soft pet travel carrier

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

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 and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our 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

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."

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The Best Travel Carrier for Cats and Small Dogs

By Mel Plaut

Mel Plaut is a writer covering pets. They have tested hundreds of products for our best animal friends, including dog beds and pet fountains.

If you’ve ever had a pet carrier with stuck zippers, broken mesh, or a design so crappy that it couldn’t survive a basic cleaning, then you are well aware of a good carrier’s value when you’re traveling with your pal.

There are plenty of cheap options out there, but in our experience, it’s worth investing in a carrier that can withstand the rigors of travel while keeping your pet safe (and relatively cozy).

With its flexible frame, washable shell, and comfortable straps, we think the SturdiBag Pro 2.0 is the one of the most durable, versatile, and stink-resistant carriers you can find.

Everything we recommend

SturdiBag Pro 2.0

Best for cats and small dogs.

This carrier stands out for its almost fully machine-washable design, as well as its good ventilation, security, and privacy features. But to wash it, you’ll need to remove some hardware and then reassemble it afterward.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

Petsfit 2 Side Expandable Pet Carrier

A versatile carrier with extra room when you want it.

This affordable travel carrier can expand on two sides to give your pet space to spread out, but it’s less comfortable to carry than our other picks.

Upgrade pick

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier

Designed to squeeze under an airplane seat.

This independently crash-tested carrier has a water-repellant interior that prevents leaks, and it has bendable bottom edges, to help it to fit under an airplane seat.

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

Crash-tested carrier, with a unique pee-pad system.

This crash-tested carrier stays secure in the back seat, and it has an innovative side-access panel, so you can swap out a pee pad without having to remove your pet. But the bed can’t be machine-washed.

Away Pet Carrier

Comfortable to carry, looks like nice luggage.

Another crash-tested option, this carrier can match your carry-on, and it’s one of the most comfortable models we tested. But it’s also the most expensive carrier we tried.

May be out of stock

Mr. Peanut’s Monterey Series Convertible Backpack

If you prefer a backpack-style carrier.

This pet carrier can be carried three ways: like a backpack, by hand, or over the shoulder. It has decent hardware for the price, it cleans up easily, and it has a laptop sleeve.

Great ventilation plus a unique, flexible rod frame make the SturdiBag Pro 2.0  excellent for car trips. And this carrier can likely be squeezed under many airplane seats (depending on the airline and aircraft). This is the only carrier we tested whose outer shell can be safely machine-washed, along with the cushioned bedding insert. This is a major distinction—pet accidents mid-journey can have long-lasting effects on spot-clean-only carriers. This bag comes with zipper locks, to prevent pet breakouts, and it’s one of the most comfortable to carry. But before you wash this one, you need to remove the carrier’s rods, stiff foam-core base, and zipper locks, and then reassemble the whole thing afterward.

As the name communicates, the Petsfit 2 Side Expandable Pet Carrier opens out on the two long sides, so your little travel buddy can have extra room without leaving the confines of the carrier. For the price, it comes with decent metal hardware, and it holds up well to scratching and clawing. Only the bed insert cover is machine-washable, but in testing the interior surface spot-cleaned well. This carrier was nicer on our shoulders than other models in this price range, but it wasn’t as comfortable as our other picks.

A pick since 2017, the Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier has a long, zippered mesh top panel, which provides good ventilation and easy access for your pet, especially if they refuse to walk through small, door-like openings. It has a plush padded bedding insert and a water-resistant lining that keeps fluids contained. This pet carrier was among the first soft-sided models to be independently crash tested by the Center for Pet Safety, but it has only a four-star rating, instead of a perfect five stars.

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier has a five-star crash-test rating from the Center for Pet Safety. It straps in securely with an easy-to-use restraint system, so it will give you some peace of mind when you’re driving with your precious bundle of fur. Also, on the top panel, this carrier has a convenient zipper handle, so it’s a cinch to open and close, and the flap can be secured with a metal toggle, to prevent a furry head from popping it open at the worst possible moment. If you need to change out a pee pad, the Diggs carrier’s lower access panel lets you do so, even while your pet is still inside, but it can take a bit of effort. This is the sole model we tested with a bedding insert that can be spot-cleaned only.

The duffel-shaped Away Pet Carrier matches some of the colorways in the Away luggage ecosystem. In addition to its attractive design, it sports a five-star crash-test rating from the Center for Pet Safety. It’s slightly smaller than the Diggs carrier, so it may have a better chance of being accepted on an airplane. This pet carrier’s handles are longer than those on our other picks. So it’s the most comfortable bag to carry around for longer periods, if you need to switch from using the shoulder strap. But it’s the most expensive model we looked at, and the bedding insert is thinner and less plush than those of some of our other picks.

Mr. Peanut’s Monterey Series Convertible Backpack can be carried like a backpack, so it can balance the pressure on your shoulders. It can also be placed on two different sides, depending on your space constraints. This is the only model we tested with a sleeve pocket large enough to fit a laptop (depending on the size). But its seat-belt-attachment system doesn’t work well (it’s not crash tested), and the bag can get uncomfortable to carry after a while.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: sturdibag pro 2.0, budget pick: petsfit 2 side expandable pet carrier, upgrade pick: sleepypod air, upgrade pick: diggs passenger travel carrier, also great: away pet carrier, also great: mr. peanut’s monterey series convertible backpack, the competition, what to look forward to.

As a Wirecutter staff writer covering pets, I’ve conducted extensive firsthand testing on dog beds, cat litter boxes, and numerous other products for our best animal friends. And in my lifetime, I’ve personally taken dozens of journeys with pets, most notably flying with three cranky cats for a six-month stay in Italy. More recently, my 65-pound dog, Dave, has joined me on several long road trips throughout the US.

For this guide:

• I researched 28 soft-sided pet carriers and tested 10 of them.
• I interviewed veterinarians, crash-test safety experts, and representatives from the American Kennel Club and two service-dog organizations, to learn more about pet travel safety and best practices.
• I read more than a dozen scientific and academic journal articles, and I explored multiple forums and blogs about people’s experiences traveling with their pets.
• Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I’m never made aware of any business implications of my editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards .

If you travel anywhere with your dog, cat, or any other pet, the most important thing you can do is to keep them restrained—for their safety and yours.

For car travel, pets “should be restrained somewhere in the vehicle that is in a back-seat or cargo area, somewhere that is not directly next to you,” said Juliet Caviness, a veterinarian and clinical instructor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. A loose pet can distract you while you’re driving , creating a higher risk of a crash. Plus, they can be injured by front airbags.

Unrestrained pets can get injured in a crash, and they can injure other passengers because they can become a projectile. They’re also a flight risk. “We’ve known that dogs can spook, and they’ll take off running,” said Brandi Hunter Munden, VP of PR and communications at the American Kennel Club (AKC). “If you’re in the middle of an accident in the middle of the highway,” that’s the last thing you want, she said.

Open windows pose another risk to pets riding loose in a car. “If a dog can get their nose out of a window, if they try really hard, they can get their whole body out of a window,” said Molly Racette, an emergency and critical care veterinarian at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. They can also get eye injuries from debris in the road, the AKC’s Munden told us.

For air travel, the FAA and USDA offer guidance on how to travel with your pet domestically and internationally. But if you’re bringing a carrier with you in the cabin, you’ll be mostly limited by each airline’s size requirements. If you plan to transport a pet via air cargo, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has specific guidelines that most airlines use.

No matter how your pet travels, however, every expert we spoke to agreed that the animal should be able to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie back down in a carrier or kennel during travel. Each manufacturer has its own way of determining which size is best, so keep your pet’s height, length, and weight in mind when buying a carrier.

Although this guide focuses on physical enclosures, something like a crash-tested harness may be more useful for some people with disabilities, especially when they’re driving with service dogs. “Depending on who is the one that needs to get the dog in and out of the car and what their abilities are, it may impact where the dog rides, and how,” said Becca Bell, national program project manager at Canine Companions, which raises and trains service dogs.

For this update, we considered a pet carrier’s dimensions, pet weight restrictions, ventilation areas, padded bedding inserts, warranty, and other notable features, such as seat-belt straps. We looked at reviews on sites like Amazon, Chewy, and Petco, and we tested soft-sided carriers that looked suitable for small pets, for both car and air travel.

Hard-sided plastic pet carriers are the easiest to clean, but due to their rigidness, it can be difficult to fit them under an airplane seat, so we ruled these out. (We’ll be looking at large hard-sided kennels for big dogs riding in a car or via air cargo for a future update.)

But just because a soft-sided carrier is marketed with a phrase like “airline approved,” that doesn’t mean it will make it on board. In-cabin size requirements vary from airline to airline, and they can change over time. So many manufacturers still suggest that you double-check with your airline before you travel.

We included carriers that exceeded the major airlines’ in-cabin size requirements, as long as they were available in at least one size that came close. During their travels with pets, Wirecutter staffers have noticed that airline staff members weren’t likely to measure a carrier, so you might get away with a few extra inches, especially if the carrier can be squished.

We prioritized bags with a strap or sleeve that can slide over a luggage trolley handle, as well as carriers with internal leash tethers, to keep a pet in place if they want to poke their head out on a layover.

We gave bonus points if a carrier was crash-tested. Unlike with car seats for kids, with pet restraints there are no government-regulated crash safety standards. The nonprofit Center for Pet Safety (CPS) claims to be the only independent organization currently crash-testing pet carriers and kennels in the US. Companies can voluntarily apply to be certified by CPS, and they must adhere to CPS’s standards. But even CPS’s methodology isn’t immune to criticism , including from one company whose product failed CPS testing. “I’m not claiming perfection because there are so many variables here,” said CPS founder Lindsey Wolko. Variables include the size of the animal, the type of vehicle, and the speed and nature of a crash. Still, in our evaluation of carriers, we considered it at least a positive sign when a brand invested in crash-testing with an independent third party like CPS.

That’s not to say all manufacturers’ in-house crash tests are bunk, but it’s best to view their claims through a lens of skepticism. “There’s so much marketing, and to some extent you have to just read the information that they offer to you, and try to read it critically and decide what you’re comfortable with,” said veterinarian Juliet Caviness.

Because crash testing is an imperfect science that also considerably increases the price of a pet carrier, we still considered models from companies that made no such claims.

There’s no science-backed consensus on exactly which type of restraint is safest. But in a crash, an appropriately sized carrier or kennel might help minimize injuries to an animal more than harnesses or seat belt tethers, according to veterinarian Molly Racette. A pet “might get a bump or a bruise when they bonk into the carrier. But they are in such a confined space that they can’t generate as much acceleration and deceleration during the impact, that it’s just much less likely that they’re going to sustain such a high level of blunt-force trauma” as they would without being physically confined, Racette told us. So we didn’t didn’t consider pet booster seats and pet “car seats” for this guide, because they don’t fully contain an animal.

For the update of this guide, we considered 28 carriers and tested 10 according to the following criteria:

Ease of use: We gauged how easy it was to initially set up and attach a carrier to a car’s seat belt (if it came with hardware for that purpose). We judged how comfortable each bag was by loading it up with a 15-pound sack of rice and carrying it up and down several hills for roughly 10 minutes. This was a subjective test—and on a par with the worst CrossFit workout ever. But it gave us a sense of the padding and adjustability of each carrier’s straps, handles, and any other features that might make hauling your pet a little less traumatizing for everyone.

Ventilation and privacy: We noted how many mesh panels each carrier had, and we calculated the total mesh surface area of each carrier, using International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines. IATA requires ventilation on at least 16% of the total surface area (PDF) of the four sides (not including top and bottom) of both hard-sided cargo kennels and in-cabin “non rigid” carriers. All 10 of the carriers we tested met or exceeded this minimum. We also looked for carriers with optional privacy panels that could cover the mesh and limit a pet’s view of the outside (if they needed a break from the world).

Durability: We broke out our handy, Wolverine-like meat shredders , and we tore into each carrier’s mesh panels and internal side walls to see how well they might stand up to sharp teeth and claws. We ran the shredders over each surface at least 50 times. Then we brought the surviving carriers to Kitten Rescue Los Angeles and let the cats do their worst. We also yanked on all zippers and buckles to see how they might hold up to the hardships of frequent use.

Cleanability: We poured a fake vomit concoction, made from a mixture of smelly dog food and water, onto the bedding and interior walls of each carrier. We noted if there were any signs of liquid leakage. Then we waited a few hours before spot-cleaning them with paper towels and a vinegar solution, following that up with some X-O Odor Neutralizer . We noted how well the filth came off the bedding inserts and interior walls. Finally, we ran most of the mats (if the instructions allowed) through the washing machine on a gentle, cold cycle, and then let them air-dry. Only one carrier ’s outer shell was safe to machine-wash, so we put that one through a cycle as well, to see how it fared.

Structure: We looked at the general construction of each bag, considering the number of entryways, how easy it was to open and close, and the quality of the hardware. We also looked for any special features, such as expandable sides, removable frame rods, zipper locks, and extra storage.

Security of seat-belt attachments (if present): If a carrier had clips meant to attach to a seat belt, we connected those in the back seat of a car and cinched the seat belt tight, until it locked into place. We then loaded each carrier with a 15-pound sack of rice and vigorously yanked on it to see how much the carrier moved (we did not do any crash testing ourselves, for obvious reasons).

Temperature: We put remote temperature sensors inside the carriers and set them outside in the shade on a warm summer day, measuring the percent change in temperature over the course of an hour. However, while this might be useful information for long trips in a vehicle or plane without decent climate control, we didn’t give it a lot of weight when making our picks, since we couldn’t account for fluctuations in humidity and outside temperatures.

We also had a little help from Hank, a 15-pound poodle mix with a skittish disposition, and Sandwich, a 15-pound Chihuahua terrier mix who will do almost anything for a treat. T Rex, Murphy, Astrid, and several other sweet adoptable cats at Kitten Rescue Los Angeles also weighed in.

The SturdiBag Pro 2.0 is comfortable, durable, and washable, so it’s an excellent carrier for journeys both long and short. It includes zipper locks, tons of ventilation, and multiple privacy panels. This is the only carrier we tested whose outer shell (minus some hardware) can be machine-washed, alongside the soft bedding insert.

Because the outer shell is machine-washable, you can clean up even the grossest messes. Your pet may pee, poop, or puke on your journey, and cat pee, in particular, can ruin a carrier that is spot-clean only. The SturdiBag Pro is the only carrier whose outer shell can be run through a washing machine, alongside its removable bedding pad. This goes a long way toward getting the carrier fully clean and stink-free. You do have to take it apart first, though: Its 600-denier polyester shell contains five flexible rods and a stiff foam core base, which you remove in order to flatten the bag. (Doing this also helps with storing the SturdiBag in a closet between trips.) The other nine models we tested allowed only for the padded bedding mats to be machine-washed, but the bags themselves had to be tediously spot-cleaned.

It has a versatile design with useful accessories. We tested the SturdiBag Pro in size large, which exceeds some airlines’ size requirements by about an inch or so. But due to the carrier’s flexible construction, it can be squished to fit under an airplane seat without too much finagling. I used to own an older version of this bag and easily got it on several domestic and international flights. It’s also the only carrier we tested that comes with lock clips attached to the zipper tabs, so sneaky paws can’t work the doors open from the inside. It features the most mesh ventilation of all of our picks, and you can opt to cover each mesh panel with a privacy flap, if your pet needs to block out the world.

It’s one of the most comfortable to carry. The SturdiBag’s shoulder strap connects to four burly plastic buckles near the top of the carrier. The four points of contact help distribute the weight of the carrier with your pet inside it. This strap keeps the bag more balanced when you’re carrying it on one shoulder than the straps of other carriers we tested, which all had only two strap attachment points. The SturdiBag’s shoulder strap felt the most comfortable on my body, tied with that of the Away carrier . Also, compared with the inserts of all the carriers we evaluated, the SturdiBag’s bedding insert had the most padding, so it may be more comfortable for pets as well.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

It takes extra work to take this carrier apart and put it back together. Whenever you want to fold the carrier flat for storage or throw it in the washing machine, you need to remove the five tension rods, the two zipper locks, and the foam-core floorboard. Getting the rods in and out of the old version of the SturdiBag used to be a total pain, which was part of why we previously dismissed this carrier, but the company fixed this issue with the 2.0 model. It added hook-and-loop access tabs, which make seating the rods into place much easier. The whole process still takes a couple of minutes, but it’s worth the effort to have a thoroughly clean carrier.

