small cat carrier travel

Advertisement

The Best Travel Carrier for Cats and Small Dogs

By Kaitlyn Wells

After interviewing seven pet travel experts, researching 28 pet carriers, and lugging eight of them around lower Manhattan over two weeks, we think the Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier is the best soft-sided pet carrier for most cats and small dogs. It is durable, has multiple ways to load and unload your pet, is well-ventilated, is available in multiple sizes, and meets the under-seat requirements of most airlines.

Everything we recommend

Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier

The best pet carrier.

This durable carrier has a flexible wire frame that can compress down to fit into tight spaces, and it’s available in several sizes to accommodate more pets.

Buying Options

Kurgo Wander Carrier

Better warranty, but thinner fabric.

Kurgo offers a thinner bag with a standout warranty and more ventilation per square inch than our pick.

May be out of stock

Upgrade pick

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier

Expensive, but safest for driving.

This soft-sided carrier is the only one we looked at with crash test certification—and its winged edges make it easier to fit under an airplane seat.

The Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier comes in three sizes to accommodate pets up to 22 pounds, and its durable outer shell and ventilation windows will withstand even the sharpest little claws. It has better airflow than most other carriers we tested, has top and side openings that are easy to get your pet in and out through, and is flexible enough to squeeze into smaller spaces. The small and medium sizes are great for air travel and public transit, though the included shoulder strap doesn’t provide much support while walking, and like almost all soft carriers, the Sherpa doesn't provide enough protection for your pet in a car crash. Like most carriers we tested, it has only a one-year limited warranty.

If you can’t find the Sherpa, or are deterred by the short warranty policies of most pet carriers, the Kurgo Wander Carrier is a solid choice. Its polyester shell is thinner and less resistant to abrasion than Sherpa’s, so we don’t expect it to hold up as well as for owners of destructive cats and dogs, and it comes in just one size, similar to the medium Sherpa pick, so smaller animals may have too much room to rattle around. But it has a lifetime warranty—Sherpa has only a one-year plan—and more ventilation per square inch than our other picks. But like the Sherpa and most other soft carriers, it doesn't offer adequate crash protection for car rides.

If you drive and fly with your pet constantly and want to make sure they’re as safe as possible, consider the Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier . It’s substantially more expensive than our other picks, but it’s one of only two carriers we tested that has been independently certified as crash-test safe when connected to a seat belt (and the only one to do so without an expensive attachment), so it's safer for frequent car use than the other carriers we tested. Its shape is longer, thicker, and more durable than the medium Sherpa’s, but it still fits under airline seats, thanks to ends that fold up like wings. Even getting your pet into the carrier is easier, thanks to its opening design that unzips in one long motion from front to tail. It doesn’t have as much ventilation as either the Sherpa or Kurgo, but it still has enough—we're not worried about it being unsafe for a pet.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, what “airline approved” really means, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: sherpa original deluxe carrier, who else likes it, flaws but not dealbreakers, runner-up: kurgo wander carrier, upgrade: sleepypod air in-cabin pet carrier, what to look forward to, the competition.

As a lifelong pet owner, I’ve used several carriers over the years to lug my pets to the vet for checkups and across the country for family visits. As an animal shelter volunteer, I’ve also transported pets of all sizes for adoption events and vet visits, and have written columns about general pet safety.

For this guide, I spent more than 35 hours testing pet carriers. I brushed up on the design requirements for various types of carriers set by the Animal Welfare Act, and I researched proper bag ergonomics and general pet travel tips. I talked to Michele Marini Pittenger, the president of the Travel Goods Association , to learn more about what makes a pet carrier stand out when traveling long distances. I consulted with David Fine of Bark n Bag , pet travel blogger Mary-Alice Pomputius of Dog Jaunt , and Erin Terjesen of Sherpa Pet on how to select a carrier. I discussed travel safety with Lindsey A. Wolko, the founder of the Center for Pet Safety, which is an independent, consumer-safety organization that evaluates pet products. I asked Bobbie Egan of Alaska Airlines how airlines set their pet travel requirements. And I learned pet carrier training tips from Russell Hartstein, canine executive officer of Fun Paw Care , a pet services company.

If you have a cat or a dog and you need to move them by car, plane, or public transit, you need a pet carrier. (Soft carriers are for pets weighing less than 20 pounds; those with heavier animals need a  hard-sided crate .) Carriers that fit under the seat in front of you are required by most airlines for pets small enough to take in the cabin, but they're useful for other travel situations, too. They can prevent your dog from getting into mischief while traveling, keep them safe from busy roads and crowded sidewalks, and keep them calm on the go. They're also pretty much the only way to get a cat anywhere.

We focused on soft-sided carriers for this guide. Though hard-sided carriers are more durable and easier to clean, soft-sided carriers are typically lighter and more versatile, with carrying straps, pockets, and more entry points. They're more comfortable to tote with you and easier to fit beneath airplane or bus seats, and harder for your pet's collar to get caught in.

Keep both your pet’s height and weight in mind when buying a carrier. Some specify a weight limit, while others list a maximum height and length for a pet (usually a couple of inches less than the carrier's height and length). You should check both; a chunkier miniature dachshund can weigh as much as a svelte Jack Russell terrier, but be only half as tall.

While all of our picks are suitable for air travel, public transit, and general lugging around, most pet carriers either haven't been crash-tested or failed independent crash tests. If you frequently travel in cars with your pet, you should buy a crash-test-certified carrier like our upgrade pick or (for dogs above 15 pounds) complement your carrier with a crash-certified restraint harness. In an accident, a contained pet is safer than an uncontained one, but, as with humans, it's better to use safety restraints, and it may be required by law. Roughly one in five states requires dogs to be restrained in a moving vehicle. 1 In 16 states, the laws are ambiguous, and the rest don't prohibit unrestrained dogs, though legislation is pending in some, according to data compiled by outdoor goods company Orvis.

Even states that require restraints don't test them. “There are no requirements for mandated crash testing for any of these products,” said Lindsey A. Wolko, the founder of Center for Pet Safety , which conducts independent safety tests on pet goods. If you don't have a car harness for your pet, Wolko recommends placing the carrier on the floor behind the front seat of your vehicle because it’s one of the safest locations for your pet, unless your carrier is designed to be belted into a seat and has passed crash tests, like our upgrade pick.

Just because a carrier is marketed with a phrase like "airline approved" doesn't mean it will fit under an airplane seat. “Airline approval varies by airline, but generally ‘airline approved’ just means it contains moisture,” so it won’t leak if your pet has an accident mid-flight, said David Fine of Bark n Bag , which makes pet travel carriers and accessories. Other requirements set by the United States Department of Agriculture for travel carriers and crates include proper ventilation, adequate space—which varies by pet size—and no cracks or sharp protrusions that can harm your pet.

Under-seat dimensions often vary by airline carrier and become more complicated when you throw in disparities between pet carrier type, class seats, and short-haul and long-haul flights. For example, Alaska Airlines posts different dimensions for hard-sided and soft-sided pet carriers because they “are the maximum sizes we can safely accommodate in the cabin,” noted Alaska spokesperson Bobbie Egan via email. So always do your research to determine the under-seat measurements your airline allows, especially for multi-leg flights.

In reality, you can probably get away with an additional inch or two on your soft-sided pet carrier. The soft-sided design makes it easy to manipulate them so they’ll fit into a cramped space before expanding again for your pet’s comfort. Fine admitted to us that airline personnel aren’t taking a measuring stick to the carrier, which Wirecutter staffers have noticed in their own travels with pets as well. “Unless you have someone at the gate who’s in a miserable mood, no one’s going to say a word to you,” he said.

We limited our search to fully enclosed, soft-sided pet carriers because they’re lighter and more insulated, the fabric shells and handle straps are more comfortable to maneuver when in transit, and they’re nicer to look at than a plastic hard-sided box. They’re also safer for your small pet: “You don’t have to worry about a dog’s collar getting accidently attached to a soft crate,” like you would with a hard-sided or metal one, noted Russell Hartstein, a certified pet behaviorist and trainer with 25 years of experience, and who’s the canine executive officer at Fun Paw Care in Los Angeles.

We stuck to carriers less than $100, because the American Pet Products Association 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey (PDF), found dog owners spend an average of $86 on pet carriers, and cat owners $38. We made exceptions for pet carriers that had a stellar reputation or knockout features, such as high third-party safety ratings.

We noted each pet carrier’s dimensions, pet weight restrictions, design and color variations, padded inserts, warranty, and notable features, such as seatbelt straps and detachable wheels. Then we cross-checked each pet carrier’s dimensions and compared it to an average of the airline under-seat measurements for five major US airlines: 17 inches long by 11 inches wide by 9 inches tall. We focused on pet carriers that came within an inch or two of these dimensions and were available to accommodate medium-size small pets (around 15 pounds) over smaller carriers that came in just one size.

Finally, we combed through hundreds of pages of product reviews across pet carrier manufacturing sites, as well as Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Chewy, Jet, Overstock, Petco, Pet Guys, PetSmart, Walmart, and Wayfair. We favored products that featured promising reviews over a long period of time.

What remained were eight pet carriers that met our criteria, all of which we brought in for testing: Kurgo Wander Carrier , Pawfect Pets Pet Travel Carrier , PetEgo Jet Set Forma Frame , Pet Magasin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier , Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier, Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier , SturdiBag Carrier , and Teafco Argo Aero Pet Carrier .

I thought about how pet parents transport pets and developed a series of criteria that most people should consider when selecting a bag. They are:

• Durability: First, I took plastic meat shredders and clawed at the ventilation screens on each carrier to see if they held up to abuse. Then I filled each pet carrier with 10 pounds of unbleached flour and suspended them overnight, and checked the seams for any signs of wear and tear the following day.
• Ease of use: I examined each carrier’s zippers, buckles, straps, and doors to see which made it easier to load and unload a pet.
• Ventilation: The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare Regulations handbook mandates that animal carriers used to transport pets commercially have 14 percent surface area for ventilation—but that only accounts for the walls, not the top or bottom. Since some pet carriers also have ventilation on the top (like Pawfect Pets, Sleepypod Air, and SturdiBag), I calculated the total ventilation area on all sides as a percentage of the total surface area of the carrier, and we favored bags with more.
• The airplane test: I stuffed each carrier into a box the size of the average under-seat dimensions of eight major US airlines: 17 inches long by 11 inches wide by 9 inches tall.
• Comfort: I packed each carrier with 15 pounds of flour—rather than traumatizing my dog by hauling her around New York in eight different carriers—and walked around Lower Manhattan for 10 blocks (at a New Yorker’s faster pace), paying attention to any added strain on the carrier’s general shape and shoulder straps, and looking for signs that the carrier frames were bunching or collapsing, which would point to a pet being squished in transit.
• Cleaning: I used our stand-ins for urine and pet excrement (an ammonia solution and some halfway-melted chocolate) to soil each carrier’s removeable fabric lining. I let the stains sit for two hours and washed the linings on a gentle cycle using our pick for laundry detergent . Afterwards, I checked which linings looked and smelled like new and which ones needed to be replaced.

The Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier is the best soft-sided pet carrier for most people. It comes in sizes that will fit under the seat on most airlines, has a flexible and durable frame, is tough enough for day-to-day use, features two points of entry for easier loading, and keeps your pet cool with its large ventilation windows. It's easy to find both online and in pet stores, and it has great reviews from thousands of pet owners.

The Sherpa comes in four colors—black, brown, gray, or plum—and three sizes for pets up to 22 pounds, though only the small and medium carriers (for pets up to 8 pounds and 16 pounds, respectively) are guaranteed to fit under airline seats. The Sherpa is equipped with a spring-wire frame that bends just enough that you can squeeze it into a space smaller than its dimensions without the frame breaking or squishing your pet. And its 420 denier nylon construction makes it tougher for little paws to damage compared with other pet carriers tested (including Kurgo and SturdiBag, which are made of polyester). 2

It’s easier to load your pets into the Sherpa than most other carriers because it has both a top and a side opening (only Kurgo and Teafco also offered this feature). The medium version of our pick (the size we tested) has openings that are larger than half of the carriers tested: There’s a top opening that is 15.5 by 7 inches, and the side opening is 11 by 10.5 inches, and is secured with dual locking zippers. It’s also one of three carriers with a zippable pocket for storing your pet’s essentials. (The others are Sleepypod and Teafco, while the remaining carriers have open pockets or no pockets at all.) The pocket on the medium-size carrier is one of the largest among tested pet carriers and measures 11 by 8 inches.

The medium Sherpa also has more ventilation windows than half of the carriers tested: 180 square inches, or just under 19 percent of the surface area of the walls and top. The windows, which passed our pet-claw test, are located on three sides of the pet carrier. (The fourth side houses the pocket.)

The medium carrier houses pets up to 16 pounds, and is 17 by 11 by 10.5 inches. In our tests it fit easily into our makeshift box, and measurements state it’ll fit under the seats of most airlines we looked at, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and Virgin America, and its flexible frame means you can compress it down slightly if you need to. (You can squish the spring-wire frame to even get it to fit under tighter space, such as Southwest Airlines’s seats, which have 8.5 inches of under-seat clearance.) As always, though, airlines can use many different sizes of aircraft, so if you're traveling with your pet, make sure to look up the under-seat clearance of each aircraft you'll be flying on.

If you have a small, short pet—lighter than 8 pounds, and smaller than 7.5 inches tall and 13 inches long—you should get the small Sherpa. It's 15 by 10 by 8.5 inches and can fit in tighter spaces than the medium or our runner-up pick, the Kurgo Wander, which is available in just one size.

Sherpa’s small and medium-size carriers qualify for their Guaranteed on Board program. The program promises the pet carrier is airline-approved on select carriers, 3 or they’ll refund the cost of both your ticket and your pet’s travel fee, though if you want to take advantage of it you'll need to submit a form prior to every flight you take it on, and the medium Sherpa is guaranteed on only three airlines, even though our tests showed it should fit under the seats on many more. But to date no one using a Sherpa carrier has been turned away at the gate or sought reimbursement, Sherpa’s spokesperson Erin Terjesen told us in an email.

The Sherpa has a 4.5 Amazon-star rating out of more than 4,000 reviews, and several Wirecutter staffers endorse its longevity and durability. Others like it too: “It is every bit as durable as the original Sherpa I purchased 8 years ago,” wrote ChicagoNow’s pseudonymous pets blogger.

“I really enjoyed using the Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier,” noted Amy Tokic, editor of PetGuide.com . “[My dog] Oscar likes it too—when we get to our final destination, he uses it as a makeshift dog house once he’s finished being social.”

And Dogster contributor Pamela Mitchell recalled in a blog post: “I have fond memories of those early trips with Dolly and have recommended her carrier … more than a few times to those flying with their pets.”

Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier is a good carrier for everyday travel. But like most other soft carriers, it's not enough to restrain your pet in an accident—only the substantially more expensive Sleepypod fared notably better. Sherpa also only offers a one-year limited warranty.

The Sherpa’s packaging is labeled with a bright yellow badge that reads “AUTO SAFE.” But like most other carriers, it isn’t crashproof, and you shouldn’t let this labeling lull you into a false sense of security. All this means is that the Sherpa has a luggage strap that you can loop a seat belt strap through to secure it to the seat of the car, but as crash-test videos of similarly designed carriers provided by CPS show, just looping a seat belt strap around a carrier or through its straps won’t protect your furry friend from getting hurt (or from hurting you). “If you do get into a crash the stitching will fail nine times out of 10,” CPS's Wolko warned. She added that most pet carriers, including Sherpa, haven’t been independently tested due to testing costs and advertising restrictions for manufacturers.

If you do take the Sherpa in a car, Wolko recommends you put it on the floor behind the driver's seat. Your pet will be safer there than elsewhere in the car, or strapped into a seatbelt in a carrier that can't handle it.

The padded bed insert also doesn’t provide much support for your furry friend. It’s a thin piece of fleece with a “hand wash only” tag, so rule-abiding pet parents may find it challenging to clean stinky pet messes. (Sherpa’s website, to the contrary, says it’s machine washable, and in our test we tossed it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle and it was fine.)

Like most pet carriers we tested, Sherpa’s nylon shoulder strap doesn't have any fabric piping or padding, so the straps are rough on your shoulders and arms. The shoulder strap’s thin padding also provides insufficient support, especially when lugging around heavier pets.

Loading the pet carrier with our simulated pet weight also presented some issues with the carrier’s bottom slightly deforming. Sherpa’s seams, like most of the pet carriers tested, held up well during our suspension (10 pounds of flour) and walking tests (15 pounds of flour). However, also like most of the pet carriers tested (but not the runner-up Kurgo), the Sherpa’s bottom did bow a little when loaded to 15 pounds, which could mean it’ll become uncomfortable for your pet when you’re walking from place to place.

Some online reviewers said the bag’s zippers were easily broken and that their pets chewed holes in the ventilation windows. We recommend verifying you’ve purchased an authentic Sherpa bag to limit your chances of similar issues—there have been reports of fakes on Amazon , and most Amazon reviews as well as the experiences of Wirecutter staffers don't mention those issues.

If you do run into any issues, keep in mind Sherpa’s warranty isn’t as flexible as those of Kurgo, Pawfect Pets, or SturdiBag. It only has a one-year limited warranty, similar to that of half the carriers we tested.

The Kurgo Wander Carrier offers more ventilation per square inch than our Sherpa pick and has a better warranty than many of the pet carriers we tested. But it’s available in only one size for pets up to 18 pounds, the polyester material was less durable in our testing than Sherpa’s and Sleepypod’s shells, and like most pet carriers tested its seat belt straps don’t hold up to third-party crash tests.

The Kurgo Wander Carrier is 17 inches by 11 inches by 11 inches, which accommodates pets up to 18 pounds and fits under most airline seats, but may be too large for some toy dogs and too small for some heavier ones that would fit in the large Sherpa. It has ventilation windows on the front, back, and one side of the pet carrier—with the pocket on the opposing side—for just over 200 square inches of ventilation, or 21 percent of the bag’s total surface area. That’s around 2 percent more ventilation than our Sherpa pick, but it’s almost twice as much ventilation as the Sleepypod, our upgrade pick.

The Kurgo's exterior shell is made of 600 denier polyester, which is thinner and less abrasion-resistant than Sherpa’s 420 denier nylon or Sleepypod’s 1680 denier nylon. (Nylon is inherently stronger than polyester.) It also lacks the thicker shell padding used in Sherpa’s and Sleepypod’s frames, which makes them more durable and more comfortable for the owner to carry. (And keep in mind it has nylon straps, like Sherpa, which can be rough on bare skin.) The base is reinforced with fiberboard that goes inside a thin, machine-washable polyester fleece insert, which kept it from bowing under load in our tests.

Unlike the Sherpa, the Kurgo has a lifetime warranty, which we got to test firsthand. We noticed wear and tear on its seams after a single day of use that included our weight-suspension and walking tests. We reached out to Kurgo’s customer service, who replaced it for free after we submitted photos of the defective seams on the company’s online portal. Jill Akers, a Kurgo spokesperson, confirmed over email that “this carrier should last many years and the stitching would be covered forever, no matter how old the product.” Indeed, the replacement bag held up just fine in our testing. Only two other bags we tested have lifetime warranties: SturdiBag and Pawfect Pets . Sherpa and Sleepypod both have one-year limited warranties.

Though the Kurgo Wander has seat belt straps, as with the Sherpa and other general-purpose soft carriers, we wouldn’t recommend using them. While Kurgo performs crash tests on its line of dog car harnesses, they don’t test their carriers because they aren’t designed with crash performance in mind, according to an email from Kurgo spokesperson Kerry Sutherland. But independent crash tests do exist: The CPS’s 2015 Carrier Study determined Kurgo was “a complete failure” at providing crash protection. So if you must take the Kurgo in the car, as with other soft carriers you should put it on the floor behind the driver's seat.

The Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier is much more expensive than our other picks, but it's the only soft-sided pet carrier brand that's crash-test certified by the Center for Pet Safety, so it's worthwhile if you have a pet that spends a lot of time on the road, especially a cat. In addition to being the only carrier that can be safely attached to a car seat without additional accessories, it had the highest quality construction of any bag we tested, its convertible design lets you adjust how much space it takes up on the fly, and its zippered design lets you both open it wider than most other bags, and collapse it down smaller when not in use. But it also has comparatively little ventilation, and is almost six times the price of our main pick.

Sleepypod Air is sold in one size (22 by 10.5 by 10 inches) and can accommodate dogs up to 15 pounds and cats up to 18 pounds, which may vary depending on your pet’s body type. Unlike the vast majority of pet carriers, the Sleepypod Air is certified by the Center for Pet Safety and passed its rigorous tensile and crash testing . If your cat racks up a lot of miles in the car, the Sleepypod could be worth the considerable extra expense. (For road dogs, a Sherpa or Kurgo carrier and a CPS-certified car restraint harness will still be about $70 less than a Sleepypod.)

Sleepypod’s products feature the company’s Pet Passenger Restraint System , which safely secures a pet during a sudden vehicle stop or front-end accident. If there is an accident, Sleepypod will replace or provide a new pet carrier at a discount (and sometimes for free), even if your existing pet carrier is from another brand, as part of its Sleepypod Crash Replacement Program .

It’s one of two carriers tested that unzips in one long strip, from front to top to back. (The Pet Magasin unzips from front to bottom to back.) It’s a nice feature if you need more loading room than traditional carriers that only open from the top or front. The pet carrier’s ventilation windows are located along the strip, totaling just 125 square inches, or 11 percent, which is substantially less than Sherpa’s 19 percent. We saw a couple of isolated complaints about the ventilation —but with more than 300 reviews on Amazon and more than 80 percent at four or five stars, these issues are not widespread.

The ends of the Sleepypod act as little wings that you can fold up at a 90-degree angle to shrink the carrier’s size, which makes it easier to fit it in tight spaces before expanding again to allow your pet the most space available. (When compressed, the ventilation windows account for 14 percent of Sleepypod’s surface area.) Getting the wings to stay up takes some effort—just make sure you bend them over a few times before your flight to work the seams into shape. (Like bending a hardcover book open multiple times to wear it in.) In its compressed state, Sleepypod Air should fit under the seats of most of the airlines we consulted, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and Virgin America.

The ventilation windows cover three sides of the carrier, but they’re probably not located in the ideal spot for people who prefer to see their pets directly. If you set the Sleepypod on a chair at the vet or under the seat on an airplane, your viewing angle will be obstructed since there are no ventilation windows on the pet carrier’s longest sides (just pockets). Plus, the windows are double-lined for added durability, which also means the windows are thicker and darker than most pet carriers tested, further limiting your view. But if you’re looking for a discreet way to travel with your furry friend, the lack of side windows and darker mesh may be just the thing. And for skittish pets, there’s also a removable privacy screen that virtually blacks out half of the ventilation window—but given that the Sleepypod already has less ventilation than many other carriers, be especially mindful to watch how your pet reacts with the airflow restricted further.

Many pet carriers can droop while being lugged around: The bottom may bow, while the top collapses slightly when crushed under the walker’s armpit. The Sherpa , for example, has a spring-wire frame that makes it flexible enough to fit into tight spaces, but also makes the bag more likely to sag under load, as it did when we tested it with a 15-pound weight. Sleepypod’s frame is reinforced with a “semi-rigid plastic structure” which didn't fall or sag in our testing. The shell is made with luggage-grade ballistic nylon, also known as 1680 denier nylon, which is common in tool belts, police utility belts, and higher-end luggage.

The Sleepypod Air is the only carrier tested that has a shoulder strap positioned at a diagonal, as opposed to a straight line—although we couldn’t tell if the strap’s location improved our balance or not. The nylon strap has the thickest padding of any pet carrier we tested, which makes it slightly more comfortable on your shoulders. If you don’t feel like carrying the bag, there’s a luggage strap to attach it to your rolling luggage, but it’s not a secure form of travel, so don't do that if your pet’s inside.

Pet owners and writers love the Sleepypod Air. “For a tiny pet, you can't do better than the Sleepypod,” Dog Jaunt founder Mary-Alice Pomputius told us via email.

“I consider all of Sleepypod’s carriers the best on the market in terms of design, safety, and ease of use,” explained Ingrid King, founder of ConsciousCat.net.

“At $150, Sleepypod Air doesn’t come cheap—but with the first-class price tag come first-class perks,” says Katherine Kluznik Rentmeester on People.com , noting the seat belt strap, luggage loop, and foldable sides as her favorite features.

Sleepypod Air has a machine-washable padded insert, and an internal pocket at its base to house an electrical warming pad . When not on the go, pet owners can snap the ventilation window into place to convert it into a travel pet bed. It is available in seven colors and has a one-year limited warranty.

The AmazonBasics Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier showed promise in our initial research because it is lightweight, is available in three sizes, and features four full sides of ventilation, which was more than any other carrier tested. Due to limited inventory, we couldn’t test the carrier in our preferred size, but will revisit testing when we update this guide.

Pawfect Pets Pet Travel Carrier is one of the smaller pet carriers tested, which means it’ll pass dimensions tests for most airline carriers. It’s unsuitable for larger cats and taller small dog breeds, and it’s also more difficult to load your pet because it has only one entry point at the front of the carrier, compared with the Sherpa’s front and top-load capabilities.

PetEgo Jet Set Forma Frame has a built-in metal frame that keeps the bag from collapsing, but its rigid design makes it less comfortable to carry. It’s also too large to fit under most airplane seats lengthwise, and the roll-down curtains over the ventilation windows aren’t ideal for air travel because they block circulation. It’s also difficult to place a pet inside because it’s lacking a top-entry point.

Pet Magasin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier is one of the cheaper-looking pet carriers tested—and we found a dozen Amazon reviews over the last year highlighting durability issues on the mesh alone, which supports our wariness about the pet carrier’s lightweight construction. It also offers the least amount of ventilation (just under 11 percent) and is awkward to load and unload your pets into since it unzips in one long strip from front to bottom to back.

SturdiBag Carrier showed promise with its larger size, thick egg-crate–style padding, and lifetime warranty, but it was too difficult to assemble. It’s dome-shaped, and every time you use it, you have to insert three plastic rods into its frame to lift it into place, like a tent—multiple testers couldn’t get that last rod into place. The rods make the pet carrier more flexible, so it’s easier to squish it into a small space, like underneath the airplane seat in front of you.

Teafco Argo Aero Pet Carrier is the second-most durable-looking pet carrier, but also the shortest out of those tested—it’s just 8.5 inches tall in the small and 9.25 inches tall in the large, which would make for a tight fit for most pets. And at 18.5 inches long in the small and 20 inches long in the large, it’s also too long to fit into most under-seat storage areas.

Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota, and Rhode Island

Denier is a measure of fiber weight. A measurement of 420 is on the light end for luggage, but it’s still acceptable.

Sherpa’s medium carrier (for pets up to 16 pounds) is guaranteed aboard American Airlines, United, and Air Canada; the small carrier (for pets up to 8 pounds) is guaranteed on American Airlines, AirTran, Alaska Airlines, Southwest, US Airways, United, Air Canada, and West Jet.

