How to transport a Betta fish

The sub forum dedicated to one of the most incredible fish in our hobby. Betta ask your questions in here!
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riverbank
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Joined: Tue Aug 02, 2022 5:02 am

How to transport a Betta fish

Post by riverbank »

I'm moving across town next month and need to transport my betta safely. What's the best way to do this without stressing them out? I've got a 5 gallon tank with a sponge filter and heater, but I'm worried about the ride.
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quillmaster
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Joined: Tue Feb 27, 2024 2:33 am

Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by quillmaster »

I've moved my betta a few times. The key is to keep them in a small, secure container with some of their tank water. A 1 gallon jar or a fish bag works. Keep the temperature stable, maybe use a heat pack if it's cold. Don't feed them the day before to reduce waste.
brookleaf
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Joined: Tue Apr 02, 2024 8:51 am

Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by brookleaf »

Agree with quillmaster. Also, avoid sudden movements. If you're using a jar, fill it only halfway to prevent sloshing. Cover it with a lid but poke holes for air. Keep the container in a dark place to reduce stress. Test the setup beforehand to make sure the lid stays secure.
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daleon9
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Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by daleon9 »

Yep, gotta keep it chill. I used a thermos once, worked like a charm. Just don't forget they're in there, lol. Also, if you're gonna be in the car for a while, check the temp every so often. Betta can handle a bit of a ride if you're careful.
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starlord
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Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by starlord »

I transported mine in a fish bag with pure oxygen from the LFS. They sealed it tight, and I double-bagged it for safety. The ride was about 2 hours, and he was fine. Just make sure the bag isn't too big or too small, enough water for them to move a bit.
marinero
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Joined: Tue May 07, 2024 9:30 am

Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by marinero »

Man, I once tried moving mine in a Tupperware. Sketchy idea, don't recommend. The lid popped off, and I had a betta on the loose in my car. Not fun. Stick to proper containers, folks.
brook
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 3:50 pm

Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by brook »

daleon9 wrote: Tue Jun 17, 2025 1:15 pm Yep, gotta keep it chill. I used a thermos once, worked like a charm. Just don't forget they're in there, lol. Also, if you're gonna be in the car for a while, check the temp every so often. Betta can handle a bit of a ride if you're careful.
A thermos? That's genius! Never thought of that. Gonna try it next time.
JazzWing
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 9:34 pm

Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by JazzWing »

How long can they stay in the transport container? I've got a 4-hour drive coming up.
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quillmaster
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Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by quillmaster »

JazzWing wrote: Tue Jun 17, 2025 6:44 pm How long can they stay in the transport container? I've got a 4-hour drive coming up.
They can handle 4 hours if the container is stable. Just don't leave them in there longer than necessary. Once you arrive, acclimate them slowly to the new tank water to avoid shock.
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riverbank
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Re: How to transport a Betta fish

Post by riverbank »

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try the small container method and keep the temp stable. Appreciate the tips!
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