It’s not leakproof. The SturdiBag Pro is strong, but it isn’t made of water-repellent materials, so if your pooch or kitty pees, the carrier might not contain it. As with any pet carrier, with the SturdiBag you’d be wise to line it with a pee pad (or two)—I learned this the hard way when one of my cats peed as we waited on a customs and immigration line and it seeped through to my jeans. You should also keep a few spare pee pads handy, in case you need to swap them out mid-trip.

It’s not crash tested. The SturdiBag has loops that you could theoretically thread a seat belt through, but they haven’t been crash tested. Although several experts said it might be okay to travel with your pet’s carrier strapped into the back seat, CPS founder Lindsey Wolko said carriers without an independent crash-test rating “would be better placed behind the front driver or passenger seat on the floor of the vehicle,” even if they have seat belt attachment points. She’s seen non-crash-tested carriers slip out of seat-belt restraints or have their seams torn open, which can allow an animal to escape.

Sizes: six (plus divided options to accommodate two pets) Maximum pet weight: 40 pounds

The Petsfit 2 Side Expandable Pet Carrier can extend open on two sides to give a pet more room to spread out while still keeping them contained. It’s less expensive than the SturdiBag Pro 2.0 , and for the price, the Petsfit carrier is durable, looks nice, and cleans up well.

Your pet can stretch out in it. The Petsfit carrier looks like a standard rectangular carrier, but with a few unzips, the two long sides open out into mesh half-domes; this is especially useful during a layover or in a hotel room (we don’t recommend expanding the carrier while you’re on the move). The expansion panels are accessed via zippers on either the interior or the exterior, so you won’t risk an escape if your pet’s already inside. The medium size meets Delta ’s, American ’s, and United ’s in-cabin requirements, which are 18 by 11 by 11 inches (LWH) at this writing. The carrier’s height can also be compressed downward, if necessary, by removing two rigid rods on the top of the frame.

The bedding insert is one of the easiest to clean. In our spot-cleaning tests, the Petsfit carrier’s insert mat released crud and residue with the least amount of effort. With just a few swipes of a wet paper towel, the fake vomit slid right off the plush material. The rigid base of the pad is made from a thin piece of foam and a rectangle of corrugated plastic. We unzipped the end of the mat to remove these for machine-washing, but when we went to put them back, it was a tight fit. Still, they slid in eventually, and the mat looked pristine after a round in the wash.

Excellent durability for the price. The Petsfit carrier’s mesh and lining withstood our clawing and yanking like a champ; it outperformed most carriers at the same price point—and even some that were over twice the price. While the zippers didn’t feel as smooth as those on our other picks, they held up well to our stress tests. And that little bit of stickiness actually helps keep mischievous paws from opening the carrier from the inside (we’re looking at you, cats).

It’s not as comfortable to carry. The shoulder strap on the Petsfit feels better than those on other similarly priced carriers, but the rigid rods at the top of the bag’s frame dug into my torso while I was carrying it. This became unpleasant after a few minutes. If you think you’ll be hauling your pets around for a long time, and you don’t have rock-solid obliques, you might be better off with our other picks.

You’ll need to use a good pee pad. Like the SturdiBag carrier, the Petsfit bag isn’t leakproof. We noticed some seepage on the outer surface of the carrier after we spilled our liquidy fake vomit inside. It bears repeating: A pee pad will be your best friend when you’re using this—or any—carrier.

Sizes: four Maximum pet weight: 15 pounds

The Sleepypod Air has been a pick since 2017, and it continues to be an excellent carrier for both car and air travel. It has bendable bottom edges, which help when it’s being wedged under an airplane seat, and the top and sides unzip in one long strip, making access easy. It’s also crash-test-certified by the Center for Pet Safety.

Its design has been crash-test-rated since 2016. The Sleepypod Air was one of the first soft carriers to pass CPS’s crash testing (video) . The company also offers a generous crash replacement program (which hopefully will never be needed); it will send eligible customers a brand new carrier if theirs has been compromised in a crash. In our testing, the Sleepypod remained stable and barely budged, despite our best efforts at yanking on it when it was buckled into the back seat of our car.

The high-quality construction keeps liquids inside. The Sleepypod’s water-repellant liner withstood our fake-vomit concoction, containing the liquidy gunk to the interior of the carrier. This is extra useful if, like me, you’ve ever had cat pee run down your leg in an airport. It fell in the middle of the pack in terms of spot-cleaning, but the plush bedding cover came out of the washing machine looking brand new. The bedding insert had more padding than those of most carriers we tested (second only to the SturdiBag’s), so it should keep your pet comfortable. The carrier unzips in one long strip, from front to top to back. This feature is helpful when you’re loading in a particularly resistant animal, and it allows the bag to fold flat for storage.

It’s compatible with many major airlines’ requirements. The bottom edges of the Sleepypod act as little wings that can be folded up at a 90-degree angle (video) , shrinking the length from 22 to 16.5 inches, short enough to meet many airlines’ in-cabin size requirements. These wings aren’t designed to stay up on their own, but, rather, they rely on an airplane seat’s frame to hold them up. The top is also easily compressed, reducing the height from 10.5 to roughly 8 inches.

It doesn’t have a perfect crash-test score. The Sleepypod Air has a four-star crash-test rating from CPS, as opposed to five stars, due to “the amount of vertical lift the carrier experienced during testing,” said Wolko. That doesn’t mean this bag is unsafe, but four stars is the lowest score a carrier can have with CPS and still pass.

It showed a little scratching on the interior. Although the exterior is made of a thick, strong nylon, the inner lining didn’t hold up as well to our meat claws, showing a bit more pulling and marring than our other picks. If a cat is determined enough, they might be able to rip this material eventually.

Sizes: one Maximum pet weight: 18 pounds

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier is attractive, robust, and crash-test-certified by the Center for Pet Safety. It features a convenient zipper system, multiple grab handles and pockets, and comfortable carrying straps.

It’s easy to strap into the car, and it’s crash-test-certified. The Diggs passed the Center for Pet Safety’s crash test (video) on the first try, without having to make any adjustments to the design. The carrier’s seat-belt-restraint system was straightforward and intuitive to connect, and the plastic clips for the waist belt were a cinch to open and close. When we installed it in our car, it remained stable on the back seat, despite our best efforts to dislodge it.

It has tons of storage and a convenient top zipper handle. The Diggs has lots of pockets, so it’s easy to carry your pet’s documents, medications, extra pee pads, and other miscellany. The buckles and clips feel heavy-duty, and because of its unique handle design, the top panel’s two zippers can be opened with one hand. A toggle lock keeps this panel securely closed. The side-door zipper moves almost too smoothly, making it easier for an animal to wedge it open, so you should clip the zipper tabs together with a small lock, clip, or zip tie.

The lower access panel lets you refresh soiled pee pads without removing your pet. The bottom of the bedding insert features a semi-rigid plastic board that can slide out and be placed on top of the mat (video) , so you can adhere a pee pad to it. A long, narrow panel along one wall of the carrier gives you access to the bedding mat and pee pad, without having to take your pet out of the carrier. This is a convenient system, especially if you’re on a plane and you can’t remove your dog or cat while in flight. But it took some wiggling and shifting to get everything into place under a 15-pound bag of rice. We imagine the real-world difficulty of this process will largely depend on whether your animal is squirmy or sleepy, and there’s still the risk of escape if they’re not connected to the internal tether.

The bedding mat can’t be machine-washed. There’s a base inside the padded mat that can’t be removed, so it’s unsuitable for the washing machine. This is a potentially gross hassle since spot-cleaning may only do so much. Diggs’s novel pee-pad system helps mitigate this inconvenience, but the mat’s bolster is still open to filth. If your pet is prone to making a mess on the go, you’ll be better off with one of our other picks.

It doesn’t compress or fold flat for storage. The Diggs bag doesn’t flatten, so it won’t fit in a small space for storage. It’s also a few inches longer than most airlines’ in-cabin limits, so it might be a risk, but some users (video) have been able to fit it under an airplane seat.

The Away Pet Carrier expands on the popular luggage company’s core offerings with a duffel-shaped bag for your small pet. This carrier features comfortable carry handles and heavy-duty hardware. This is a great-looking option, and if you’ve already invested in the Away ecosystem, this carrier has the added bonus of matching your carry-on, though the pet carrier is currently offered in only two colors.

This pet carrier can fly under the radar. The Away Pet Carrier looks like a nice small duffel, so much so that your fellow travelers may never even suspect there’s a furry bundle of cuteness inside (though any yowling might give it away). The carrier also matches two of Away’s luggage colorways—jet black and coast blue—so if you have any of the company’s other offerings, this carrier can blend in with them seamlessly. The Away is slightly smaller in length and height than the Diggs bag, so it may raise fewer eyebrows from a rules-obsessed ticket agent. It still slightly exceeds most airlines’ in-cabin requirements, but some users have said they were able to get it on-board.

It’s one of the most comfortable to carry. The Away bag was at the top of the heap, and it tied with the SturdiBag in terms of comfort. The shoulder strap has thin but well-cushioned padding, and the carry handles are long enough to sling over your other shoulder if you need to relieve the pressure for a few minutes. This versatility means you can switch back and forth without murdering your spine, and it’s especially useful if you have to carry your pet for a long distance or duration.

Its car restraint system is crash tested and secure. The Away has a five-star crash-test rating from CPS , and the carrier barely shifted during our vigorous jerking and tugging. This is partly because it secures to the rear head rest of the vehicle via the shoulder carrying strap, in addition to being cinched into the seat belt by two plastic clips on the front, similar to the clips on the Diggs bag. In our (admittedly non-scientific) efforts to dislodge it, the Away carrier felt a touch more secure than our two other crash-tested picks.

It’s the most expensive carrier we tested. The Sleepypod and the Diggs carriers are both expensive, but the Away bag costs even more, by roughly $30 (at the time of publishing). And while most elements of this carrier were high-quality, the sherpa-covered bedding insert felt chintzier than we would expect for a carrier of this price.

The restraint system works well, but it’s a hassle to dial in. Instead of having a strap that connects to the cross-body part of the seat belt, like the Diggs and the Sleepypod carriers do, the Away’s shoulder strap does double duty as a restraint, looping around the back-seat headrest. While this made the Away carrier feel more secure than the others, it took several annoying minutes to adjust the strap to the correct length. If the strap was too long, it wasn’t taut enough to keep the carrier stable; if it was too short, it lifted the carrier off the seat of the car. Plus, we had to readjust the strap once again to a comfortable length for carrying, after we took it back out of the car.

If you prefer to carry your pet backpack-style, Mr. Peanut’s Monterey Series Convertible Backpack is a great option. It’s also the only model we tested that can sit on two different sides, depending on where you need it to fit.

If you want a carrier with multiple carrying options. The Mr. Peanut’s carrier is the only one we tested that could be carried as a backpack, with extra padding on the backside and an adjustable sternum strap. It can also be carried by the central grab handle or over one shoulder.

It offers adaptable orientation for air or car travel. This is the only carrier we tested that lets you change which way it rests on the ground. When you’re carrying this bag, the narrower sides form the floor and the ceiling, so your pet still has room to recline and ample space to stand or sit up. But if you need to squeeze it into the tight space under an airplane seat, the wide side with the backpack straps can become the floor, giving your pet a broader, more-cushioned base to lie down on, with less overhead height. With mesh ventilation windows on four sides, you can maintain good air flow however you set it down.

It has decent hardware and a laptop pocket. The Mr. Peanut’s carrier has decent metal hardware for the price, and the zippers were more secure against errant paws that might try to stage a breakout. It’s also the only carrier we tested that has a laptop pocket, which is a major convenience if your pet is your only carry-on item. We managed to squeeze a 13-inch MacBook Pro in there, but it was a tight fit, and it took some doing to get it back out.

The carrier can be uncomfortable after you carry it for a while. Even though the pressure on my shoulders was better than it was with most of the other carriers, the Mr. Peanut’s carrier dug into my lower back after I carried it for several minutes with 15 pounds of rice inside. Depending on your torso length and your pet’s weight, this bag might cause some discomfort, so it may not be a good fit for all bodies.

The seat-belt attachment system doesn’t keep the carrier stable. On the front of this carrier, there are two buckles that can be attached to a seat belt, but they loosened easily, and the bag toppled forward and over itself during our yank tests. The bag's instructions didn’t mention looping the shoulder strap around the rear head rest, but we tried it anyway, and it was more stable when connected that way. As with the SturdiBag and the Petsfit carriers, this one may be more secure if you place it on the floor behind the front driver or passenger seat.

Sizes: two Maximum pet weight: 22 pounds

The Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag is a former pick, and we’re fans of the company’s Guaranteed On-Board Program . But this carrier didn’t compare well against our new picks. The shoulder strap had a flimsy plastic pad, which made it uncomfortable to carry with weight for more than a few minutes. And compared with bedding inserts of all the carriers we tested, this bag’s insert had the thinnest padding. Its fibers also started to loosen and shed after one round in the washing machine.

Tuft & Paw’s Porto Cat Carrier is an attractive, well-made bag that can convert to a cozy, cave-like bed. It was among the more comfortable to carry, but it’s not a practical choice for frequent travel. It had the least amount of ventilation (by surface area) of the carriers we tested, and it was hard to quickly open and close due to its unusual zipper system.

The Vceoa Cat, Dog Carrier is an inexpensive best-seller on Amazon, and it’s similar to the Sherpa in shape and features. But it was one of the least comfortable bags to carry, the zippers frequently got stuck, and the plastic shoulder-strap buckles felt flimsy.

The Jespet Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Travel Dog & Cat Carrier ranked high on Amazon and Chewy, but when we ordered it, the carrier we received had an entirely different brand name on it (Goopaws). This bag was the only one whose mesh tore during our claw tests, and the carrier’s frame dug painfully into my torso while I was carrying it.

We’ll be testing some newer, high-end soft-sided carriers to see if they provide any added benefit for the price. They include Tavo’s Maeve Pet Car Seat (with a unique “stability leg”) and its newly launched Dupree Airline Carry-on Pet Car Seat (which connects to a vehicle’s latch anchor bars), as well as Dagne Dover’s new Kyoto Pet Carrier . We’ll also take a closer look at Travel Cat’s new, moderately priced Odyssey Soft Cat Carrier , which has some useful features, including locking zipper clips.

For larger dogs, we’ll be looking at hard-sided kennels for car travel (and potentially air cargo), including the Gunner G1 , Ruff Land , and Dakota 283 kennels, as well as the inflatable Diggs Enventur .

This article was edited by Harry Sawyers. A previous version of this guide was written by Kaitlyn Wells.

Molly Racette, DVM, DACVECC, clinical assistant professor in emergency and critical care at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine , phone interview , June 12, 2024

Chris Diefenthaler, executive director of Assistance Dogs International (ADI) , phone interview , June 9, 2024

Juliet Caviness, DVM, clinical instructor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine , phone interview , May 8, 2024

Becca Bell, national program project manager at Canine Companions , phone interview , May 8, 2024

Melinda Ruopp, national secretary of the United States Police Canine Association, Inc. (USPCA) , email correspondence , May 7, 2024

Brandi Hunter Munden, vice president of public relations and communications, American Kennel Club , phone interview

Johan Ivarsson, PhD, biomechanical engineer at Forensic Failure Engineering, LLC , phone interview , May 6, 2024

Lindsey A. Wolko, founder of Center for Pet Safety , phone interview , May 3, 2024

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

David Fine, owner, 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 13, 2017

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

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

Meet your guide

Mel Plaut is a staff writer covering pets at Wirecutter. They developed a special affinity for animals at an early age, when every stray cat and runaway dog ended up at their family’s doorstep. Their writing has appeared in The New York Times, the New York Daily News, USA Today, HuffPost, NPR’s All Things Considered , and others.

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.

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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

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

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.

• 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

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best for the Cargo Hold

Gunner g1 kennel intermediate.

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

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Softside

Love thy beast nylon pet travel carrier.

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.

• 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.

• 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

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Caraa Pet Carrier

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. It's designed like actual luggage — which our editors look for when choosing their favorite pieces . 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.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

How do I get my pet used to a travel carrier?

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. 

How long can a pet stay inside a carrier?

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. 

What else should go in my pet’s travel carrier?

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.  

What are the rules about bringing a pet on the plane?

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. 