Bobbie Egan, media relations director for Alaska Airlines , email interview , October 18, 2017

David Fine, Bark n Bag , phone interview , October 16, 2017

Russell Hartstein, CDBC, CPDT-KA, canine executive officer of Fun Paw Care , phone interview , October 13, 2017

Michele Marini Pittenger, president of Travel Goods Association , email interview , October 16, 2017

Mary-Alice Pomputius, founder of Dog Jaunt , email interview , October 15, 2017

Erin Terjesen, spokesperson for Sherpa Pets , email interview , October 17, 2017

Lindsey A. Wolko, founder of Center for Pet Safety , phone interview , October 2, 2017

“2015 Carrier Study Results” , Center for Pet Safety

“Does Your State Require Dogs Be Harnessed in the Car?” , Orvis News , June 22, 2017

United States Department of Agriculture, Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare Regulations , Transportation Standards

Meet your guide

Kaitlyn Wells

Kaitlyn Wells is a senior staff writer who advocates for greater work flexibility by showing you how to work smarter remotely without losing yourself. Previously, she covered pets and style for Wirecutter. She's never met a pet she didn’t like, although she can’t say the same thing about productivity apps. Her first picture book, A Family Looks Like Love , follows a pup who learns that love, rather than how you look, is what makes a family.

Further reading

The Best Dog Crate

by Kaitlyn Wells

We tested 17 dog crates with our own escape-artist pups and those from area rescues. And our longtime pick, the MidWest Ultima Pro , still came out on top.

Adopting a New Cat Checklist

Before you bring home a cat for the first time, make sure you have everything to keep your new pet happy and healthy.

Adopting a New Dog Checklist

Before you bring home a dog for the first time, make sure you have everything to keep your new pet happy and healthy.

The Best Automatic Cat Litter Box (But We Don’t Recommend It)

Self-cleaning litter boxes are expensive and more work than they're worth. The Litter-Robot III Open Air is the least bad, but we don't recommend one.

10 Best Cat Carriers, Tested by Experts and Approved by Cats

Before you can let your cat out of the bag, you have to get it inside one!

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Getting a skittish cat into a carrier is probably one of the most daunting tasks as a pet owner (though maybe not as tough as trying to brush a cat's teeth). Cats somehow sense even the slightest intention and go into hiding. Once you manage to lure them out and get them into the carrier you have about five seconds in which to close it up before they make a run for it. So a cat carrier has to be sturdy, it has to be able to close up fast, it has to accommodate your cat's size (a special consideration if you have a large cat!) and you have to be able to clean it.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Cat Carrier

Away the pet carrier.

Best Value Cat Carrier

Vceoa soft-sided cat carrier.

Best Cat Carrier for Large Cats

Sportpet foldable travel cat carrier with waterproof bed.

Best Cat Carrier For Airline Travel

Sherpa deluxe travel pet carrier.

Best Cat Carrier for Car Travel

Sleepypod air in-cabin pet carrier.

Best Rolling Cat Carrier

Gen7pets roller bag pet carrier.

Best Hard-Sided Cat Carrier

Petmate two-door cat kennel.

The Taylor Swift Cat Backpack

Sherpa bubble cat carrier backpack.

Best Backpack Cat Carrier

Mr. peanut's airline approved backpack pet carrier.

Best Expandable Cat Carrier

Wzcpcv expandable waterproof cat carrier.

Scroll to the bottom of this guide for helpful tips on choosing between a soft- and hard-sided cat carrier. Also, it turns out there are lots of ways to get your cat in a carrier with minimal stress — we include advice at the end of this story. For more ways to pamper your cat, check out our recommendations for the best cat toys and cat water fountains .

Away is a beloved luggage brand — we named it the best carry-on luggage — and its pet carrier is intelligently designed for travel. A trolley sleeve secures the cat carrier to the handle of your rolling luggage, and separate latches fit a seat belt to hold this securely onto a car's seat. It fits pets up to 18 pounds, making it good for large cats. It's a soft-sided carrier on the bigger side (roughly 18" by 10") so though it meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements for airplane travel, real-world reports say it does not fit under all airplane seats unless you squish it down a bit.

Only the top, one side and the front have mesh panels — if you have a scared cat, the less it sees the better, so that's a help. A privacy screen rolls down on the side if your cat wants to see even less. The lack of visibility also works to your advantage as you sail through the airport without attracting a lot of attention as your cat snuggles down in its comfy, sherpa-lined travel cave. Fewer curious faces peering in equals a less nervous animal.

Other things we love: It's made of high-quality, durable materials like water-resistant nylon and leather trim. You can load your cat in through the top or the side. The sherpa bed with walls (more luxe than the flat mat of most carriers) can be hand-washed and air-dried if there's an accident, and the rest wipes clean. There are little touches like an ID card, key clip and multiple pockets. Away's return policy gives you 100 days after purchase to return it, but only unused if you never put your cat inside. We also named this our best overall dog carrier , so it can pull double duty if you also have a small dog. (Just no fitting two pets in at the same time!)

This bargain is one of the most popular cat carriers on Amazon with more than 24,000 five-star ratings. It features mesh on four sides and zippered entrances on the top and the front. It has a light steel frame, so it does not fold flat, which makes it easier to get the cat inside, but doesn't help with storage. The solid back side has a zippered pocket for holding treats or paperwork from the vet.

Our Lab pros like that this comes with two inserts. One is hard, smooth and wipeable and it can give the bag a steady “floor.” The other insert has a zip-off, washable fuzzy cover for comfort. Several online reviewers whose cats had accidents in this tote report that they washed the liner and put the entire carrier in the washing machine on delicate with cold water, then let the carrier air-dry — and the smell was gone.

Many use this to get a cat up to 16 pounds to and from the vet, but it also fits under the seat in many airplane cabins. The brand says the shoulder strap doubles as a car seat belt but we did not test that. A few Lab notes: We found that the dimensions of the medium tote are smaller than the ones listed on Amazon. The buckle that attaches the shoulder strap to the bag is plastic, and so is the loop it hooks into, which helps keep cost down but makes this less durable over time. It also has no feet on the bottom, so it rests directly on the floor, which can wear the fabric down with repeated use.

Not only can this hold a large cat up to 25 pounds, but the SportPet carrier is among the easiest to load a cat into thanks to the extra-wide side opening . And this comes recommended by a vet . “I have this carrier for my own cat, and I am all for it as a veterinarian,” says Megan Conrad , M.B.B.S., who works for Wellhaven Pet Health outside of Portland, Oregon. “I appreciate how it opens because most of the time it gives me enough room to do an exam while keeping the cat in the carrier, which makes the cat feel safer.”

As much as we recommend this one for vet visits, it's not made for long-haul travel. It doesn't meet airline requirements nor does it fit under an airplane seat, and it has no special straps for a car. But we love that it folds flat for storage, and we appreciate that the hard-sided carrier can be rinsed clean. The cozy bed can be run through the washing machine and dryer. If you're mostly just taking a scaredy cat or a big cat to doctor visits, this is a fantastic choice.

The medium size of this carrier (about 17" by 11") as well as the small size (about 15" by 10") are both airline-approved and reviewers have been able to fit this in an airline cabin better than most. It holds its shape thanks to a springy wire frame that can be squished down a bit for a better fit under a seat. The medium size holds a cat up to 16 pounds, and the small holds a cat (or likely a kitten) up to 8 pounds. There's also a seatbelt safety strap for securing this in a car.

Both the top and side open nice and wide, and we had success getting our 15-pound tester cat, Helen, in through the side. There's a thin fuzzy mat that holds to the bottom of the carrier with hook-and-loop strips so it doesn't shift around, which is a nice touch. Carry it by hand or use the shoulder strap that attaches with strong metal buckles. There are two zippers at each opening so you can get it quickly closed.

The polyester fabric can be wiped clean. With a little bit of work, this cat carrier can be folded down almost flat for storage. Three sides are mesh; the top and one end are not. The solid end features a deep, zippered pocket where you can stash vet records and other documents. We like that the feet on the bottom of the carrier are substantial and keep the bag off the floor to prevent wear and tear, but some online reviewers complain of the feet making the bag sit at an angle, and others report zippers breaking over time. Overall, the materials do not seem to be as durable as those on our top pick.

Use this as your cat's plush bed at home, then zip up the top for easy travel. It's one of the most well-made pet carriers we tested , constructed with durable hardware, a washable soft lining, nylon exterior and a sturdy mesh top. One of our tester cats, Helen, hopped right in. To have it ready for travel, we partially zipped the top on and left it propped open so that once Helen was inside, we could close the top down and quickly zip it the rest of the way.

Save the directions that come with your Sleepypod Air for the instructions on how to secure this into a car using the seatbelt. It's ideal for car travel and has even been crash-tested and passed additional testing by the Center for Pet Safety . This will fit under the seat in an airline cabin, too — it's made to compress down to 16" x 10.5" x 8" so your cat has room while going through the airport but then can fit snugly for the flight.

One of our favorite things about the Sleepypod Air is how much privacy it provides. The top is mesh but the sides are solid, so a scared cat can nestle in and not deal with the outside world. But you can easily peer through the top and be sure all is well in there.

Do you have a chonky cat or a ways to walk with your pet? This pet carrier on wheels can be pulled along by the telescoping handle or worn as a backpack . In our tests, it was much easier to roll than wear with a large cat inside, since the bag itself weighs 7 pounds. If you have a lightweight cat or kitten, wearing it as a backpack works just fine.

When you set it down with the handle against the floor, you can open the top hatch to form a little pet bed. One of our tester cats, Azula, climbed right in without prompting. We also used this with a hefty male calico cat, Harry, and appreciated how easy it was to get him through the large side opening. The carrier itself is roomy, and Harry made a 30-mile car trip with ease. Reports from online reviewers about using this for airline travel are mixed. The bottom line is that it's easy to move through an airport but a tight squeeze on many planes.

We tested durability by rolling this through the New York City subway system, up steps and down escalators and along the sidewalks of Brooklyn. It held up beautifully and because one set of wheels can spin 360 degrees, it's easy to nimbly switch directions. Some online reviewers, however, were not happy pulling their cat behind them; if you aspire to wheel your furry pal ahead of you, you'll want a pet stroller . For those of us with fat cats (sorry, Harry), this can hold a pet up to 20 pounds.

Hard-sided carriers aren't especially cute, and they don't squish down for storage. But they are a safe option if you'll be moving your cat around with a lot of luggage in the car. The cat is protected from anything knocking against it. Hard-sided carriers are also frequently used to trap feral cats because they hold up to sharp claws and teeth. This is also an easier carrier type to clean if your cat has an accident since you can wash or hose it clean.

We tested the 24-inch size which has plenty of room for a big cat. According to the manufacturer, the large model holds an animal up to 15 pounds, but we found that you could carry up to 20 pounds in the large carrier especially if you keep one hand under the carrier and use the other to hold the top handle. Online reviewers with big cats, including Maine Coons, attest to having success with this large carrier.

Unlike the other carriers in this story which are ready to be used out of the box, this hard-sided carrier requires about 8 minutes of assembly. You must put the metal door in place and use the included screws and washers to secure the top to the bottom. This is not sized for travel in an airplane cabin.

Rockstar Taylor Swift totes one of her Scottish Fold cats in this faux-leather bubble-window backpack cat carrier in her “Miss Americana” Netflix documentary , leading a lot of cat owners to seek it out. My college kid was thrilled at the possibility of toting their young cat in this while going to and from campus during school breaks. It's a tall carrier, but it's not especially wide. Loading a large, hefty cat into this proved to be impossible, as did loading my kid's feisty little cat — she was able to spread her legs out and avoid going in. But we did have great success putting a slender, older tomcat, Buddy, inside and walking around with him; it held steady on our tester's back, and Buddy seemed to enjoy peering out of the window.

This carrier has a luxe feel, quality hardware, very secure and adjustable backpack straps plus a tote handle on top. You can swap out the bubble window for a flat, mesh window if you prefer; that would help this slide under an airplane set. One disappointment: The sherpa-fabric pad inside is not attached so it does slide around. But we like the open ventilation holes, a point of difference with this carrier — they help the cat breathe and also let you poke your finger in there to reassure your kitty or to slip it a treat. It gets great reviews on Petco.com, where it qualifies for free shipping.

When you can wear your cat on your back in a backpack, taking them on mass transit or walking to the vet is easy . Your hands stay free and your cat doesn't swing back and forth the way they might when toting a kennel or bag in one hand. A backpack also keeps your cat up high, where they can watch dogs and other creatures down beneath them.

With this deluxe backpack, we found both the top door and the front door to be too small to load a full-grown cat (at least, too small for our large beasts), but either could work to get a kitten into the backpack. The small doors are good if you want to reach in and give some reassuring pats. For loading a grown cat, use the wide side doors. There's a 10-pound weight limit with this, so it's not for chunky cats.

Our favorite feature is the nice plush lining, not just along the floor but along the back of the inside, making the entire interior soft and cozy. One end has a cupholder and two small pockets, and the other has a zippered pocket and an identification tag. The back of the bag can slide over your luggage handle so it can ride on top of your suitcase. The black buckles on the front are for securing the bag to a seatbelt.

Travel with your cat in this tote, then expand the two sides when you reach your destination so your cat can safely explore new surroundings. You wouldn't want to do that on an airplane, of course, but it is perfect if you bring your cat with you to a rental house or hotel room, to visit relatives or if you're relocating. Instead of hiding somewhere and making the transition difficult, your kitty can get settled in this roomy contraption. You can even fit a small travel litter box into one of the sides. It's also a way to bring your curious cat outdoors for some bird-watching without any danger of a dead bird or a lost cat.

While this carrier is not in Walmart stores, it is available on the website. Note that there's no fuzzy little mat in this one, but you could include a towel or shirt from home to give your cat something soft and familiar to sit on while in the carrier.

How we test cat carriers

Our team regularly reviews pet gear such as dog beds and cat condos , and our experts tested more than a dozen pet totes when we covered the best dog carriers. We sent some of those that could also work for cats to at-home testers with six cats over three households. Then we scoured online reviews to find more carriers that users say are specifically great for felines and tested those both in our Lab and in homes with consumer testers . We also consulted veterinarian Megan Conrad , M.B.B.S., of Wellhaven Pet Health , for her advice.

In the Lab, we used weights in each bag to make sure the straps could hold up to the stress, and we checked each bag's measurements against what was listed online to make sure the dimensions were accurate. Our final picks are the 10 pet carriers that we feel are best for traveling with a cat in a car, in an airplane or heading to the vet.

What to consider when buying a cat carrier

As soon as you adopt a new cat or kitten you should also get a cat carrier so you can safely transport your feline to the vet for shots and check-ups. Some families also want to travel with their cat if they're going away for any stretch of time. When you're deciding between a hard or soft carrier , consider the following:

✔️ The case for a hard-sided cat carrier: If your cat will be among a lot of luggage in your vehicle, a hard-sided carrier can prevent injury if the luggage shifts around. Also, if your cat is prone to peeing out of nervousness, a hard-sided carrier is easiest to wash or hose clean. We also like that the two hard-sided carriers in our story have large doors that make it easy to scoot a scared cat inside. Hard-sided carriers are often used by cat rescue organizations.

✔️ The case for a soft-sided cat carrier: Soft carriers usually have a shoulder strap and are easy to cart around. They're also best if you'll be traveling by plane. Officially, a plane's under-seat storage should be able to fit anything 18" x 14" x 8" or smaller. Unofficially, space varies by airline and plane size. If you're taking your cat in an airplane cabin, we recommend using a soft carrier that can be slightly squished down to fit if necessary. Any of the totes (without wheels) and backpacks in this story should work. While we were not able to fly-test the carriers in this story, we did study the manufacturer details and online reviews to understand which ones are made to successfully ride in an airplane cabin.

✔️ A note for city pet parents: For city dwellers who might tote their cat on public transportation, via bike or who have a walk to the vet, we like the backpack-style cat carriers or one on wheels.

✔️ And finally, advice if you have a large cat: A cat that weighs 12 pounds or less will fit into almost any cat carrier, including a backpack. Heftier cats in the 12- to 25-pound range should have a durable tote-style cat carrier that you can carry with a shoulder strap or move around on wheels, or a hard-sided cat carrier. If your big cat is in a hard-sided carrier, keep one hand underneath it while you carry it with the other.

Tips for using a cat carrier

Veterinarians recommend these steps for making it easier to get your cat in a carrier and keep them calm:

✔️ Put the carrier out in the open well before you need to use it. This takes the terrifying mystery out of it and allows your cat to explore the inside of the carrier on their own time.

✔️ Put a favorite treat and/or toy inside. Use that as a lure and as a comfort object for the trip.

✔️ Add a blanket or towel inside that's been sprayed with a cat-calming scent. Many vets and experts recommend Feliway Pheromone Spray to help ease your kitty. You can also spray it directly on the carrier liner. Use the spray and then let the alcohol dissipate for about 20 minutes before you transport your cat.

✔️ Most pet carriers do have a tether inside. The soft carriers in this story all have a tether inside. These attach to your cat's collar so that when you open the carrier, the cat can't immediately leap out. Vets and experts recommend it. However, those of us with skittish cats know that getting the feline in there is enough of a battle, and if you open a panel to fuss with the tether, the cat might jump right back out. No judgment from us if getting your cat tethered is one step too many.

✔️ Consider throwing a blanket or towel over the carrier at the vet. Cats may not like to see dogs or other cats who are strange to them. If a vet's waiting room is full of other animals, use a towel to shield your cat from the view to keep them less stressed.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For more than 120 years our staff has evaluated consumer products to help consumers make sound purchases. A dedicated roster of engineers, scientists and journalists employed by Good Housekeeping regularly test product claims and recommend items that live up to their promise.

Lead author Jessica Hartshorn is a contributing writer and 30-year veteran of the magazine industry which began with her working as an intern at Good Housekeeping during college. She was most recently a senior editor at Parents magazine where she covered pet products alongside kid products. She has four cats in her house and has also tested the best cat litter and self-cleaning cat boxes .

Some Lab testing in this roundup was carried out by former Parenting & Pets Reviews Analyst Jamie Spain , a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. Spain owns a dog and has reviewed products such as healthy dog treats .

This review was overseen by Rachel Rothman , former chief technologist and executive technical director at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Rothman, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, was with the Institute for more than 15 years and founded major initiatives such as our Parenting Awards .

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Product Reviews

The Best Walmart Patio Furniture for Less

The Best Natural and Organic Sunscreens

The Best Gifts for 3-Year-Olds

The Best Luggage Sets

The Best Composite Decking

The Best Water Flossers

The Best Pillows for Comfort and Support

The Best Robot Mops

The Best Vacuums

The 5 Best Sunrise Alarm Clocks

There's a Massive Recall on Laundry Pods

When you use links on our website, we may earn a fee.

Best Cat Carriers of 2024

Whether you’re traveling a short or long distance, a cat carrier is important for keeping your cat safe and secure. Whether for vacation travel or vet visits, a cat carrier is a safe and distraction-free way to transport your feline friend rather than letting your cat roam around your vehicle. A carrier prevents your cat from getting loose and can keep your pet contained while you’re traveling by car or plane. Even if you rarely take your cat out of the house, it’s a good idea to have an appropriately sized cat carrier on hand for emergencies.

Cat carriers come in a range of sizes to fit cats of all ages and weights. There are hard-sided pet kennels and soft-sided cat carriers plus backpack-style options. These are the best cat carriers for taking your cat on the go.

Table of Contents

• Best Cat Carriers
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Travel Cat “The Transpurrter” Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier  »

Top and side openings for easy access

Mesh panel with roll-down cover

Fits cats weighing up to 30 pounds

Not overly comfortable to use as a backpack carrier

Interior space may be limited for large cats

“The Transpurrter” Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier from Travel Cat ranks high on our list of the best cat carriers because it is lightweight, designed to be utilized in multiple ways, and secures cats up to 30 pounds inside. This soft-sided carrier is constructed of durable but lightweight fabric panels and weighs just 3.4 pounds. It has top and side zippered entry panels that give you multiple options for loading your cat inside or coaxing them out. Ventilation holes and mesh panels along the top and side of the carrier give your cat airflow and visibility, but you can also use the roll-down shade to cover the large mesh panel on the side if your pet does better with less visual stimulation.

Inside, the carrier is designed with kitty comfort in mind. A seamless bed insert with a washable mat cushions the bottom of the carrier but also easily slides out, which is handy for cleaning or bringing your nervous or fearful cat out of the carrier more easily. (While the removable bed brings benefits, it does reduce the interior space and makes the carrier less roomy for very large cats in the opinion of some reviewers.) And in the case of cats that are ready to spring from the carrier as soon as you open it up, a leash restraint keeps your kitty contained until it's safe for them to come out.

The convertible design means you can tote your cat around using the top carrying handle or opt to utilize the adjustable strap over the shoulder or across your body. Plus, if you plan to use this cat carrier for travel, there’s a luggage sleeve for sliding the cat carrier over your suitcase handle, as well as a Velcro strap and buckles to secure a seat belt around the carrier in the car. Optional backpack straps give you the choice to use this model as a hands-free cat carrier, but don’t count on carrying the carrier that way for long distances since the straps are unpadded and might become uncomfortable.

Amazon Basics - Two-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier  »

Sturdy construction with two-door design

Holds cats up to 20 pounds

Top door opens to the left or right

Concerns about durability of the top handle

Assembly required

You can’t put a price on your pet’s safety, but consider this hard-sided option from Amazon Basics if you’re looking for an affordable cat carrier. The 23-inch, two-door version holds a pet that weighs up to 20 pounds, and the crate is secured with metal hardware along the perimeter to keep the top and bottom halves connected as you travel from home to the vet’s office or on vacation. Of course, that means some assembly is required, and that’s sometimes a frustration for buyers who might be more accustomed to ready-to-go, soft-sided carriers. But if you don’t mind attaching about a half-dozen nuts and bolts, then you’ll have a well-constructed carrier for your cat.

For cat owners who have struggled to convince their kitty to squeeze through the open door of a carrier, the fact that this carrier is equipped with a top door is a real plus. Pet parents consistently comment on how much easier it is to put their cat into the carrier using this door, which opens to the left or right.

The other aspects of this cat carrier are relatively basic. There are ventilation holes on three sides of the carrier, and the metal wire door uses a spring latch to keep your cat contained. There’s a top carrying handle, but some reviewers point out that it feels less than sturdy when the carrier is loaded with a large cat, so you might need to support the bottom of this carrier when moving it from place to place.

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed  »

5 Star crash rating from Center for Pet Safety (CPS)

Detachable dome converts the carrier into a cat bed

Accessory add-ons available

Limited to cats weighing 15 pounds or less

One of the best cat carriers for car travel is this model from Sleepypod. Not only will it securely keep your cat contained with its zippered mesh dome and internal safety tether but it received a 5 Star crash testing rating when tested by the CPS. The company’s Pet Passenger Restraint System (PPRS) contributes to the safety of this cat carrier by ensuring that your cat will remain safely inside the carrier even during hard stops or a crash.

This durable nylon cat carrier is a big spend compared to other options, but it’s designed to be an inviting and cozy cat bed for travel and home use, too. The mesh dome detaches, giving your cat easy access to the plush interior of the carrier. It’s worth noting that the bed has a cozy cover that can be removed and machine-washed.

This Sleepypod cat carrier is available in a handful of colors to match your style, but keep in mind that it’s only recommended for use by cats up to 15 pounds. An adjustable padded shoulder strap means that you can sling this cat carrier over your shoulder as you carry your pet to the car, into the vet’s office, or to your travel destination.

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier  »

Spring wire frame compresses as needed

Top and side entries

Machine-washable interior liner

May leak if your cat has an accident

Large size may not be airline-approved

Keep your cat secure in the cabin of an airplane with the Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier. This option is especially well suited to air travel because it has a spring wire frame that gives the carrier structure but allows the back of the carrier to compress under light pressure, which is helpful when sliding the carrier underneath an airplane seat. This carrier is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. It’s noteworthy that the small- and medium-size carriers are guaranteed to be approved for air travel on many major airlines.

This cat carrier is lightweight, weighing about 3 to 5 pounds (depending on the size), and it has a padded shoulder strap and a pair of carrying handles so you can carry the loaded carrier through airport terminals with ease. The mesh sides of this carrier allow for better visibility for your cat and give you the ability to keep an eye on your pet during travel.

Pet parents appreciate that you can load or unload your cat from the carrier using a side- or top-loading door. The top access is especially helpful for cats that resist entering or exiting the carrier since you can easily lower your cat into the bag or reach down and gently lift your kitty out. When considering this cat carrier for air travel, the biggest trade-off to its lightweight polyester construction is the fact that it may not be leakproof if your cat urinates inside it. That being said, the solid board that gives the floor of this carrier some stability is covered in a soft fleece liner that’s removable and machine-washable.

SportPet Cat Carrier  »

Roomy dimensions with a high weight limit

Folds flat for storage

Extra-wide door for easier loading and unloading

Top carrying handle only

Must pay extra attention to firmly secure clips and tabs before use

Large breeds of cats like Persian, Turkish Van, and Maine coon will need more room inside a cat carrier. As Rachel Salant, an animal behavior specialist with veterinarians.org, says, “the carrier needs to be large enough for your cat to be able to stand up and fully turn around while in it,” so you’ll definitely want to take into account the needs of your large cat as you pick out a carrier. The SportPet Cat Carrier fits the bill thanks to its spacious dimensions and high weight capacity – up to 35 pounds for the extra-large version.

Other features that stand out about this carrier include the extra-wide door that spans the front of the carrier, making it easier to put your cat inside. There are plenty of ventilation slats that give your kitty fresh air and a view out from the inside of the carrier. And if your cat has an accident, it won’t seep through the floor of this hard-sided carrier, and you can wipe the polypropylene surface clean.

In addition to providing plenty of headroom for tall cats (14.3 inches for the standard/small size and 17.25 inches for the extra-large version), the triangular design of the crate makes it well balanced and easy to carry close to your body. Just keep in mind that there’s only a top handle and no shoulder strap, which limits the ways that you can carry this model. The carrier folds flat to take up less storage space when not in use, but, when preparing to transport your cat, be sure that the inner tabs and latches are secured as indicated in the product manual. Pet parents emphasize the importance of doing so or else the carrier feels less than sturdy and your cat may escape.

Sherpa Bubble Cat Carrier Backpack  »

Backpack-style carrier

Visibility bubble can be swapped for plastic screen

Accommodates cats up to 16 pounds

Zippers sometimes stick

Some issues noted with attaching the visibility bubble

This backpack-style cat carrier boasts both style and functionality. The rich brown faux leather exterior gives the Sherpa Bubble Cat Carrier Backpack a distinguished look, while the padded shoulder straps make the bag more comfortable and convenient for hands-free carrying. (Although, a top handle is also built into the bag.) The dimensions make the bag suitable for cats up to 16 pounds, and you can load your feline friend from either side using the zippered doors. Just know that sometimes the zippers stick, even though this cat backpack is generally considered to be high quality and well constructed.

