How to Travel with Your Fish Safely – A Beginner’s Guide

Blessings Aquarium
Jul 2
2 min read

Travelling with your fish? Sounds scary, right? But don’t worry – it’s totally possible to travel with your fish without stressing them out too much. Whether you're moving to a new home or going for a long trip, this guide will help you transport your little finned buddies safely. And yes, even if you're new to fishkeeping, we’ve kept it super simple for you.

Why Fish Travel Can Be Tricky?

Fish aren’t like dogs or cats who can sit on your lap or walk in a crate. They’re sensitive to temprature, water quality, and sudden movements. A little stress can mess with their health. So planning matters – big time!

Step-by-Step: How to Travel with Your Fish Safely

1. Use a Fish Bag or Container

If you’ve ever seen fish bought from an aquarium store, you know they’re usually given in a plastic bag with some air and water. That’s exactly what you need!

Use clean, strong plastic bags or leak-proof containers with lids.
Fill one-third with tank water, rest with air (not full water).
Tie the bag tightly with a rubberband.

Pro Tip: Double-bag it! Just to be safe.

2. Fast the Fish Before Travel

Yes, no food for 24 hours before the journey. Why?

It helps them stay calm.
Reduces waste in the travel bag.
Keeps the water cleaner.

Don’t worry, skipping one meal won’t harm your fish.

3. Keep the Temperature Stable

Fish hate temprature shock. If it’s too hot or too cold suddenly, they can go into stress mode.

Carry the bag/box in an insulated bag or a styrofoam box.
Avoid placing them in direct sunlight.
Don’t keep near AC vents or car windows.

4. Limit Travel Time

Try to reach your destination within 6 to 8 hours. Longer travel = more stress.

If it’s gonna take more time, use a battery-operated air pump to keep oxygen levels proper.

5. Don’t Shake Them Up

Place the fish bag/container in a box with towels or bubble wrap to avoid too much movement. Fish don’t like bumpy rides.

6. Set Up Tank Quickly After Arrival

Once you reach, don’t wait. Set up your tank ASAP.

Use dechlorinated water.
Float the fish bag in tank water for 15-20 mins to match the temprature.
Then slowly release the fish into the tank.

Avoid pouring the bag water into your tank. It may have travel stress toxins.

Bonus Tip: Clean Water Is Life

Before travelling, do a partial water change in your tank. Clean water = strong, healthy fish for the journey.

What Not to Do

Don’t feed fish during travel.
Don’t keep fish in direct sun or hot car seats.
Don’t transport sick or weak fish.

Fish are fragile but with a little care and planning, they can travel just fine! At Blessings Aquarium, we help you with fish transport bags, air pumps, and expert advice. So if you ever need to move your fishy friends, we’re just a call or visit away.