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Sherpa® Deluxe™ Airline Approved Soft Sided Dog & Cat Carrier, Black, Large

Sherpa® Deluxe™ Pet Carrier is the gold standard carrier by helping to make pet travel safe and effortless. This airline-approved stylish carrier with quality gunmetal finish hardware has top and side entries for quick and convenient pet loading. Entrances have locking zippers so your pet cannot paw or claw them open. Three mesh panels ensure optimal ventilation and airflow. A top mesh panel gives your pet visibility to see you while in their carrier, helping to soothe and decrease pet travel anxiety. The plush faux lambswool liner wrapped around a stability board cradles your pet and gives them a comfortable bed that keeps its shape and doesn’t fold when lounging or standing during travel. For hands-free carrying, clip on the adjustable shoulder strap or use the carrier luggage sleeve to secure the carrier onto your luggage trolley handle. The convenient zippered storage pocket and built-in waste bag dispenser (waste bag roll sold separately) make it easy to bring essential travel documents and accessories. Sherpa Air products offer solutions and safety features to make your travels more relaxing from departure to arrival! Pet travel made effortless with Sherpa® Pet Carriers for safe travels near and far™.

Before purchasing your Sherpa® carrier, measure your pet to find the correct size and make sure your small cat or dog travel companion fits comfortably inside and can stand up and turn around in the carrier. Take all measurements while your pet is standing. To measure your pet’s height, measure from the floor to the top of your pet’s back; to measure your pet’s length, measure from the tip of their nose to the end of your pet’s rear; do not include your pet’s tail in the measurement.

Carrier dimensions: 19″ L x 11.70″ W x 11.50″ H (48 cm x 30 cm x 29 cm) Carrier weight: 2.6 lbs (1.4 kg) Max Pet Weight: 22 lbs (10 kg) Max Pet Size: 11.5″ H x 19″ L (29 cm x 48 cm)

Large Sherpa Pet Carrier: Carries pets who weigh 22 lbs (10 kg) or less and measure 11.5″ H x 19″ L (29 cm x 48 cm) or less; for your and your pet’s safety DO NOT exceed carrier weight limit or measurements; carrier is intended for pet transport only; great for cats and small dogs; Sherpa Deluxe Pet Carrier Black Large measures 19″ L x 11.70″ W x 11.50″ H (48 cm x 30 cm x 29 cm) and weighs 2.6 lbs (1.4 kg)

Ventilation: Coated wire mesh panels and window stand up to claws and provide ample airflow. Top mesh window allows your pet to look out and allows you to easily check on your pet without opening the carrier during your travels

Luxurious Liner: Removable machine washable faux lambswool liner cushions your pet and gives them a comfortable ride during travel; grey color that won’t show dirt and stains while on the go

Convenient Features: Removable adjustable shoulder strap and handles with a comfortable grip wrap; top and side entries for easy and preferred pet loading and exit; flexible frame to fit under plane seats; plastic feet to keep carrier bottom from the floor; moisture barrier to prevent leaks

Storage Space: Side zippered pocket to carry leashes, waste bags, collapsible dog bowls, important travel documents, and treats with a built in waste bag dispenser pocket for easy access while on the go

Travel Easy: Comes with limited 1-year warranty; ID slot for safety in case carrier is lost; locking zippers that prevent pets from clawing or pawing open carrier for secure travel; stability board to give your pet a stable base to lie or stand on; stylish carrier made with quality hardware; gray colored liner that won’t show dirt and stains while on the go

Sherpa Air Travel Tips: Before going on a long flight get your pet used to being in the carrier, leave it out at home and let them use it as a lounge area and take them on short trips such as running errands or to the vet; bring a leash for your pet and locate pet relief stations at the airport in advance; Be sure to supervise your pet so they do not get tangled in carrier/backpack

75% polyester 10% iron metal 5% abs plastic 5% MDF wooden broad 5% PP

Carrier: Spot clean carrier with warm water and mild detergent.

Liner: Remove liner from bag, unzip cover, remove and set aside the stability board, machine wash cold with mild soap. Air dry.

Sherpa® One-Year Limited Warranty: Valid from the date of original retail purchase; warranty ensures the carrier will be free of defects in materials and workmanship for one year; it does not cover normal wear and tear, damage caused by pets, misuse of the product or use contrary to operating instructions; proof of purchase required; for more information or to file a warranty claim click here .

WARNING: For pets only. This is not a toy. Keep out of reach of children and pets when not in use. Do not leave pet unattended with/in carrier. This carrier is not a kennel or permanent habitat and is intended for pet transport only. Do not allow pets to chew on the carrier. Immediately discontinue use if any part becomes damaged; do not allow pet to ingest any parts. Do not use or store near heat.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Find Sherpa products at these & other retailers

How to Select the Best Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Your Dog & 12 of Our Favorites!

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April 18, 2024

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K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Have an upcoming flight with your four-footer? You’re in luck!

Today we’re covering the basics of air travel with your furry friend! We’ll detail how to select an airline approved pet carrier for keeping under the seat in front of you, in the cabin of the airplane.

If you’re looking for info on checking your dog in the cargo hold of the plane, see our post on the best airline approved dog crates for cargo hold air travel .

How to Pick the Best Airline-Approved Pet Carrier: Features to Look For

There are several variations of different airline approved pet carriers to choose from. Some differentiating features include:

• ​ Wheels. Some airline friendly carriers have wheels for easy maneuverability, while others function more as standard dog backpack carriers or pet purse carriers , with handles and shoulder straps. If you have a weak shoulder, you may want to opt for wheels over traditional over-the-shoulder style carriers.
• Zipper or Velcro. Some carriers have velcro closings, while others use zippers. Velcro can be opened potentially by boisterous pets, but provides faster access. Zippers are more secure, but can be a nuisance.
• Ventilation. You’ll want to make sure that your airline approved pet carrier has plenty of ventilation for your dog to breath and feel comfortable.
• Pockets. Pockets are always handy to have on your pet carry on bag. Pockets allow for easy storage of toys, treats, and other supplies. Some airline pet carriers will have more pockets than others.

Best Airline-Approved Dog Carriers

You can check out some of our favorite airline-approved dog carriers below.

Please note that there is no one official airline approved dog carrier, as carrier requirements vary between airlines . However, all of these carriers have been used for air travel and should suit your needs.

Still, we suggest you always double check your specific airline carry-on dimensions with any carrier you consider ordering.

Looking for a carrier you can check in cargo during your flight? See our guide to airline approved dog crates for cargo hold .

1. Bergan Soft-Sided Airline Pet Carrier

A stylish and discreet duffle-bag style carrier with a fleece lining for comfort.

About: The Bergan Soft-Sided Airline Pet Carrier is a soft, duffle-bag style carrier that allows for discreet transportation of your canine as a carry-on.

It’s a mid-priced carrier, not the cheapest on our list, but not the most expensive either.

Features: 

• Removable Fleece Bed . Soft fleece bedding and rigid insert panel helps the carrier hold its shape. Both removable for easy washing.
• Comfort Your Pet . Exclusive “Pet Connect” zipper opening allows you to comfortably and safely interact with your pet while traveling – an excellent choice for airline approved dog carriers for in cabin travel.
• Shoulder Strap . Optional shoulder strap included is padded and adjustable.
• Multiple Zipper Openings . Several zippered mesh panels allow for maximum viewing and ventilation.
• Multiple Safety Features . This airplane pet carrier has locking zippers, seatbelt loops, and reflective strips.
• Lead & Phthalate Safe . There are no harmful chemicals for you or your pet.
• Multiple Colors . This airplane friendly dog carrier comes in Black, Mineral Blue, Rose Wine, and Spinach Green.

SIZING DIMENSIONS:

• Small: 14″ X 6″ X 8″; accommodates pets weighing up to 7 pounds
• Large: 19″ x 10″ x 13″; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• Cozy fleece-lined interior for comfort 
• Mesh doors provide easy access
• The extra “pet connect” zipper allows you to touch your pet while inside
• Some reported the carrier had an unusual smell
• Several owners complained about its capacity (only the smallest dogs will fit)

2. Prodigen Airline Approved Pet Carrier

A 3-door, bag-style carrier that's budget-friendly and features a strap for easy toting.

About: The Prodigen Airline Approved Pet Carrier is a feature-packed carrier at an affordable price. We’re especially big fans of the four-sided mesh panels (ventilation is very important for airplane dog carriers), along with several zipper-opening panels.

• Airplane-Friendly Dimensions.  Customers have confirmed that this carrier is accepted on most major airlines, including American Airline, United, JetBlue, Delta, & others!
• 3 Door Design.  This carrier has three doors – a top zipper panel door, along with two side zipper panels, which makes it easy to slip a hand inside and comfort your dog when necessary.
• 4 Mesh Panels.  Four sides of quality, claw-proof mesh panels for superior breathability and ventilation for your dog.
• Fleece Pad.  Removable fleece mat on the inside bottom to keep your pup cozy. Can be easily removed and washes for cleaning.
• Pockets.  Includes pockets for storing your pup’s treats, leash, etc.
• Inside Clip.  There’s a small lead clip inside the carrier which keeps your pup safe and makes sure your dog won’t jump out when you open the carrier.
• Luggage Strap.  Included luggage strap makes it easy to attach carrier onto your suitcase.
• Available in Several Colors.  Comes in Grey, Blue, Green, Pink, or Purple!
• One Size: 17.5″ x 10″ x 11″; accommodates pets weighing up to 14 pounds
• The 4 breathable mesh panels provide plenty of ventilation 
• Great quality for the price 
• Compact design is easy to haul around
• Some owners reported the carrier has an odor
• The soft sides don’t provide much structure

3. X-Zone Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

An affordable, airline-friendly carrier with two expansion panels for extra room.

About: The X-Zone Expandable Pet Carrier is stylish, reasonably priced carry on dog carrier that can be expanded or retracted through the use of fold-out panels. It can even be collapsed completely for easy storage and transport.

• Foldable. Lays completely flat when unzipped to save space.
• Expandable. Sides zips down to provide extra space while sturdy wire frame maintains shape.
• Zipper Opening . Pet entrance has 2 zippers for easy access.
• Adjustable Shoulder Strap . Allows for comfortable carrying for you and your pet.
• ​ Small: 17″ x 11″x 11″ (before expansion); accommodates pets weighing up to 15 pounds
• Large: 19.7″ x 12″ x 12″ (before expansion); accommodates pets weighing up to 18 pounds
• Pets love the “porch” that comes with this expandable pet carrier
• The frame features sturdy wire for stability  
• Breathable mesh design keeps canines comfy
• It’s challenging to open the expander when your pet is inside 
• Some reported the strap was weak

4. Sleepypod Dog Carrier

A high-end, all-in-one pet carrier featuring luggage-grade materials and a sleek design.

About: The Sleepypod Under Seat Dog Carrier is the whole package — it functions as an airline carry-on carrier, a car seat, and a dog bed!

• Flexible Size . The Sleepypod airline approved pet carrier fits pets up to 17 ½ pounds, but is also compressible to fit under different size seats on airlines or fold up when not in use.
• Sleek Design . Very well designed, giving pets maximum room without sacrificing sturdiness or style.
• Luggage Grade Fabric . High quality nylon outside with super comfy plush inside for a class A airline approved dog carrier.
• Easy Access . Both the top and ends open, making it easy to access pets.
• Multiple Colors . Comes in Dark Chocolate, Glacier Silver, Jet Black, Orange Dream, Strawberry Red, and Robin Egg Blue.
• Single Size: 22″ x 10.5″ x 10.5″; accommodates pets weighing up to 17.5 pounds
• Sturdy carrier that’s built to last 
• Doubles as a car seat and dog bed
• Pet parents love the luggage attachment insert
• It is a bit pricey
• It’s bulkier than many owners want

5. AmazonBasics Soft Travel Carrier

Budget-friendly, all-mesh pet carrier that's suitable for most domestic flights.

About: The AmazonBasics Airline Dog Carrier is an airy, affordable, duffle-style carry-on carrier with abundant mesh windows, providing extra ventilation for your pooch.

• Airline Approved Cabin Pet Carrier . Suitable for travel on most major domestic airlines.
• Flexible Frame . Springy wire frame with soft-sided carrier material flexes to fit under various seat dimensions.
• Straps . Includes both seatbelt and luggage strap for easy carrying and safe travel.
• Easy Entry . Contains both top and side entry panels as well as full mesh panels for ventilation.
• Small: 15″ x 10″ x 8.5″; accommodates pets weighing up to 8 pounds
• Medium:  18″ x 11″ x 10.5″; accommodates pets weighing up to 16 pounds
• Large: 19″ x 11.8″ x 11.5″; ; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• The mesh panels provide great airflow
• Embedded fleece pad provides additional comfort 
• Large model is pretty roomy
• The thin straps can be hard on your shoulders
• While roomy, the recommended pet size range appears too large

6. Katziela Pet Carrier

A telescopic handle and a removable wheeled base make this rolling carrier a hit at the airport.

About: Katziela Luxury Pro Rider features a removable wheeled base for easy pet transport while still being airline compliant. It can be converted to a tote or shoulder bag as needed with included handles and a shoulder strap.

• Ample Mesh Panels . Large mesh panels on the carrier’s top and sides offer plenty of ventilation and visibility.
• ID Panel . Clearly displays your canine’s information for convenience and safety during travel.
• Removable Interior Bed . Fleece bed keeps your dog comfortable or can be swapped out for your pet’s preferred bedding.
• Telescopic Handle . Easily maneuver the carrier around busy terminals with its accessible handle.
• Storage pockets . Carry leashes, bowls, and more within the generous side storage.
• Solid Coloring . This airline-approved pup carrier comes in two color options: Black and Gray.
• One Size: 19″ X 13″ X 15″; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• Removable wheeled base makes for easy transport while still being airline-compliant
• Offers plenty of ventilation for canines
• Versatile, allowing for use as a wheeled carrier, tote, or shoulder bag
• The wheeled base needs to be removed for under-seat storage during flight
• Some travelers were told the bag was too big for their chosen airline, so triple-check requirements before booking a flight

7. Sturdibag Airplane-Friendly Dog Carrier

Lightweight, duffle-style carrier with closable flaps to provide skittish pets with privacy.

About: The Sturdibag Large Airplane-Friendly Carrier is another duffle-style carrier with multiple doors, straps, and windows for your canine’s comfort during flight.

• Lightweight . Made of very lightweight durable 600 denier polyester with flexible rods that help maintain arch shape.
• Comfortable Straps . Easy to carry with an adjustable 4-point padded shoulder strap and leather hand grips.
• Multiple Mesh Panels . Several mesh windows for viewing and ventilation that can be covered as well for privacy or comfort for your pet.
• Safety Straps . Perfect to strap in airline seats or for car seat belts.
• Huge Color Selection . This dog carry on bag comes in 11 color options including Hot Pink, Lavender, Evergreen, and more!
• Small: 10″ X 10″ X 18″; accommodates pets weighing up to 30 pounds
• Large : 12″ x 12″ x 18″; accommodates pets weighing up to 50 pounds
• Cushy interior provides plenty of comfort
• You can choose between 12 different color  
• Flexible shape makes it suitable for a variety of situations
• Only features a single door 
• Only available in one size

One of our readers likes the Sturdibag Airplane-Friendly Dog Carrier so much she felt compelled to reach out to us and share her experiences!

Overall, the bag has worked very well for her 10-pound Yorkie. She explains that it is incredibly roomy, and the vented window and privacy shade are highly appreciated features.

8. PetAmi Airline Approved Dog Carrier

A sleek canine carrier with crisp lines and heaps of color options for fashion-forward floofs.

About: PetAmi’s Airline Approved Dog Carrier lets your four-footer travel in style with its modern design available in multiple solid prints and playful patterns. Sherpa bedding keeps your canine cozy, while a safety lead prevents pupper escapes during travel.

• Durable Construction . Made with quality 600D high-grade polyester.
• Ventilation . Mesh panels offer airflow and visibility for pupper comfort.
• Storage . Side storage pocket for toting pup accessories.
• Easy Access . Large top opening allows for quick access to your dog and cleaning as needed.
• Long Handles . Carry as a stylish handheld tote or sling over your shoulder.
• Multiple Styles. This airline-approved dog carrier is offered in Black, Chevron Teal, Floral Gray, Heather Charcoal, Heather Gray, Pink, Polka Dot Black, Purple, Stripe Black, and Turquoise.
• One Size: 17″ x 8″ x 11″; 12-pound weight capacity
• Available in a variety of fun, fashionable patterns
• Affordably priced
• Well-ventilated and durably built according to pet parents
• Weight limit suits toy breeds only
• Not as spacious as some other pup carriers

9. Sherpa Original Deluxe Bag

A Sherpa-lined pet carrier with mesh windows to provide the ultimate canine comfort.