The most obvious feature of this stylish cat carrier is the bubble window. It gives your cat a view but can also be swapped out with the included plastic screen as well. (Just take your time when reattaching the bubble, as sometimes it doesn’t sit properly.) There’s additional ventilation on the front and sides of the bag to ensure that your cat receives plenty of fresh air. A fabric liner is added for coziness on the floor of this cat carrier, but it’s removable and washable for cleaning convenience.

The Bottom Line

Be sure to choose a cat carrier that is sized right for your cat and includes the features that’ll make the carrier comfortable for you and your feline friend to use. We think that Travel Cat's ”The Transpurrter” Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier will check the most boxes for cat owners. It’s large enough to fit cats up to 30 pounds, and it has multiple ways to load and unload your cat from the carrier. A removable, washable bed keeps your cat comfortable on the go, and multiple strap adjustments give you a variety of ways to transport the carrier.

Things To Consider When Buying Cat Carriers

Weight Capacity: Cat carriers have a weight capacity that indicates the maximum load the carrier is designed to safely hold. Most cat carriers have a weight capacity between 15 and 35 pounds, and some carriers come in multiple sizes with a different weight rating for each size. If you plan to transport multiple cats in a single carrier, be sure to factor in the combined weight of the animals to determine if the carrier can handle the load.

Ventilation: It’s important to ensure that your cat remains comfortable and safe inside a cat carrier, and airflow is an essential part of the equation. For that reason, look to see what type of ventilation is built into the design of the cat carrier. Hard-sided carriers usually have ventilation slots or holes on the sides or top of the carrier. Soft-sided carriers might also have ventilation holes but often feature mesh panels, too. In addition to promoting circulation, ventilation features improve visibility for your cat. That can be calming for some cats, but it could be overstimulating for others, so some carriers include a flap or cover that reduces visibility by covering one or more mesh panels. However, additional ventilation holes should be present to keep sufficient air flowing into the carrier.

Portability: A cat carrier is typically utilized to ferry your cat from one place to another. One of the most important features that improves portability is the type of handle(s) available. Just about every carrier includes a top handle, which makes it easy to lift the carrier and hold it by your side, but some cat carriers also have a shoulder strap that gives you the option to carry your cat a longer distance without tiring out your arm. Backpack-style cat carriers are also popular because the design distributes the weight of the cat and carrier across your back while leaving your hands free for other things.

If you plan to transport your cat carrier in the car, look for a version that includes a mechanism for securing the seat belt around the carrier to prevent it from shifting or falling if your vehicle makes a sudden maneuver. For airplane travel, ensure that the carrier you choose meets the specific requirements of the airline you’ll be traveling.

Storage: If you’re not using the cat carrier, you might be interested in models that fold flat for storage. A collapsible cat carrier can save space and fit into a closet or on a shelf until you need it again. On the flip side, some cat owners find it beneficial to leave their cat carrier out at all times so that their cat becomes comfortable with the carrier. Salant offers this suggestion for familiarizing your cat with a new carrier: “Leave it out in your home with the door wide open and feed them in it at meal times so they walk into it by themselves. As they start to get confident with this, you can slowly close the door for very short periods of time while they are eating and start extending the time they are in it.”

In terms of storage, consider whether or not the carrier you choose has features that make it suitable for stowing underneath an airplane seat if you fly with your cat. Some models have flexible frames that allow them to fit in the tight space underneath a plane seat.

Finally, don’t forget to factor in storage for your cat’s essentials like food, treats, and toys. Some cat carriers have one or more pockets where you can store these items for easy access as you travel and once you reach your destination.

Ease of Maintenance: You’ll want to periodically clean your cat carrier to keep it fresh and hygienic for your pet and to remove any hair, dander, dirt, and debris. Salant says that hard-sided carriers can be easier to clean. Without soft materials to absorb liquids or odors, you can more easily wipe clean the solid bottom and sides of a hard-sided carrier. That’s not to say that soft-sided carriers can’t be cleaned, too. Many have a removable insert or liner that can be machine-washed .

If you have a cat that’s prone to having an accident or vomiting inside of a carrier, ease of cleaning should be a high priority as you compare your options for a new cat carrier.

How We Chose the Best Cat Carriers

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, we invest the time to research the best products for your pet’s well-being and consult experts to determine the most important factors in your search. When it comes to picking the best cat carriers, we researched the most popular models available and consulted with an animal behavior specialist to find out the most essential features for a safe, comfortable cat carrier. We then selected the options that stand out for their comfort and convenience, often with a removable, washable bed or top- and side-opening doors to make it easier to get your cat in and out. We included hard-sided and soft-sided cat carriers in a range of sizes and with varying weight capacities so that you can find the right option for your cat.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors draw on their years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products to recommend the best options. Erica Puisis , the author of this article, has six years of product review experience, as well as a background working for a veterinary practice and an enthusiasm for learning about products that enhance animal well-being. In addition to U.S. News 360 Reviews, Erica has contributed to The Spruce Pets and Forbes Vetted.

For this article, Erica interviewed Rachel Salant , an animal behavior specialist with veterinarians.org . Salant explained how to acquaint a cat with a new carrier and what factors affect the safety and usability of the best cat carriers.

The right size cat carrier will allow your cat to stand up and turn around while inside. It should also be appropriately matched to the weight of your cat. Don’t choose a cat carrier that isn’t rated to hold your cat’s weight (or the combined weight of your pets if you plan to transport more than one cat at a time). At the same time, animal behavior specialist Salant says that an overly large carrier isn’t necessarily better. “You want your cat to feel secure, and a carrier that is too large might work against that,” says Salant.

Regarding the best type of cat carrier, there are hard-sided and soft-sided carriers to choose from. Salant says, “I personally like hard sided carriers vs. soft sided ones to provide an extra layer of safety while in transit.” A hard-sided carrier provides more robust protection for your cat, but soft-sided cat carriers might be more flexible for stowing under an airplane seat or for storing when not in use. Some soft-sided cat carriers also offer multiple configurations for carrying, making the carrier more comfortable or convenient to carry for a distance.

A cat carrier is the safest way to keep your pet secure during travel. But to increase your cat’s comfort and reduce stress levels, you should put in some work to prepare your pet for travel ahead of time. Help your cat view the carrier as a positive place by offering treats or food inside the carrier while at home. Some cats come to view a carrier as a cozy hideaway and will readily enter the carrier if it’s left out at home.

Once your cat is comfortable entering the carrier and can tolerate the door being closed, take a trial run in the car. Keep initial rides short so that your cat will be accustomed to the sights and sounds in the car. This could also prevent car trips from becoming associated strictly with anxiety-inducing occasions like vet visits.

Most people shop for a cat carrier to take their cat somewhere, but it’s important to consider the mode of transportation as you compare options. Cat carriers for the car should have a means of securing the carrier using the seat belt to keep the carrier in place during travel.

If you’ll be taking your cat in the cabin of an airplane with you, the carrier will need to meet specific requirements regarding size as set by the airline to ensure that the carrier fits under the seat in front of you. If you’re shipping your cat in a cargo hold, Salant, an animal behavior specialist, points out that “there are very specific hard-sided crate regulations you will have to meet before the airline accepts a live animal into cargo.” When it comes to a cat carrier for airline travel, your best bet is to verify dimensions and other requirements with the airline you’ll be traveling on and then find a cat carrier that matches those specifications.

About Our Team

Erica Puisis

Contributor

Kayla Randolph

Associate Editor

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

12 Best Pet Carriers to Keep Dogs and Cats Comfortable and Safe in Transit

By Madison Roberts and Madison Flager

Traveling with a pet requires sorting out a whole lot of logistics—beyond making sure your own packing list has been properly ticked off, you’ll need to factor in the food, toys, and gear your pet will need on the road and wherever you’re headed. But even before that’s been mapped out, you’ll want to find a trustworthy pet carrier. Reliable, comfortable, and sturdy pet carriers to throw over your shoulder or on your back when your hands are full make navigating the airport a more streamlined experience, and keep your pet comfortable while in transit.

Whether you’re traveling with your furry friend on a month-long vacation to another state, heading to a rental house for a week or two, or just setting out on a quick weekend getaway, these airline-approved carriers will keep your pet safe on the go. Scroll down for a dozen great pet carriers for dogs and cats, including a space-age pod that's perfect for naps and an  Arlo Skye carrier that attaches to your favorite carry-on—but first, a few tips to keep in mind while you shop and plan.

What size pet carrier will fit under an airline seat? 

Size requirements vary by airline, so always double check with the one you’re flying for the latest pet guidelines before departure. Here are size and weight specifications for  JetBlue (17" x 12.5" x 8.5"),  American Airlines (18” x 11” x 11” for soft-sided bags, 19” x 13” x 9” for hard-sided kennels), and Delta and  United (both 18” x 11” x 11”). Make sure your pet has room to stand up and turn around while inside.

Does a dog carrier count as a carry-on?

Pet carriers must fit under the seat in front of you. However, they can effect your luggage allotment. On JetBlue, for fares above Blue Basic, a carry-on suitcase, backpack, or duffel is allowed so long as it fits in the overhead compartment. However, on other airlines, like American and Delta, your pet carrier replaces your carry-on bag, and your second item is limited to a personal item.

What type of carrier should I get? 

It depends on what size pet you have and how you travel. A soft side carrier or backpack carrier is easiest to fit under an airplane seat, and may be more comfortable and breathable for your pet. 

Think through your typical (non-pet) travel routine and how you’ll need to adjust it when your personal item is dedicated to your pet. If you often travel with another person, that person can store things you’ll want accessible during the flight in their personal item, but if you’re traveling solo, you’ll probably want to pick a carrier with additional storage for your boarding pass, earphones, and other small essentials. Backpack carriers are best for smaller dogs or cats, though all come with weight guidelines to help you determine whether it'll fit your pet.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

• Dimensions: 11"L x 20.5"W x 11"H
• Weight maximum: 20 pounds

One of the chicest new additions to the pet carrier world is Paravel's latest ideation, which is largely inspired by their wildly popular Cabana Tote (yes, the one that’s sold out seven times). The design team has resized it to fit a pet up to 20 pounds and added comfortable elements like a washable liner and mesh panels for airflow, all while maintaining the sustainability that the brand is known for by constructing it out of 38 upcycled plastic water bottles. It folds down to be completely flat for easy storage, even if you live in a tiny Upper West Side apartment like me. But the best part? The ability to embroider your pet's name or initials on the side of the carrier. Traveling with your pet has never been more fashionable—or sustainable. — Scott Bay, associate editor

Wild One Travel Carrier

• Dimensions: 17.5"L x 11"W x 10"H
• Weight maximum: 16 pounds

Tested by  Traveler  contributor Lauren Dana Ellman, Wild One’s design-friendly pet carrier comes in tan, spruce green, and black, and fits dogs that are 16 pounds and under. “It’s clear this carrier was designed with versatility, durability, and functionality in mind,” Ellman wrote. "There are mesh walls for added breathability, a built-in collar clip, a detachable shoulder strap that pulls double duty as a leash, and a cushion that can be rolled out to use as a plush dog bed or travel mat when you get to your destination.” That interior mat is machine washable, too.

Read a full review   here .

Sherpa Original Deluxe pet carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 17"L x 11"W x 10.5"H

A tried and true favorite, this carrier is just about perfect. The Sherpa Original comes equipped with non-slip shoulder straps for easy carrying, locking zippers, and a store pocket for those very important treats. While the design comes airline-approved, its special spring wire frame allows for the carrier to keep its shape, while still being flexible enough to conform to multiple under-seat dimensions.

Away pet carrier

• Dimensions: 18.7"L x 10.8"W x 10.75"H
• Weight maximum: 18 pounds

It should be no surprise that Away’s pet carrier is just as streamlined and chic as their hit luggage. The bag, which fits pets up to 18 pounds and comes in standard black or an au courant gray-blue, is incredibly thoughtfully designed. Standout features include plush, removable sherpa bedding, plenty of pockets for you to store travel documents, and a side pocket with drainage holes (so you can store your included collapsible water bowl inside). Plus, wide openings on both the side and top for easy access, mesh panels on three sides for maximum ventilation, and a roll-up screen so your pet can see what's going on outside. As for safety: Innovative exterior latches can fasten the carrier to a car seat belt, and an interior safety-collar clip prevents adventurous pets from scampering out as soon as you unzip the carrier, And, of course, it’s designed to strap onto any type of Away luggage, making toting this carrier a breeze, even through a crowded terminal. — Juliet Izon

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

Texsens innovative traveler bubble backpack

• Dimensions: 12.6"L x 11.4"W x 16.5"H

If you’re looking for a bag for road trips or other non-plane travel (it can lay sideways under some airplane seats, but is a little large), this budget-friendly backpack carrier from Amazon is a solid option. Cat mom Becca Guthrie says her pet, Joe, likes to be able to see out from nearly every direction, and she likes that the sides unzip, making it easier to get him inside. It fits dogs up to 15 pounds or cats up to 18 pounds, and comes in a half dozen colors and patterns, with two side pockets to store treats, a leash, or personal items.

Arlo Skye Pet Carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 17.5"L x 11"W x 10"H
• Weight maximum: 25 pounds

Obsessed with your silver Arlo Skye suitcase? Well, now you can pair it with the brand's very own pet carrier, which manages to be totally practical while still looking chic (not an easy feat). With 360-degree ventilation, your travel buddy will be safe and secure nestled on top of the aluminum or polycarbonate Carry-On or Check-In suitcase, and the carrier includes a memory foam mattress so they'll feel like they're flying first class (even when you're not). When it's not in use, the foldable design makes it easy to pack.

Mark & Graham Buddy pet carrier

• Dimensions: 18"L x 11.5"W x 11"H
• Weight maximum: 50 pounds

If you're the type of shopper who puts a monogram on everything your pet owns, this is the carrier for you. The nylon bag comes in two neutral colors (ivory or navy) that'll match most any travel gear, and can be customized with your pet’s name embroidered on top for an additional $12. Inside, the carrier features a removable fleece lining for comfort, a built-in leash for security, and netted sides that can be rolled down if your pooch gets hot.

Sleepypod mobile pet bed

• Dimensions: 17"L x 17"W x 13"H
• Weight maximum: 15 pounds

Multi-use functionality is key, and this pet carrier triples as a carrier, car seat, and mobile sleep solution. The design is perfect to help your pet cope with long road trips, plus it works as a super-cozy bed once you reach your destination. Ready to hit the road again? Zip the bed up its sides to transform it into a portable carrier.

Petsfit double sided expandable carrier

• Dimensions (for large size bag): 19"L x 12"W X 12"H (not expanded)

This carrier is basically the animal world equivalent of a lie-flat seat on an overseas flight. The Petsfit Double Sided Carrier comes in standard, airline-approved sizing with machine-washable fleece bedding, padded shoulder straps, and a side strap for securing to the top of your suitcase handle. In the event that no one takes up the middle seat next to you, it also has two expandable compartments so your pet can stretch its legs out.

Natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier backpack

• Dimensions (for XXS bag): 14"L x 8.3"W x 8.3"H
• Weight maximum: 8 pounds

This multi-use 6-in-1 pet carrier is for travelers who love having a ton of options: It can be worn as a backpack, front pack, shoulder bag, hand bag, two-position carrier, or used as a car seat crate. Plus, the flexible frame helps keep its shape no matter which way you're carrying it, leaving your pet with plenty of room to lounge in. It comes in three sizes based on weight, with the largest made for pets up to 19 pounds.

Mr. Peanut Gold-Series Dog & Cat carrier

• Dimensions: 18"L x 10.5"W x 11"H

When traveling with a pet, safety is key, and this carry-on pet bag is built with that in mind. It’s designed with self-locking zippers that don’t slide up or down, so you won’t have any worries about chasing your pet down the jetbridge. The bag also includes an ID tag holder, an interior leash attachment, and a safety seat belt in case your flight encounters unexpected rough air. Just as stylish as it is practical, the carrier features a fabric rollaway cover, faux fleece bedding, mesh windows on the top and sides, and an extra pocket. (If you often fly first or business and have slightly more room at your feet, spring for the expandable option .)

Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around 4-in-1 pet carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 14"L x 11"W x 20"H 

Thankfully, there are plenty of pet carriers out there with wheels, too. This one will let you roll through the airport with ease and comes equipped with side storage pockets, as well as a seat-belt loop to keep your pet safe—and the 4-in-1 design means it can also be carried as a backpack. A carry-on that only holds a puppy? Now that's our idea of "packing light."

The Best Cat Carrier For Road Trips Is Crash Test Certified

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

The Spruce Pets / Sarah Elder

Cats can be difficult traveling partners, though there are ways to prepare them for a road trip . The right cat carrier can make a car trip with your cat easier too. The best cat carrier for car travel should be comfortable, secure, and safe. To find the best cat carrier for car travel, we tested more than 40 highly-rated and bestselling pet carriers in real-world conditions. 

“Carriers should be sturdy with multiple ways to access the cat,” Dr. Elizabeth Czerwonky, a veterinarian at the VCA Cat Hospital of Chicago, told The Spruce Pets. “When not in use for transport, we recommend keeping the carrier or carrier bottom half in the environment as another resting space.”

Some cat carriers include seat belt attachment points or boast proven crash test certifications from non-profit organizations like the Center for Pet Safety , including our favorite cat carrier for the car, the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed.

How We Tested

Buckling up your cat for travel, ventilation, why trust the spruce pets, best overall, sleepypod mobile pet bed.

Certified by the Center for Pet Safety

Crash replacement program with proof of accident

Machine washable bedding

Includes safety tether

Padded carry handles

Limited ventilation

Cumbersome carrying shape

The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed combines proven car safety with a design that maximizes your cat’s comfort. The carrier uses a round cat bed as its base, with the intention that you would leave it out for your cat’s regular use. Then, when it’s time to get in the car for your next veterinary trip, your cat already feels safe and secure in their carrier. The top part of the Sleepypod is a mesh dome that zippers onto the rim of the bed. From there, easy-grip zipper pulls can be used to open this dome down the middle for access to your cat. 

It’s a combination that works well, though it may prove less useful if your cat already has a beloved cat bed. But even if they don’t develop a familiarity with the Sleepypod’s bottom half, this is still one of the best options for car travel thanks to its safe design. The Sleepypod has been crash tested according to the same standards used for child safety seats (you can even watch their crash testing on YouTube ). It is also one of only a handful of car carriers approved by the non-profit Center for Pet Safety, which conducts independent testing. Use the safety tether to secure your cat inside of the Sleepypod, buckle them in with the seatbelt straps, and your cat is about as secure as they can be in the car.

The carrier itself has a ballistic nylon exterior, with ripstop mesh—so it can hold up to years of use—and the interior has a water-repellent liner, confining an accident to the carrier and its removable, machine washable plush bedding. There’s also optional accessories, like the heating pad that slides into a pocket beneath the bed, or the mesh lining for more summertime breathability. 

The Sleepypod does have a few downsides as a consequence of its design. Because the bottom half of the carrier is a pet bed, visibility and ventilation is limited to the dome top. Its round shape also makes it awkward to carry, though the Sleepypod compensates somewhat with its padded carry handle and shoulder strap.

The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is available in 11 different colors and is suitable for pets under 15 pounds. For cats 7 pounds or under, there is also the Sleepypod Mini . 

Dimensions: 17-inch diameter, 13.5 inches tall | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Colors: Arctic white, glacier silver, sky blue, robin egg blue, blossom pink, strawberry red, dark chocolate, jet black, first blush, olive green, charcoal gray | Materials: Polyester, ballistic nylon, ripstop mesh

Best Budget

Petseek extra large cat carrier.

Folds down for storage

Three entrances

Built-in seatbelt loop

Mesh panels can be rolled up for free access

Fleece pet bed liner is machine washable

Hasn’t been crash tested or safety certified

Large size can make it unwieldy to carry

Our favorite soft-sided carrier , the Petseek Extra Large Cat Carrier is an all-around great carrier, though it lacks the car safety bonafides of the Sleepypod. As the name suggests, this is a very roomy carrier, with a rigid steel frame and a 55-pound weight limit. Our tester used the carrier with two large cats and said, “This is my favorite cat carrier by far.” It’s even collapsible for easy storage.

In addition to the safety tether inside of the carrier, the Petseek has seatbelt loops which allow you to secure a seatbelt across the “waist” of the carrier, belting it securely in place on your back seat. 

The Petseek cat carrier has three doors, with access from the front, top, or side. The mesh screen side panels can be rolled up, allowing you to leave the carrier open and accessible to your cat. The fleece liner inside is removable and can be machined washed.

Dimensions: 24 x 16.5 x 16 inches | Weight: 6.37 pounds | Colors: Blue, gray, green | Materials: Polyester, nylon mesh, steel frame

The Spruce Pets / Dylan Thompson

Best for Short Trips

Diggs passenger travel carrier.

Can be taken aboard most airplanes

Top and side access

Crash tested rated by the Center for Pet Safety

Includes collar tether clip

Designed for air travel, so it’s not very spacious

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier is a premium soft-sided carrier designed for easy airline travel, with features like a trolley sleeve for luggage attachment and multiple pockets for carrying accessories. The Diggs carrier has multiple points of access, including a dual-zipper top panel that includes an easy-to-use lock. Its removable dog bed even comes with specially tailored pee pads for cleaning up after any accidents.

It’s also an excellent car travel option, especially for short trips. The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier passed crash testing with high marks: a 5-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety (the Sleepypod Mobile received the same score). 

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier is available in three colors.

Dimensions: 20 x 10.8 x 11.5 inches | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Colors: Navy, blush, slate | Materials: Polyester

Best for Multiple Cats

One for pets portable pet kennel.

Divider between can be removed for one extra-large space

Folds down into included carrying case

Carriers can be used separately

Comes with stakes for securing to ground

Unstructured bottom sags under pet’s weight

No safety certifications

The One for Pets Portable 2-in-1 lets you transport two (or more) cats while keeping them separate. The dual carriers can be used separately or together, and each has zippable door panels on the front and sides. You can even unzip the dividers between carriers and use the two in combination to form one large interior space. 

The zippered mesh doors have velcro attachments points on top, so you can roll them up and leave the portable kennel open and accessible. The double carrier even comes with plastic pegs that you can use to stake the whole assemblage down to the ground on outdoor outings.

However, as our tester noted, the unstructured and saggy bottom on the One for Pets carriers is awkward to carry (and cats will dislike the unsteady footing while you’re carrying them in it), making this much more appropriate for dedicated car travel. The included seat belt loops lets you affix this carry to a backseat and provide lots of room to your cats while traveling. 

Dimensions: 39 x 20 x 20 inches (both compartments zipped together) | Weight: 7.55 pounds | Colors: Black, gray | Materials: Polyester, nylon mesh

Our favorite cat carrier for car trips is the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed , which uses a unique design to help your cat feel as comfortable as possible while traveling. It’s also passed extensive crash testing and has earned the highest possible score from the Center for Pet Safety. While it hasn’t been thoroughly tested for safety like our favorite, we also like the more budget-friendly Petseek Extra Large Cat Carrier , which has seat belt loops so that you can buckle this steel-framed carrier into your backseat. 

We have tested dozens of pet carriers in real-world conditions, including a large-scale test of 30 different cat carriers at once. We’ve also tested airline-approved pet carriers, backpack carriers, and other cat-friendly transport solutions, ultimately drawing on a product pool of nearly 50 popular carriers that have undergone rigorous testing.

Our real-world tests begin with experts, who help us identify veterinary needs, safety requirements, and those attributes that are best for a pet’s wellbeing. Using these expert interviews, our research team then creates a testing methodology that outlines observations to make, qualities to assess, and stress tests to conduct. This methodology is provided to a pool of trained testers, who each test a product in real-world conditions with their cat or cats.

After several weeks of testing, our volunteer cats have their owners fill out a comprehensive evaluation of the product, scoring and evaluating each cat carrier’s performance, portability, and build quality. 

Most pet carriers need to be secured, especially if they’ll be placed in the backseat alone. According to Dr. Czerwonky, cats should never be let out of their carrier or left in the car alone, since they could cause themselves harm. Look for carriers with specialized straps for securing the waist belt of a standard car seatbelt across the side of the carrier. Some carriers also advise threading the diagonal shoulder strap through the top straps on the carrier, while others use instruct users to loop the carrier’s shoulder strap behind the headrest for additional security. 

Most pet carriers come with multiple holes of ventilation on the sides or top of carriers. It's important when traveling not to completely block them off since that air flow is crucial for comfort and safety. On car rides, especially longer ones, cats need to feel safe and taken care of, or else neither of you will have a good travel experience. 

“We recommend a towel or light blanket over the carrier to prevent overstimulation by the surroundings,” Dr. Czerwonky told The Spruce Pets.

There are other methods for preparing your cat for car travel , but the best way to calm your cat for travel is to acclimate them in advance. Make sure to keep your cat carrier out, either all the time or for several days ahead of travel. This way, your cat can explore the carrier’s interior and get used to it outside of stressful travel conditions.

Also, check out our roundup of the best calming aids for cats . 

This article was written by Steven Asarch, a freelance writer and product expert for The Spruce Pets. A devout cat dad of two, he understands how to take care of felines in enclosed spaces (like an apartment) for long periods. In his search for the best car carriers, Steven prioritized practicality, durability, and safety.

Steven has also researched the best treadmills , specialized cat foods , litter box furniture , and even the best Tamagotchi .

To get the best understanding of what makes a great cat carrier for travel, he spoke with Dr. Elizabeth Czerwonky , a veterinarian at the VCA Cat Hospital of Chicago.

More from The Spruce Pets

• The 8 Best Dog Car Seats and Restraints, Tested With Real Dogs
• The 6 Best Dog Seat Belts for Your Next Road Trip
• The 11 Best Cat Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
• The 11 Best Dog Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
• The 6 Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
• The 6 Best Backpack Cat Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
• The 10 Best Dog Seat Covers Tested With Real Dogs
• The 8 Best Dog Backpack Carriers Tested With Real Dogs
• The 7 Best Dog Bike Baskets for Your Small-Breed Passenger
• The 10 Best Dog Crates of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
• The 5 Best Dog Crates for Puppies, Tested and Reviewed
• The 5 Best Wagons for Outdoor Adventures With Your Dog
• The 8 Best Cat Play Tunnels of 2024
• The 4 Best Pill Pockets For Cats of 2024
• The 10 Best Dog Harnesses of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
• 21 of the Best Pet Products We Ever Tested Are On Sale For Amazon Prime Day

8 Best Cat Carriers of 2024

by Emma Stenhouse

Updated on March 05, 2024

Looking for the purr-fect cat carrier for your feline friend? Whether you’re headed overseas, up a mountain, or across town to visit the veterinarian, traveling with your cat is always an adventure! It’s also becoming more popular — with over 2 million pets traveling on commercial flights every year. But with so much travel comes the need to find a secure, comfy, and safe cat carrier to transport your favorite feline.

To help you narrow down the right option for your kitty, we’ve rounded up eight of the best cat carriers, plus added some guidance on how to choose one based on the type of travel you’ll be doing.  

