the risk of the tanks developing a leak and causing damage both to the fish and your car. You might be able to get away with putting the fish into separate (well cleaned out) plastic containers with lids that have holes that allow water aeration.
  • Have your cousin prepare their water the day before. Many people do a partial water change before traveling so that the fish have clean water they’re used to. In addition, your cousin may want to add aquarium salt to the travel tank water the night before.
  • Make sure the travel tank or container is secure in the car. Use a seatbelt or place the container securely on the floor of the car.
  • Maintain the car’s interior temperature between 77-84 degrees. Avoid big temperature fluctuations.
  • Bring along backup containers—and water—just in case.
Of course, both you and your cousin should also consult fish-keeping guide books for more detailed recommendations.
Happy travels with your fishy cousins!
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