About: Is your canine a cuddle bug? If so, he will probably appreciate this luxurious sherpa-lined carrier. The cozy foldable carrier features breathable mesh panels and a seatbelt strap for use while traveling.  

• Comfy and easy to clean . Machine-washable Sherpa liner included to keep your companion cozy.
• Dual access points . Carrier includes both top and side door entry points.
• Soft, flexible wire frame . This provides a great combination of rigidity for safety and flexibility for tight fits.
• Extra storage space . A rear pocket for accessories is included in the design.
• Provides plenty of airflow . This carrier features mesh windows with locking zippers.

Sizing Dimensions: 

• Small : 15” x 8.5” x 10”; accommodates pets weighing up to 8 pounds
• Medium : 17” x 11” x 10.5”; accommodates pets weighing up to 16 pounds
• Large : 19” x 11.75” x 11.5”; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• Super soft for canine comfort
• Machine washable for easy clean up 
• Large zipper pocket for holding extra accessories 
• Some pet parents had trouble with the locking zipper
• The mesh lining isn’t especially durable

10. Natuvalle 6-in-1 Pet Carrier

A spacious pet carrier that'll accommodate larger pets than many other models.

About: Naturuvalle offers this 6-in-1 pet carrier that can be worn as a backpack, front pack, shoulder bag, or duffle bag for plenty of flexibility. The sturdy bag comes with a fleece insert to keep your best buddy feeling his best. 

• Incredibly flexible . Can be used in 6 different positions to accommodate your pup’s preferences.
• Built-in travel features . Comes with included seat belt loops for safety.
• Tons of airflow . Features 4 breathable mesh panels.
• Additional safety features . Reflective stitching for nighttime visibility. 
• Multiple size options . This carrier comes in 4 different sizes to suit a variety of pets.
• Extra Small : 14” x 8.3” x 8.3”; accommodates pets weighing up to 8 pounds
• Small : 16.5” x 9” x 11.4”; accommodates pets weighing up to 16 pounds
• Medium : 18.5” x 10.2” x 11.8”; accommodates pets weighing up to 18 pounds
• Large : 20.8” x 11” x 14.3”; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• Works in your choice of 6 different configurations
• Available in 4 different sizes
• Several owners praised the carrier’s capacity
• The shoulder strap wasn’t super comfortable for all owners
• Carrier is a bit too rigid for some situations

11. Mr. Peanut’s Soft Sided Pet Carrier

A stylish, soft-sided pet carrier with mesh panels and a fleece lining for comfort.

About: Mr. Peanut’s soft pet carrier is perfect for puppies with its compact size, waterproof bottom panel and built-in seatbelt. This carrier will keep your precious puppy comfortable with its fleece-lined bedding. 

• Tons of airflow . Breathable mesh on all sides to provide plenty of ventilation.
• Leak-resistant bottom . Included waterproof bottom panel insert will stop leaks pronto.
• Great-looking colors . Bag is available in 5 different stylish color options.
• Bonus safety features . Comes with built-in seat belts for car travel.
• Great for tight spaces . This carrier features a flexible, soft-sided design.
• One Size : 18″ x 10.4″  x 11″; accommodates pets weighing up to 15 pounds
• Waterproof bottom panel helps prevent leaks and messes
• Comes with a number of helpful features like the embedded ID tag, stylish exterior, and skid proof bottom
• Can be attached to luggage for additional convenience
• Mesh panels won’t stand up to clawing canines
• The shoulder strap isn’t strong enough for heavy dogs

12. Morpilot Pet Travel Bag

A comfy and collapsible airline-approved pet carrier for small pets with handy travel accessories.

About: If you’re ready to venture out with your best buddy, this carrier and travel accessories from Morpilot is certainly worth exploring. The foldable pet carrier also comes with a foldable water bowl and travel strap for easy pooch transport. 

• Breathable design . Comes with 3 mesh doors for plenty of ventilation.
• Cozy interior . Comes with soft pad lining for maximum canine comfort.
• Safety first . Included inner leash hook to keep your pet secure.
• Easy to carry . Comes with a compatible shoulder strap and portable water bowl.
• Stays put . Anti-skid bottom to prevent the bag from sliding around. 
• Medium : 17.3” x 12.2” x 13.4”; accommodates pets weighing up to 15 pounds
• Large : 18” x 12.5” x 14”; accommodates pets weighing up to 20 pounds
• Comes with a collapsible food or water bowl
• The soft pad insert is removable and machine-washable 
• Owners loved the carrier’s rigidity
• Some pet parents reported a faint plastic smell
• Rigidity makes it challenging to stow underneath a seat

Airline Pet Policy Sizing Requirements & Pricing

Different airlines have different sizing regulations and prices for jet-setting pets. This can obviously be quite a headache for owners, but we’ll try to help by outlining the policies of some of the major carriers below.

For the full list, check out our guide on t he best pet-friendly airlines for flying with dogs !

UNITED AIRLINES PET POLICY

​For Hard-Sided Crates: Maximum dimensions for hard-sided kennels are 17.5″ long x 12″ wide x 7.5″ high.

For Soft-Sided Crates:  Maximum dimensions for soft-sided kennels are 18″ long x 11″ wide x 11″ high (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm).

Pricing: $125 each way, plus an addition $125 for each stopover of 4 hours or more within the U.S. or stopovers of more than 24 hours outside of the U.S.

Other Details: Pets must be 4 months (16 weeks) or older to fly on United. Pets are not permitted on flights to, from, or through Australia, Hawaii, New Zealand.

Note: Soft-sided pet carriers are allowed to slightly exceed recommended since they are adjustable and be conformed to under-seat space.

For more info, see the United pets travel page .

AMERICAN AIRLINES PET POLICY

​For Hard-Sided Crates: Cannot exceed the under seat dimensions of the aircraft – you must find the under-seat dimensions for the aircraft you will be flying with.

For Soft-Sided Crates:  Can be slightly larger than hard-sided kennels if they are made of water-repellant material, are padded, or have nylon mesh ventilation on two or more sides.

Pricing: $125 per kennel

Other Details: Pets must be 4 months (16 weeks) or older to fly on American Airlines within the US. The exception is flying from or to Puerto Rico, in which case pets must be 8 weeks or older.

Carry-on dogs are not permitted in business class or first class due to lack of under-seat storage. They are also not permitted on these aircrafts:

• Boeing 757-L
• Boeing 757-EW
• Boeing 777-200
• Boeing 777-300
• Boeing 787-8
• Boeing 787-9
• Airbus A330-200
• Airbus A330-300

International Flights: While pets are allowed on most flights up to 11 hours and 31 minutes, no carry-on pets are permitted when traveling to:

• Parts of the Caribbean (Barbados, Jamaica)
• Parts of South America (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Venezuela)
• Transatlantic flights
• Transpacific flights
• Australia (service or assistance pets only – no information available on carry on vs cargo)

There are also additional rules for certain regions:

• Mexico : Pets are required to meet government regulations on vaccinations

For more info, see the American Airlines pets travel page.

ALASKA AIRLINES PET POLICY

For Hard-Sided Crates: Maximum hard-sided carry on crate dimensions cannot exceed 17″ x 11″ x 7.5″.

For Soft-Sided Crates: Maximum soft-sided crate dimensions cannot exceed 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″.

Pricing: $100 each way

Additional Info:  Option to bring two pets in the main cabin, when adjacent seat is purchased by the same customer. The pet counts as your carry-on allotment – this means you can bring your pet + a personal item, but not a pet + personal item + standard size carry on bag.

Allows option for two pets of same species and similar size ​may travel in a single carrier.

Airbus aircrafts do not allow pets to be kept in first class seating.

For travel to:

• Hawaii: Dogs or cats may be permitted, but since Hawaii is the only rabies-free state, there are additional rules about traveling to Hawaii with pets in Alaska Airlines ( details here )
• Nome, Kotzebue: Must have proof of parvovirus and rabies vaccination

For more info, see the Alaska Airlines pet travel page

DELTA AIRLINES PET POLICY

Sizing Info: Maximum dimensions depend on your flight and the size of the aircraft – you’ll need to contact the reservations desk for exact info.

Pricing: $125 each way (US, Canada, Puerto Rico) / $200 (Virgin Islands, International) / $75 (Brazil).

Delta has recently stopped allowing pets to travel as checked baggage , but they’ve started offering another travel option for pets, called the CarePod .

The CarePod is a specially designed, triple-locking, GPS-equipped crate that comes with a lot of pooch-friendly features. Flying in the CarePod isn’t cheap (it costs approximately $850 one way ), but it may be a good option for some owners.

Additional Info: Your pet counts as your personal item. Pets must be 10 weeks old for domestic travel, 16 weeks old if traveling to other countries.

With Delta, pets are not allowed to travel in cabin to/from the following destinations:

• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Pets are also not allowed in certain sections of Delta flights:

• Rows 30-35 in A330-200 aircrafts
• Rows 30-43 in A330 -300 aircrafts
• Center seats in 757-200 aircrafts

For more info, see the Delta pets travel page.

Editor’s Note: Delta has recently changed many of their procedures and regulations for owners traveling with pets. For example, they no longer allow pets to fly as cargo on any flights on the Boeing 767 , nor are pets allowed to fly in-cabin in the international business section.

JET BLUE PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions: Maximum carry-on carrier dimensions cannot exceed 17″ long x 12.5″ wide x 8.5″ high and the combined weight of your pet and the carrier can’t be over 20 pounds.

Pricing: $120 each way, only one pet per passenger is permitted.

Additional Info : Pets are not permitted as carry-on for flights to/from: Jamaica, Barbados, St Lucia, the Cayman Islands, or Trinidad & Tobago. 

For more info, see the JetBlue pets travel page.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions: Maximum dimensions for carry on crates are 18.5” long x 8.5” high x 13.5” wide.

Pricing: $95 each way

Additional Info:  Cannot travel as carry on for international flights.

Allows option for two pets of same species and similar size ​may travel in a single carrier. Pet carriers qualify as either: a) a personal item or b) a carry-on item. This means you can bring the pet carrier and a regular-sized carry on bag.

For more info, see the Southwest Airline pet travel page.

VIRGIN AIRLINES PET POLICY

Important! NO PETS are permitted to fly in the cabin with Virgin Airlines. Only service dogs are permitted in-cabin, all others must go in cargo.

Maximum Dimensions: Insubstantial information online – contact airline for details.

Pricing:  Cost varies on destination, time of year, and size of carrier. Contact airline carrier for more info.

For more info, see the Virgin Airlines pet travel page.

ALLEGIANT PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions:  9” high x 16” wide x 19” deep.

Pricing: $100 per segment per carrier

Additional Info:  No more than two pets per carrier are permitted. Each paid traveler may have one carrier each. Only cats and dogs are accepted.

For more info, see the Allegiant Airline pet travel page .

FRONTIER AIRLINES PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions: 18″ long x 14″ wide x 8″ high.

Pricing: $75 each way

Additional Info:  Pets only travel in cabin, no cargo hold options. Pets are allowed on international flights to/from the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old to travel. Soft-sided carrier recommended.

For more info, see the Frontier Airlines pet travel page .

SPIRIT AIRLINES PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions: 18″ x 14″ x 9″, and must be able to fit under the seat. Combined weight of the pet and carrier may not exceed 40 pounds.

Pricing: No information available

Additional Info:  Two pets per container are permitted. Not pets allowed on international flights.

For more info, see the Spirit Airlines pet travel page .

Other Airline & Flight Details to Consider When Traveling With Pets

Flying with your pet can be a complicated endeavor, and there is a lot to think about. Just review the following list of important notes to ensure you’ll be prepared for a problem-free journey with your doggo!

• Most airlines require that dogs be able to stand up and lie down comfortably in their carry-on travel carrier.
• Crates must be in good condition and without cracks, breaks, or tears. Airlines may reject carrier if it is not in good condition.
• Each flight can only allow a certain number of carry-on pets per flight. Often, this number is quite small (often just one to two pets for first and business class seating, and four to five for cabin seating). Because of this, it’s important to book your flight as soon as possible.
• Pets must stay in carrier for the entire flight .
• When taking a pet as a carry-on, you may not sit in the exit row or any row where under-seat space is not available in front of you.
• Most airlines do not allow the transportation of snub-nosed dogs. If you need to get a snub-nosed dog from point A to point B, you may have to opt for a private pet transport service .
• Pets younger than 8 weeks not allowed to fly. Additional age restrictions may exist depending on airline.
• Pets cannot fly with unaccompanied minors.
• The CDC requires that all pets coming to the US are immunized against rabies and must be completed 30 days before arrival.
• Some airlines allow multiple pets of same species and similar size in one carrier,  while others do not.
• Crates must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
• Carrier regulations and requirements may vary for a single airline depending on the aircraft and the flight destination.

For more guidance on what you should know when flying with a pooch, be sure to check out our guide on tips to know before flying with your dog .

Dog Carriers for Airplanes FAQ

Still have questions about the kind of carrier you’ll need to travel to your next pet-friendly vacation destination ? We’ve rounded up some of the most common questions below!

What size dog carrier fits under airplane seat?

The exact carrier dimensions required for an airplane animal carrier vary depending on the airline, but on average, you’ll want a carrier that approximately fits the dimensions of 18″(L) x 14″(W) x 9″(H).

What kind of dog carriers are allowed on planes?

Both hard and soft dog carriers are allowed on planes, placed under the seat in front of you where a personal item or carry-on bag might normally go.

However, many airlines have slightly different size dimension requirements for hard-sided crates, usually requiring that hard-sided crates be smaller. Soft-sided crates, on the other hand, can be slightly larger since they have enough flexibility to be pressed down slightly in order to easily fit beneath an airline seat.

While most airlines allow both soft and hard crates, we’d suggest using a soft-sided crate when flying with your dog in the cabin.

Do airlines actually measure pet carriers?

Usually airlines won’t bother to measure your pet carrier, so long as it looks like generally appropriate dimensions and it can fit beneath the seat in front of you.

Can I buy a seat for my dog on an airplane?

While the rules can vary depending on the exact airline, most major airlines will not allow you to buy a seat for your dog. This is because your dog must remain in a crate at all times during the flight — buying an extra seat won’t change this.

However, you could buy two seats, keep your dog crated under the seat in front of you during take off and landing, and then move your crated dog to the seat beside you at cruising altitude.

Can a 25 lb dog fly in cabin?

Probably not. Airlines won’t measure your dog alone, but they will take into account the combined weight of the carrier and dog. A 25 lb dog will likely be too large to fit in an airline-friendly carrier.

How strict are airlines with dog weight?

How strict airlines are on their dimension and weight requirements can really vary depending on the airline and the individual staff member you’re interacting with. However, we’ve heard from many individuals that many airlines are quite relaxed about the guidelines, so long as your dog isn’t way too large or big for the carrier and the space underneath the seat in front of you.

Can I fly on a plane with a puppy?

Yes, but the exact age requirements vary by airline. Most require puppies be at least 10 weeks old in order to fly.

Can I take two dogs on a plane with me?

Many airlines will allow you to take two dogs onto a plane with you. Some require the animals be in two separate crates, while others will allow multiple dogs to be in a single crate, so long as they have enough space to be comfortable.

Do you have any experiences with airline pet carriers you’d like to share? Tell us about your favorites and review your top picks in the comments section!

Want more ways to travel with your pooch? Check out our guide to dog bike baskets !

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Do you have a hard carrier suggestions? I am moving with my dog via Alaska Airlines, and last time I moved with her, we used a soft kennel, but she’s 20 lbs and it was sagging on the bottom, and not easy to rest on a large suitcase without stability (so that I can roll her to have both my hands free for my two suitcases and keep my dog and cat on each suitcase). I am just trying to find some that are as close to the size limits/as big as possible. Also, do you know if they literally pull out a tape measure to size it? If it’s .5-1″ larger, will they care?

If you need to go on a transatlantic flight to Spain (or first point of entry in Spain) and need to use American Airlines miles (One World), you can book a flight with Iberia (spanish airline). Iberia allows animals in cabin (however only 1 animal per flight is allowed so best to call the airline and reserve the spot ahead of time).

Thanks for the tip, Bruno!

From American Airlines website January 6/2021. “Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico”. 16 weeks if traveling into the U.S. from high-risk countries.

I have been reading your articles with interest, as I may be traveling with a small dog soon. It appears the soft sided carrier I bought many years ago is too big for current standards. It would be helpful if your reviews would list the dimensions of all the carriers in the same order, i.e. either consistently l, w, h or l, h, w. My head is swimming. Otherwise, great info.