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Our List 

• Overall Best Cat Carrier: Midwest Homes Cat Carrier        
• Best Large Cat Carrier: AmazonBasics Two Door Cat Carrier   
• Best Small Cat Carrier: MuchL Soft-Sided Cat Carrier
• Best Cat Backpack: Texsens Innovative Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier
• Best Soft Cat Carrier: Sleepypod M o bile Pet Carrier Bed
• Best Hard Cat Carrier: Petmate Two Door Cat Carrier   
• Best Airline Approved Cat Carrier: Top Paw Travel Airline Carrier 
• Best Cat Carrier for Anxious Cats: Cat-in-the-Bag Cozy Comfort Carrier  

Overall Best Cat Carrier 

Our pick: Midwest Homes Cat Carrier  

Perfect for a quick trip to the veterinarian or for a longer road trip, this bestseller is our favorite cat carrier. It can be assembled in five quick steps (and without tools!), so you’ll be able to get your cat set up for your trip in no time. The ventilated sides offer plenty of airflow, and for added comfort, you can pop your cat’s bed inside.  

• Bestseller on Amazon 
• Quick and easy assembly
• Simple to clean
• Dimensions: 20.7″ x 13.22″  x 14.09″ 
• Larger cats may not want to be in it for longer periods of time
• No top entry door  

Best Large Cat Carrier

Our pick: AmazonBasics Two Door Cat Carrier     

Sturdy enough to hold a cat up to 20 pounds, this carrier is the most popular choice for larger breeds. The top door makes it much easier to place your cat securely inside — no more scratches! Plus, if your cat is an anxious traveler and gets a little agitated, the hard sides of this carrier are tough enough to keep them safe.   

• Front and top doors for easy access
• One-handed opening with spring-loaded latch 
• Well ventilated 
• Dimensions: 22.83″  x 14.96″  x 12.99″
• Not airline approved 
• May be difficult to carry

Best Small Cat Carrier

Our pick: MuchL Soft-Sided Cat Carrier

Cute and compact, this small cat carrier is the perfect pick for little furballs. It’s designed with heavy-duty, waterproof polyester and mesh windows for lots of ventilation. Zippered openings on both sides make it easy to get your cat in and out, and the adjustable, padded shoulder strap promises comfortable carrying. 

• Compact size is compliant with most airline regulations 
• Mesh windows
• Two side entry points
• Padded shoulder strap
• DImensions: 16.92″ x 8.26″  x 11.81″ 
• May not be big enough for larger cats

Best Cat Backpack Carrier

Our pick: Texsens Innovative Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier  

Cat backpacks are so popular now, especially if you want to bring your cat on a hike or out for the day. Your little traveler cat will love looking out through the breathable mesh windows of this cat backpack carrier as you take on the trail or a trip through town. Plus, the padded shoulder and chest straps mean you’ll be comfortable too!  

• Mesh windows for added ventilation
• Foldable design
• Padded straps
• Washable mat included 
• Dimensions: 12.6″ x 11.4″  x 16.5″ 
• Slightly larger cats may not be able to sit properly 

Best Soft Cat Carrier

Our pick: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Carrier Bed

This is one of the best soft pet carriers we’ve ever seen. It’s got two separate openings: a small one at the top and a larger one around the sides for easier in and out. It also comes in a variety of colors and has a cozy interior lining, and there’s even a mini version that fits underneath most airline seats. Plus, as an added bonus, you can zip off the top to turn the Sleepypod into a bed for your cat at home or on the go. (Pro tip: this is also a great way to familiarize them with their new carrier!)  

• Padded shoulder strap 
• Two openings for easy access
• Can double as a cat bed
• 1-year warranty 
• Dimensions: 17” x 13.5” (original); 13” x 11” (mini)
• Very high price point

Best Hard Cat Carrier

Our pick: Petmate Two Door Cat Carrier   

If you know you need a sturdy pet carrier, look no further than this one from Petmate. It’s made with recycled materials and has plenty of ventilation for your cat to be comfortable on their trip. Both of its two doors have easy-to-use handles for simple one-handed opening and closing. 

• Quick access through the top or front
• Easy to assemble and clean
• Made with recycled materials 
• Available in various sizes and colors 
• DImensions: 24.05″  x 16.76″  x 14.5″ 
• Not airline cabin approved, though it is approved for most airline cargo areas 

Best Airline Approved Pet Carrier

Our pick: Top Paw Travel Airline Carrier  

Turning your cat into a little jet-setter? This Top Paw Travel Airline Carrier will help keep them traveling in style. With a firmly padded base for stability, this soft carrier has plenty of room for your kitty to stretch out. There’s also a soft faux fur pad inside, as well as a harness attachment point for added security while on the go. 

• Removable shoulder strap
• Stable bottom with feet
• Luggage handle sleeve
• Includes a dispenser for waste bags (bags sold separately)
• Dimensions: 18” x 11” x 11”
• A bit more expensive than other options

Best Cat Carrier for Anxious Cats

Our Pick: Cat-in-the-Bag Cozy Comfort Carrier  

If you have a slightly anxious cat, or a cat that just loves to be close to you, a cat carrier bag like this is definitely worth a try. The shoulder strap allows you to use it hands-free, making your cat feel safe, secure, and snuggled right next to you while still being able to observe everything going on around them. While cat bags may not be the most conventional type of carrier, with many great reviews from happy customers (people especially love it for vet trips!), we think this one is worth trying to see if your cat approves.

• Handle doubles as a shoulder strap
• Seat belt pass-through for car trips
• Velcro cat paw openings are ideal for grooming and nail-trimming
• Available in various colors and sizes
• Made of 100% cotton
• Washable 
• Unstructured bag provides less stability; this would not be a good option for air travel
• Unconventional design may not suit all cats 

Cat Carrier Buying Guide

When looking for a cat carrier, there are plenty of things to consider. While you might be able to get away with using a cardboard box for a trip to the vet in a pinch, it’s always best to buy a cat-specific carrier before you need it. 

As a pet parent, you know your cat best, so it’s a good idea to choose a carrier based on their personality and the type of trip you’ll be taking. A curious and confident small cat might love a bubble backpack so they can check out the world around them. But a large, timid cat may prefer a hard-sided carrier that provides more security.  

What to Look for in a Cat Carrier

When choosing the type of carrier you need, consider the following features:

Size. Any carrier needs to be large enough for your cat to stand up and turn around comfortably. Before buying a carrier, measure your cat’s length and height and compare this with the carrier dimensions. It’s also worth bearing in mind that if a carrier is too big, your cat may move around too much and feel less secure. 

Materials. Hard-sided carriers are easy to wipe down, but when it comes to soft-sided versions, look for washable materials and removable padding.  

Design. Carriers with opaque sides can make cats feel more secure, as they offer a barrier between them and the outside world. Soft carriers sometimes have mesh sides, which can provide added ventilation.

Your travel needs. If you travel a lot with your cat, you might find different carriers are best for specific trips. A hard carrier is great for visits to the veterinarian, but you (or your cat!) might prefer a soft holdall style carrier for plane journeys or road trips. 

Durability. Hard carriers are extremely durable and even if your cat scratches, they won’t get damaged. Soft carriers can become ripped by claws and teeth over time, so always regularly check for any tears or holes in the fabric.

Cat Carriers: Why They’re Important

Keeping our cats safe is most pet parents’ number one priority. And no matter the destination, a carrier helps you move your feline friend around safely and comfortably. 

Restraining your cat during travel is always recommended, but for some modes of transport, it’s also a legal requirement. If you’re bringing your cat with you on a plane trip, for example, you’ll need to use an airline approved pet carrier for either in-cabin or cargo travel (depending on the length of your trip). Always check the rules for each airline, as the dimensions or type of carrier they allow may vary. 

At home, cat carriers can also serve other purposes, like being a safe place for your cat to stay contained if they’re ill or to relax without being disturbed by other pets, children, or guests. 

Types of Cat Carriers

With so many different types of cat carriers out there, it can be overwhelming to find the best one to suit both your needs and your cat’s needs. You might even find you’d like a couple of different options depending on the type of travel you’ll be doing. Cat carriers come in a huge range of designs, but they can be split into two main categories: 

Hard-sided cat carriers

Made from rigid plastic with a hard shell, these carriers are sturdy and easy to clean, and come in a wide range of sizes. They’re very durable and are well suited for most types of travel, making them one of the most popular options out there. They can be a little bulky and hard to carry, though, especially if your cat is a larger breed.  

Soft-sided cat carriers

Made from flexible materials like mesh and fabric, soft cat carriers come in a range of styles, from holdalls, to cat bubble backpacks designed for hiking, to airline-approved pet carriers. Soft carriers are simple to store at home as they often fold flat. They’re also lightweight and easier to maneuver, which makes them great for in-cabin air travel. Just keep in mind that soft carriers can get damaged by your cat’s claws and aren’t as durable as hard carriers.   

Our Top Cat Carrier Recommendations

In addition to brand recognition and my own experience as a pet parent to five different cats (all of whom have slightly different preferences when it comes to their preferred carrier), I considered the following factors when choosing the best carriers for cats to include on our list.

Type of carrier/travel. While we have specific recommendations for our best hard and soft cat carriers, we included an assortment of both styles under various categories on our list, many of which are ideal for different types of travel.

Durability/safety. We looked into how the carriers on our list would hold up to extended use, as well as any additional features that can help keep your cat safe, like seatbelt pass-through sections and points of ventilation.

Ratings/reviews. To help provide perspective from other pet parents who have used the cat carriers on our list, we also scoured the review section for each option. 

Price. And finally, though some of our picks are a little more on the expensive side, we made sure that we included carriers at all different price points.

Safety Tips for Traveling With Cats

Trying to get your cat into the carrier may be the most difficult part of your journey! It’s always worth practicing this at home before a trip. You can use toys and blankets to make the carrier as comfortable as possible, as well as treats to encourage your cat to come over and investigate their new carrier.

When in the car, you’ll always need to restrain your cat’s carrier. The best location is on the floor behind the driver’s seat. If you place your cat’s carrier on the rear seat, make sure to secure it with the seatbelt.    

If you think you’ll need to check on your cat in an open area like an airport waiting lounge, it’s also worth choosing a carrier with a leash attachment point you can clip onto their harness .

Related articles

Dog supplements, 10 allergy supplements for dogs: top picks for itch relief, litter boxes, fresh step crystals health monitoring cat litter review, 8 things your cat's litter box can reveal about their health, what to give dogs for diarrhea: 7 best products, pet grooming, 6 best dog perfumes of 2024, 8 best fiber supplements for dogs.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 8 Best Airline-approved Pet Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These high-quality pet carriers allow your furry friend to travel in comfort, safety, and style.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven

If you’re heading out on a trip with your dog or cat, there’s hardly anything more important for your animal’s comfort than picking the right pet carrier. The best airline-approved carrier is one that will check several boxes for you, your pet, and the airline. 

An airline-approved pet carrier is one that is designed to accommodate an animal comfortably, eradicate hassles associated with traveling with your pet, and satisfy the material and sizing requirements for most major airlines. To find the best carriers on the market, we personally tested and scored 13 popular airline-approved pet carriers based on size, quality, comfort, portability, design, ease of cleaning, and overall value.

We also spoke to two experts — Dr. Chyrle Bonk, a veterinarian working with excitedcats.com, and Dr. Paola Cuevas, a veterinarian, MVZ, and behaviorist with petkeen.com — for tips and insight on how you can safely fly with your pet in the cabin or as cargo.

Best Overall

Away the pet carrier.

The Spruce Pets / Sarah Naftzger

• Quality 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Design 5 /5

This comfortable, well-designed carrier checks all the boxes on our list and looks great, too. 

It taps out at carrying any more than 18 pounds of pet.

Away’s The Pet Carrier delivers the same sophisticated look, streamlined design, functionality, and quality you’ll find with their luggage products. We particularly liked how the bag’s size makes it easy to carry and slide under the seat in front of us without sacrificing a pet’s comfort. We also appreciated its interior and exterior pockets where we could stash must-grab items for both us and our pet — and the waterproofed side pocket with drainage holes meant for storing collapsible water bowls was a standout touch. 

Other notable features include overall water-resistancy for easy cleanup, a trolley sleeve for easy terminal-side portability, seat belt latches, and breathable mesh side plus a retractable calming screen to give anxious pets a bit of privacy without cutting off airflow. It also comes with a removable sherpa pet bed to keep your pet comfy during travel, and leaves enough room to add their favorite blanket or toy, too. 

Made from durable nylon and stylish black leather, this is the little black dress equivalent of a pet carrier — as long as your furry friend doesn’t weigh more than 18 pounds. If we could change one thing about this bag, it would be that it was available in more than one size. 

The Details: 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches | 4.3 pounds | Up to 18 pound pet size | Nylon and leather

Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best for the Cargo Hold

Gunner g1 kennel intermediate.

The Spruce Pets / Lisa Pezzuto

It’s the gold standard of hard-sided kennels.

This gold standard doesn’t come cheap.

The Gunner G1 Kennel is a superlative hard-sided kennel with a five-star crash safety rating from the Center for Pet Safety. There have been multiple reported instances where owners have been in severe crashes and said using a Gunner kennel has saved their dog’s life. And we can see why. Worried about the plane hitting rough air? This kennel has double-wall rotomolding for extra impact protection. It’s also got a wider base for stability against tipping, comes with built-in tie-down rods, and features all-weather windows that shield your pet from nasty weather it may face while being loaded and unloaded at the airport.

Pets stay comfortable inside by adding a soft bed, while raised non-slip feet lower temperature transfer from hot or frigid surfaces. The only downside is that the larger sizes may be tough for one person to manage with a dog inside. We tested the large size, which is 72 pounds empty, though this kennel also comes in small, medium, intermediate sizes, too. 

The Details: 24.5 x 18.6 x 19 inches (small), 29.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 inches (medium), 34 x 23 x 28.5 (intermediate), 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 (large) | 27 pounds (small), 38 pounds (medium), 48 pounds (intermediate), 72 pounds (large) | Up to 110 pounds for large pet size | Rotomolded plastic and stainless steel

Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Softside

Love thy beast nylon pet travel carrier.

Love Thy Beast

The 12-inch height makes it ideal for layovers. 

The narrow width may not be comfortable for girthy pets.

We found the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier to be lightweight yet sturdy, and flexible enough to squeeze under the seat in front of us, even though the carrier pushes the limits when it comes to height. Some airlines may eyeball it at check-in, but this tote-style carrier can also be used during layovers to give your pet more head room. It also comes with a leash tether so you can confidently carry your dog with the zippers down, and it’s possible to slip the bag onto the handle of a suitcase or a seat belt as the back pocket converts to a luggage sleeve when unzipped. 

This bag has a sturdy, removable platform on the bottom that makes for easy spot cleaning, and an extra-large zippered pocket on the front (in addition to that smaller, convertible luggage sleeve pocket on the reverse). The tight-knit mesh sides allow for one-way pet privacy to aid anxious pets as well. We tested this carrier out with an 8-pound dog who fit comfortably inside (as did a slim 12-pound pup), though it’s quite likely a wider-framed pet would find this 8-inch wide carrier too narrow. 

The Details: 17 x 12 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Up to 25 pound pet size | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Anna Mejorada

Best for Cats

Travel cat the transpurrter.

The Spruce Pets / Morgan Ashley Parker

• Size 4.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5

It’s loaded with thoughtful features throughout and can be carried five ways. 

The soft-lined interior quickly becomes covered in cat hair.

The Travel Cat The “Transpurrter” Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier is a sturdy and durable cat carrier with five options for carrying — over-the-shoulder, by side handles, via the trolley sleeve, as a crossbody, or as a backpack. One of our favorite features is the number of access points you have to reach your pet. It opens at both ends and the top, plus one full side panel opens up completely to give your cat more space while waiting at the gate. (We clipped them onto the bungee tether and opened it up so our cat felt less confined.) It also has calming privacy flaps, two stretchy slip pockets, one pocket loaded with several organizational pockets, a slide-out lined basket, and anti-scratch mesh on three sides. We’ve flown several times with this carrier and it still looks brand new, except for the inside, which immediately became covered in cat hair. 

The Details: 19 x 10.5 x 11 inches | 3.4 pounds | Up to 30 pound pet size

Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven

Best Budget Hardside

Petmate aspen pet porter dog kennel.

• Quality 4 /5
• Design 3 /5

It’s a basic but solid crate-style kennel that meets FAA standards.

There aren't any extra pockets or storage features, it’s just the kennel.

This hard-sided kennel is a great value bang-for-your-buck. There are no extra fancy bells and whistles, just your basic heavy-duty plastic kennel that is approved for domestic air travel in the U.S. You get three-sided ventilation, a stainless steel door with squeeze latches to prevent accidental opening during flight, and a spacious interior that will easily fit your animal, food and water bowls, and your pet’s favorite blanket and toy (if allowed). The darker bottom helps activate a dog or cat’s natural burrowing reflex, helping them to relax. The kennel can also be taken down and put together quite easily for storage or transportation. We do wish there were at least some kind of storage area, though, to hold important papers or treats, but overall we can’t complain because this carrier ticked all the necessary boxes to make our pet comfortable and our travel day swift and easy. 

The Details: 28 x 20.5 x 21.5 inches (small), 32 x 22.5 x 24 inches (medium), 36 x 25 x 27 inches (large), 40 x 27 x 30 (extra-large) | 9 pounds (small), 14 pounds (medium), 19 pounds (large), 24 pounds (extra-large) | Up to 30 pounds (small), up to 50 pounds (medium), up to 70 pounds (large), up to 90 pounds (extra-large) pet size | Heavy-duty plastic and metal

Best Expandable

Petsfit expandable pet carrier.

The Spruce Pets / JT Wilde

• Quality 4.5 /5

Fiber rods in the frame can be removed for extra flexibility to fit under the seat in front of you. 

The carry handles would benefit from a bit of padding.

The Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier’s dual expandable, scratch-resistant mesh sides are great for giving your pet extra room while waiting at the gate or during layovers without officially letting them out of the bag. We also hacked this feature while testing, unzipping the sides while our pet was under the seat in front of us, to give our furry passenger a tad more space on both sides. Plus, the carrier is collapsible, and the fiber rods in the top frame can be removed for extra “give” to squeeze under the seat. The bottom of the carrier is lined with a soft material for pet comfort. This bag is lightweight and portable, but our hands hurt after carrying it via the handles after just a short time (we didn’t have the detachable crossbody/shoulder strap with us); padded handles would be a welcomed addition but it’s hard to knock the bonus space with this style.

The Details: 16 x 10 x 9 (small), 17 x 11 x 11 inches (medium), 19 x 12 x 12 inches (large) | 2.1 pounds (small), 2.5 pounds (medium), 3 pounds (large) | Up to 9 pounds (small), up to 13 pounds (medium), up to 18 pounds (large) pet size | Polypropylene

Travel + Leisure / JT Wilde

Best Organization

Jetpaws official pet carrier.

• Comfort 4.5 /5

It takes the guesswork out of wondering if the carrier will fit under the seat. 

This carrier will only comfortably fit small dogs and medium-sized cats.

The JetPaws Official Carrier of JetBlue Airlines carrier is specifically designed to adhere to JetBlue’s strict size rules and fit under all of the airline’s seats. This makes it a shoe-in for complying with almost all other airlines’ size requirements, taking the guesswork and anxiety out of wondering if your carrier will fit. The colors may be a bit of an eyesore, but the bag’s many features are a good balm. This featherlight carrier comes with five pockets for storing necessities (some of the most we’ve seen), and a detachable padded shoulder strap for carrying (though no trolley sleeve). The carrier itself is made from a durable, undisclosed material that is easy to wipe clean. Our pet seemed right at home in this carrier and didn’t even seem to mind that his usual plush padded bed had been replaced with a simple soft lining. As one might expect with a little carrier, it can only accommodate small pets. 

The Details: 16 x 8.5 x 10 inches | 2 pounds

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Caraa Pet Carrier

Caraa 

The smooth material is sleek and stylish on the outside while keeping your pet cozy on the inside.

It can become bulky if you utilize all of the pockets.

This stylish carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds and features huge external pockets for all of their accessories. The large pockets are great for also storing your own items like wallet, phone, water bottle, and even a book, which is perfect for those times in which your pet is your personal item. We love that all of the zippers run smoothly and keep items (and pets) secure. While we wish the shoulder strap had a bit more padding, we do love that you can carry the bag in many ways thanks to the adjustable cross-body strap and smaller handle. There's even a luggage sleeve to make your commute to and from airplanes even easier.

The Details: 16.5 x 8 x 10.5 inches | 3.5 pounds | Vegan leather and nylon

Other Airline-approved Pet Carriers We Liked

A few pet carriers we tested didn’t quite make the list for the best airline-approved pet carrier but grabbed enough of our attention and admiration for an honorable recommendation as pet carriers that may work well in other travel situations. 

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier : At 4.5 pounds this is the heaviest (and largest) soft-sided carrier we tested. Since it felt heavy before we even put our dog in, and because its large size seems likely to get flagged at check-in, it didn’t make the list. However, its five-star crash test rating, custom seat belt and buckle clips, pee-pad-friendly design, and a zip-down fourth wall side plus interior tethering clip make it an excellent choice as a pet carrier for the car. 

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier : We found that this bag (which comes in heights of either 8.5 inches or 10 inches) felt a bit too snug for our dog, and the smaller size would be best suited for teacup-sized breeds. However, if your pet is on the tiny side, standout features include four-sided mesh ventilation, an included memory foam travel pad, and a sturdy trolly slip for easy portability atop your carry-on.

Wild One Travel Carrier : This lightweight and smaller-sized bag is loaded with thoughtful travel features, from its dual-sided zippers and calming fold-down side panels to the lie-flat breakdown design that makes it a cinch to spot clean and built-in option to use a strap as a leash. Since we couldn’t zip the 10-inch high bag closed unless our 8-pound dog was laying down, it felt like too much of a squeeze when placed under an airplane seat.

The T+L team tested 14 airline-approved pet carriers in real world traveling situations with our own cats and dogs. After measuring, weighing, and assessing the overall quality of each bag — and making sure our furry travel friends were comfortable with the carriers — we took to the skies to test how well the carrier stacked up when it came to carry comfort, pet comfort, durability, cleaning, overall design, size, and relevant features. 

To see how they functioned, we traveled with our pets on roundtrip domestic and international flights on U.S. major airlines, including JetBlue which has some of the smallest general size restrictions for in-cabin pet carriers. We took notes along the way on how easy it was to get through security, wait at the gate, slide under the seat, and transport through the airport, checking on our pet’s comfort before, during, and after the flight. We also considered how easy it was to access our pet during the flight and the traveling process. Scoring was largely based on pet comfort, portability, features, price, and performance of purpose in order to select the best airline-approved carriers for this roundup.

Travel + Leisure / Kate Rousu

Tips for Buying Airline-approved Pet Carriers  

Choose the best size for your pet.

The best size carrier will depend on your pet’s mobility, weight, and body frame. Remember, in-cabin pets must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in a carrier. Do not try to squeeze your pet into a smaller carrier just to meet an airline’s sizing rules. 

Check the rules for your mode of transportation 

Always check the rules and requirements for pets and pet carriers of your specific airline and general FAA requirements before purchasing a new carrier. Many train companies, such as Amtrak , will also have their own pet carrier policies as well. If riding in the car with your animal, consider crash safety when shopping for a pet carrier. 

Decide if you need soft-sided or hard-sided 

Soft-sided carriers, such as dog backpacks , are a bit more flexible when it comes to fitting into several under-seat spaces, and many airlines allow for larger soft-sided pet carrier dimensions because of this. Pets transported as cargo will have to be inside of a hard-sided carrier for their safety in the hold of the aircraft. Owners traveling with heavier and/or larger in-cabin pets may also want to consider a hard-sided carrier as it provides better support for the animal. 

Look for features that add comfort and ease to a journey 

Remember that your pet’s comfort is paramount, so give extra points to carriers that have comfort features such as breathable mesh, supportive and strong bottoms, several opening/access points, multiple pockets to hold treats, water, and clean-up supplies, or calming blackout panels. Most airlines will also require your carrier to have a waterproofed bottom in case of accidents.

Opening the pet carrier, placing it in your home, and allowing your pet to become comfortable with it or even sleep in it is a good first line way to get them acclimated. Next, try taking your pet on short rides in the car while inside the carrier, going a little bit longer each time (and not just to the vet), and then reward with a treat. You can also line the carrier with their favorite blanket or toy to make it feel more welcoming and familiar. 

Dr. Bonk explains that it's safe for most pets to stay in an in-cabin travel carrier for six to eight hours, as long as the carrier is appropriately sized for your pet. She says dogs traveling in cargo may be able to stay a little longer as long as they are comfortable and/or have access to pee pads, food, and water. Dr. Cuevas suggests it’s best if your pet can have a bathroom break every six hours, something that is only possible if you’re booked on a shorter flight or hire a private pet transport service. 

While there is nothing you are required to pack for in-cabin pets, both vets suggest having food and water (or treats) for the journey, any medication your pet may need, and any necessary paperwork such as vaccination records that may be required for boarding or landing. Lining the carrier with an absorbent pad, tossing in a scent-soaked item (e.g., something familiar that smells like them or you), and adding their favorite toy can help make the journey easier.  

There are several rules that come with bringing your pet on a plane — including specific carrier size and weight rules, pet fees, how many pets can travel on any plane, weather restrictions, and what documentation is needed. It’s always best to check with your specific airline about your specific flight and both departure and arrival destinations.

A few guaranteed rules to remember include that in-cabin pets will count as your carry-on or personal item depending on the airline, that pets are not allowed to be taken out of their carrier at any point during the flight, that carriers must remain under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight (on most airlines), and that pets traveling as cargo cannot be sedated. 

• American Airlines Pet Policy
• United Airlines Pet Policy
• Delta Air Lines Pet Policy
• Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
• JetBlue Airways Pet Policy

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven spoke with two vets to get tips on how to safely and comfortably travel with your pet, in cargo or in the cabin. She also crunched testing insights from our T+L testers and pets, which included Alex and her 15-pound nervous travel cat @hellomisterbo . In researching airline-approved pet carriers, we spoke with Dr. Chyrle Bonk , a veterinarian with excitedcats.com, and Dr. Paola Cuevas , a veterinarian, MVZ, and behaviorist with petkeen.com. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Best overall

Best expandable, best stylish, best budget.

• What to look for
• How we tested

How to prepare a cat for flying

The 4 best airline-approved cat carriers of 2024, tested and reviewed.

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Air travel with a cat is stressful, but one of the best airline-approved cat carriers can make it easier. When a cat is flying at your feet in the plane cabin, a durable soft-sided carrier with some key features will ensure your pet's comfort and safety, and your peace of mind.

To select the best carriers for flying with a cat, we spoke with a veterinarian and pet travel experts and tested 24 different airline-friendly pet carriers. Our top pick, the Sleepypod Air , is as durable as it is comfortable for pets and humans alike. If you're looking for a more affordable airline cat carrier, the simple Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag will keep your kitty comfortable from the beginning to the end of your journey.

Keep in mind that carrier size requirements vary by airline. Delta , American Airlines , and United allow pet carriers up to 18 inches (L) by 11 inches (W) by 11 inches (H). Some airlines have smaller maximum sizes, so make sure to check the airline's website before embarking with your pet.