I also mean the airlines’ dimension limits, too. Thanks!

Thank you for any other informative web site.

The place else could I get that kind of info written in such an ideal method? I’ve a mission that I’m simply now operating on, and I have been on the look out for such information.

I’m travelling with my 4 kg cat from Mauritius to Toronto via Paris on Air France, overall 29 hours duration (Mauritius-Paris 12 hours, transit 8 hours, Paris-Toronto 9 hours).

Can you plz help me with soft carrier specific dimensions and other rules applied.

I’m very anxious for him as it will be his first time travelling.

Just FYI your website says Alaskan Airlines. It’s Alaska Airlines…no N at the end

Oops! Thanks for the catch, Lisa. It’s fixed now!

I am flying Allegiant Airlines soon and was wondering if anyone who mentioned they were going that airlines had any problems with their pet? Having some problems finding a carrier to use and wondering if they are a little lenient With the soft sides as they can squash down to fit under seat. Also can I carry on the dog stroller as my carry on?

It is so hard to find a flight from Minneapolis to Seattle for cat carrier. Measurements so strict and where can you find one that small? Alaska Airlines measurement is 9.5x11x17. HELP few carrier close by like an inch.

Hi everyone! I’ll be traveling with my Boston Terrier in to France and am hoping everything goes off without a hitch. For those of you who have travelled with your pets in the hold, did the airline carrier weigh the dog and carrier when you checked in? If so, what airline did you travel with? I’m a little nervous because my dog weighs ~18 lbs and the policy states 17 lbs with the carrier (I’m looking into a flight with TAP). Would love to hear about other people’s experiences/tips. Thanks in advance!

Hi! Very good info on your website! Thank you! I wondered if you could help with my situation. I have 2 nine pound Havanese spaded females, named Q-Tip and Chloe.

I am having a hard time finding a wheeled carrier that will handle both of them. I prefer a separation, because Q-tip can be a little mean to her sister, Chloe.

Can you suggest options that are Airline Compliant, as well as any other key pointers, as I have never traveled with pets? Thank you in advance for your consideration and expertise, Anxious Mom – Jené Richards

Hey there, Jené. So glad you found the article helpful (and we love your dogs’ names — especially Q-Tip). Unfortunately, we aren’t aware of a wheeled model that features a divider. You may be able to figure out a DIY solution, but you’ll likely just have to use two separate carriers. Sorry we don’t have a better answer for you! Best of luck!

Love the list but I wish it also listed the weight of the carriers. Some airlines have weight restrictions for the dog/carrier combo. I know how much my dog weighs, how much will it be altogether?

Good thinking Lynn! All these products do have the size in the product links, but we’ll work on adding that information into our review, as I’m sure it would be helpful for our readers to know.

Can you tell me where to get a carrier with the specifications for Allegiant air lines. 9”high. 16’W.10’D.

Do you have a list of which airlines allow two of the same species in one carrier? I have two 4 lbs Yorkie sand would like to take them onboard in same carrier.

Im traveling with KLM and im having a very hard time finding a kennel with a hight of max24 the problem is that if is less than 24cm or 9,44″ my dog won’t be confortable, does anyone have traveled in KLM with pets in cabin that can tell me id the are so extract in the measures because i have found kennels with 25cm or 9.8″

Can you recommend a pet carrier that Frontier will accept. Our dog is 17” x 10”

Hi I am traveling to Thailand with KLM the final flight , a 1 hr long, domestic flight is with Bangkok airways. KLM allow pets to travel, in the cabin, therefore in a soft bag, however the later flight with Bangkok airways, only allow for dogs to travel in the hold Can my Maltese travel in hold in a soft bag or is that dangerous and forbidden? Thanks

Please I need urgent help first time I’m travel with my cat and to small finch birds united airline told me I need these sizes to have them on the plane with me for the hard bird cage size 17.5inches wide x12inches wide x7.5 inches high and also for my cat I need “18×11″X11 please help me I cand find in the store thank you

Hey there, Oya. We don’t have any recommendations for the bird carrier (birds are a bit outside our focus), but the Sherpa Deluxe Carrier discussed above may work for your cat.

Best of luck!

we have bought a home in florida and also live in another state we decided we wanted to fly home. Well we have a small dog he weights 16.8 lbs . Our problem is Frontier has a ad get a carrier that your dog will be happy with can stand, turn around and lay down then the dimesions 18″x14″x8″ where can i find that size of a carrier. I know our dog will not beable to stand but we have to do something it is costing more for our dog to fly then what we are paying for both me and my husband i ask if i could buy a seat for our dog and was told no then i would beable to find a carrier that he would be comfortable in Help we are flying home in May Thanks

I am also interested in the question about tranquilizers or something to calm an anxious dog. I will be taking my 6lb maltese to Mexico for a month this summer. That is one of my biggest worries. What if he barks and won’t settle? I’m going to visit the vet and ask for their recommendation. The potty business is worrysome too. How far out of the way do I need to go to find a place for him to go? Also, if anyone has taken a dog to Mexico and returned to the US, did you have to do any additional vet checks in Mexico prior to returning?? Uff… so many questions!! Glad that there are so many people here asking questions and providing answers/experiences!!

Hi, My brother will be traveling with SAS from Chicago nonstop to Stockholm, SAS has very strict rules and restrictions regarding their pet carriers, it’s is almost impossible to find a pet carrier with the measurements SAS gives 16″ x 9.8″ x 9. I’m very nervous over this whole thing and want everything to go smoothly for my brother and his little dog a Chihuahua/dashhound mix around 10lbs, measurements 15×15 from tip of nose to rump not including tail and from ground to tip of his ears. 11×11 from chest to rump with tail added and from ground to his withers. What do i do, i’m a wreak worrying over this, can you please shed some light on this for me. Thank you in advance.

Thank you so much for this Q&A I will be flying allegiant next December with my bichonpoo She is very frightened of driving in a car she cries and sounds like Canadian goose. LOL she is very frightened of driving in a car she cries and sounds like Canadian goose lol. First of all what kind of bag do I need to carry her she’s 18 lb. And what in the world can I do to keep her quiet I plan on buying the carry bag two months before our trip and I will be putting her in it every day increasing the time that she goes in and after she settles in for an hour I will start taking her in the car I’m hoping this will help without tranquilizing her I do have to tranquilizer to groom her so I might have to do that. anything help you can give me I would really appreciate I don’t want to be thrown out the window of the airplane ha ha Or would it be better to put her in the cargo hold I really don’t want to do that if I don’t have to. This is an amazing site for beginner travelers with our dogs

Hi, Have you received an answer yet, i’ve also sent a question about air travel with pets.

If she’s that frightened, I would highly recommend tranquilizing her. It’s certainly better for her than having an anxiety attack.

Hello dear Meg I am traveling with air Canada .my dog is 15ib ,dimensions for Air Canada are 21.5 L ,10.5 H ,15.5 W ! I can not find this size ! I am traveling next week & I am really frustrated! Please kindly advise

I understand your frustration as iäm in the same situation

Has anyone flown on Allegiant with their pet? Having trouble finding a carrier that meets their specs. The Delta deluxe by Sherpa is an inch or two higher but will collapse down. Will that work? It is approved by most airlines but doesn’t specify allegiant.

Hi Tammy, most airlines are a bit more generous about soft carriers – so long as they can squish within a couple of inches to fit under the seat, it should be fine, but it’s best to contact the airline and ask.

Please HELP! We will be traveling with our cat to Mexico on Volaris airlines and they require a rigid plastic carrier 17.5L x 12W x 7.5H that goes under the seat and I can’t find it anywhere. Do you know where I can find one that size? I called the airlines and they said it had to be that size. Thanks

Hi, Have you looked on Amazon, i’ve seen many pet carriers there that might comply to yoyr needs, try writing pet carrier 17.5L x 12W x 7.5 on Amazons site, maybe that will help. Good luck! 😉

Hi. Did you end up finding a carrier for Volaris? I am having the same issue. I call the airline and they have NO clue. As far as I can tell, there is no such thing as a 7.5 inch rigid carrier!! I did find and old carrier on EBay that is 8″ and that is the closest I can come. Just wondering what happened with you and your pet 🙂

I am trying to find good crate for my girls they’re just under 30lbs and 30”from snout to butt and 23” tall and 10” wide .. we are moving to Hawaii and this is the most stressful part of all of it!!

Hey Meg! Really need help. I’ve been looking for crates for my big dog poodle 14inH 17inL 7inw. And a crate for a year old puppy. Can you help me out? I’m going on Air Canada

Can you recommend any pet carrier for Turkish Airlines for my needs? My dog is 7.5 kilos and the dimensions for the allowed cabin per carry-on is 23x40x55 cm (width x height x length). The total weight of the bag and dog shd not exceed 8kg, therefore I am looking for a lightweight but strong bag and hope that an extra kilo may be permitted or I may need to out him on a diet:) my dog is a daschund mix so he is quite long:)

how about air canada please… reading max height of 8.5 inches for in cabin. sheesh tell me this is not true. softsided carrier? from toronto to curacao (international flight) airplane 320

Okay, got the whole carrier part down. Now let’s talk about the potty situation. Any ideas

Go before and after, if you have a layover then take your dog out there. On-airplane pottying isn’t really an issue with house-trained dogs.

Hello Would like to konw how to bring my dog from Bangkok to Hanoi vietnam Pls let me know ASAP Thanks

Hello! I need help finding a kennel soft or hard for Alaska Airlines. It cant be bigger than 9.5x11x17 for my 13 pound cat

Has anyone found a mesh that is chew-through proof? Our 10 lb minpin/chihuahua does not like to be confined. Taking him on a short 1.5 hour flight and need to make sure he doesn’t chew is way out (which he has in the past). Thank you for any ideas!

You might want to talk to your vet about an anti-anxiety medication. I would try it out at home first in case of any bad reaction but a calm dog will help-what a crazy place an airport must be for a dog!

Hi there, we are hoping to fly with TAP Portugal but to take a cat in the cabin with you they expect the carrier to be 40cm x 33cm x 17cm – are they for real? I have searched and searched and searched and have yet to find one within these measurements. Does anyone know of any? Thanks!

I have flown with my cat in this carrier on Lufthansa, LOT, American Airlines, Austrian, Czech. No one has measured the case. They just weigh it at check in. On some flights it fits under the seat but not on all depending on how they put the lifejackets under the seats.

Thanks for the tip Regina!

I’m looking into flights with TAP — do you recall what brand of carrier you purchased?

I ha ve an “airline approved carrier on wheels that is 19x14x12 for my 15# Havanese.i have used it for 6 years but on my last Delta flight I couldn’t get it under the seat as the have added electric plug ins in that space and their leg space is now less. Luck lady attendants helped me by moving me up to a comfort seat in one flight and allowing be to have it only partially under the seat on another.

Hi Eileen, I also have a Havanese going on first flight Jed BLue, where did you get the carrier on wheels or brand name? thank you!

I, too, would appreciate any info about traveling with a pet on Allegiant. I am trying to locate a pet carrier for my 18 lb Lhasa/Peke that will fit their requirements of 9″Hx16″Wx19″D. Luckily he is short. He will, hopefully, be flying with me after Christmas.

I have used several airlines Allegent Frontier and Spirit. Spirit does not charge for taking your pet with you. Allegent wants the standard bag size. Frontier was very courageous and I was permitted to use the back pack style that she sits against your chest with the pet facing forward. My pet was secure and calm.

I’m really worried my soft sided carrier won’t meet Frontier’s size requirement due to being over 8” in height. I cannot find one 8” anywhere that will fit my 14 lb cat. How strict are they? Would hate to not make the flight. Thanks!

I’m having the same problem trying to find a 18x14x8 for a Frontier flight. Any luck??

Hi. Just wanted to mention I have a flight booked on Spirit and they do charge $110 for a pet. They also only allow four per plane, so you need to book in advance. They seem very strict about the dimensions of the carrier too. I searched for hours to find one to hold our 8 pound cat and finally found one! PHEW!

I am going to be flying with my dog for the first time and also had to pay. Can you tell me what your found? Thank you

We’re going to move to Panama in December and are taking our cats with us. What dimensions were the carrier you got for Spirit Airlines and soft or hard case?

Hi, I will be flying with my rabbit for a month visit to New Mexico, via El Paso. I will be flying Frontier as there are only two airlines that I know that allow rabbits in the cabin. Do you know of an airline approved carrier that has chew proof mesh? I’ve bought several carriers, but none that is exactly 18x14x8 (total 40″). If the soft side totals no more than 40″ will they let it slide? Thanks.

You might note that size descriptions are length x height x width ( not length x width x height as with plastic and wire crates.) I bought a couple different carriers before I finally bothered to measure and then did considerable research. Many of the agents who answer the phones on websites have no clue that the description of size dimensions is different for the soft side CARRIERS.

Thanks for this post – so helpful!

I called JetBlue and they did say they allow soft carriers larger than the listed size as long as they can be squeezed into the listed dimensions.

Delta quoted me $150 fee and 13″x13″x8″ for the 757-200 I’m flying for a transcontinental flight which seems kind of crazy. You can see slightly outdated but pretty close numbers by plane type at http://www.flygob.com/images/delta_underseat_2017.pdf

Finally it seems like the underseat storage width can actually vary by seat, with middle seats often being the widest, so the actual width there may be bigger or smaller than the carrier limit depending on how the airline decided on their limits and you may want to make your seating choices accordingly.

How can Alaska Air only allow 7.5 inches tall and expect a cat to stand up and turn around?

Hi Donna – I’d suggest opting for a soft-sided carrier if 7.5 seems way too small, as the soft-sided carriers can be up to 9.5 inches tall.

I just found out that INTERJET is the less expensive regarding both human and pet air fair. for humans you have to do your quotation and for pets is just $30.00 flat fee in cabin from the US to MEXICO and in Cargo is also $30.00, flying from Tijuana to Mexico city is just $$550.00 MX pesos around $26.86 Dollars. I am a new customer with INTERJET so far so good. very inexpensive and very reasonable. not like all other airlines that for pet travel they charge and arm and a leg and the pet has to go under as it on the floor paying over $100.00 is ridiculous .

Hi Meg! Thanks for the informative page. I was wondering if you had any recommendations for backpack style carriers for small pets (8lb cat in my case) that I can use for both everyday travels (hiking) as well as flying in cabin? Seeing some on Amazon (ie https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01M0AAEB0/ref=sspa_mw_detail_3?psc= ) but am not sure what to choose since there are so many options! Would love your thoughts. Thank you!

Hey Joyce – we actually have an article all about backpack carriers ! We focus on dogs, but maybe one of those would work well for you and your kitty.

When you say “snub-nosed dogs aren’t allowed” does that refer to travel in the cargo? I have a shih tzu and was planning to carry him on in one of the approved bags but is there a chance he’d be turned away at the airport? I have seen people fly with pugs and frenchies and just assumed he’d be fine as long as he is under the seat!

No, many snub nosed breeds are banned from any kind of air travel. It depends on the airline of course, but after the recent issue with a French bulldog suffocating on a United flight, United had since banned snub-nosed dogs from flying, even in the airplane/under the seat.

Nothing here mentions breeds https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/animals/in-cabin.html

Ah, apologies Melissa – you’re right, the rule is just for dogs flying in cargo.

Need help! having a hard time finding TSA approved carrier for my french bulldog ( 35 lbs, he is muscular).. Please help

Also interested for Frenchie

Hello Meg, just wanted to ask if dog carriers are more advisable than kennels in an international flight (in cabin). Hoping for any feedback. Planning to travel with my pet in cabin, international flight

Hi Maria – while hard or soft carriers are usually allowed by most airlines, I’d opt for soft as they can be easier to adjust and fit under the seat in front of you. My best suggestion is practice with whatever carrier you plan to use prior to the actual trip – try car rides, train rides, etc.

According to Spirit website, only soft carriers are allowed.

Elizabeth, I am looking for a 9h x 16w x19 d carrier for my 13 pound miniature schnauzer. Can you please tell me where I can find a carrier of such size? I have searched everywhere. Thanks Pat

Pat I am in the same boat. Found only 1 carrier with a 9″ measurement & only if you laid it on its side. I have sent an email to Allegiant but they have not answered me. I think they have given these measurements as a way to curtail travel with our dogs.. No way my 14-15 lb dog can stand in a 9″ high carrier.

I’m having the same issue wth Allegent airlines requirements . I can’t find the 9″height requirement. I checked their web site and spoke to an agent to get this info. I woner if I could make one?