Read more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products .

Our top picks for the best airline-approved cat carriers

Best overall: Sleepypod Air - See at Chewy

Best expandable: Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier - See at Amazon

Best stylish: Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier - See at Amazon

Best budget: Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag - See at Chewy

The crash-test-certified Sleepypod Air has plush bedding, optimal ventilation, and a roomy interior to keep cats calm and comfortable in the air and on the ground.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional privacy screen
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Double-layered mesh
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Crash-test certified
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Ample storage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Padded carry handle
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Washable interior mat
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Unzips into bed or car seat
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Carry handle may cause discomfort for those with larger hands due to its small size
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Expensive

Our cat testers weren't shy about expressing their clear preference for the Sleepypod Air. During a recent trip to the vet, they both piled into the carrier, opting for its cozy sanctuary over their other carrier. The Sleepypod Air's plush bedding, just-right ventilation, and spacious interior proved calming and comfortable. For skittish fliers, the carrier includes a privacy screen you can slide through the mesh top, though this significantly reduces your cat's access to fresh air.

The carrier stands out for its innovative design and commitment to pet safety — it's certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization that researches and crash-tests pet carriers to ensure their safety. Rather than doors, it features one continuous zipper that runs end to end. With one pull of the zipper, the carrier transforms into an open bed, converts into a car seat, or rolls up for convenient storage. It's also designed to fold in approximately 2.5 inches at each end, meeting the size requirements of most major airlines. We recommend practicing compressing the bag before your trip. 

The padded cross-body shoulder strap felt supportive, and the carrier rested comfortably against the body without collapsing inward. With the luggage strap, the carrier easily stayed balanced on a suitcase when rolling over curbs and rough sidewalks.

The Sleepypod Air isn't cheap. However, given its versatility, comfort, and impressive safety features, we believe it's well worth the investment. You can return it, used or unused, within a year, and Sleepypod guarantees a replacement if it's damaged in an auto accident.

Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier unzips to almost double in size, providing a cat with extra room on long travel days.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Front and top-loading carrier
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Expandable compartment for more space
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Secure luggage strap
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Padded detachable shoulder strap
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Washable interior bed
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Easy to store
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited pocket space
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Expandable section can't be used in flight
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No warranty

On long travel days with time spent in airports, Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier offers jet-setting cats extra space to stretch out. It includes a zippered panel on its right side that unfolds into a mesh atrium that nearly doubles the carrier's interior space. While the expandable section can't be used in flight, this feature makes it the best airline-approved cat carrier for cross-country flights with layovers and extended stays away from home.

The spacious carrier is front- and top-loading with a roll-up privacy flap over the top door, and it offers plenty of ventilation to keep a cat from overheating. Inside, there is a soft plush bolster bed and safety tether. Outside, it has an adjustable padded shoulder strap and a faux leather carry handle. There is one 10-inch by 4-inch mesh pocket on the backside. 

With sturdy mesh screens and smooth zippers, Mr. Peanut's carrier excelled in our testing. It was easy to spot clean, and although the bed is labeled hand-wash only, it came out of the washing machine looking nearly new after air-drying.

When we tested the luggage strap, the carrier remained mostly balanced on our suitcase, slipping only about an inch to one side. Carrying it on the shoulder was comfortable, and the strap was easy to adjust to the correct length.

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier stands out for its eye-catching design that prioritizes safety in the air and at your destination, all without compromising on convenience or comfort.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Multiple pockets
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Side panel opening for easy access
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Offers the least ventilation of the carriers tested
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Interior mat is spot-clean only

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier not only looks great but also prioritizes safety. Like the Sleepypod Air, it is crash-test certified by the CPS . It also has an interior safety tether and a zipper-locking mechanism to prevent unintentional openings during transit.  

The cushy interior mat provides maximum comfort for your kitty copilot while the padded cross-body and secure luggage straps ensure that your precious cargo has a smooth journey from point A to point B. We also appreciate the thoughtful conveniences for human travelers, including three pockets for storing your or your cat's belongings, including a large 16-inch by 6-inch front zipper pocket. There's a D-ring to clip your keys too. 

In case of accidents, the carrier comes with one custom-fitted pee pad (more sold separately) that you can access via a side panel to minimize disturbing your pet. The nylon fabric carrier has a moisture-resistant quality that causes liquids to bead up on contact, so bigger messes won't readily adhere. However, the mat has a bolstered edge where gunk can get stuck, so you'll want to thoroughly spot-clean the interior cushion once you reach your destination. 

Despite the carrier's 20-inch length, each side compresses by an inch, ensuring it meets most in-cabin airline regulations. Despite the carrier's 20-inch length, each side compresses by an inch, ensuring it meets most in-cabin airline regulations. The width of the carrier also exceeds airline regulations by a half inch but as long as you don't overstuff the side pocket, it can compress. 

This Frisco cat carrier is a cozy and budget-friendly option that holds up well to wear and tear.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Two loading doors
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Velcro-secured pocket
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Holds large cats
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comes with ID tags and collapsible travel dish
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Shoulder strap lacks padding
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Luggage strap not as secure as other carriers
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only one color option

Although this carrier is a fraction of the price of our other picks, it still performed well in durability testing. At home, it was also the carrier our tester cats consistently chose to lounge in time and time again. Simply put, the cozy Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag is an excellent budget airline cat carrier.

Susan Nilson , a cat and dog trainer and behavior specialist, recommends leaving a carrier with the doors open at home so your cat can get accustomed to it before travel. We did just that, and the carrier quickly became one of our cats' favorite spots to nap. Even after machine washing the interior fleece mat, it didn't lose its softness or cat appeal.

The carrier has two doors, top and side, and two storage pockets: a secure Velcro pocket to stash your keys and phone and a mesh pocket to keep your cat's treats and travel documents easily accessible. The included collapsible silicone bowl and ID tag ticks two essentials off your packing list.

The adjustable shoulder strap and carry handle lack padding and may become uncomfortable on longer journeys. Similar to pricier options, the Frisco carrier includes a luggage strap designed to attach the carrier to the telescopic handle of your suitcase. However, the strap doesn't keep the carrier well-balanced on curbs and sidewalks, so you'll want to have a free hand for added support. 

What to look for in an airline cat carrier

Cat carriers come in many different styles at varying price points. To ensure you get the best value for safety and comfort, our experts recommend considering the following factors when shopping.

Safety: Unlike child car seats, there are no universal safety standards or inspections for cat carriers. However, some brands go the extra mile by subjecting their carriers to rigorous testing by reputable third-party or nonprofit safety organizations. Among our recommended picks, the Sleepypod Air and Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier have been crash-test certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization that studies the safety of pet products. 

Currently, CPS studies do not extend to air travel and flight safety. Despite the absence of standardized air travel safety tests, crash-test certification remains the gold standard. As Lindsey Wolko, founder and CEO of CPS, points out, you'll want to consider your entire journey, including driving from your home to the airport and transportation at your destination. 

Wolko says carriers are most susceptible to failure at seams where the mesh connects to the carrier body. She recommends inspecting carriers for any signs of loose threads, weak spots, or faulty zippers to ensure their overall safety and reliability throughout transit.

Size: A carrier should be roomy enough for your cat to comfortably turn around and lie down while still being compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Carrier size requirements vary by airline, so double-check your airline's specific requirements.   

Fortunately, size isn't usually a limiting factor for cats. More often than not, they prefer to curl up in a small ball and hide during the trip, says Dr. Jo Myers , a veterinarian with Vetster. She says extra room for playing, eating, drinking, or using the litter box during the flight is typically unnecessary. However, if you anticipate a long layover and want extra legroom for your cat, an expandable carrier like Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier is a good choice.

Weight restrictions: Many in-cabin cat carriers are suitable for cats weighing up to 15 or 18 pounds. If your cat is on the heavier side, double-check the weight limit for the carrier you're considering purchasing and make sure your cat has room to comfortably move around in the carrier.  

Ventilation: Most carriers are designed with enough ventilation (at least 16%) to meet the International Air Transport Association (IATA) minimum requirement . Some carriers may have less or more, so the amount of ventilation you choose depends on you and your cat's preferences. 

Since Myers says most cats prefer to hide in stressful environments, carriers with privacy walls and flaps may be beneficial. Alternatively, she recommends bringing a towel or blanket that you can place over the carrier if your cat becomes stressed. "Even if you cover the carrier with a towel, it's far from airtight," she says. "Simply check on your cat occasionally, without disturbing them any more than necessary."

How we tested airline-approved pet carriers

We developed our selection and testing criteria for this guide to the best airline-approved cat carriers with advice from our experts. The 24 carriers we evaluated underwent the tests described here.

Feature comparison: After conducting interviews with our experts, we created a point rubric for scoring each carrier based on the following features:

• Shape and design
• Interior mat
• Loading doors
• Carrying straps and handles
• Ventilation
• Privacy flaps
• Interior safety tether
• Luggage strap
• Dimensions and in-cabin airline capability
• Safety certifications
• Ease of storage

Scrape test: We scraped a mesh section of each carrier 50 times with a fork to test its durability, noting any damage or discoloration. 

Zip test: To test the durability of each carrier's zippers, we completely zipped and unzipped one of its loading entrances 50 times. In the process, we observed changes in the zipper's ability to smoothly run its course.

Luggage test: If a carrier included a luggage strap, we evaluated how well it remained balanced on top of a suitcase. We placed a 10-pound weight inside and attached the carrier to a suitcase handle so it rested on top of our luggage. Then we rolled it over a curb, up a ramp, and along the sidewalk and street of a city block. 

Ventilation test: According to Wolko, ventilation is important to prevent a cat from overheating during travel. We measured the dimensions of each carrier's mesh panels and calculated the percentage of the total surface area they comprised. We favored bags with more ventilation. According to IATA live animal regulations, pet carrier bags must have a minimum of 16% ventilation. 

Walk test: We took each soft-sided carrier containing a 10-pound weight on a 15-minute walk around a neighborhood. Each was carried using the shoulder strap and held at the front of the body the way a person would if they had a real cat inside. For the last block of the walk, we switched to using the hand-carry straps. The backpack carriers were taken on the same walk but were not carried by hand. With each one, we paid attention to how comfortable it was to carry, how much it bounced, and whether it collapsed inwards.

Goop test: We devised this test to determine how easy it would be to clean the carriers if a cat vomited or defecated in transit. We mashed together cat kibble, canned food, and water with a mortar and pestle to make the goop, then spread a tablespoon on an exterior wall and interior mat of each carrier. After 48 hours, we wiped the goop from the exterior using dish soap and water and cleaned the mats in the washing machine. 

Drop and stomp tests: We brought the carriers to a local park, loaded each one with a 10-pound weight, and threw them off of a 10-foot play structure, looking for any damage that occurred upon landing. We then rolled the bags several times on the ground with the weight still inside, looking for damage to the stitching, mesh, or zippers. Later, at home, we placed each carrier on a rug and stomped on it a dozen times with bare feet, noting whether its frame changed shape or the bag suffered any other damage.

Airline cat carrier FAQs

What is considered an airline-approved pet carrier.

To fly with a cat in the cabin of a plane, you'll need a soft-sided carrier that fits within the allowable dimensions of the airline, which vary a little from airline to airline. Regardless of the carrier you use, Wolko says to make sure your cat has enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, there should be at least 2 to 3 inches of clearance from the top of their ears to the interior roof of the carrier.

How much does it cost to fly with a cat? 

Fees for flying with a pet in the cabin of a plane vary between carriers. At United Airlines , a one-way flight for your cat adds $125 to your ticket price. At Delta , there is a $95 fee for domestic flights. Flying a cat in the cargo hold on a domestic flight is typically about $300 per trip. Sending a cat on an international flight can cost up to triple that amount.

How much ventilation should a carrier have? 

For soft-sided carriers, Wolko says mesh ventilation should be on at least three sides of the bag. In cargo, airlines require that a kennel is ventilated on all four sides. According to the IATA live animal regulations, both soft- and hard-sided pet carriers must have a minimum of 16% ventilation. 

Do cats need to go to the bathroom on a flight? 

Unless a cat has a medical condition, they will be fine without access to a litter box for the duration of a flight. "Just based on the physiology of cats, they could probably go from Boston to Hawaii without needing to void," says Dr. Bob Murtaugh , a veterinarian and chair of veterinary medicine for the National Academies of Practice.

In the cargo hold, kennels cannot be outfitted with a litter box or anything other than an absorbent liner and a soft bed or blanket. "If the travel day will be more than eight hours, during a layover pet owners can arrange a comfort stop for cats to be let out of their carrier," says Elaine Mathis, pet travel specialist and project manager at Happy Tails Travel . When you let your cat out of their carrier, you'll want to make sure your cat is safely secured with one of the best cat harnesses attached to a leash.

Do cats need food and water on a flight? 

On shorter in-cabin flights, it's unlikely your cat will require food or water. However, if you're flying your cat in cargo, Mathis says a food bowl and water bowl should be in the carrier regardless of the flight length. She recommends using dishes that fasten to the crate's door and can be refilled easily from the outside, such as Lixit's Quick Lock Crock 10-ounce bowls .

What are the signs that my cat may be in distress in flight?

According to Murtaugh, a few obvious signs may indicate your cat is in distress during a flight, either due to fear or excessive heat. A cat that is panting, restless, and vocalizing could be experiencing significant anxiety or overheating. If the membranes in their gums turn bright red, the latter is most likely, and it's important to cool them off quickly. If a flight attendant approves, placing the carrier on your lap so they can feel the air blowing from the vent above your seat or wiping them down with a wet cloth may help lower their body temperature. Before your travel, Nilson recommends lightly spraying the carrier with calming pheromones. 

In the weeks before their trip, introduce your cat to their carrier or kennel in a positive way. "Make the carrier feel like a cave or a home or something that's comfortable, something that they're not just jammed into the first time they're on their way to the airport," says Murtaugh.

Place the carrier in an area of the home where your cat spends a lot of time and encourage them to explore it by placing catnip and treats inside or by playing with them in and around the space. 

Murtaugh says that taking your cat on a car ride or other forms of transportation while in their carrier may also be helpful in the weeks before the flight. He recommends placing a bed or blanket that smells like home inside the carrier and using a pheromone spray or collar to help take the edge off. 

If your cat has a history of experiencing debilitating stress during travel and will be flying in the cabin, you can speak to your vet about prescribing an anxiety-relieving medication. However, it's important to test medication out before your flight. "Make sure there won't be any untoward side effects," says Murtaugh. "Your vet can help you tailor that to your cat's needs."

The IATA recommends against sedating a cat before flying in the cargo hold. It can be fatal for older, chronically sick, or highly stressed animals. Nilson says calming pheromones such as Feliway or Pet Remedy are safe alternatives.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

• Main content

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best airline-approved pet carriers of 2024 + tips from experts.

Find the purr-fect travel carrier for your favorite furry travel companion.

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Courtesy of Sleepypod

Flying with your pet requires its share of homework. Regulations on bringing your pooch or feline aboard an airplane include providing updated paperwork as well as picking a pet carrier that adheres to baggage requirements and size restrictions . (For other things to consider when flying with a pet and advice from animal experts, jump to the tips section .)

If you plan to bring your cat or dog with you on your next flight but aren't sure which pet carrier is best – or allowed – U.S. News is here to help. Start with this list of the top airline-approved pet carriers for your jet-setting four-legged friends.

Best Overall: Henkelion Pet Carrier – Medium

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Runner-up: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier – Medium

Best expandable: petsfit expandable pet carrier – medium, best convertible: natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier – small.

• Best Pet Carrier Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Best Luxury: Away The Pet Carrier

Best compressible: sleepypod air, best for dogs in cargo: sportpet rolling plastic kennel.

• Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate 2-Door Kennel

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

What sets this carrier apart: Designed with airline approval in mind, the medium size of this traveler-favorite carrier accommodates cats or small dogs with its spacious interior. Mesh panels zip open on three sides of the carrier as well as the top, ensuring a well-ventilated bag. The outer material is a lightweight and durable polyester. A removable, machine-washable woolen mat makes the interior comfy for your pet; there's also a safety leash you can use to secure your pet inside.

You can use the connectable loop handles and padded shoulder strap for easy carrying, and this carrier bag folds up when you're ready to store it away. The Henkelion Pet Carrier even comes in several fun colors, such as purple or green.

Travelers appreciate: "I have used the Henkelion soft-sided carrier many times," says Robbie Parker of travel blog Expat in Paradise , who travels with his small dogs. "These are great carriers as they are hardy for travel, collapse for storage, and fit perfectly under the seat for in cabin travel. Also, I like that they have one side that is mesh and the other side is solid with a pocket. You can face solid side toward the aisle so people walking around the plane don't upset your dog." He adds, "Overall, I would recommend it for in-cabin plane travel."

Frequent traveler and luxury travel advisor Ashley Les, founder of Postcards From , also appreciates that the design puts her cats at ease when flying. "I find that with more mesh, cats are exposed to more light and sight – it gets them more anxious," she says, adding: "There are multiple ways to get my cats in the carriers, from the sides or above, as well. I love that you can take out the bottom to wash it separately."

Price: $28.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Sherpa

What sets this carrier apart: Beyond a patented, crash-tested flexible wire frame that keeps your little buddy safe, Sherpa provides a Guaranteed on Board program that offers a refund for your flight and airline pet fee if you're denied boarding because of the small or medium sizes of this carrier. This mesh and polyester bag is an industry standard with good airflow. The front and top entries have locking zippers, and this collapsible carrier also features a removable (and machine-washable) faux-lambskin liner, a rear pocket for storage, and a seat belt safety strap that doubles as a luggage strap.

Travelers appreciate: This Sherpa carrier is renowned for its reliable functionality and amazing value. Recent travelers say the medium carrier fits well under the seat and keeps their pet comfortable in transit.

Price: $70 or less for medium

What sets this carrier apart: This Petsfit carrier's medium size adheres to most airline requirements (as does the small carrier). One of the mesh windows can be unzipped to form an extra compartment, expanding the carrier by 9.4 inches for an extended width of 20.4 inches. This product is a great option if you need a carrier for air travel but still want your pet to enjoy a bit more space to stretch out when not tucked under the airplane seat.

The sturdy solid wire construction ensures the bag won't collapse but is flexible enough to tuck into a small space, though you may need to remove the rods on either side if the carrier is too tall to fit easily underneath. There's a side pocket for storage, double zippers and a water-repellent inner cloth.

Travelers appreciate: "The Petsfit carrier was flexible enough to squeeze under most airplane seats, but still was sturdy enough to hold," says Alexandra Lauren of the travel blog The Bucket List Mermaid , who has used this carrier to fly with her cat. "My kitty could look around the airport with the built-in leash in the carrier. The expandable portion was an added bonus because it allowed for more room for my pet when on long layovers or when I had an empty seat on the airplane." Lauren also recommends Petsfit's expandable backpack-style carrier for a hands-free option.

Price:  $56.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Natuvalle

What sets this carrier apart: For travelers seeking versatility, this Natuvalle cat or dog carrier can be used like a backpack, shoulder bag, tote with carrying handles or even – if worn on your front – a baby carrier. This convertible choice can also be used as a car seat crate with built-in seat belt loops, and you have the option of using it either in the upright or side position. Other features include zipper locks, mesh panels, reinforced stitching, two walk-through doors and a photo ID tag. The carrier is foldable and has reflective stripes for night travel. While there are medium and large size options, the extra-small and small sizes are your best bet when it comes to fitting under an airplane seat.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the versatility of this bag; some travelers say the carrier fits best under the seat when on its side, as the upright position can be too tall.

Price:  $119.90 or less for small

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Best Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Courtesy of PetAmi

What sets this carrier apart: Go hands-free with this PetAmi backpack-style carrier. A sturdy frame maintains its shape while you traipse through airport terminals, with chest and waist buckles for extra support. Four-sided access makes loading easy, and a rollaway mesh top means your furry friend can stick their head out the top when you're not in the air. The safety strap and buckle are designed to thwart even great escape artists, and a sherpa-lined bed entices fur babies to relax. The backpack carrier color options include red and purple.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the easy carrying this style provides, though they advise that you'll need to store this bag on its side in the plane cabin, and it won't fit on every airline.

Price: $39.99 or less

Courtesy of Away

What sets this carrier apart: It's a splurge, but this cat and dog carrier is made by Away, a popular luggage brand known for its sleek design and functionality. The same applies to this nylon and leather tote, which comes in black or a coast blue. The water-resistant lining is paired with sherpa bedding and exterior pockets that can hold a phone, keys or waste bags. If you already have an Away suitcase, this carrier will fit seamlessly over the handle with its trolley sleeve.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners who travel with this bag like that it's roomy, saying their pets seem comfortable inside. This carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds but is a bit on the larger side of an airline-approved carry-on, so be sure to research your airline's policies before taking it aboard.

Price: $225 or less

What sets this carrier apart: The Sleepypod Air is designed to compress to fit under the seat during takeoff and landing; when the seat belt sign is off, your pet can enjoy slightly more room (but be aware that it doesn't hold its reduced size in a freestanding position, only when tucked into a small space). This unique carrier employs sturdy luggage-grade ballistic nylon for its base, with a panel of mesh running along the front, top and back. A removable privacy panel can be slid over part of the mesh. Available in multiple colors, this crash-tested model also has a seat belt strap, a trolley sleeve and a comfortable shoulder strap for carrying it.

Travelers appreciate: Users like the carrier's many features and say it's a good option especially for larger cats traveling by air, but some pet owners felt there was not enough airflow (especially with the privacy panel) for longer flights.

Price: $199.99 or less

What sets this carrier apart: Any furry friends larger than about 20 pounds will likely have to travel in the cargo hold if they're not a service animal. You'll want a very sturdy dog crate for the journey that meets every regulation, and SportPet's kennel passes the test for many travelers. This carrier meets International Air Transport Association guidelines with two snap-on water dishes and four stickers that indicate a live animal is inside; a "floor gutter" contains messes for easy cleanup. The durable plastic frame is connected with metal nuts and bolts and features airline-required tie holes for bungees.

This travel crate comes in six sizes, from small up to XXX-large, so be sure to determine the right size for your pet. A cushioned bed is not included and costs extra. For more information on pets traveling in cargo, consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the sturdy construction and the compliance with airline regulations, but the traveler-favorite feature is the removable wheels, which are included with the carrier (except with size small).

Price: Ranges by size from $76 to $385

Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate Two-Door Kennel

Courtesy of Petmate

What sets this carrier apart: This option made of hard plastic and steel wire is tough enough to protect your cargo-contained cat, according to recent travelers. (Keep in mind that airlines do not recommend hard-sided carriers for in-cabin travel, and this kennel is too large to fit under airline seats.) The two front and top doors assist with entering and exiting, and color options like hot pink or blue will make this kennel easy to spot. The carrier comes in small (24-inch) and extra-small (19-inch) sizes, so choose accordingly based on the measurements of your cat. As with most hard-sided crates, you will have to purchase a plush bed separately.

Travelers appreciate: "I haven't traveled by air with this carrier, but I've owned it for years and really appreciate how sturdy it is," says Catriona Kendall, associate editor of travel at U.S. News. "The assembly of the carrier is straightforward, and my cats feel safe enough to hang out in it at home."

Price: $66.99 or less for 24-inch

How to choose the best pet carrier

There are a few major points to consider when choosing a carrier that will serve as your pet's safe space during a flight:

Size: Selecting the right carrier size for your pet is essential not only for your pets' comfort but also for their safety, according to Sara Hogan, hospital manager at Clarendon Animal Care in Virginia. "Please ensure the measurements for your carrier meet a standard that allows for your pet to comfortably turn around AND lay down," she says. But be aware that if the carrier is too large for your furry friend, they could end up injured in transit. The best way to determine the right size is to take measurements of your pet; to be as precise as possible, use the IATA's formula .

Keep in mind that only carriers able to fit under the seat in front of you are allowed in the plane cabin – a space that will vary by airline. Consult the next section on airline policies for more information.

Airflow: Don't underestimate the importance of adequate airflow. "Carriers and crates really need to have proper ventilation for short or long-term travel," Hogan says. "There IS a difference between taking your pet down the street to a friend's house or the vet and taking your pet on a trip with any sort of additional time involved."

Stability: Check the quality of all the zippers and materials − you want this to be an escape-proof carrier, and any malfunction can put your pet at risk. "If something has previously broken or fallen off the carrier or crate look to replace the piece or the entire crate/carrier," Hogan advises.

Soft-sided vs. hard-sided: If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, most airlines highly recommend a soft-sided carrier, which gives the most flexibility. Airlines are often slightly more lenient with the dimensions for soft-sided carriers in the cabin as long as they are able to fit underneath the seat without blocking the aisle of the airplane. Another bonus: Soft pet carriers often come with removable fleece bedding for extra comfort.

Note: Crates and carriers destined for the cargo hold of the plane must be hard-sided. Find more details on carrier specifications for the cargo hold in the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Airline pet carrier dimensions

Each airline sets its own specifications and safety rules for pets in the plane cabin with you, so be sure to check with your intended airline for dimension limits, breed restrictions and other guidelines. Be aware, too, that most major airlines based in the U.S. do not offer an option to transport animals in cargo.

Use the links below to find more information on the specific pet policies for the following U.S.-based airlines. Each airline's size limit for soft-sided pet carriers in the cabin is also listed, with dimensions given in length by width by height.

• Alaska Airlines : 17 x 11 x 9.5 inches
• Allegiant Air : 19 x 16 x 9 inches
• American Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Delta Air Lines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Frontier Airlines : 18 x 14 x 8 inches
• Hawaiian Airlines : 16 x 10 x 9.5 inches
• JetBlue : 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches
• Southwest Airlines : 18.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches
• Spirit Airlines : 18 x 14 x 9 inches
• Sun Country Airlines : 16 x 10 x 8 inches
• United Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches

How to prepare to fly with a pet

Help your pet acclimate.

When preparing to travel with your furry companion, planning ahead is key, especially if your pet isn't used to being confined in a crate or carrier. "I recommend buying the carrier as far in advance of travel as possible to allow your dog to become comfortable relaxing in the carrier in a familiar home environment before traveling," says Amanda Farah, CPDT-KA, national training and behavior coordinator for Best Friends Animal Society.

Some pets are sensitive to loud noises, so one way to prepare them for the journey is by playing recordings of sounds they might encounter in transit, Farah says. "I'd say a good general rule is that because so much of what they encounter during air travel will be new and potentially stressful, you should familiarize them to many factors as possible in the weeks or even months leading up to travel."

Book your travel far in advance

Keep in mind that airlines limit the number of pets allowed on a flight, so book early and try to secure a direct flight to cut down on travel time.

Familiarize yourself with your departure airport

Before you set off on your journey, familiarize yourself with the airport you're departing from – such as where to find a pet relief area – and how to go through security with a pet in tow. For example, you must never place your pet on the security conveyor belt (only the empty carrier goes through the X-ray tunnel).

Research your destination

This is a crucial step. Some countries will not allow pets in at all, while other destinations (such as Hawaii) may have strict rules about rabies vaccines or require all animals to travel in cargo. Christine Barton, a veterinarian with The Vets , recommends checking the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website to learn about requirements for health certificates, vaccines and more.

Other considerations will depend on what type of vacation you're planning; if it involves hiking or camping with your dog, Barton suggests checking the expected weather, making a small emergency kit for you and your pet, and considering a GPS tracker for remote areas. Wherever you're headed, locate the closest emergency animal hospital just in case and make sure to book pet-friendly accommodations .

Consult your vet

Once you've done your research, your veterinarian can help ensure your pet has everything you both need to travel, such as microchipping, required or recommended vaccines (and proof of them), testing, and health records, Barton says. A vet can also address any health concerns. "Doctors can discuss risks, precautions, and things to monitor while traveling," Barton explains, adding that you should make sure your pet is up to date on needed preventive medications, such as treatment for fleas or heartworm.

If your furry friend struggles with anxiety, your vet can prescribe them a medication to make the journey less stressful for both of you. "Talk to your veterinarian before administering any sort of medication to your pet, but definitely consider it for future travel," Hogan says.

Frequently Asked Questions

A carrier being "airline-approved" typically means it adheres to the airline's size requirements, is leakproof, provides adequate airflow and keeps your pet securely inside.

You can find a pet carrier on wheels, such as the  Snoozer 4-in-1 Roll Around Pet Carrier  or the  SportPet Rolling Plastic Kennel , but keep in mind that most wheeled pet carriers are too large to fit under the seat on most airlines, even with detachable wheels. Wheeled options can make your furry friend easier for you to transport, but they also tend to make for a bumpy ride for your pet, so consider carefully whether a carrier on wheels is right for your cat or dog, especially if they're easily frightened.

Most major airlines in the U.S. do not allow pets to travel in cargo; some, like American Airlines, only offer this service for active military or diplomatic personnel. Of the major U.S. airlines, only Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines currently accept animals in the cargo hold, so keep that in mind if you have a medium or large dog – or if your intended destination does not welcome in-cabin pets.

Most animals who fly in the cargo hold are fine, but there's still a risk of your pet being killed, injured or lost, according to the Humane Society of the United States. The most common dangers are excessively hot or cold temperatures, poorly ventilated crates, and rough handling. Be sure to follow all IATA guidelines for cargo crates to ensure your pet's safety. Before you book a flight, you may also want to research the airline's history with companion animals in the cargo hold.

The kennel you choose for cargo travel must allow your pet enough room to stand, sit upright, turn around while standing and lie in a natural position, according to the IATA. Carriers must made of rigid materials and include a solid roof, a leakproof base, a door with well-maintained hardware, working handles and ventilation on all four sides. Labels that say "Live Animal" and "This Way Up" are also required by the IATA.

A water dish must be securely affixed to the inside of the carrier, with open access for your pet to drink and for someone to refill it from the outside without opening the crate. A food container can either be inside the carrier if it's sealed or attached to the outside.

A pet carrier usually counts as either a personal item or a carry-on. Depending on the airline policy, you may be able to bring either a personal item or a carry-on bag (not both) in addition to your carrier. Check your airline's carry-on luggage allowance and pet policy to see what you can bring.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old to travel, but airlines may impose their own age restrictions on top of that. On Delta, for example, companion animals must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic flights. United Airlines says your pet should be at least 4 months old for international travel to comply with rabies vaccine requirements.

Your furry friend will incur certain fees for flying, but the cost will vary by airline. American Airlines, as an example, charges a $125 service fee for a carry-on pet, while Allegiant's fee is $50. Cargo fees may depend on trip details: Hawaiian Airlines charges $60 in fees for domestic flights and $225 for flights between Hawaii and North America, while the cargo fee on Alaska Airlines is $100. Service animals typically fly at no charge as long as they meet the airline's requirements.

It depends on your pet, according to Hogan. "If they're quite anxious you may want to offer food with a bit more advanced time prior to the flight to avoid vomiting in the carrier or on themselves, however, not too much time where they'll be hungry throughout the travel day," she advises. "Water is important to offer as often as possible in any setting. Access to using the bathroom more than once prior to travel is also advised so as not to miss an opportunity for output!"

Conveniently, some airports may have pet relief areas your dog can use either before or after you go through security, but that's something you'll have to research beforehand.

No. Unless your pet is a service animal of a certain size, airlines typically require pets in the cabin to be secured in their carrier and stowed under the seat in front of you.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Catriona Kendall is a frequent traveler and longtime cat owner who knows the importance of a sturdy and secure pet carrier. Her cats haven't managed to damage or escape from the Henkelion and Petmate carriers she's owned for years (despite their best efforts). She also recommends this pop-up Pet Fit for Life carrier for road trips. Kendall compiled this list of airline-compliant carriers using her experience as a pet owner, advice from animal experts and extensive research.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces
• The Top Luggage Trackers
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?

The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best pigeon forge dinner shows.

Korrin Bishop April 9, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 8, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

The Best Napa Valley Wine Tours

Amanda Norcross April 4, 2024

The 10 Best Denver Tours

Lyn Mettler April 4, 2024

Top Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

Nicola Wood April 3, 2024

The Best Way to Renew a Passport

Amanda Norcross April 3, 2024

The Best Checked Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Sharael Kolberg , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 3, 2024

The Best Venice Tours

Lyn Mettler and Marisa Méndez April 2, 2024

• Cat Behavior
• Health & Care

10 Best Airline-Approved Cat Carriers for Planes In 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

Last Updated on April 5, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

Airline-approved cat carriers meet the specifications of most airlines but, again, you should check with the individual airline before you travel to the airport because being turned away at the gate is not only frustrating but will scupper travel plans.

To help, we have included reviews of 10 of the best airline-approved cat carriers for planes, below, as well as a guide on choosing a carrier and traveling with your cat.

• A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024
• The 10 Best Airline-Approved Cat Carriers for Planes
• 1. Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag – Best Overall

A cat carrier for planes needs to conform to airline requirements, but it also needs to be comfortable for your cat. The Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag has a spring-wire frame.

This ensures the carrier keeps its shape while being moved around and while free from the confines of being placed under the seat, but the wireframe also means that the bag can be easily pushed under the seat. It has soft sides with mesh windows, allowing for good airflow and letting your cat see what is happening outside the carrier. The top opening, in addition to a side opening, makes it easy to get your cat in and out and the zippers are lockable for extra security and to prevent escapes.

The Sherpa is very reasonably priced and offers a Guaranteed on Board scheme so you can be assured that the carrier meets the requirements of certain airlines. There are two different sizes of carriers, however. The medium carrier is compatible with fewer airlines, so do check. Reasonably priced and offering great comfort for cats, the Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag is the best available airline-approved cat carrier for planes, but the wireframe will eventually fail, leaving a soft bag with very little defined shape.

• Reasonable price
• Spring-wire frame folds down for easy storage under seats
• Breathable mesh side panel windows
• Wire frame will eventually give way
• 2. PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Cat Carrier – Best Value

The PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Cat Carrier has roughly the same dimensions as the Sherpa above but costs less. It has a front and rear opening, rather than a top opening, and it doesn’t have a metal frame. It does have sherpa-lined bedding which means it offers a soft, comfortable, and warm environment for your cat to sleep in, and it has mesh side and top panels.

Closed panels, or panels that are difficult to see out of, can raise anxiety in your cat because it will be able to hear all the airport and plane activity but not be able to see what is causing the noise. It can also cause sickness.

The PetAmi Premium also has a side zipper opening which isn’t meant as a door but can be used to pet your cat or pop some treats in for your well-behaved pet. The low cost and good quality of the PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Cat Carrier makes it the best airline-approved cat carrier for planes for the money, but it doesn’t hold its shape very well which means you will have to keep standing the walls up to prevent them falling in.

• Inexpensive
• Sherpa lined base is comfortable and inviting
• Additional side zipper opening is convenient
• No top opening
• Doesn’t hold its shape very well
• 3. Katziela Luxury Rider Removable Wheels Cat Carrier – Premium Choice

Draw up a list of the most desirable features for a cat carrier and the Katziela Luxury Rider Pro Removable Wheels Cat Carrier offers pretty much all of them.

It is roomy for an airline cat carrier, and it has a plush bed lining that is not only snug for your cat but can be removed and machine-washed for your convenience. Also, for greater convenience, it has six removable wheels and a telescopic handle which makes transporting it around the airport much less hassle. The top domed mesh section will push down so the bag fits under the seats, and the Katziela is compliant with most airline travel requirements. Mesh sides and top provide good airflow and visibility, and there are zippered pockets that can hold treats and other essentials.

It opens at the end of the carrier, and it can prove challenging to get reluctant cats in these designs. It is an expensive option, but it combines convenience and comfort and is a good option for regular feline fliers.

• Roomier than some
• Has detachable wheels and a telescopic handle
• Comfortable bedding can be removed and machine-washed
• Front opening so might be a challenge for some
• 4. EliteField Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag

The EliteField Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag is a lightweight cat carrier with soft sides, meshed side panels, and a mesh top. The main bag material is waterproof and there is a plush bed that can be removed for cleaning. A seat belt loop and strap enable you to secure the bag to car seats, and the dimensions and soft sides mean that the bag is compatible with most airlines that accept pet carriers. The carrier is inexpensive, has a padded shoulder strap for your comfort, and there’s a pocket for treats.

However, the lightweight materials don’t hold their shape very well and the carrier walls can collapse, especially when the bag is being carried. It also only has a maximum recommended pet weight of 12 pounds, which means it won’t be suitable for some larger breeds and more portly felines.

• Lightweight material is easy to carry
• Plush bed can be removed for cleaning
• Walls don’t hold their shape well
• Only suitable for smaller cats
• 5. Sherpa Original Deluxe Lattice Print Airline-Approved Cat Carrier

All airline-approved really means is that the manufacturer has used suitable materials and met the dimension requirements for most airlines that accept pets. Airlines don’t take and certify carriers as being approved and even with some airline-approved carriers, you might find that the carrier is inappropriately designed, and you are refused a flight because of the carrier.

Sherpa’s Guaranteed on Board program, which is included with the Sherpa Original Deluxe Lattice Print Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag not only provides you with details of what you need to do to meet airline requirements, but if you are refused because of your carrier, Sherpa will refund the cost of yours and your cat’s flight.

The bag itself is more generous than a lot. It also has mesh panels almost all the way around the bag. It is a front-opening bag, so you might need to practice getting your cat in and out before you travel, but it also has a lambskin liner that is comfortable and machine washable. The spring-wire frame means that the bag can be squished down to fit under the seat. However, the liner doesn’t stay in position and the wire frame can lose its shape quite easily.

• Includes Sherpa’s Guaranteed on Board program
• Decent internal size
• Wire frame means the carrier squashes down to size
• Wire frame might eventually give way
• The Lambskin liner is not secured very well
• 6. EliteField Expandable Soft Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag

The flight is usually only a part of the journey, and you will likely have car or rail journeys to follow. If you’re staying in a hotel or other accommodation during a trip, you may also need a carrier you can use as a temporary accommodation for your cat. Many hotels require that your cat be kept in a carrier when you’re not in the room.

The EliteField Expandable Soft Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag is a good option in these circumstances. The soft carrier, which features mesh ends and a front-opening design has expandable sides. It is adequately sized to take on most flights, but when you’re in your hotel or even in the back of a car, you can expand the sides and nearly triple the amount of room your cat has to move about. It also has a removable plush bed and a support board that helps retain the carrier’s shape.

However, while the bag is folded up for air travel, it covers the side meshes and leaves only a front mesh panel. And the lightweight walls do tend to collapse inwards.

• Expandable, multi-purpose carrier
• Removable plush bed lining
• Baseboard offers some stability
• Side mesh is covered when closed up
• Walls tend to collapse inwards
• 7. Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Cat Quilted Carrier Bag

The Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Cat Carrier Bag is a generously sized cat carrier that measures 18 x 11 x 11 inches and has a maximum pet weight of 20 pounds, so it should be suitable for most domestic cats. The carrier is sherpa-padded so provides a snug base for your traveling companion.

It has top and side entrances, so is suitable even for reluctant, challenging cats, and the padded strap is comfortable when carrying your pet over your shoulder. The sides do have some give, too, which means they will collapse slightly, making the carrier suitable for sliding under airplane seats. The liner does Velcro to the base and does a reasonable job of staying in place and there is a convenient pocket for treats and other items.

However, the design of the Velcro and zippers means that some curious cats might figure out how to open it and escape.

• Snug, removal sherpa lining
• Top opening design
• Decent size for most pet cats
• Some cats may learn how to escape
• 8. EliteField Deluxe Soft Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag

The EliteField Deluxe Soft Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag is a lightweight carrier with mesh sides and front and a pouch pocket on the rear. The whole bag unzips as an entrance, which makes it easy to put your cat in place, but it also makes it very easy for your cat to get away before you’ve secured the top.

There is a padded shoulder strap, and the bag includes a hard support board to help retain the shape of the bag and prevent collapse. There’s even a hood above the front mesh window to help prevent rain and sun from getting inside the bag. Inside, it has a leash so you can secure your kitty in place, and has a maximum weight capacity of 15 pounds.

It is a really affordable carrier that might be suitable for kittens and very small cats but the triangular shape means that only the bottom section of the bag is useful as a carrier compartment, so space is very restricted.

• Very affordably priced
• Sun/rain peak
• Leash enables greater security
• Restricted space
• Opening makes it difficult to secure your cat inside
• 9. Jespet Cat Carrier Backpack

The Jespet Cat Carrier Backpack is a backpack top-loading and rear-opening cat carrier with a removable inner pad, a tether you can connect your cat’s collar to, and a collapsible design that will fit under the seat in front of you on a plane. A side pocket lets you carry toys, treats, leashes, and other essentials.

Backpacks leave your hands free for carrying other items and because they spread weight at least across your shoulders, they are easier to carry than side bags. However, their dimensions mean they might not be ideal for your cat. The dimensions of this carrier are reasonable, but the vertical space means your cat might struggle to lay down properly.

• Comfortable and convenient to carry
• Internal leash keeps your cat secure
• Backpack design doesn’t offer a lot of horizontal space
• 10. PetAmi Airline Approved Backpack Cat Carrier

Carrying your luggage, hand luggage, documents, and a pet carrier into and around the airport is challenging for one person. A backpack is a good way of making it easier to move everything you need, including your cat.

The PetAmi Airline Approved Backpack Cat Carrier is made from polyester and has a mesh back panel and top panel. It is a top opening design and, according to the manufacturer, has been reinforced to ensure the walls don’t collapse on your cat during use. As well as the backpack straps, the PetAmi Backpack also has chest and waist buckles, which help spread the load of the bag and its contents around your body, so it is more comfortable when in use.

However, the backpack can’t be carried sideways which means that an adult cat will have to sit upright in the bag, and that won’t suit a lot of cats. And while the bag is said to be suitable for pets up to 18 pounds, there isn’t a lot of room inside and it would be a struggle to fit a cat of this size in the pack.

• Comfortable to wear on your shoulders
• Mesh side and top panels
• Cat has to sit upright

• Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose an Airline-Approved Cat Carrier

Whether you’re flying on an internal or international flight, if you need to take a cat with you, you will need a suitable cat carrier. The carrier needs to be soft-sided, should be collapsible when placed under the seat, and it will need to conform to airline dimension requirements.

It also needs to be comfortable and secure for your cat and should be light and easy enough for you to carry through the airport and beyond.

• What Is an Airline-Approved Cat Carrier?

Airlines don’t specifically approve carriers. Those that allow cats to fly, however, do provide requirements that need to be met for the cat to fly. Requirements can vary from one airline to another and even according to flight types and times. Carriers that are designated as being airline-approved meet the requirements of most relevant airlines. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that they meet all airlines’ standards. Therefore, you should check the specific requirements that will be present with your flight, before you travel and in plenty of time to arrange an appropriate carrier.

• Cat Carrier Features
• Mesh Panels

A cat carrier for planes has to meet several requirements. Not only does it need to meet the size requirements of airlines, but it still needs to be convenient for you and comfortable for your cat. Check dimensions and weight capacity and consider the following factors when shopping for your next carrier.

You have to be able to get your cat in and out of the carrier easily. Not only will you need to do this before you leave the house, but your cat can’t go through the bag scanner in airports, so you will need to be able to easily get them in and out at these times, too. If your cat is uncomfortable in carriers and resists, a top-opening carrier is usually easier.

But believe it or not, not all cats detest being placed in carriers. If your cat quite enjoys the solitude and confinement of a carrier, a front loader might be easier because your cat can walk in and out of its own volition.

• Cushioned Liner

Even if you’re embarking on a short internal flight, your cat will likely have to spend at least two or three hours in the carrier, when you take into account the journeys to and from the airport. Therefore, feline comfort is an important consideration.

A padded base gives your cat a more comfortable sitting or lying position, but it should be easy to clean. Accidents do happen, but even if your cat doesn’t pee on the base, cat hair and dirt can get into padding and will need cleaning. Some padded bases can be machine-washed, but this isn’t true of all of them.

• Padded Straps

You will have to carry the carrier at least around the airport, if not further. Even if the carrier is the only bag you have, it can be extremely uncomfortable if the weight of the cat and the bag are digging into your hand.

Padded straps can include hand straps, and also shoulder straps. The shoulder strap can prove invaluable if you have other luggage or items that you need to carry on the plane, too.

The restrictions imposed by airlines mean that there aren’t too many carrier types to consider. You can’t have a hard case, which means your options are soft hand-carried bags or backpacks.

• Carrier – The standard carrier is like a hold-all design. The cat sits or lies inside, and you can carry the bag in your hand or, if the strap is provided, over your shoulder. You can also get expandable hand carriers that can prove useful if you need somewhere for your cat to retreat to while staying in a hotel. Standard carriers tend to offer the best combination of ease, convenience, and feline comfort.
• Backpack – In theory, a backpack carrier is a great idea. Backpacks spread the weight of the bag across your upper body. They are slung over your back so don’t get in the way when you’re walking, and they can still meet airline requirements. In reality, though, the shape of a backpack means that the internal space of this type of carrier is more vertical. Bigger cats will have to sit upright, and not all cats are comfortable sitting in this position.
• Secure Fastening

No matter how careful you are, your carrier will get buffeted and shunted around at some point. To help keep your cat safe, some bags include secure loops and harness attachments.

Not only do these help prevent your cat from enduring too much movement but they can be very useful when you’re trying to get your cat in. Put them in place, securely attach them to the loop, and it leaves you with free hands to close the carrier door.

When traveling with cats , it is a good idea to take water, treats, and even a toy or two. If your cat carrier has one or more pockets, you can keep your cat’s belongings with your cat so nothing gets lost.

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Does Your Cat Have to Come Out of the Carrier at the Airport?

While your hand luggage goes through the bag scanner, your cat cannot. This means it will have to come out of the bag and will have to go through the body scanner with you. This means removing and replacing the cat from the carrier. Practice at home to ensure you don’t hold everybody up or lose your cat, and ensure they are wearing a harness and leash.

• How Do I Stop My Cat from Meowing on the Plane?

Your cat is likely meowing from anxiety. Everything about flying is alien to cats, from the fuss of the airport to the wait at the gate and, of course, the flight itself. Be reassuring, include a blanket and toy from home in their carrier, and consider using a pheromone collar to help calm your anxious kitty.

Airline-approved cat carriers meet the dimension and soft-sided requirements of most airlines. They can be slid under the seat in front of you, on the plane, and they should be comfortable for your cat and convenient for your use. Hopefully, using the reviews above, you can find the best carrier for your needs.

We found the Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag to be reasonably priced and of decent quality. The PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Cat Carrier is cheap and its sherpa lining comfortable, but it might not retain its shape after several uses.

• https://www.pettravelstore.com/sherpa-guaranteed-on-board/

Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

About the Author

Matt Jackson

Yamazaki Airtight Pet Container Review 2024: Our Expert’s Opinion

Funny Fuzzy Cat Sofa Bed Review 2024: Our Expert’s Opinion

Pet Remedy Kitten Calming Kit Review 2024: Pros, Cons, & Our Verdict

Get catster in your inbox.

Is Holiday Inn Pet Friendly? (2024 Guide)

Is Best Western Pet Friendly? (2024 Guide)

Not So Crappy! Reframing Poop to Not Hate Cleaning Cat Litter

© pangolia pte. ltd. all rights reserved..

The Best Cat Carrier for Airline Travel

We hope you like the products we recommend! Just so you know this post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking our links.

Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I get commissions from purchases made through links in this post. × Dismiss alert

Cats might be territorial but us humans often have to be more flexible with where we work and where we live. 

We can drive long -distance with our cats in our cars and we can take epic bus or train journeys with our pets but sometimes we have no choice but to fly. It’s rarely an ideal situation. 

A quick word on ‘airline approved’ cat carriers

Airlines have strict regulations on carriers and breeds which can add to the amount of work you probably already have in arranging your own relocation.

Choosing the best cat carrier for airline travel is one way you can help make your trip as safe, stress-free and as comfortable as possible for both you and your pet.

It’s worth mentioning that all airlines have different requirements for cat carriers .

You should always check directly with the airline before you book. Information on the internet can be out-dated so don’t rely on blogs or websites when ordering a crate or carrier.  Some manufacturers will say theirs is an airline approved cat carrier but with so many airlines it’s really not possible for them to promise that without some risk of error.  The last thing you want is to turn up at the airport only to be told that your pet can’t fly.

That being said, in-cabin carriers are usually fine so long as they’re soft-sided and can be pushed under the seat in front of you.

If you’re just browsing before buying, then that should be enough of a guideline to give you some idea of what’s available.

Remember, too, that there are different requirements for traveling in the cabin of the aircraft and the hold.  We’d always advise that you try to get your cat into the cabin with you.  It’s more dangerous for pets in the hold.

In a Hurry? The Best Selling Cat Carriers for Airline Travel on Amazon

We’ve listed our top picks below but here are 2 of the best selling cat carriers on Amazon right now if you’re in a rush to get started.

We’ve added a mix of soft-sided carriers for in-cabin as well as plastic-sided carriers for the hold.  You’ll find details and links further into this post.  We’ve also included a short buyers guide to help you identify what to look for in a product.

If you click one of our links and make a purchase, we may make a small commission at no cost to you 😊

Last update on 2024-04-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to choose the best cat carriers for planes

• We said it earlier in this post but it’s worth repeating: check with the airline what size they accept .  For travel in the hold, you’ll also need to check about top-loading carriers and what kind of lock or latch system they’d like you to have.
• If your cat is nervous or aggressive, then a soft-sided carrier can be tricky because it’s easier to damage.  Look for carriers made from durable fabric with zippers that can’t easily be undone .  Some cats prefer to be able to see what’s going on and others prefer to be covered over so bear in mind you may need to take a sweater to cover over it.
• There are expandable cat carriers (we’ve included one below) which conform to in-cabin airline regulations but which can also be opened out slightly in the terminal or once onboard allowing the cat more room to move. This might but useful if your cat is slightly larger.
• Carriers with pockets are useful for keeping documents and treats easily to hand.
• We’d recommend adding a lease or harness if you don’t already have on.  At security, you’ll have to take your cat out of its carrier and it’s far easier if they’re already on a leash.  The added security when they’re in the carrier should help reassure you that they’re safe, too.
• Before purchasing, it’s always a good idea to read the reviews from verified buyers. Many of them will have included photographs and experience of using that product.  This will give you a better idea of what to expect than product specifications alone.
• There are additional requirements for pets traveling in the hold of an aircraft.  You’ll need to ensure you have ‘live animal’ stickers as well as drinking bowls.  Some carriers include these with the carrier but you’ll need to buy some if not.
• Some owners add puppy training pads to the bottom of the carrier in case there’s an accident. This will help absorb any mess.  You’re unlikely to fit a litter tray inside a cat carrier for airline travel but most cats wouldn’t use it anyway.  You could pack disposable litter trays for use in a completely contained bathroom stall when you’re at the airport and when you arrive.

5 best cat carriers for air travel

The best for small cats pet magasin luxury soft-sided cat carrier.

This is one of the few carriers that seems specifically designed for cats rather than dogs. It’s small enough to be carry-on approved by major airlines – although, please double-check before booking – its dimensions are 18″ x 11″ x 10″ .

Empty it weighs only 2.2 pounds but benefits from durable material with mesh windows, plenty of ventilation and comfortable internal padding.  There’s a padded shoulder strap, too. This folds flat for storage and is easy to clean.  The material is waterproof . The packaging suggests it’s ‘resistant to animal bites’ which is very good news if your cat is anxious. 

• MAJOR AIRLINE CARRY-ON APPROVED: Product dimensions: 18" x 11" x 10", a perfect size for most cats, puppies and other small pets [do NOT fit Large dogs, please refer to measurement] works with all major airlines
• SAFETY FIRST: Constructed to keep your pet safe; holds its shape when end panels are zipped up
• LIGHT WEIGHT & FASHIONABLE DESIGN: Only 2.2 Pounds; and made with durable & luxurious material. Soft-sided pet carrier with comfortable padding inside, mesh window for ventilation, carry-handle and adjustable padded shoulder strap
• EASY TO STORE & CLEAN: Folds flat for storage, and made from waterproof material so it's easy to clean
• DURABLE & LONG-LASTING: Sturdy construction to keep your pet safe. Resistant to Animal bites. Exterior are made from waterproof material so it's easy to clean.

Last update on 2024-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Comes in different colors Folds flat when not in use Water-resistant Collapsible

 More suitable for small to medium cats than large ones

Check Price

Best under-seat cat carrier for planes – Sleepypod Air in-Cabin Pet Carrier

We love this carrier because it adapts to the under-seat requirements of most airlines.

It can compress from 22 inches down to 19 or 16 inches.

The dimensions are 22 x 10.5 x 10 inches , and you can open up both ends up, too.

It’s ideal for traveling by car, too, which makes it more versatile compared to other pet carriers.  It has tear-resistant mesh and is suitable for cats up to 18 pounds .  We all know going through the airport can be a big hassle but this has a pocket for documents or treats.  There’s also a safety tether to help prevent escapes.  

• Airline Compliant & Space to Stretch: An innovative design provides the maximum amount of in-cabin space.
• Crash-Tested Car Seat: Rigorously crash-tested at U.S., Canadian, and E.U. child safety standards, then independently tested & certified by the Center for Pet Safety.
• Ample Air Flow & Easy Access: Mesh panels enable ample airflow on three sides. Quick access from top and side entry points.
• Bed Away From Home: Ultra Plush bedding ensures a cozy space at home or on the road.
• Less Travel Stress: Use as a napping spot before travels to reduce fear. A removable privacy panel blocks visual stressors. A stable base prevents pet from sagging when carried.

Adjustable to different airlines

Luggage-grade nylon

Very attractive carrier

Easy to clean

Comes in a range of attractive colors

More expensive than regular carriers

Best Rolling Pet Carrier for the Airplane – Sherpa on Wheels

We like that this has a spring-frame that allows it to be pushed under the seat in front easily. 

It’s also part of Sherpa’s Guaranteed On Board scheme where the company will refund your flight if you’re refused boarding because of the carrier. 

It has castors for smooth and steady movement which won’t disturb your cat and it has a cute flag to make it easier to spot in a crowded terminal so your pet won’t be trampled on.