I am a travel nurse and need to head to Texas. I have two 10 pound maltese. How would you recommend traveling with them on a plane?

Hi Elizabeth – you’ll probably need to check with airlines, as some allow for multiple pets in a single carrier, but others do not. With 10lb dogs, you’re probably best off with two carriers, but that will likely mean purchasing an additional seat as well.

We’ll be moving soon and taking our two maltese with us. I just need to clarify because I read about many owners traveling with dogs that are much taller than 9.5 inches. As long as the dog can stand up and turn around in front of the agent and then the kennel can be squished down to fit under the seat for take off and landing the kennel is good to go? My Malte’s are both around 7 lb’s and 14 inches in height.

Hey Joules – I think your best bet will be to contact the airline. They’ll be able to tell you exactly, without a doubt, what they allow on their airline.

hello how i can contact you? i need a carried i wanna buy

Hi Rojin – we don’t sell carriers, we just review the ones we deem best for airplane travel. You can find all these products on Amazon (see links in the article) and can order from there. Good luck!

I want to travel with my two (2) chihuahuas in one carrier. Can you tell me which size carrier is airline approved that fits under the seat?

Hi Darlene! I was wondering what type of dog carrier you bought. I have the same situation.

I have a 12 yr old welsh terrier. She weighs 18 lb and is 18 inches when standing. I am wondering if she just misses the mark for traveling in cabin for a short flight.

Hello!! I’m taking my 16 pound terrier mix to Mexico on Alaskan they say the requirements are : 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″ But I cannot find anything that is big enough for him to turn around in. does anyone know of anything that would work? I’m desperate :(. They said dogs under 20 pounds could travel under the seat but I don’t see how with those dimensions! 🙁

Maybe you could try the Petsfit Expandable (medium) – that way you can expand for more space to keep him comfy.

About a year late, but I’m in the same boat, I was wondering if you managed to find something that works?

I have a chihuahua/Pomeranian who is only 8lbs BUT thanks to her kangourou legs, she stands at 15.5 inches tall (foot to the top of her head) I really don’t want to put in her cargo, has anyone had success travelling with a tall small dog, in a soft carrier in cabin?

Hi Meg, i am moving cross country 3 1/2 hour flight on Southwest my 20 pound Sheltis has to go with me there is so much conflicting information I first bought the Sturdibag Large …way to cramped for my girl…bought the Petagon Large a tight fit but looks uncomfortable then I got the Sturdibag Extra Large bingo !!! Looks great and comfy shes small but tall reviews have yes and no’s for the Extra Large Sturdibag . I cant miss my flight ..I cant leave my little girl can anyone give advice ? I’m stressed !!

Hey Siri, Well Southwest’s website ( https://www.southwest.com/html/generated/help/faqs/pets_faq.html ) says that carry on carriers must have a max length of 18.5 inches and height of 8.5 inches. The Sturdibag XL is 20 inches long and 16 inches high, so that may be an issue. However, the carrier is flexible, so the ability to squish the carrier to the right size may mean it’s fine. It looks like plenty of owners have had success taking this carrier on airlines as a carry on. Honestly I think your best bet will be to contact Southwest airlines. That way they’ll be able to give you definite information and put you at ease! Good luck, let us know how it goes!

Thank you this is exactly what I needed as far as information for pet travel! I can not thank you enough!

Happy to help!

Hey Meg –

I’m traveling on Delta Airlines with my 6-7 pound chorkie (chihuahua/yorkie mix) and the maximum dimensions they gave me were 18x12x11 (LxWxH). I see on your list for the sturdi bag you have only one size but on their website I see a small. Would you still recommend the small? It’s dimensions are 18x10x10.

Hi Meg Really need help…been searching for a pet carrier for days now that meet Delta’s requirements given to me. They are 14x12x7. I have 2 Boston Terriers traveling. Thank you for your time.

Looks like the small Bergan or the small Sherpa could work. The Sherpa is 15″ instead of 14″ but I think you could squish it and it’d work fine.

HI Meg Thanks for the site. Maybe you can help me. I am having a difficult time finding a rolling carrier for my 12 pound go for Southwest Airlines. The Measurements they allow approx. 17 to 18 L 10 H and 12 W (these are the max measurements as they confuse you with 3 or 4 different ones} I can no longer carry my dog as my shoulder is not what it used to be. thanks in advance.

Hi Gay – it actually looks like the Snoozer Roll Around 4-in-1 carrier should work for you (#5) and fits the dimensions you specified. Good luck on your trip!

Just curious; did you purchase the Snoozer Roll Around 4-in-1 carrier for your pet and was he/she comfortable. I’m looking for a rolling carrier for my dog to travel SW.

Thanks in advance June

My Corgi/Chihuahua dog weighs 7.25kg. The maximum weight for a dog + carrier in the cabin is 8.5kg. Is there a lightweight carrier that would fit these dimensions? He’d be terrified in the Hold, so need to take him in the cabin. There are so many restrictions for dog travel. I wish the laws would be modernised.

Hey Olivia – not off the top of my head. You’ll have to check out the weights listed in the product description. I’ll work on adding that info here for the future!

Can you recommend any pet carrier bag for Turkish Airlines? Here is the size of allowed cages/bags for pets in the cabin is 23x40x55 cm (width x height x length) for them. All carry on cages/bags must not exceed a total weight of 8kg. We have a cat less then 8 kg and planning to fly with him from Dhaka to Toronto (about 20 hours flight time with 2 hours layover in Istanbul).

The Sleepypod might work as it can actually be compressed to smaller dimensions that I believe meet your requirement. The Petsfit Expandable carrier should work as well. In fact, many of the carriers on the list will work – I’d suggest combing through the product pages for more info. Good luck!

Hi Meg, We will be flying on Allegiant Air, and their dimensions for an in cabin pet carrier are 9 x 16 x 19. Which seems pretty small. We have a 15 lb. toy fox terrier mix that is a little tall. Allegiant also says on line that the animal must be able to stand up and turn around in the carrier. That is not going to happen with these dimensions. Should I call Allegiant or have you heard anything more about this problem?

Thank you, Bonnie

Hi Bonnie – I’ve never heard of Allegiant Air, so afraid I can’t help much. I’d definitely recommend giving them a call and getting more info – those dimensions sound like they’d be tough for any dog! Would love to know what they say- let me know how it goes! Good luck.

I am wondering how things went with Allegiant Air, as I may be traveling using that airline with my dog, too. Can you update us, Bonnie?

I still haven’t traveled with our dog on Allegiant Air. It might happen in the future as we are retired now and don’t want to drive down to Florida every time we go. Have you tried it yet?

Did you ever fly with allegiant with your dog? I’m looking to fly with them in a few months and I’m having trouble finding a carrier that will suit my 6 month old beagle’s needs. Thank you.

Have same question about Allegiant. Have searched many sites & only found 1 carrier that had a 9″ measurement for up to 15 lbs. & that was only if you laid it on its side. I didn’t see on their site where they had to be able to stand. I sent them an email asking for clarifications but they have not answered. I recommend you call because they don’t seem to answer emails. I was wondering if the height can be more than 9″ if a soft flexible carrier since it can smash down to fit under the seat. Please give us an answer if you find anything out & I will do the same. Thanks.

Ms. Harris: Per your comment from Feb.2019 did you fly with your pet on Allegiant? If so what was your experience with a carrier. I also just emailed Allegiant as they don’t pickup the phone on there customer service line said it may take up to 60 days to reply ;/ Well see. I have family flying on Allegiant in July and trying to clarify a carrier, because honestly there are no carriers that meet there sizing for Large pets up to the 20 lbs. need. Any further comment of any experiences you have had or know of will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance E.H.

Hi, I’m traveling with Allegiant in a few months and wanted to take the pup. Has anyone found a carrier or gotten clarification from Allegiant?

Allegiant air requirement is 19 by 16 by 9 has anyone found a carrier this size for my 18 lb miniature Schnauzer?

According to Allegiants website a carrier on bag can be 15 high x 7 wide x 16d. But a pet carrier should be only 9 high x 16 wide by 19 deep. That makes no sense to me. So I’m not sure they are going to restrict a pet carrier because it is 12 high x 12 wide x 18deep. I think It will all depend on if you can fit it under the seat!! I am traveling with my new puppy in Nov, so I hope I am right because I got the largest carrier i could find. The x-zone expandable (noted above) I’m sure if he is going to be about 120 pounds full grown, he will be at least 20 pounds at 8 weeks !

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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

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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.

As of Aug. 1, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has new requirements for dogs that fly into the U.S., so if you're traveling internationally, your dog must be at least 6 months old and vaccinated for rabies, among other requirements to reenter the U.S. If you're traveling domestically and/or with a cat, the U.S. Department of Agriculture requires puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old to travel, but specific destinations and airlines may impose their own age restrictions on top of that.

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.

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• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces
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The 11 Best Cat Carriers Tested With Real Cats In Tow

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• Our Top Picks

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Other cat carriers we tested, what to look for in a cat carrier.

• Why Trust The Spruce Pets

The Spruce Pets / Tamara Staples

With the help of real cats (and kittens!) we tested 30 pet carriers—including hard-sided and soft-sided kennels, bags, totes, and backpacks—then selected 12 top performers. All of our recommendations provide great airflow and a secure environment.

The right carrier for you and your cat will depend on your travel needs—by foot, by car, or by plane—the size of your cat, and your budget. Features like an entry door on top of the carrier can make it easier to get your cat safely inside, plus it's preferred by most veterinarians, who are more easily able to access your pet for care. We also found several carriers that have the ability to limit outside distractions, which can calm a nervous cat. 

After hundreds of hours of combined testing, our favorite cat carriers are the Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel —which is about as lightweight and well-ventilated as hard-sided carriers get—and the soft-sided Petseek Cat Carrier , which has a strong, steel frame structure, but can still fold up for storage. Both carriers have multiple points of access, with doors on the front and top.

Best Overall, Hard-Sided

Petmate pet kennel.

Useful top-loading door

Made with recycled materials

Easy to wipe clean

Lightweight and airy design

Not recommended for pets over 20 pounds

Top latch sometimes misaligns

The best cat carrier for most is one with a rigid design because it provides a cat with a defined interior space. Our top choice among the hard-sided options we tested is the Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel, which has a traditional front door plus a top-loading door, both with gates that securely shut with a dual-spring-loaded latch.

The unwavering structure provided by this carrier will help your cat feel secure—a top priority—but only if you can first get your cat inside. The top door simplifies the obstacle of getting a cat into a carrier by limiting their opportunity to wriggle out before the door is fully shut. And from our experience, we've learned that most vets prefer a cat carrier with a top door because it makes their job easier. Here are more ways you can reduce stress on your cat while traveling .

Like any hard-sided cat carrier, the Petmate Two-Door is big and boxy, making it cumbersome to lug around, but it's also surprisingly light, thanks to thin plastic—though it never feels flimsy—and lots of ventilation holes, which keep it airy inside. The larger 24-inch model weighs 6.4 pounds and the 19-inch version weighs 3.8 pounds, without cats inside. And even with an adult cat inside, we found it relatively easy to take in and out of cars or walk short distances.

Our only structural concern is the handle, which is attached to the top door, meaning the weight of the carrier puts pressure on the hinges and steel latch. But while we noted it as a potential design flaw, the door has been reliably secure through more than a year of use. The steel wire latch to the top door is sometimes a little hard to align, but it's also easy to tell when you've securely closed it.

The Petmate Two-Door is made from recycled materials, with surfaces that are easy to wipe clean. The larger option is designed to carry cats up to 20 pounds, making it appropriate for use with most adult cats. Though it's not recommended, in a pinch we were able to safely use the carrier with two adult cats for a quick trip to the vet. Another of our testers used the Petmate carrier as a temporary den for a foster cat.

Dimensions: 19.4 x 12.8 x 10 inches (small), 24.1 x 16.8 x 14.5 inches (medium) | Weight Limit: Pets up to 10 pounds (small), up to 20 pounds (medium) | Weight of Carrier: 3.8 pounds (small), 6.4 pounds (medium)

• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Jessica Juliao
• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Tamara Staples

Best Overall, Soft-Sided

Petseek extra large cat carrier.

Suitable for larger cats

Foldable for storage

Lockable zippers to prevent cat from opening from the inside

Top, side, and front door entry

Machine washable floor cover

Includes exterior pocket and seatbelt loop

Fabric sides are vulnerable to cat claws

If you have a large cat, like a Maine Coon or a Ragamuffin , or more than one adult cat in your care, the Petseek Extra Large Cat Carrier will help you keep your kitty comfortable while in transit. The interior is big enough to hold and support up to 55 pounds, and then easily fold up and put away until the next time you need to move your cat. We found the carrier easy to carry using the included shoulder strap.

Similar to a traditional hard-sided kennel, this carrier has a rectangular shape, but unlike the traditional cat carrier, this one can be collapsed and folded almost completely flat. The soft-sided carrier has a steel frame, with two cross beams that come apart in the middle for folding.

There are three doors, one on top, one on the side, and another on the front, which has a mesh screen that can be rolled up so that the carrier can be used as a little cat house. The double zippers at each entrance are accompanied by an additional clip that lets you lock the zippers together so that they can't be opened—a thoughtful feature that helps keep the multiple access points easy to secure. There is also a leash tether inside for further security.

The carrier is available in blue or grey, and can be used as a car seat for your cat with straps designed to attach to a seatbelt. A fleece bed is also included which is easy to remove for cleaning.

Dimensions: 24 x 16 x 16.5 inches | Weight Limit: Pets up to 55 pounds | Weight of Carrier: 6.4 pounds

• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Dylan Thompson

Best Airline-Approved

Away the pet carrier.

Removable and washable bed

Crash test certified by the Center for Pet Safety for use as a pet car seat and approved for use in-cabin on most commercial airlines

Durable, water resistant construction

Top door and side door entry

Does not provide sufficient space for larger cats

Does not collapse for storage

The Away Pet Carrier is the most expensive cat carrier on our list, but this multi-use bag will serve you well for years, especially if you fly or travel often with your cat. Plus, there's a 100-day trial period, so you can test out the Away Pet Carrier for yourself.

The Away carrier meets the requirements for use in-cabin on most commercial flights (since requirements can vary from airline to airline, always check with your flight provider in advance). While suitable for flights, the Away carrier is also safe for car travel. It received a five-star crash test rating certification from the Center for Pet Safety , a nonprofit that conducts independent crash tests on travel products designed for cats and dogs.

This carrier is a structured soft-sided bag that holds its shape when empty and does not collapse for storage. It offers two zippered entry points, one on top and one on the side, and the doors are made of dark mesh. There is also an optional privacy panel to isolate your cat from outside distractions if they're too nervous.

Inside you'll find a plush, padded bed that can be removed and machine-washed. It has a water resistant lining, making it easy to wipe the interior clean. There's also a built-in safety collar clip, a key clip in the external pocket, and even a removable name card.

The Away carrier also has a variety of features for carrying and securing, including dual hand straps, a removable shoulder strap, a trolley sleeve for rolled luggage, and latches for attaching to a car seatbelt.

Away's The Pet Carrier is available in two colors, black or coast (a grayish shade of blue).

Dimensions: 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.8 inches | Weight Limit: Pets up to 18 pounds | Weight of Carrier: 3.9 pounds

• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Alessandra Amodio
• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Sarah Naftzger

We Also Like

Travel cat the transpurrter calming cat carrier.

Roomy enough for larger cats

Durable and sturdy

Blackout side panel to help keep cats calm

Multiple ways to carry

Too large to fit under seats of some airlines

Crossbody carrying is awkward

The soft-sided Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier from Travel Cat is a spacious and comfortable for cats of all sizes, and it is loaded with thoughtful design features to help make flight days less stressful.

The carrier is roomy enough for larger cats to move around, stretch, and chill out. It features a blackout panel that can be rolled up or down as needed, helping to keep your cat calm and giving them the privacy they need to relax outside of the home. Plus, there are five different ways to carry this bag—as a backpack, with a shoulder strap, cross-body (although we found it a bit awkward to carry it this way), by the handle located on the top of the bag, or on top of your suitcase secured with the built-in safety strap.

Other features we like include the "escape-proof" zippers that are virtually impossible to unzip from the inside, the slide-out bottom that has a waterproof lining, the removable soft-lined insert, eye-level peepholes, two slip pockets, and a zippered pocket with interior organization and a key clip. If opened via the top, the entire fourth wall can be put down, and the bag has a tether leash, which gives your cat room to stretch out on long layovers. But the carrier might not fit as easily as others on our list in the space under the seats of all airlines.

Dimensions: 19 x 11 x 10.5 inches | Weight Limit: Pets up to 30 pounds | Weight of Carrier: 3.31 pounds

Best Budget

Frisco plastic pet kennel.

Two doors (front and top) for easy entry

Made with 95% pre-consumer recycled plastic content

Lightweight with ventilation throughout

The top door does not stay propped open on its own

The Frisco Two-Door Top-Load Plastic Pet Kennel is an excellent choice for anyone in search of a classic hard-sided cat carrier at an approachable price.

Similar to our pick for Best Overall, Hard-Sided ( the Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel) , this carrier can be awkward to carry, but it will provide your cat with a secure mobile den for any essential trips, like visits to the vet. This carrier offers the convenience of top door entry too. Our cat tester for this carrier, a 15-pound Maine Coon , opted to take a few naps inside, so we think the trips they took in this carrier were enjoyable.

The lightweight case comes in two sizes, extra-small and small, and is made with 95 percent pre-consumer recycled plastic. There are ventilation slits throughout and you can easily add a blanket to make the inside a bit cozier for your cat. It's available exclusively at Chewy.

Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 10.1 inches (extra-small), 24.1 x 16.8 x 14.5 inches (small) | Weight Limit: Pets up to 10 pounds (extra-small), up to 20 pounds (small) | Weight of Carrier: 5.7 pounds (extra-small), 6.4 pounds (small)

• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Jennifer Joanning

Best Budget Airline-Approved

Maskeyon airline approved pet carrier.

Top and side entry through zippered panels

Expandable mesh covered sides

Padded shoulder strap and padded mat included

We found the carrier difficult to move with the extensions open and a cat inside

The Maskeyon Airline Approved Carrier can be used on most commercial flights to keep your cat cozy and secure while they ride under a seat (always check with your flight provider). It may look like other duffle bag style carriers, but on two sides, this carrier has expandable mesh panels that can be unzipped to give your cat room to stretch while you wait to board. These built-in sections will nearly double the amount of space your cat has to move around without adding any bulk or weight.

We found the carrier easy to carry with the padded shoulder strap, and a removable padded mat inside kept our cat comfortable. The carrier's interior and exterior are very breathable and easy to wipe clean. It also offers entry through a zippered top panel and side panel making it easier to get your cat in and out.

Dimensions: 19.5 x 12 x 12 inches, with expansion 43.5 x 32 x 12 inches | Weight Limit: Pets up to 20 pounds | Weight of Carrier: 3.6 pounds

Petsfit Small Soft Cat Carrier

Expandable mesh side offers more room

Outside materials easy to clean

Various ways to carry

Liner might be hard to clean

The Petsfit Cat Carrier provides multiple ways for you to carry your cat comfortably when traveling, including a long strap you can put over your shoulder, two flexible handles, and a side strap you can attach over the handle of your own rolling luggage. It has a self-locking zipper and a leash tether ti attach to a collar to ensure that your furry friend can't escape.

We like the expandable mesh side that allows a cat to stretch out further when in the car or on the plane. This carrier fits easily under a standard airplane seat and with two mesh windows, your pet can peek out and you can peek in. The exterior is composed of mesh along with oxford cloth (a blend of polyester and cotton) that is easy to clean. Plus the soft liner inside is removable and can be spot cleaned or washed by hand.

Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 9 inches, with expansion 17.3 x 16 x 9 inches (small), 17 x 11 x 11 inches, with expansion 20 x 17 x 11 inches (medium) | Weight Limit: Pets up to 9 pounds (small), up to 13 pounds (medium) | Weight of Carrier: 2.1 pounds (small), 2.5 pounds (medium)

Best Backpack Carrier

Halinfer space capsule cat backpack.

Easy to carry as a backpack with mesh pocket on the side for storage of small items

Bubble viewing window on the front with expandable mesh encasement on the back

Leash tether inside to keep cat securely contained

Air holes throughout for air circulation

Difficult to get adult cats to use the small side door

If you're looking for a backpack cat carrier , this was our top pick in that category. With the Halinfer Expandable Space Capsule Cat Backpack, you'll keep your hands free while you comfortably transport your cat on your back. As a backpack, most adult cats will have to sit upright, but with the expansion open, a full-grown cat will have room to spread out. The front viewing window is made out of plastic and resembles a bubble. It's clear with air holes to allow your paw-ssenger to see and smell the environment around them.

There are additional air holes along the perimeter with a mesh pocket for storage on one side and a zippered door on the other side. Ideally, your cat will have no issue with entry through the side door, which was the case with our two kittens, but our two adult cats were not as easy to get inside. If needed, the front clear bubble portion of the carrier can be unzipped giving you more space to calmly get your cat inside.

When you arrive at your destination, you can unzip the mesh expansion to let your cat spread out while keeping them safely contained. There is also a built-in tether to attach to your cat's collar or harness to keep them securely inside. Some cats are excellent escape artists, so better to be cautious.

Dimensions: 15 x 10 x 7 inches | Weight Limit: 12 pounds | Weight of Carrier: 2.5 pounds

• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Jordan Davidson

Best Electronic Backpack Carrier

Petkit pet backpack carrier.

One year warranty from manufacturer

Built-in LED light makes it easier for your cat to see at night

Side pocket designed to carry a power bank

Fan and ventilation system help to regulate your cat's temperature

Power bank not included

The back of the backpack is soft so on occasion movement would push and disturb the cat inside

Give your cat a tech-powered transport with the Petkit Pet Backpack Carrier. Designed for ultimate comfort, this bubble backpack has a built-in fan and ventilation system to facilitate airflow. There is also an LED light inside that gradually gets brighter as the environment gets darker to help your cat see. These advanced features require a power bank which is not included, but there is a built-in pocket to hold the power bank of your choice (we recommended the Anker Slim 1000 Portable Charger ).

The outward-facing bubble viewing window is made of durable plastic and the outer shell is available in three colors—white, blue, and green. The build of the exterior feels substantial but may get scuffed over time with use. The back of the satchel, the part that connects with the shoulder straps, is padded and soft. We found it comfortable to wear with our participating cat inside. However, the pad is pliable so your cat will be able to feel your movement which we found would occasionally disrupt our cat during our journey.

The backpack is recommended for cats up to 17 pounds and weighs three pounds on its own. It also comes with a one-year warranty from PetKit.

Dimensions: 13 x 12 x 18 inches | Weight Limit: Pets up to 17 pounds | Weight of Carrier: 3 pounds

• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Elise Wojczyk Wang

Best Budget Backpack Carrier

Henkelion cat backpack carrier bubble bag.

Available in seven colors

Padded shoulder straps and chest strap for weight distribution of carrier

Zippered entry through side mesh door or front bubble

Leash tether and removal pad inside

Too small for larger cats (maximum weight of 10 pounds)

The Henkenlion Cat Backpack Carrier Bubble Bag is affordable and comfortable to wear, but if you have a bigger cat (10 pounds or more), this carrier might not offer enough space. We wore the carrier with a nine-pound feline inside and they seemed comfortable, but we would not want to keep a cat that size inside this backpack for a long excursion.

The front of the backpack is made of clear, round plastic so you can see your cat and they can see the world around them. There are holes for air ventilation on the front and on the sides of the carrier along with a mesh pocket. Inside you'll find a removal pad and a leash tether to keep your cat securely attached to the carrier. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, and there is also a chest strap for extra support and weight distribution.

Dimensions: 12.2 x 11.4 x 16.5 inches | Weight Limit: Pets up to 10 pounds | Weight of Carrier: 2.91 pounds

• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Lydia Price

Best Collapsible

Sportpet designs travel cat carrier.

Folds and unfolds easily for travel and storage

Extra large sized carrier can accommodate more than one cat, up to 40 pounds

Extra large carrier sold out at time of publish

If you are looking for a reliable cat carrier that doesn't take up a lot of storage space, the SportPet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier is the one for you. This hard-sided carrier offers the stability of a classic rectangular kennel without having to dedicate as much closet space.

The triangular shape of this carrier reminds us of a classic A-frame house, but the sides are not perfectly symmetrical. With this unique shape, the carrier is able to offer a sturdy yet comfortable space for a cat, but it's also easy to collapse and fold when it is not in use. For safety, the frame of the carrier locks in place with two latches and two red-colored clips. The carrier is made out of steel and plastic for durability and is available in two sizes, extra large and large. The biggest version of the carrier can support more than one cat with a maximum weight of 40 pounds.

Dimensions: 25 x 20.2 x 19 inches (extra-large) | Weight Limit: Pets up to 40 pounds (extra-large) | Weight of Carrier: 6.4 pounds (extra-large)

• PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Emma Wenninger

Best Roller

Gen7pets geometric roller with smart-level pet carrier backpack.

Telescopic handle and wheels make this carrier easy to transport

Can also be carried as a backpack with adjustable padded shoulder straps

Leash tether inside along with removable cushion for cleaning

When used as a roller, some cats may find the tilt of the carrier unsettling

One of humanity's greatest inventions, the wheel, can be put to good use by helping you transport your cat with the Gen7Pets Geometric Roller with SmartLevel Pet Carrier Backpack.

This roller bag has a telescopic handlebar that is easy to pull up and put down. The carrier is also equipped with adjustable shoulder straps for use as a backpack keeping your hands free. There are two zippered panels made of mesh that can be used for entry or as windows. If you do want to give your cat a taste of freedom while they stroll, there is a leash tether inside that can be latched to a collar or harness. This will keep them securely attached to the carrier while they poke their head out of an unzipped window.

The carrier comes in two sizes, large can hold up to 20 pounds while medium maxes out at 10 pounds. We found the medium-sized carrier easy to use as a roller and a backpack, but when we tried to pull the carrier like a suitcase, our cat was startled by the tilt of the carriage.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 19 x 18.5 inches (medium) | Weight Limit: Pets up to 10 pounds (medium) | Weight of Carrier: 6.8 pounds

Final Verdict

Our best overall, hard-sided cat carrier is the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog & Cat Kennel , which offers structured support, excellent ventilation, and two entry doors—including one on top. Our favorite soft-sided carrier is the Petseek Extra Large Cat Carrier , which provides a stable yet mobile den for a cat and can be folded for storage.

In total, we tested 30 different cat carriers, including hard-sided and soft-sided kennels, bags, totes, and backpacks. We purchased each cat carrier and sent it to a volunteer's home, along with a written methodology that guided them from setup through long-term testing.

Testers first documented the ease of setup and their cat's initial reaction to the carrier, taking photos along the way. Testers then evaluated each carrier's quality for themselves, exploring features and functionality, recording their thoughts, and answering a bevy of questions.

After three weeks of use incorporating the carrier into their routine, each tester provided detailed feedback and numerical scores across four categories: performance, portability, quality, and value. Additionally, each cat carrier will remain with the tester for ongoing insights.

Equipped with this first-hand information, we ranked and categorized our top picks to simplify your search for the purr-fect cat carrier to suit your needs, habits, and preferences.

Sherpa The Original Airline-Approved Deluxe Pet Carrier : With a soft fleece liner and mesh ventilation throughout, this carrier provides a cozy and airy space for a cat, but it's better suited for small cats. Our 7-pound feline participant had plenty of space, but cats over 12 pounds would likely find the airline-compliant sizes of this carrier to be a snug fit. Sherpa offers larger version of the The Original Deluxe Pet Carrier , and if you don't plan to fly with your cat, this might work for you.

Wild One Pet Carrier : This airline-compliant carrier is a solid choice with a lot of useful features, including a padded mat that expands, storage pockets, and the ability to unzip each section. We put this carrier in the same category as Away The Pet Carrier , our choice for Best Airline-Approved , and ultimately the Away Pet Carrier, with a five-star certification from the Center for Pet Safety came out on top.

Morpilot Cat Carrier Backpack : While testing this backpack, our cat participants felt at ease riding inside—even playing hide and seek in the carrier while at home. Ultimately, the carrier's boxy shape and the fact that it doesn't have an optional expansion component put it behind our Best Backpack Carrier selection, the Halinfer Expandable Space Capsule Cat Backpack .

Look for easy-to-clean surfaces, recommends Registered Veterinary Technician and professional dog trainer (KPA-CTP) Jaime Lyn Bast. "Lingering odors will be offensive to your cat," she says. Check to see if any removable fabric or foam padding is machine-washable.

“The safest carrier is made of sturdy plastic with access doors on the top and the side. A rigid carrier protects your cat from any external impact,” Bast told The Spruce Pets. “Cats are easily stressed by jostling and disturbances during transport, and hard-sided cat carriers make it easier to maintain consistent, level support."

The carrier must be large enough for your cat to stand up and turn around comfortably, but small enough that they feel secure and avoid excessive movement during the ride she says.

The ideal cat carrier should also have easy-to-use latches or zippers, according to Bast. "You should be able to open the crate easily with one hand."

Opaque Sides

"A visual barrier helps your cat feel protected from outside threats," says Bast. If you have a rigid carrier cage with a lot of places to look out, can also try covering it with a sheet or towel to help your cat feel secure.

“Ideally, you should train your cat to become comfortable with their carrier by leaving it out and placing blankets, toys, and treats inside. Once your cat forms a positive association with the carrier, you can entice them with treats to willingly enter,” suggests Bast. “However, if you have not had a chance to train your cat, or they do not voluntarily enter their carrier, you will have to place them inside."

Cats commonly resent their carriers due to pain and fear associated with improper loading she says. Always handle your cat gently and calmly to prevent panic. "When lifting your cat, support their body to avoid causing fear or discomfort. Gently lower your cat inside the carrier from above or, if using the side door, guide them in backwards (i.e., rear-end first). If your cat struggles, you can wrap them snugly in a towel, slide them inside like a swaddled baby, and then unwrap them.”

“Your cat will be comfortable in their carrier if they identify it as an extension of their territory,” notes Bast. “To achieve this, the carrier must be a predictable part of the home and an attractive hangout for your cat." Here are her training tips:

• Place the crate near your cat’s favorite resting spot.

• Remove the top and door initially, if necessary.

• Place a cozy blanket inside the carrier, sprayed with a synthetic feline pheromone to attract and calm your cat.

• Periodically place toys and treats inside the carrier for your cat to discover. 

• Feed your cat near, and then inside the carrier.

• Close the door briefly with your cat inside, then open the door.

“Gradually increase the time your cat spends in the carrier, so long as they remain calm,” says Bast. “If your cat panics, take a step back and progress more slowly.”

To help your cat remain calm during veterinary visits:

• Do not feed your cat in the hours preceding a car ride to prevent nausea.

• Drape a towel misted with feline pheromones over the carrier to create a visual barrier.

• Keep the carrier elevated on a chair or counter, and away from curious dogs.

“Cats should never travel loose in the car," explains Bast. "Unrestrained cats may distract the driver, impede driving, and risk severe injury, escape, or death in an accident." Cat carriers for car travel should keep your pet in a secure carrier on the floor behind the driver's seat. This location provides better security and stability during a sudden stop, turn, or collision, she says. “Carriers placed on the backseat may be tossed about on the ride or fall off the seat, distressing and potentially injuring the cat.”

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

This roundup was written by Anna Mejorada , a writer for The Spruce Pets, with hundreds of hours of experience testing pet products, both in our labs and at home. Before researching and writing about pet products for a living, Mejorada embarked on a self-mandated, ongoing quest to find the optimal items for her dog, a happy Pomeranian named Gidget. She is now delightfully devoted to helping humans discover and select the most favorable products for their pets.

A previous version was written by Lorraine Wilde who has had at least two cat companions in her home for the past 35 years including some special needs kitties.

We also consulted with Jaime Lyn Bast, a Registered Veterinary Technician and professional dog trainer (KPA-CTP) with over 10 years of technician experience.

More from The Spruce Pets

The 10 Best Pet Carriers for Traveling with Cats and Dogs

Because your fur baby deserves the crème de la crème.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

Planning to take your furry friend with you on your next vacation? Don't forget to add one of the best pet carriers to your list of travel essentials . These are key for keeping your pet comfortable and safe during any journey. Plus, the best kinds can fit right underneath the seat in front of you when you’re flying.

When shopping, it's important to “select the version that suits your pet's size, temperament, and travel needs," advises Zay Satchu, DVM, chief veterinary officer and cofounder of Bond Vet . Similar to traditional luggage , pet carriers come in both soft and hard-sided options. "Often made of flexible nylon, soft pet carriers are ideal for smaller pets and offer a cozy, nest-like environment," says Satchu. "On the other hand, hard-sided plastic carriers provide extra protection and are ideal for larger or more active pets," she says.