The carry handle is versatile , too, and can be switched from pull-along to luggage strap.  The zippers lock , too, for extra peace of mind.  It’s sized at 20.00 x 12.25 x 10.50 inches and comes in black. 

• AIRLINE APPROVED: The Sherpa On Wheels Pet Carrier is airline approved and part of our Guaranteed On Board program, which provides comfort and peace of mind to pets and their owners; it's perfect for traveling by air, bus, car, or train
• IN-CABIN FRIENDLY: Designed to fit under most airplane seats in compliance with FAA regulations; also features mesh wall panels for ventilation, escape-proof locking zippers, waterproof interior base, and a removable machine washable cozy liner
• EASY-GLIDE MOTION: The two front spinner wheels allow for smooth steering in any direction, with the two recessed wheels at the rear providing steady motion for safe and comfortable travel
• USE AS A ROLLER OR A TOTE: The detachable pull handle can be converted into an adjustable shoulder strap, transforming the rolling carrier into a pet tote or a duffel bag for your comfort and convenience
• MULTIFUNCTIONAL: The pet carrier can also function as a pet wagon or a portable soft-sided crate for regular outings and vet visits with cats and small dogs

Guaranteed on board

Not bulky like other wheeled carriers

Secure zippers

Travel bed slides in and out for cleaning

No storage space for supplies

The guaranteed onboard scheme could change at any time.

Best hard cat carrier for airline travel hold – Petmate Sky Kennel

If you’re putting your cat into the hold of an aircraft, then it’s even more important that you double-check the airline’s requirements and that you have a hard carrier.  

The Petmate Sky Kennel comes in 6 different sizes and is made from durable plastic and extra strong steel wire .  Its 4-way vault door gives additional security by helping to reduce the chance of a cat sliding or shifting the mechanism.  The ventilation is very good and it offers good visibility and fresh air on all sides.   Clip-on bowls are included as are 2 Live Animal stickers.  There’s a strong carry handle and its touted to meet most airline cargo specifications.

There’s no padding so you’d have to add your own blanket, towels or comforter to make this more comfortable for your animal.

In Amazon’s Q&A section are a ton of people who’ve flown domestically and internationally using the Petmate Sky Kennel without any problems but a few users have said that some airlines won’t accept latches or bolts that aren’t metal. Check before you fly. The latches can be replaced. One reviewer swapped them over for these.  

• Meets Airline Standards: This travel dog crate conforms to IATA requirements for live animal transport, including door, side and back ventilation requirements. Meets most airline cargo specifications for safe travel; always check with airlines in advance
• Includes Ready-to-Fly Essentials: It comes equipped with pet kennel essential items for airline travel, including 2 "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers, a food and water cup, ID stickers, and absorbent material to keep your pet comfortable during the journey
• Small Dog Crate for pets 15-30 Pounds: Ideal choice for pets such as Pomeranians, Cocker Spaniels or similar. Interior dimension: 24.25"L x 18.25"W x 19.5"H. Pet should have just enough room to walk inside the dog kennel, turn around, lay down comfortably
• Heavy-Duty Construction Keeps Pets Safe and Comfortable: Features durable construction, easy-squeeze latch wire door with interlocks for added security, 360-degree ventilation for airflow, and plastic covered wing-nuts and bolts, with folding top handle
• Eco-Friendly Construction Made in the USA: This plastic dog cate is proudly made in the USA from EcoTEC(TM) Plastic, which contains a minimum of 90% pre-consumer recycled material engineered for strength and durability critical for a safe pet carrier

4-way vault door for extra security

Includes stickers and clip-on bowl

Comes in multiple sizes

Durable and robust design

May need to switch plastic bolts for metal

Best Airline Carrier for Expanding: PETS GO2

One of this carrier’s best features is that you can expand the sides out to create a bigger space.   This would be so helpful in the terminal before your flight or during a connection.  Always check with the airline before you fly but the manufacturer says it’s been designed to fit under the seats of most major airlines 

The solid metal fasteners mean that the shoulder strap won’t pull on the seams – providing added security.  There’s good ventilation and it’ll give your cat a good view of the world outside. Although, these are easy to cover up if they become anxious.  

It’s lightweight with a padded shoulder strap and velcro-closed handles . There’s comfortable padding on the bottom that is hand-washable and replaceable.

The carrier includes an outer pocket that’s handy for keeping notes, documents or treats. It’s approved for pets up to 20 pounds and folds down when not in use. Dimensions are: 18 in. L x 12 in. W x 12 in. H and it expands to 30 inches.

Expandable sides make it roomier whilst still respecting airline regulations

Includes washable bedding

Four entry points for easy access

Safety leash included

When zipped up the expandable sides take up some of the cat’s free space inside. 

The Best for Most Airlines (cabin) – Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe

This carrier is well ventilated with roll-down flaps providing privacy as well as reducing light to help your cat feel more safe and secure. It has a spring wire frame allowing the carrier to be pushed down by several inches to fit under the seat in front.  The top and side entry allows for easy access at all times.

There’s a carry strap , too, making it easy to hold and maneuver around the airport.  A faux lambskin liner will keep your cat warm and comfortable and it’s machine washable, too, in case of any messes. The handy side pocket allows for veterinarian notes to be kept close at hand as well as any special treats or toys.

You should always check with the airline before you fly about the requirements they have for transporting pets BUT Sherpa says this bag is approved for use on most airlines and that it’s included in their Guaranteed on Board Program . 

• AIRLINE APPROVED: The Sherpa Delta Airlines Pet Carrier is airline approved and part of our Guaranteed On Board program, which provides comfort and peace of mind to pets and their owners; it's perfect for traveling by air, bus, car, or train
• IN-CABIN FRIENDLY: Our patented spring wire frame allows the rear end of the carrier to be pushed down several inches to easily fit under airplane seats in compliance with most major airline requirements and FAA regulations
• PERFECT FOR TRAVEL: Features mesh panels for ventilation, escape-proof locking zippers, top and side entries for easy and comfortable loading, waterproof interior base, and a removable machine washable cozy base liner
• VERSATILE DESIGN: Can be carried by hand with the padded top handle, or over the shoulder using the included detachable carrying strap and integrated metal D-rings - whichever suits your comfort and convenience
• MULTIFUNCTIONAL: The pet carrier can also be used as a soft-sided crate for regular outings and vet visits with cats and small dogs; includes a large storage pocket for treats, leashes, poop bags, and other small accessories

Side pocket for storage

Fake lambskin liner inside

Privacy flaps for cats prone to motion sickness

Top and side entry

The guaranteed onboard program could change suddenly

Hard to clean

Best Backpack for Planes: PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack

Shoulder carriers aren’t always suitable for everyone, and it’s great to see that there’s the option for a backpack, too.  This is a versatile design and one that can be used to transport your cat on aeroplanes as well as taking a cat on a hike or to and from the vet.

It measures approximately 12.5″ x 10.2″ x 16.3″

This backpack is well-ventilated and has two-way entry to help get your cat in and out quickly and easily. There’s a zip-up mesh window that gives good visibility and additional headroom.

There’s comfortable bedding, a safety strap and a buckle, too.

For the human, the shoulder straps are well-padded and come with waist and chest buckles. The side pouches and front pocket make storing vet notes, treats and supplies easy. There’s a collapsible pet bowl , too.  

This backpack comes in a range of colors .

It carries cats up to 18 pounds and weighs 3.4 pounds empty.

Many Amazon reviewers have taken this product onboard numerous aircraft and been fine but a few have suggested that it’s a bit tight under the seat although, this depends on the airline and class you’re seated in.  Again, it’s worth checking with the airline and then double-checking the dimensions of the seat.

• LARGE ROOMY DOG BACKPACK CARRIER: PetAmi Cat Carrier Backpack measured 12.5" x 10.2" x 16.3" (L x W x H) and is designed for maximum convenience and comfort for your pet and you while hiking, camping, traveling in weekends, or taking your pet, cat to the vet, or dog walking in the park. Easily fit large cats, small medium dogs, and other size pets. Theres 2 easy ways to enter from both sides of the backpack carrier and it comes with ample room and bed so your pet will travel in comfort.
• VENTILATED CAT CARRIER BACKPACK: Our pet backpack has well ventilated design for optimal airflow, two-way entry for easy access, zip up mesh window for more headroom and visibility, and thick, cozy sherpa lined bedding so your pet can rest and relax. This dog backpack carrier is reinforced with firm structure, making this the perfect weekend dog backpack for hiking, camping, dog walking, pet traveling, road trip, airplane travel.
• AIRLINE APPROVED PET BACKPACK: Designed with safety in mind, this puppy backpack, dog bookbag has firm structure that does not collapsed on your pet while traveling and hiking. Comes with safety strap and buckle to secure your pet to prevent escape. This dog backpack carrier is TSA approved so you can travel with peace of mind through the airport and plane. Additional pockets to hold all essentials, supplies and must have for your dog, cat, pet.
• SUPERIOR COMFORT, FIT, AND CONVENIENCE: The back and shoulder straps of the dog carrier backpack are equipped with extra thick padding for more comfort during long trips. This cat backpack comes with both waist and chest buckles to give you extra support. We also added side pouches and a front pocket to store essential pet supplies and a collapsible pet bowl to keep your pet hydrated! This airline approved cat backpack carrier is a must have essentials for dog mom, dad, owner and trainer.
• DOG BACKPACK CARRIER FOR SMALL MEDIUM DOGS: Made with durable 600D polyester, PetAmi pet backpack carrier fits most small medium dogs and medium large cats, rabbits and pets. This pet backpack is perfect for cycling, hiking, camping, walking and traveling while keeping your pet and you comfortable throughout travel. It makes a perfect gift for new dog owner, dog mom, dad, trainer and is available in multiple colors.

Includes name ID tag and a collapsible bowl

Safety buckle and leash for security

It comes in multiple colors

Allows hands-free traveling

Reviewers suggest the zipper isn’t very sturdy

Finding the best cat carrier for airline travel isn’t easy, but we hope we’ve made it a little more straightforward for you and your pet – happy travels!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Cat Carriers

• Litter Boxes
• Cat Trees, Perches & Scratchers
• Cat Cages & Playpens
• Pet Bowls & Feeders
• Pet-Friendly Slipcovers
• Pet Gates, Fences & Doors
• Cat Furniture Sale

Pet Size Filter Applied

Price per item, customer rating, extra small (1 - 10 lbs) cat carriers.

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Mowry Pet Carrier

by Tucker Murphy Pet™

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 137 total votes

Get it by Sat. Apr 13

Relax, carry your pet on our reversible carrier sling – we love our pets. hands-free sling bag to make it very convenient to carry them easily, wherever you want them to! Our carrier sling is 20" wide by 14" deep and the shoulder strap is 26" long and comes with a security clasp to prevent your pet from jumping out. Easily holds up to 12 pounds of pet weight. An easy way to transport your small breed dog around is something that every small dog owner may need. Made for cats and dogs up to 12 pounds in weight. Not recommended for pets above 12 pounds. Made from a breathable material that is easily washable. Reversible to change up the color.

• Compatible Animal Type: Cat; Dog
• Pet Size: Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs)
• Primary Material: Polyester
• Portable: Yes
• Collapsible: Yes

My 5 lb chihuahua fits in and stays in. It’s sturdy but not too hot for him. Also I like the strap length.. Carin. Daphne, AL. 2021-04-09 15:03:21

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Katziela Hybrid Adventurer Pet Carrier Backpack with Removable Wheels and Telescopic Handle

by Katziela

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 27 total votes

FREE Shipping

Get it by Mon. Apr 15

Are you looking for the most versatile, compact, and airline-friendly backpack carrier for your furry friend? At Katziela we, like our wonderful customers, understand that pets are family. Treat cats and dogs with the love they deserve and keep them close on airplanes and hikes with the Katziela Hybrid Adventurer! Dually designed for optional use as a rolling travel bag or backpack.

Love this pet carrier and brand name for Traveling. I traveling out of the country with my 20 cat all the time and it’s wonderful to have the wheels and also love when I can use as a backpack during certain parts of our traveling that I can’t wheel him. The name brand speaks for itself. This is the second pet carry I purchase in this name brand. Recommend for any pet travelers and definitely TSA approved and fits under your seat on the plane.. Genette. US. 2023-02-05 10:26:21

Katziela Angret Expandable Sling Pet Carrier for Small Dog, Cat and Puppy

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 29 total votes

Go anywhere, anytime, and keep your beloved pet safe and secure with this sling bag pet carrier from Tucker Murphy Pet™. Enjoy long walks, hikes, and all-day outings without worrying about your fur baby getting tired and needing to rest. Just scoop them up and keep them warm, safe, and secure where you can easily reach them! A hands-free design is perfect for small pets up to 10 lbs. including cats, min-pins, chihuahuas, Yorkies, Pomeranians, mini poodles, dachshunds, miniature schnauzers, and other mini and teacup breeds.

Havent used it yet, will get my puppy when she turns 2 months. Really sturdy and feels like it is well made.. Deb. Los Lunas, NM. 2023-01-29 05:22:00

Plastic Pet Carrier with 1 Door

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 335 total votes

The Petmate Porter Fashion Pet Carrier is designed in a way to offer a cozy and comfortable habitat for your dog. It has a wired pattern on the door with cutouts on the sides and back that allows easy visibility and ventilation. The Petmate Porter Fashion Pet Carrier is made from high-quality material which ensures that it is sturdy and will last for years. The top and bottom shells lock together securely with front, back, and side latches. It has a door for easy access and if required can be locked using the safety latch to secure your pet within the carrier. The eco-friendly design has minimal impact on the environment. The Pet Carrier by Petmate has handles making it portable. The corners are rounded to ensure safety for you, your loved ones, and your pet.

• Compatible Animal Type: Dog
• Primary Material: Plastic
• Location: Indoor / Outdoor Use

This is bigger than I thought it would be but I’m glad! My cat loves it. She used to hate traveling in her old carrier. In this one, she just takes a snooze until we arrive at our destination. She’s even started using it as her “bedroom” at home when she wants some peace and quiet away from my nonsense! Easy to put together, sturdy, and lightweight. Can’t recommend this enough.. Mauri. Philadelphia, PA. 2023-05-08 17:37:38

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Juicy Couture Give Me Treats Pet Carrier

by Juicy Couture

Rated 3 out of 5 stars. 5 total votes

For pet owners who value style and functionality, the Juicy Couture "Give Me Treats" Pet Carrier is the ultimate choice. This pet carrier allows you to safely and comfortably take your beloved pet on the go, whether it's a trip to the vet or a weekend getaway. Designed for small pets weighing up to 10lbs, it offers ample space and security. The carrier features beautifully detailed gold metal charms and hardware, adding a touch of luxury to your pet's travel experience. With its removable bottom pad and zippered cover, cleaning is a breeze. Elevate your pet's travel style with Juicy Couture.

• Perfect for Small Pets: Designed for pets up to 10lbs, this carrier is ideal for small dogs and cats, offering them a cozy and secure space
• Easy Cleaning and Maintenance: The carrier comes with a removable bottom pad featuring a zippered cover, making it a breeze to clean and maintain

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Pet Cat Backpack Carrier Foldable & Expandable

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 11 total votes

This cat backpack carrier designed with 3 breathable mesh windows and a all-round ventilation expandable tent. The travel cat carrier provides plenty of air and excellent view for your pets. This dog/cat backpack carrier is made of 300D cationic oxford cloth and 210D base cloth and equipped with a firmly reinforced structure. The interlayer of the pet backpack is equipped with rubber pads, which is a three-dimensional version, and the pet will not collapse no matter how heavy it is. The backpack has reflective strips, safer to travel at night

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Bailey-Shay Pet Carrier

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 25 total votes

• Airline approved, fits under most airline seats

Love it. Durable, spacious, easy to carry. Cat is comfortable inside just at it! It is so cute! Def worth the price. Eileen. US. 2023-01-13 19:47:23

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Coplan Travel Cat Carrier

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 3 total votes

Do you want to travel, hike, or do other activities with your lovable pets? Our foldable light Pet Carrier can be a nice choice, It is made of high-quality artificial leather, cashmere inner cushion, and drip plastic mesh, wear-resistant, scratch-resistant, and tear-resistant. Besides, the adjustable shoulder buckle, the sweat-absorbing padding, and the thickened carrying handle make you more comfortable for travel.

• Comfortable Travel: The adjustable and removable shoulder strap and the silicone handle on the top make it easier for you to travel.

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Bria Comfy Sling Pet Carrier

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 24 total votes

Carry your small pet in this comfortable and lightweight pet sling whenever she/he needs to go. The unique sling-style design provides you with hands-free while walking, hiking, or shopping outside. The soft fleece inner lining keeps your pet relaxed and comfortable throughout the day, while a knit and soft exterior keeps your look sleek and chic. The adjustable inner tether for added security during your travels. Additional front zip pocket to store your personal belongings. Ideal for carrying your furry friend when she/he is tired, especially puppies and small pets with disabilities.

• Pet Size: Small (11 - 25 lbs)

This sling works great with a small soft blanket in it. Saydee Sue our Yorky get's to hitch a ride.. Sherree. KILGORE, TX. 2023-04-21 22:20:06

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Kaya Pet Carrier

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 19 total votes

Free shipping

We know that your lil’ pooch is your favorite travel companion so why not give him or her a first-class ticket to comfort you during your trek? Designed for tinier pets (11 lbs. and under), the Kaya Pet Carrier Trolley is the ideal stain-resistant pet accessory for puppies, kittens, or smaller breeds of dogs and cats who aren’t always able to make a long (or short!) journey on foot. Featuring a retractable handle that locks into place, the trolley includes 4 shock absorbent spinner wheels in the back and 2 stabilized legs in the front to make moving around with your best bud a breeze. Side pocket inserts and an interior zippered compartment provide the perfect storage space to keep pet snacks or toys close at hand and the zippered mesh top opening delivers great air circulation. Even better, the trolley converts into a backpack with the added back straps making transportation quick and easy. Give your fur baby the very best!

• Weight Capacity: 11lb.

Absolutely love my kitty carriers putting them in them is a breeze and to be able to wheel them instead of carrying them is of great benefit to me they seem very relaxed and feel secure. Patricia. Zephyrhills, FL. 2023-04-26 16:01:40

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Duffel Collapsible Pet Carrier

by Prefer Pets

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 11 total votes

Take more of life’s journey together with Prefer Pets’ innovative and thoughtfully designed pet carriers. Prefer Pets’ exclusive sound-absorbing padding and covers shields your fur-babies from exposure to unfamiliar environments that cause anxiety and stress. Also makes for a quiet cave for taking naps at home. Multiple openings allow pets to be examined by veterinarians while staying inside the carrier, where they feel safe. Tightly weaved interior lining repels fur and a removable machine-washable Sherpa cover for the base pad, create a comfortable and hygienic carrier your pets will enjoy going in.

• Pet Size: Small (11 - 25 lbs); Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs)

Love this carrier. It’s sturdy, allows for multiple angles to see my cat inside so he knows I’m nearby. He likes jumping in it when just playing at home.. Kierstin. Antioch, CA. 2023-02-08 10:11:50

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Holgate Zippered Sporty Mesh Pet Carrier

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 51 total votes

Perfectly sized for everyday travel – and perfectly made for airline excursions – the Folding Zippered Sporty Mesh Carrier is quick, convenient, and comfortable. Made of canvas nylon, this foldable bag zips 360 degrees for easy access. Its Thinsulate thermal heat retention design keeps your dog perfectly comfortable, while its cushioned interior adds a touch of luxe.

I got it just in time to pick up my cat she's enjoying it well she had to get use to it so now she's comfortable love it . Debra. Atlanta, GA. 2023-01-04 14:09:57

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Klemm Pet Carrier

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 118 total votes

This pet carrier and the stroller are perfect for adventures and everyday use. This high-quality carrier and stroller offer 3 different ways of carrying your pet. A telescoping handle, a shoulder strap, and a handle provide 3 easy and convenient carrying solutions for different everyday needs. Your pet will surely enjoy everyday errands and weekend adventures like never before.

The pole part was broken. I received a refund. Thank you Wayfair.. kelly. Dallas, GA. 2019-10-21 19:04:39

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Canine-Spine Over-the-Shoulder Hands-Free Pet Carrier

by Touchdog

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 31 total votes

The Touchdog 'Toga-Bark' Over-The-Shoulder Hands-Free Pet Carrier features a trendy Over-the-shoulder strap that is reverse stitched with an accented handkerchief plaided print. Engineered with a Hands-free construction that is perfect for pet owners on the go while assisting with proper back weight distribution that stretches over the shoulder and to the opposite side of the waist area. The over-the-shoulder straps are uniquely adjustable through a larger stainless steel "O" ring that drapes down like a designer Toga that provides fashion appeal. Inside the pet, the sling is a protective leash or harness connector for added security and safety. Features above-mesh for sun view and ventilation. Features full-length and side pouches for added belongings decked with designer embroidery patches. The exterior shell is composed of a Cotton and Polyester blend that is both soft and comfortable.

This I dearly love, well worth the money! So easy on the shoulders' and able to carry those extra things you need to have. Well worth buying!. Margaret. Hot Springs Village, AR. 2023-04-19 17:52:48

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Burgeo Free Breathable Travel Sling Pet Carrier (Set of 2)

Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars. 2 total votes

Ideal for small pets - such as chihuahua, Yorkie, teacup poodle, Maltese, Pomerania, other puppies, and small dogs; little cats or rabbits.

• Weight Capacity: 5.5lb.

Comfortable shoulder strap. Hole for dog’s head has string which can be tight under neck as no padding. Difficult to keep dog balanced/stable in bottom of bag. Nicely lightweight and airy for warmer weather.. Erin OBrien. Huntington Beach, CA. 2022-01-10 02:56:26

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Expandable Airline Approved Pet Carrier

by Mr. Peanut's

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 79 total votes

Low profile, soft-sided premium pet carrier. Premium brand auto self-locking zippers for safety and eliminating the need for fragile clasps as the tote cannot be pushed open by your pet from the inside. Faux fleece padding with plywood base inserts for additional support and weight handling.

Benjamin my babyboy loved it as soon as I took I out of the box. As you can see I snapped a photo of him coming out of his new carrier. As for me, I absolutely couldn’t believe how well made it was. And my Ben loves to sleep in it, it makes him feel secure. Very roomy as well as having 2 or 3 spaces to look outside of. Ben weight around 12 lbs and can turn around inside the carrier with ease. Well worth it I THINK!!!!!!. Terrie Hunter. Wilmington NC. 2021-03-17 15:51:13

Small Pet Carrier

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 1 total vote

The Small Animal Carrier is perfectly suited for taking pets along for a trip. Carrier features include a clear top door that opens outward for easy loading of your cat, dog, or small animal. The door is lockable, allowing you to keep your pet secure while on the go. The top and base are attached with 2 latches for easy assembly and cleaning. Multiple vents give your pet a 360° view and provide excellent ventilation. The carrier can be used with a car seat belt to keep your pet safe and secure while in a moving vehicle. The large handles are stylish and functional, making toting your pet around easy.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 14 total votes

Your fur baby always wants to be by your side and the feeling is totally mutual! Keep your pet close as you travel with the Kaya Pet Carrier Bag. The Kaya tote is ideal for an extra small pet such as a kitten or puppy (8 lbs. and under) who needs you the most. The convenient handbag includes a built-in leash attachment to keep your dog or cat secure and the cozy shoulder straps make the purse easy to carry. Great for airline trips, the handbag has a comfortable scoop neck opening so your pet has an unobstructed view while you keep loving watch. Featuring a soft interior stain-resistant lining, the bag is easy to clean. Plus, it has a soft pad liner insert that can be removed and washed to keep pet odors at bay. Even better, the bag is collapsible so you can easily tuck it away. Available in fashion-forward color patterns, take your lil’ buddy on an adventure!

. Lyne. Laval, QC. 2023-01-06 16:11:54

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Mesh Pet Carrier

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 26 total votes

100% brand new and high-quality pet carriers front backpack for small animals - made of sturdy canvas material for durable use, breathable mesh fabric to ensure ventilation. An adjustable buckle on strap will be more convenient to carry and lighten the weight of the shoulder. Able to keep the head, tail, and legs outside, making your pets enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, let your pet enjoy a soothing stroll while keeping your hands free.

• Pet Size: Extra Extra Large (91 lbs and up)

I ordered this for my little 7 ib. Morkie and he and I both love it.. Dee. Georgia. 2022-02-14 08:55:46

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Foldable Pet Carrier

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 9 total votes

• Product Type: Carrier
• Color (OLD) (Color: Pink): Pink
• Color (OLD) (Color: White): White
• Wood Type: No Wood

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Daiton Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier

Travel in comfort and style with Tucker Murphy Pet™ Delta Carrier. Perfect for traveling by plane or car, for a trip, or just to the vet. The official pet carrier of Delta Airlines, the Tucker Murphy Pet™ Delta Carrier meets all flight requirements and ensures that your pet flies safely and securely under the seat in front of you. The patented spring wire frame allows the rear end of the carrier to be pushed down several inches to conform to under-seat requirements. The carrier has mesh panels for ventilation, roll-down privacy flaps, locking zippers to prevent accidental escapes, includes a seat belt security strap that doubles as a luggage strap, and a Delta luggage tag. Top and side entry options make it much easier to comfortably load pets in the carrier. A large side zippered pocket can hold your important pet travel documents and anything else your pet may need. The no-slip shoulder strap is adjustable and features padded support for comfort. A soft, cozy, removable, and machine-washable faux lambskin liner is included. Tucker Murphy Pet™ replacement liners are also available and sold separately. Approved for use on most major airlines and included in Tucker Murphy Pet™'s Guaranteed-On-Board Program. Available in Black and size Medium only. Tucker Murphy Pet™ Delta Carrier measures 18” L x 11” W x 10.5” H, for pets up to 16 pounds. How to Find the Best Fit: Select the carrier size based on your pet's measurements below and then by your pet’s weight, making sure not to exceed the maximum weight limits. Note: the carrier is designed for pets lying down, so your pet may not be able to stand. Small Carrier: Fits pets up to 13 inches in length x 7.5 inches in height and up to 8 pounds Medium Carrier: Fits pets up to 16 inches long x 10 inches in height and up to 16 pounds Large Carrier: Fits pets up to 18 inches long x 11 inches height and up to 22 pounds How to Measure Your Pet: For pet’s length, start at the front of the chest and measure to the end of the pet's rear. For height, measure from the floor to the top of the back.

great carrier. Donna. St Louis, MO. 2023-01-09 11:42:46

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Donnie Pet Carrier

by Archie & Oscar™

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 186 total votes

This product features safety, comfort, and style all in one. The pet porter offers an easy-open squeeze latch and has side vents to promote healthy airflow for your pet's safety and comfort. The stylish design has a nice appearance and provides your pet with optimum comfort when traveling. This product meets most air travel requirements. Please contact your specific airline before traveling for verification of their requirements.