No matter which style you choose, however, your pet should "always have enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably," Satchu advises.

Our picks for the best pet carriers in 2023

Best Overall Pet Carrier

Max bone all-in-one travel carrier.

Best Designer Pet Carrier

Paravel cabana pet carrier.

Best Hard-Sided Pet Carrier

Amazon basics hard-sided pet kennel travel carrier.

And to help ensure the most fuss-free adventure possible, make sure to give your pet ample time to adjust to the carrier before embarking. “Patience and positive reinforcement are key to turning the carrier into a cozy den that your pet will love,” she adds. So you can check one more thing off your to-do list, we found the 10 best pet carriers pet owners recommend. With handy features like smooth wheels and extra storage pouches, they'll make traveling with your furball way less stressful and far more seamless.

Why We Love It

What to consider.

Dog moms, this one's for you. Max Bone's All-In-One Travel Carrier certainly lives up to its name. It has memory foam bedding and breathable mesh sides to keep your pup super comfortable. Plus, it features multiple storage pouches, a front rubber waste-bag dispenser, and special latches that can fasten to a car seat belt. Thanks to its versatile straps, you can also carry it by the handles or as a crossbody bag or backpack.

Customer Review: "My doggy loves it! It is gorgeous and functional too!"

• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.5 x 11 inches
• Weight maximum: 20 pounds

Oprah loves Paravel's high-quality bags, including its styles designed for furry friends! Just like the brand's fan-favorite totes, this chic pet carrier is monogrammable and sustainably made of upcycled water bottles. Even more reason to buy? Every purchase of these carriers will help cover medical and transportation costs for pups at Rescue City , a dog rescue based in Brooklyn, New York.

Customer Review: "My dog is not a huge fan of carriers, but he is warming up to this one. I appreciate the two different opening options."

• Dimensions: 11 x 11 x 20.5 inches
• Weight limit: 20 pounds

Amazon customers are raving about this sturdy hard-sided carrier, featuring over 46,000 four and five-star reviews. The ventilated, plastic kennel has a steel wire door with a spring-loaded latch for easy access, but it can also open from the top, too.

Customer Review: "The screws are a little hard to put in. The clips work fine, but you need the screws to be airline- approved. I like the top opening, which is hard to find in a little crate like this. Very well-made. Very pleased with it!"

• Dimensions: 22.83 x 14.96 x 12.99 inches

Kenneth Cole Pet Carrier Backpack

This backpack will help you go completely hands-free when traveling with your furry friend. Featuring wide, dual-side openings, getting your pet in and out of this bag will be a breeze. It's even equipped with a mesh peek-a-boo pocket so your furball can take in all the action.

Customer Review: "Wonderful carrier. The opening is large and it’s so much easier to get my cat inside than his old carrier. It’s comfortable and stylish. Great purchase."

• Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 11 inches
• Weight limit: 22 pounds

Fable Pets Carrier

For those quick errand runs, pop your cat or dog into this stylish carrier. While it has an open design, the sleek leather tote comes with a leash attachment to keep your pet secure.

Customer Review: "Ivy Rose absolutely loves trekking through the city in her stylish blush carrier. The leather is high-quality and durable with a roomy interior to fit a few toys and a blanket if needed. Definitely worth the purchase for pups on the go!"

• Dimensions: 15 x 6.5 x 11 inches
• Weight limit: 15 pounds

pidan Roller Pet Carrier

This spacious pet carrier includes sturdy rubber wheels that easily glide on surfaces. What's more, it has a built-in fan and internal cushion to help keep Fido cool and comfortable.

Customer Review: "This pet carrier is far superior to other pet carriers I have used over the years. It’s very spacious, contains a soft pillow for the animal to relax on, and even a rechargeable LED light. The big window is great so your pet can see outside and not feel claustrophobic. The wheels roll smoothly on the ground, so you don’t need to carry it for long distances."

• Dimensions: 19.29 x 14.17 x 20.47 inches
• Weight limit: 25 pounds

Diggs.Pet Passenger Travel Carrier

A classic soft-sided option, this travel carrier is small enough for airline travel and secure enough for road trips thanks to its seat belt clips and buckle strap feature. It also comes with a plush bed so your pet can catch some z's and a pee pad in case of any accidents.

Customer Review: "The quality is amazing and it's beautifully designed. Everything in this bag was well thought out and you can tell it’s built to last."

• Dimensions: 20 x 10.8 x 11.5 inches
• Weight limit: 18 pounds

Wild One Travel Carrier

Aside from featuring a main compartment that transforms into a travel mat, this multipurpose pet carrier also comes with a shoulder strap that can double as a dog leash. The carrier also includes ventilated mesh walls and several pockets for added comfort and storage.

Customer Review: "This carrier is amazing. My dog is comfortable, secure, and able to sleep through multiple-hour flights. I also love that it has multiple pockets, so I can put my phone and other items (leash, dog food) under the seat with me."

• Dimensions: 17.5 x 11 x 10 inches
• Weight limit: 16 pounds

Awpland Pet Travel Carrier

Ensure your pet stays calm, cool, and collected with this bubble carrier. It has vents all around and an included electric fan to prevent your cat or small dog from overheating. Not to mention, there's a hidden food bowl attached for easy feeding.

Customer Review: "Great carrier. It's lightweight. My cat was no more unhappy than when in her usual carrier. The added food bowl was nice, as having some treats and the fan going made her fall asleep on our drive."

• Dimensions: 19.3 x 11.8 x 12.6 inches
• Weight limit: 17 pounds

Loobani Pet Carrier with Wheels

After a long day of travel, all we can think about is kicking back and relaxing. We love this carrier for that very reason: It has an expandable feature on the front and back that enables pets to lay down or stand up and stretch. Also, the wheels are detachable!

Customer Review: "I love this carrier! I needed something that would slide under an airplane seat with a height of about nine inches. This fit perfectly. My puppy could see me through it. The carrier separates from the wheels, which made it convenient to put the wheels in the overhead bin. And when I got to my destination, I opened up the 'wings' on either side for sleeping. Love it!"

• Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 9 inches
• Weight limit: 14 pounds

What size pet carrier can I bring on an airplane?

Across all major airlines, your pet carrier will need to fit under the seat in front of you. Typically, the carrier will count as your carry-on (note: It'll be helpful if it has storage pouches for quick access to any essentials!). While specific size restrictions vary by airline, most require pet carriers to measure around 18" x 11" x 11" or less.

How to get your pet comfortable in the carrier

After purchasing your carrier, leave it accessible for your pet to explore at home. This will allow them to get acquainted with the travel piece so you have an easier time convincing them to go inside when the trip arrives. You can even give them an extra push by putting treats or their favorite toys inside. "Gradually, encourage your pet to spend time in the carrier with the door open," says Satchu. "Associate positive experiences with the carrier, like feeding meals inside or giving them treats and praise when they voluntarily enter."

How long to keep your pet in the carrier during travel?

Keeping your pet in the carrier for a couple of hours at a time is usually manageable, says Satchu. "However, it's crucial to take breaks to let them stretch their legs, hydrate, and relieve themselves," she adds.

What to keep in the pet carrier

Once your pet is all comfy in their carrier, make sure you add in a few essentials. Satchu recommends food and water bowls (collapsible ones if possible), a leash and collar or harness, necessary medications, dog waste bags, and cozy bedding. "You might also want to throw in a few of their favorite toys or a comforting item with your scent on it to provide them with some extra familiarity," she says.

Why trust Oprah Daily

Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst covering the latest and greatest products across the home and lifestyle categories. Throughout her career, she has interviewed countless veterinarians and pet experts to learn about the best products for cats and dogs.

For this story, she scoured the internet for pet carriers with glowing customer reviews. She assessed carriers with the best online ratings for factors like reported comfort and durability. Additionally, she tapped a veterinarian for what to look for in the best pet carriers and tips on how to ensure animals' comfort and safety while en route.

Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines; she covers all things home and lifestyle across brands such as Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, Delish, and Esquire. Before joining Hearst, she highlighted small business owners, creatives, and the best shoppable content. 

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Buy new: #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-whole { font-size: 28px !important; } #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-fraction, #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-symbol { top: -0.75em; font-size: 13px; } $23.99 $ 23 . 99 FREE delivery Monday, September 9 on orders shipped by Amazon over $35 Ships from: Amazon Sold by: Henkelion

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Henkelion Cat, Dog Carrier for Small Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey

17.0"L x 11.0"W x 11.0"H

20.0"L x 13.0"W x 13.0"H

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER - With airline-approved design, you can take your pet to go to everywhere. This pet carrier provides two connecting loop handles for balanced carrying as a dual seat belt or luggage strap to secure transport
• SAFETY DESIGN - The adjustable shoulder strap help you hands-free carrying and makes it more safe and convenient pet carrier bag for your travel
• DURABLE - This cat carrier is made of durable and lightweight polyester fabric. The four-side mesh will not only give a safe and comfortable travel for your pet, but also easy for you to check on your pet
• PORTABLE & FOLDABLE - This dog carrier is easy to carry and store, which has a padded shoulder strap and handles
• BOTH SIZES AND WEIGHTS - The mediun cat carrier is designed for small and medium pets within 15" x 9" x 9"(smaller than product) and 15 lbs. Please do not choose your carrier only based on weight. Reference your pets' length and height in selecting a carrier size.

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Product Description

HENKELION AIRLINE APPROVED PET CARRIER SERIES

• AIRLINE APPROVED CARRIER

With airline-approved design, you can take your pet to go to everywhere. This pet carrier provides two connecting loop handles for balanced carrying as a dual seat belt or luggage strap to secure transport. The adjustable shoulder strap help you hands-free carrying.

• CONVENIENT & SAFE

Put the package on your suitcase directly, and your pet can move forward with you synchronously. This design can lighten the burden for you and make your travel relaxed.

• PORTABLE & FOLDABLE

This cat carrier is easy to carry and store, which has a padded shoulder strap and handles.

• Do not place the large pet carrier under an airplane seat: only suitable for daily travel, car seat journey and pet hospital etc.
• Do not take the cat carrier on the Southwest Airlines or Alaska Airline s : our pet carrier is 10.5 inches high(medium size), which is out of the Airlines maximum height (8.5 inches)
• Better available for small and medium pets up to 15lbs(medium size) / 25lbs(large size). Please measure your pet size before acquisition.
• A new pet carrier may have a smell, please wipe it or place it in an outdoor ventilated place for hours before first use.

CUSTOMIZED DESIGN & MATERIAL

WASHING NOTES

• Promptly wipe up any matter or liquid with a damp cloth or sponge.
• NOT machine washable

PRODUCT DETAILS

Black / Grey / Pink / Blue / Purple / Green

2.Dimension

• Medium: 17" x 11" x 11"
• Large: 20" x 13" x 13"

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Customer Review: Cat approved!

Honest review of Henkelion pet carrier

After using for 1 year - my honest thoughts on carrier

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Henkelion TSA Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier

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✅ TheChrisReview ✅

Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Carrier

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Terrific carrier for small cat or dog!

Perfect for cats & dogs! Watch this review before you buy!

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Product information

Product details.

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 17 x 11 x 11 inches; 7.05 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ Most Wished for Pet Carrier
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ October 29, 2018
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Henkelion
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07JZ31KX9
• #1 in Dog Soft-Sided Carriers
• #2 in Cat Soft-Sided Carriers

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Customer reviews.

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 79% 12% 4% 1% 3% 79%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 79% 12% 4% 1% 3% 12%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 79% 12% 4% 1% 3% 4%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 79% 12% 4% 1% 3% 1%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 79% 12% 4% 1% 3% 3%

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.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, size, comfort, portability, and appearance of the animal carrier. For example, they mention it's well-made, roomy, and easy to carry. Some appreciate the clean design and the fact that it'll fit perfectly under an airplane seat.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the animal carrier. They say it's well-made, solid, and has sturdy shoulder straps. The updated mesh feels stronger. Some customers also mention that it'd be a great little carrier.

"Used this for my 9lb chihuahua to fly in and it is perfect! Very durable , comfortable to carry and for them to be in, breathable for them, and the..." Read more

"...regular check-ups (as a puppy, this is quite a few 🙈) but it is a very sturdy & easy to balance when your fur monster puts more weight on one side..." Read more

"This product was so easy to unpackage and unfold. It’s very sturdy and such great quality, i think it’s amazing for your money...." Read more

"...The shoulder straps seem sturdy and are comfy on my shoulder. So far I'm OK with my purchase. B" Read more

Customers like the size of the animal carrier. For example, they mention it's roomy, has different openings, and pockets. Some say it fits great under an airplane seat and is sturdy but still bendable.

"... Carrier fit under the seat with minimal adjusting of the carrier...." Read more

"...side that unzips does not have a screen but it does have a rather large pocket (not stretchy or expanding) that is the width of the carrier...." Read more

"...I also like that it has pockets for me to stick treats or whatever else he needs when going somewhere!..." Read more

"...Plenty of room to move around in and it fit perfectly under the airplane seat . It has ventilation on all sides and a pocket for any dog items...." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the animal carrier. They mention that their pets are able to lay and stand inside comfortably, and that it has a padded mat for comfort. They also say that it holds their pets safely and comfortably.

"...Very durable, comfortable to carry and for them to be in, breathable for them, and the pocket on outside helps to store things like leash and treats...." Read more

"...a super thick & cushy floor but with the Sherpa fleece topping it is soft & makes it to where your pet won’t slip & slide in 500 directions while..." Read more

"...The shoulder straps seem sturdy and are comfy on my shoulder . So far I'm OK with my purchase. B" Read more

"...My 7.2lb Maltese was very comfortable and had no issues the entire trip...." Read more

Customers find the animal carrier lightweight, easy to carry, and sturdy. They say it's not too bulky and is perfect for traveling with pets. They also mention that it'll fold up easily and can be carried over their shoulder. Customers also like that it can be used and stored when not in use.

"...ups (as a puppy, this is quite a few 🙈) but it is a very sturdy & easy to balance when your fur monster puts more weight on one side than the other...." Read more

"...It was also very easy to carry him on my shoulder . It’s great quality, I even had someone ask what brand it was. Would highly recommend." Read more

"...it's much more comfortable for them. It's a whole lot easier to carry , and comes with a shoulder strap to make it even easier...." Read more

"...(was not awkward to carry ), and held up carrying around 35 pounds of weight...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the animal carrier. They mention it has a clean design, a cute little mat on the bottom for comfort, and discreet look. The color is really nice and the bag is well made.

"...The teeth are nice , thick & zip/unzip smoothly without catching and the zipper pull is actually metal instead of plastic so it won’t break as easily...." Read more

"...The green color is so nice looking , just as pictured...." Read more

"...The purple color is deep which I like. I bought the carrier mainly to get my cats safely to and from vets visits and haven't used it yet for that...." Read more

"This is a well design and spacious bag for my 15lbs poodle. Shes able to lay and stand inside comfortably...." Read more

Customers like the value of the animal carrier. They mention it's a great budget carrier, well-made, and easy to handle. Some say that the size is good for the price and that it could fit a large cat or small dog.

"...It’s very sturdy and such great quality, i think it’s amazing for your money ...." Read more

"... great product for the money ." Read more

"...It is very reasonably priced . I highly recommend this carrier." Read more

"...4 stars because of the great price ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the carrier. They mention that it works well for their pets, and it gets the job done. Some say it's a great car seat, and works well in the car.

"Used this for my 9lb chihuahua to fly in and it is perfect !..." Read more

"...My 7.2lb Maltese was very comfortable and had no issues the entire trip ...." Read more

"... This one worked perfectly ...." Read more

"...It works well for a small puppy . I used it to bring my puppy to the vet, store, etcUnfortunately, he outgrew it at approximately 10.5 pounds...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the zipper. Some mention the zippers are very convenient, with multiple flaps for your dog to enter the carrier. They say the zipper is secure and feels sturdy. However, some customers say the front window is a single zipper and the side and top zippers can be difficult to open and close.

"...The teeth are nice, thick & zip/unzip smoothly without catching and the zipper pull is actually metal instead of plastic so it won’t break as easily...." Read more

"...Bottom was pretty solid, but the sides just all zip up , its not an actual frame...." Read more

"...It also has 3 sides with mesh and also zippered, the top has zipper and mesh . The mesh makes the carrier airier...." Read more

"...The zippers are more plastic on the openings . But, I like it, because it is the right size for my pet...." Read more

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