This carrier is perfect for our puppy, especially as he gets bigger. It was easy to put together, and the mat I got fits inside perfectly. Our puppy feels safe, and has room to grow!. Jennifer. Stockton, CA. 2020-01-05 15:38:36

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Jenkinson Exquisite Handbag Fashion Pet Carrier

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 47 total votes

This dog Carrier Features a Mesh Side Netting Entrance for Added Sun-View, Breathability and Easy Entrance. Features a Built-In Side Pouch. This Dog Carrier Features Full Mesh and Polyester Adjustable Sun-Roof closures for added light. Included within the inside of the Pet Carrier is a Built-In Leash Holder for added Safety Protection.

Super cute bag! Nice quality! I like that it has a cozy comfy bottom inside for pup to lay on and has a front pocket & back pocket.. Kelly. Livonia, MI. 2019-05-22 14:04:43

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Collapsible Pet Carrier

Quick on placing order and delivery. Products are good quality I would recommend to friends. Pam. Forest Grove, OR. 2023-02-27 15:32:03

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Faux Wicker Pet Carrier

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 2 total votes

Richell’s Faux Wicker Pet Carrier offers a stylish and safe way to take your pet on a trip.

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Designer Pet Carrier

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 5 total votes

The Tucker Murphy Pet™ ® 'Wiggle-Sack' Fashion Designer Front and Backpack Pet Carrier is the perfect solution for those that want to stay closer to their pets while bonding or walking in high traffic areas and for those that want a hands-free experience when walking or multi-tasking. Features 4 inner stitched sleeves for placement of legs that comfortably hang while providing security and safety. Additionally, the Wiggle-Sack carrier features dual-sided zippers for convenient pet placement with a hook & loop fastener accordion-stitched rim for further added security. The durable adjustable nylon straps enable this carrier to be worn as a backpack or frontpack. Composed of an Ultra-Soft brushed cotton exterior shell that's reversed with Soft Air-Pocketed breathable mesh along the back for added comfort when wearing. Available in Multiple Sizes and Colors.SIZING DIMENSIONS: (INCHES) L x W x HSMALL: 12.8 X 7.5 X 6MEDIUM: 14.2 X 8.5 X 7.5

• Weight Capacity: 25lb.

So cute, my puppy seems to enjoy it. Although the straps could be longer. Anonymous. US. 2022-11-19 11:15:10

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Kadoka Fashion Tote Spotted Pet Carrier

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 34 total votes

This Fashion Tote Spotted Pet Carrier Features Front Zippered Closures for additional Head 'Peak' Room. This Dog Carrier Features Full Mesh and Nylon Adjustable Sun-Roof closures for added light. This Pet Carrier can withstand up to a 20 Lb Weight Capacity. Features a Fashion Over-The-Shoulder Trendy Strap. Included within the inside of the Pet Carrier is a Built-In Leash Holder for added Safety Protection.

My 13 lb. dachshund loves to be toted around! She does just fit, however an inch or 2 added would be absolutely perfect!. Curtis. Lakeland, FL. 2020-02-10 08:06:41

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Janey Airline Approved Mystique Fashion Pet Carrier

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 55 total votes

This Airline Approved Mystique Pet Carrier Features a Side Mesh Entrance and a Reverse Sided Circular Fashioned Mesh netting for added Breathability, with a ruffled designer frontal Pouch great for placing added belongings. Features Roll-Up Side Nylon-Mesh Closures for added optional Sun-View. Included within the inside of the Pet Carrier is a Built-In Leash Holder for added Safety Protection.

It served its purpose when my toy poodle was a puppy. Now that she is 10 pounds, it is way too small. She can sit in it but can no longer lay down. I was hoping it would be large enough to carry her into adulthood given the weight per advertised. Be aware that it may hold 25 pounds in weight, but that if your dog is more than about 7 pounds, (s)he will not be able to lay down.. Angela. virginia. 2023-04-18 22:04:16

Credence Ultimate On Wheels Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved - Black, Large

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 4 total votes

Tucker Murphy Pet™ Ultimate On Wheels pet carrier utilizes easy-glide recessed wheels for smooth, quiet, steady motion. Takes the weight off your shoulders. A convenient detachable handle with a padded grip for extra comfort can also be converted to an adjustable shoulder strap. Includes Pet on Board flag for better visibility. The new travel bed tray slides in and out and includes A soft, cozy, machine-washable, replaceable faux lamb's wool liner. Mesh panels and roll-up flaps on three sides for ventilation and ultimate privacy for your pet. Front opening and U-shaped top zipper for top and side entry. Locking zippers. Brass hardware. Inside leash ring. Seat belt strap. Fits comfortably under the cabin seat. Approved on most major airlines. Rolls flat on four wheels, with no tilting to provide your pet with a comfortable travel experience. Pets up to 22 pounds. Dimensions are 21” L x 12.25” W x 10.5” H. Weighs 5.5 pounds. How to Find the Best Fit: Select the carrier size based on your pet's measurements and then by your pet’s weight, making sure not to exceed the maximum weight limits. Note: the carrier is designed for pets lying down, so your pet may not be able to stand. How to Measure Your Pet: For the pet’s length, start at the front of the chest and measure to the end of the pet's rear. For height, measure from the floor to the top of the back. Tucker Murphy Pet™ Travel gives pet parents the best of all worlds: innovative products, stylish designs, environmental responsibility, and exceptional value with a variety of travel carriers, leads, mats, and straps, to meet a pet's and pet parent's needs for travel. Tucker Murphy Pet™ products are designed to meet child safety standards and are backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. If a customer is dissatisfied with a Tucker Murphy Pet™ product for any reason, we will replace or refund it. Please read all packaging instructions, warnings, and cautions upon receipt. Packaging contains small parts, discard after opening.

• The adjustable shoulder strap converts to a padded pull handle.
• For pets up to 19” in length x 9.5” in height and up to 22 pounds Carrier measures 20 inches; L x 12.25 inches; W x 10.5 inches; H

Worked perfectly, good quality and no issues with it being approved at the airport.. Penny. Pittsburgh. 2023-01-22 13:42:09

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Swarthofthi Free Breathable Travel Sling Pet Carrier

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 8 total votes

Made of leather and mesh, soft, breathable, and durable upper wide padded shoulder strap and sturdy hook, easy to adjust, safe and comfortable for your little pet to stay.

Very nice. Theresa. UKIAH, CA. 2022-01-12 00:32:02

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Cojocar Sherpa Cat Travel Backpack with Bubble View Window, Black

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 7 total votes

Travel in comfort and style with the Tucker Murphy Pet™ Bubble Cat Carrier Backpack. Perfect for traveling with your cat or kitten by car, airplane, or for everyday use including outdoor activities and visiting the vet. This stylish pet carrier features a lightweight backpack design with a clear bubble window that lets curious cats look out and can easily be swapped out for a plastic screen. This travel bag features ventilation openings on 3 sides for safety, locking safety zippers, easy-to-load side openings, a convenient top handle, adjustable padded straps for comfortable carrying, and a removable, machine-washable liner. The exterior is faux leather. Tucker Murphy Pet™ Travel gives pet parents the best of all worlds: innovative products, stylish designs, environmental responsibility, and exceptional value with a variety of carriers, leads, mats, and straps, to meet a pet's needs for travel.

• Travel in Style: Made with faux leather, this cat carrier backpack is as stylish as it is comfortable. Perfect for your cat, kitty, or small pet.

Has a pretty strong chemically smell at first but backpack is nice quality and my cats have plenty of room.. Hannah. . 2023-03-06 00:35:43

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Pet Carrier

Petique's Pets Sling Pet Carrier for dogs and cats is designed to keep your furry friends feeling cozy, safe, and snug by your side as they feel the warmth from your body heat. The thick and comfortable shoulder strap is adjustable to whichever height is most comfortable for you and your fur baby. The quality of the Sling Pet Carrier allows you to treasure your time with your pal in comfort and style!

• Adjustable leash inside to secure your pets and thick padded strap to help prevent shoulder aches
• Large top opening to easily place your pet inside
• Patented pee pad insert inside for easy cleanups
• Peekaboo opening with mesh window for pets to stick their head out or enter through

Luxury Pet Carrier, Puppy Small Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier Bag, Waterproof Premium PU Leather Carrying Handbag For Outdoor Travel Walking Hiking Shopping

This product Made of high quality PU leather. No fade, no distortion, breathable, lightweight, washable and soft. High quality and fashionable design turned heads for you wherever you go.

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Eno Porsha Pet Carrier

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars. 2 total votes

The Porsha dog carrier is the perfect carrier for you and your baby! This luxury carrier includes meshing on both sides, YKK zippers, and plenty of storage space in the front pocket for all your necessities and accessories. Travel in style with our luxury carrier!

• Weight Capacity: 8lb.

Overall like the product. It has tons of storage with two zip pockets and two exterior pockets. I thought from photos the pocket was just on one side but it is on both. One outside pocket has a place for cell phone. Fabric quality is just so so and a bit shiny. Bag also does not have much structure to prevent collapsing down on puppy inside. Storage is always a big issue for me since this serves as my purse and dog carrier. This carrier met that need. Do feel it is a bit overpriced. Also pad inside could be a bit plusher. Zippers work really well. Hope this helps with anyone deciding o whether to purchase!. Jennifer. Memphis, TN. 2021-09-15 23:22:48

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Pet Life Capacious Dual-Expandable Wire Folding Lightweight Collapsible Travel Dog Crate Grey-XS

The Pet Life Capacious Expandable wire folding lightweight collapsible crate is composed of heavy-duty Ballistic Nylon and Mesh with bendable yet sturdy built-in flexible extenders that hook & loop fastener into place and hold up the 2 outer mesh expandable sides. Fully expands on both sides and collapses and folds. Perfect for multiple pets. Lightweight and great for traveling and indoor or outdoor usages. Features a spacious frontal breathable mesh entrance that rolls up and hook & loop fastener's into place, great for added sunlight visibility and exposure when opened with a back mesh window. Features dual reinforced stitching for added durability. Comes with an included reversible plush inner cushion that extends to cover the full surface area.

• The Capacious crate almost triples in floor space by simply zipping opened the expandable sides
• Features an included inner foamed and polyfill cushion that is built-into each side, and a built-in pouch for added belongings
• Folds and collapses in seconds, making it easy to travel and setup almost anywhere

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Travel Pet Carrier

Richell’s Pet Travel Carrier is suited for all your pets traveling needs. It features a removable front door that opens outward on either side for easy loading of your cat or dog. The top and base are attached with 4 latches for easy, tool-free, assembly. The carrier can be used with a car seat belt to keep your pet safe and secure while in a moving vehicle. It is even stackable for convenient storage that takes up minimal space in your home. This functional work of art comes in two sizes.

Great for transporting my 9 week old schnauzer!!. Robyn. Anonymous. 2023-04-18 12:45:48

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Flynn Polka-Dot Pet Carrier

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 24 total votes

Use this 'Polka-Dot' Pet Carrier to carry your pet comfortably and conveniently. It is available in multiple sizes allowing you to choose the one best suited to your requirement. This pet crate is made using premium quality materials, which ensure that it is long-lasting and contains thermal heat retention technology. The opening has a mesh panel to ensure ventilation, and allow your pet to have an outside view. It has zippers on the door for easy opening and closing. This 'Polka-Dot' Pet Carrier has a scratch-resistant Sherpa pad, which provides a comfortable surface for your pet to sit on. The hook & loop fastener pouch holder and water bottle holder on the outside of the carrier allows you to store travel necessities for your pet in an easily accessible way. This pet carrier has over-the-shoulder straps as well as a handle allowing you to carry it in the way most comfortable for you. Easy to care for, this pet carrier can be wiped clean using a damp cloth to preserve it for a long. The Sherpa pad can be washed to ensure that your pet does not contact with any germs.

So cute for female! Works well for travel. Firstlady10. Augusta, GA. 2023-05-13 08:59:17

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Expandable Large Pet Carrier

A comfortable cat carrier can provide cats with a sense of security and allow you to easily take your pets around. Our product is made of high-quality material, so it is strong and durable. It adopts an expandable design, providing ample space for your cat. With practical handles and a shoulder strap, you can always take your pet hiking, cycling, and camping.

• Foldable Design: It can be folded into a compact size, which does not take up too much space, making it easy to transport and store when not in use.

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Space Capsule Pet Carrier

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 7 total votes

A safe and stylish solution for taking pets along for a trip. This functional work of art is perfect for small pets and is available in two colors.

This Carrier is just PHENOMENAL! We have a 9 month old domestic shorthair who comes along on car rides with us several days a week. We Googled "animal carrier with clear plastic top" because we dearly wanted to have a good view of him AND wanted to be able to safely interact with him as we travel. When we used his original kitten carrier, it was more like putting him in jail. We couldn't get a good look at him, and the "door" was just metal bars. This gorgeous round Space Capsule Carrier fits purrfectly with his desire to snuggle down into a donut shape. A couple of the pictures with Wayfair's listing made me think that the rotating front was "frosted" and not clear. VERY happy to report that the front is crystal clear and lightly tinted. And the moveable front also has about 4 stops or stages, so that the door doesn't slam down loudly or unexpectedly. Do not hesitate to order this! Thanks Wayfair for having the most forward thinking products for humans AND the animals we adore :). Heather. Pittsburgh, PA. 2022-03-17 19:35:24

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Canistota Exquisite Handbag Fashion Pet Carrier

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 62 total votes

This 'Exquisite' Dog Carrier Features a Mesh Side Netting Entrance for Added Sun-View, Breathability and Easy Entrance. Features a Built-In Side Pouch. This Dog Carrier Features Full Mesh and Polyester Adjustable Sun-Roof closures for added light. Included within the inside of the Pet Carrier is a Built-In Leash Holder for added Safety Protection.

Perfect size for my 2.5lb yorkies. I love the 2 exterior pockets on both sides of the bag.. Amy. Plano, TX. 2019-03-24 23:19:28

Pet Carrier Backpack For Cats, Dogs And Small Animals, Portable Pet Travel Carrier, Super Ventilated Design, Airline Approved, Ideal For Traveling/hiking /camping,black And Gray

[Large capacity] Designed for the maximum convenience and comfort for you and your pet while hiking; traveling; or taking your best friend to the vet; or going for a walk in the park.

• Breathable & Perspective: Three side was made of PVC mesh for the carriers. Well ventilated design for optimal airflow and checking on pet
• Keep your pet comfortable: Removable cosy mat for easier cleaning and let your pet enjoy it inside.

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Diwansi Pet Carrier

This soft-sided cat carrier also comes with a lightweight, flexible structure that can easily be compressed under a seat or anywhere. The lightweight pet carrier is also portable with a padded shoulder strap and handles, making it easy to carry and store. Making it the best cat-dog carrier for long-distance car travel.

• Our cat carriers are made of high-quality 600D polyester, which is strong and durable to prevent pets from tearing, biting, and scratching.
• This soft cat carrier comes with two collapsible travel bowls, they are practical for containing cat food or water.
• With double-safe locking zippers for the large pet carrier, it successfully prevents your naughty pet from accidental escape.
• Mesh windows on the top and three large side entrances allow for easy access and ventilation.
• The pet pad is removable and washable.

by Armarkat

• Weight Capacity: 18lb.

Great quality, very easy to assemble.. Denise. Princeton, NJ. 2022-06-21 15:20:10

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 11 total votes

The Tucker Murphy Pet™ ® 'Bubble Vogue' Ultra-Plush Fashion Designer Pet Carrier features a special design box-stitched pattern with a high-grade inner-plush polyfill that feels soft-to-the-touch. Features an above-top dual-zippered mesh enclosure that also buttons off for a complete open-top. The interior features a built-in leash or harness securer and a thick-grade weighted bottom for proper weight support. Looks fashionable and trendy. Available in Multiple Colors. Sizing Guide (INCHES) DIMENSIONS: L X W X H14.56 X 6.7 X 10.24

This is an adorable pet carrier. I love the pink color. Unfortunately we bought the small and our puppy got big so fast we didn’t even have a chance to use it.. Cindy. Coventry, RI. 2022-04-17 00:18:43

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Andrew Pet Carrier

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 9 total votes

. Janet. Baltimore, MD. 2021-09-13 21:46:55

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Peabody Pet Carier

This lightweight, quilted-style dog bag is meant to look just like a designer handbag. You will want to carry your dog everywhere in our oh so fashionable Bag. Because this designer dog bag has flaps on both ends that roll up and down, this is a great style to sneak your dog into stores, restaurants, or any place you have to go!

• Weight Capacity: 10lb.

You can see. He loves the bag. Jane. marlbro, NJ. 2021-12-12 12:29:52

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) RR Sling Pet Carrier

by Pet Gear

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 17 total votes

Carry your pet in comfort and style anywhere you go with the RR Sling Pet Carrier by Pet Gear. The R&R Sling features a removable, mesh, top-zippered panel so that your pet can either look out while you’re on the go or be safely and discreetly contained inside. The sling comes in a variety of colors and features leatherette detailing and an adjustable comfort carry strap. Cleaning the tote is simple with the removable quilted liner and there is plenty of storage (four pockets) for your cellphone, treats, or even a water bottle. The sling even meets most airline regulations so your pet can travel along with you in the passenger cabin.

• Weight Capacity: 5lb.

Love this bag! My 8.5lb chihuahua mix has plenty of room and enough pockets for my phone, wallet, and keys. Great bargain.. Karen. Cohasset, MA. 2023-04-29 16:49:07

Extra Small (1 - 10 lbs) Comfort Pet Carrier

by Bergan Pet Products

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 94 total votes

The Comfort Carrier is a stylish travel must-have for busy pet owners concerned about their pet’s comfort. The Comfort Carrier line features well-ventilated sides, convenient pockets a washable fleece bed, and an exclusive Pet Connect feature that allows owners access to their pets without the risk of escape. Size Small external dimensions: 16" x 8" x 11" and internal dimensions:15.75" x 8.75" x 10.75 and holds up to 10lbs. Size Large external dimensions:19" x 10" x 13" and internal dimensions:18.75" x 9.75" x 12.75" and holds up to 22lbs.

The small size is really small, too small for a 4 month old mini poodle. Max. US. 2023-01-04 11:00:45

Related Searches

• Pet Supplies
• Carriers & Travel Products

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Return this item for free

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select the return method

This item has been tested to certify it can ship safely in its original box or bag to avoid unnecessary packaging. Since 2015, we have reduced the weight of outbound packaging per shipment by 41% on average, that’s over 2 million tons of packaging material.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Front Facing Dog Sling Carrier, Adjustable Pet Front Carrier Hands Free Cat Carrier Front Dog Carriers for Small Dogs, Easy-Fit Puppy Carriers Travel Cat Sling for Hiking Camping

22.0"L x 10.0"W x 0.5"H

26.0"L x 10.0"W x 0.5"H

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• 【Safe & Comfortable Design】: Our front dog carriers for small dogs are ergonomic designed, providing your small pets a more comfortable outdoor experience. Unique front facing design, this wearable dog carrier allows you to hold your pet safely and comfortably against your chest, providing your pet with a sense of security and effectively reducing your pet's anxiety and pressure, which can promote bonding with your pet
• 【Adjustable Size & Easy To Wear】: Adjustable straps design, this puppy carrier for small dogs fit for different family members such as your mother, father, or others, and can be worn under or over clothing. Simply slip the dog sling carrier on over your head, secure your pet, adjust accordingly, and hold them close, easy and convenient to use
• 【Reduce Your Burden & Hand-Free】: With back-divergent design, even force in four directions, our dog front carrier can effectively reduce the pressure on your back and shoulders. This small dog carrier bag allows you to keep your hands free while keeping your dog in your line of sight, ensuring your pet's safety and comfort, keep you and her more closer
• 【Soft and Elastic Material】: Our dog carriers for small dogs is made of soft and durable fabric, giving the elastic fabric straps, securely support your pet, ensuring maximum comfort for both you and your pet during use. It would perfectly wraps your pet deep enough and won't come loose. And our cat carrier sling has breathable 3D air mesh and a thickened inner sponge on the back, providing you comfy wearing experience
• 【Carry Your Pet Anywhere】: Our puppy carrier sling is fit for small pets, suitable for small dogs and cats 0-15 lbs. The key to selecting the correct size is according to your pet's back length and chest girth. Please reserve 1" - 2" as much as possible to avoid wrapping the dog too tightly and making it feel uncomfortable. With this small dog sling, you can easily providing your pet a more comfortable outdoor experience. Just carry them walking, biking, hiking and camping or other activities

Buy it with

Similar items that may deliver to you quickly

Product Description

Product details

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 22.05 x 0.51 x 9.84 inches; 14.39 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ dog carrier
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ December 27, 2023
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Piklodo
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CR1587C7
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China
• #58 in Dog Carrier Slings

Looking for specific info?

Compare with similar items, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

No customer reviews

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Start Selling with Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Host an Amazon Hub
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

Watch CBS News

Flying with pets? Here's what to know.

By Anne Marie Lee

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 6, 2024 / 10:08 AM EDT / CBS News

Thinking of taking your dog or cat with you the next time you fly? For a growing percentage of the 90.5 million pet owners in the U.S., the answer is yes. But while the notion of boarding a plane with your pet may seem simple, the rules and restrictions around traveling with an animal can be confusing. 

Eight major U.S. airlines allow pets to fly in-cabin as carry-ons. But flying with your pet takes research and planning, as pet policies vary from airline to airline, are steeped in restrictions, and are limited to specific countries and cities. You'll also have to pay an extra fee for your pet ranging from $95 to $200, depending on the airline and where you're flying. And restrictions often change.

For example, American Airlines  recently revised its policies  so passengers flying with pets may also bring one full-size carry-on or personal item. But the carrier prohibits carry-on pets on transatlantic and transpacific flights. Here's what you need to know when considering taking your fur baby with you on a plane.

Cargo, check-in or carry-on?

Most airlines offer three options for transporting animals: cargo, check-in or carry-on. But if your pet is larger than a bread box, your options are limited to the cargo or baggage check-in options, with very few exceptions. 

Given that large canine breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are among the most popular dogs in the country, the size restriction for in-cabin pet travel can be a major frustration for those who would rather not fly at all if that means putting their pet in cargo. 

A 2023 Forbes Adviser survey of 10,000 U.S. dog owners found that 33% of respondents fly with their pets, while 37% listed not being able to bring their dog on a plane as their biggest annoyance. (You can learn more about the differences between cargo, check-in and carry-on options  here , including warnings about the  dangers  involved when pets travel in the cargo hold.) 

Carry-on pets

Even for pet owners whose animals are small enough to fly as a carry-on, traveling is no breeze.

"When I fly with him I have to go to the desk," Margaret Rauch, 44, told CBS MoneyWatch, referring to her 15-pound poodle mix, Soda. The New York City resident has taken Soda on dozens of flights to St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Soda, now 4, was being fostered by a friend after being found as a stray puppy in 2021. 

In addition to calling the airline in advance to register her dog for a flight, Rauch has to check in at the counter whenever she's traveling with Soda, so the airline agent can confirm her dog and pet carrier conform to the in-cabin pet requirements and that the flight hasn't already met its pet maximum. 

Rauch, who said she would never consider putting Soda in cargo, applauded American Airlines' new policy, while noting that in her experience the one carry-on rule was rarely enforced. 

"I feel the price is already high for what I get. Even with AA's rule change, I lose the underseat space," she said. "My dog creates no extra work for anyone."

Despite the added preparation, paperwork and hassle involved in flying with Soda — not to mention the unfriendly looks she occasionally detects from fellow passengers at the sight of her pet carrier — Rauch said, "It's absolutely worth it." 

Asked how the experience could be improved, she pointed to early boarding for pet owners as something that would help.

"If you can get in early, get a seat and settle down, that is an accommodation I don't expect to see anytime soon but I think it makes sense," Rauch said.

Safety and comfort

For the many Americans who see their pets practically as family members, one of the most challenging aspects of flying is ensuring their animal's comfort and safety. 

"The increasing humanization of pets, which involves treating them as part of the family rather than as mere animals, has increased the demand for pet travel services that are of high quality and can be customized to meet the specific needs of each pet," LinkedIn reported in December.

Among other tips, the U.S. Department of Transportation  and animal experts recommend that you not feed your pet four to six hours before a flight and limit their water intake. Others also suggest keeping bottled water on hand at all times. Additionally, most airlines require certain vaccination and vet certification that your pet is healthy enough to fly. Individual countries also have their own requirements for pets to enter.  

Not surprisingly, some airlines do better than others at handling pets. One of the best-rated carriers for pet travel is Alaska Airlines, which has repeatedly topped rankings, such as NerdWallet's Most pet-friendly airlines of 2024.  In recent years, the airline also has maintained one of the industry's lowest incident ratings, according to Veterinarians.org. United Airlines and Delta are among the airlines with the highest incident rates, according to the pet information website. 

On Rauch's first plane trip with Soda traveling home to New York, a layover in Miami led to the flight sitting on the tarmac for two hours. Calming treats are something that helps keeps her dog relaxed on flights. She also withholds Soda's food and limits his water intake up to five hours before a flight, which is also helpful given that he doesn't like using pet relief areas, which she said generally smell of urine and can be overwhelming for dogs. Flights between New York City and St. Croix are generally under six hours. 

"I'm not sure how I'd handle a flight to Singapore," Rauch said.

Here's a rundown of U.S. airlines' pet travel policies, along with fees and and restrictions:

Alaska Airlines

Pet fee: $100

Pets allowed: Dogs and cats are the only pets allowed in-cabin on international trips and flights to Hawaii. Domesticated rabbits and small household birds are allowed as carry-on on domestic flights.

Destinations: Domestic and international, with additional requirements and documentation required for  pets traveling to Hawaii  or  internationally .

See Alaska's full pet policy here .

American Airlines

Pet fee: $150

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats

Destinations: 

• Within the 48 contiguous U.S.
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply. See American's full pet policy  here .

Pet fee: $75-$200, depending on destination

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, household birds

Pet friendly destinations: 

• U.S., Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
• International destinations with the exception of Australia, U.K., Republic of Ireland and others .

Pets are not permitted on flights to Hawaii. See Delta's full pet policy here .

Frontier Airlines 

Pet fee: $99

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and household birds

Destinations: Domestic flights and international flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

See Frontier's full pet policy here .

Pet fee: $125

Destinations: Domestic and international. See exceptions for international flights here .

See JetBlue's full pet policy here .

Southwest Airlines

Pet fee: $125 per pet carrier on the U.S. mainland; $35 per pet carrier between Hawaiian Islands

Destinations: Domestic U.S. flights only. For travel to Puerto Rico, specific requirements may  apply . For Hawaii travel, see rules and regulations here.

See Southwest's full pet policy here .

Spirit Airlines

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, birds (with the exception of flights to or from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) or rabbits (with the exception of flights to or from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands).

Destinations: Domestic flights including Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

See Spirit's full pet policy here .

United Airlines

Destinations: Domestic and international flights with a list of exceptions. United does not allow pets to fly to, from or through certain states and countries. View the list here .

See United's full pet policy here .

More from CBS News

Here's who could qualify for Biden's new student-loan forgiveness plan

Solar eclipse: If you live in Florida, here's what you need to know

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

Messi and Inter Miami will try to overturn 2-1 deficit against Monterrey