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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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Related Articles

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

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.

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.

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."

8 Best Luxury Designer Dog Carriers & Bags – A Stylish Selection for 2020!

Why get a dog carriers.

There are many reasons why a pet owner buys a carrier for their pooch. Possibly the best one is for safety and security.

If you travel with your pet in the car then you should remember that in some countries, they must be seat-belted in the back seat.

They can also be secured in a carrier. This makes taking your pooch to the vet easy as they are already in the carrier when you arrive.

Often pet owners like their dogs to go on outings with them so choosing a carrier for them becomes an important factor.

Your dog needs a carrier where he can relax when he gets tired of playing. This needs to be the right size for him to lie down in and stand up without feeling cramped.

Having an older dog or one who suffers from arthritis may mean that without a carrier they could not go anywhere with their owner, so a bag or carrier is an excellent idea here.

In this instance the interior should be soft so that any bumping does not hurt the dog.

There are literally hundreds of carriers and bags on the market and there are also several things that you should take into account before buying a bag or carrier for your pooch.

Size is the first thing that you must think about. The last thing your dog needs is to be in a bag or carrier that is too cramped and tight.

You should measure your dog’s full height from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders. Now add at least three inches onto this length. This is to ensure your dog can stand tall, this may differ between dog breeds.

You should measure from base of tail to front of nose and then add a few inches so that your dog can turn around.

Some carriers such as those which are designed for backpacking will be suitable for dogs within a certain weight range so make sure that you have a good idea of how much your dog weighs.

Don’t use a bag if your dog is over the recommended weight limit as the bag may break.

It is also not a good idea to get a bag or carrier that is too big for your pooch as the dog could slip around and get hurt.

Additionally, if your dog wants to use the toilet, he may be tempted to use the bag because there is so much extra room.

What Makes Designer Dog Carriers Different?

Many of them are designed to look just like an accessory that you might wear. They don’t look anything like a regular carrier.

Designer carriers and bags are normally very comfortable and plush looking although they may not be suitable for using on an airline where extra security measures are needed to ensure that your pooch does not escape.

Types of Dog Carriers

There are several types of dog carriers and bags and what you need them for will dictate the style that you buy.

Flying or long-distance travel

Airlines have their own specifications of the sizes of carriers for each dog breed. You should find all this out before you make any travel arrangements.

These carriers will have solid sides and enough space for the dog to completely turn around. It should also come with a water bowl which normally fits on the side of the carrier. The door must be lockable.

Quick errands

This includes taking your dog to the vet. If your small pooch is afraid of the street noise, then it makes sense to carry them in a safe place where they feel secure.

Having a bag or carrier to transport your pet may also help to calm them down on the way. Many times, these types can be made with soft sides, although this will depend on the size of the dog.

Larger dogs may be better off in a solid sided carrier as normally they cater for larger sizes but also they are tougher.

A dog who gets agitated at people who pass by may be better off with a carrier which has solid sides so he cannot see out and they are harder to escape from.

Walking or hiking

If you and your pooch enjoy heading out into the country, you may want to get a backpack type of carrier. Wearing the backpack will be easy on your own back, as well as keep your pooch safe until you stop with them.

This style is also good for dogs who suffer from arthritis as they can be comfortably carried next to their owners.

Backpacks can often be worn on the owner’s front if they prefer the dog to be looking ahead as they walk .

If you intend to go cycling with your pooch, then there are carriers available to keep dogs safe as you ride. They will normally have a seat belt and can be mounted on either the front or the rear of the bike.

These carriers are made for small dogs only as they will not take the weight of larger, heavier dogs. Larger dogs can be introduced to carriers which are pulled behind bicycles.

It is never a good idea to just harness your pooch and attach him to your bike. If he gets a start and runs off, he may find himself under the wheels of your bike.

Additionally, most small dogs cannot run as fast as a bike would go so better to have a carrier where he can sit comfortably as you ride. The carrier can be secured to either the front or the rear of the bicycle.

4 Best Designer Dog Carriers

1) mr. peanut’s expandable airline approved soft sided pet carrier.

The sides are made from plush faux fleece padding and the carrier is nicely rounded. The carrier can take a pet weighing up to 15 lbs.

The carrier is strong and waterproof as well as being lightweight with mesh on all sides for extra ventilation.

The bedding is removable and can be washed. The shoulder strap is padded for extra comfort when carrying the dog. There is a zipper storage area where you can keep some treats while you travel.

2) Ibiyaya Top Loaded Pet Carrier for Dogs

The material used is high impact resistance and still lightweight. You will find that the carrier does not lose its shape even after several years of usage.

The front-loading zips are lockable to prevent an accidental escape and there is also a side mesh entrance which allows extra air inside.

The interior is removable and washable, and the exterior can be vacuumed to keep it clean or wiped with a damp cloth.

For storage the carrier folds down to just 3” so can easily be hidden away while not in use.

3) Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

Made from improved fabric there is no chemical smell, the shoulder strap is sturdy, and the zippers are self-locking to prevent an accidental escape.

The inside of the carrier is spacious and roomy, and the side entry is large enough for a medium sized animal. The fleece bed is washable, and it can take a pet weighing up to 20lbs.

4) SturdiBag Large Flexible Height Pet Carrier

The shoulder strap has four adjustments and is padded for extra comfort. All the mesh windows come with privacy flaps for when your pooch wants to sleep.

The interior is attached by Velcro and can easily be removed to be washed. The zips have security clips and a tether, so your pooch won’t escape.

This carrier can take a pet weighing up to 40 lbs and can hold most small to medium breeds.

4 Best Designer Dog Bags

1) sherpa travel original deluxe airline approved pet carrier.

The bag is suitable for airline travel or just travelling around at home. The windows are mesh for extra air flow and both the top and side zippers are lockable.

There is a rear pocket where you can keep a few treats for your pooch and this bag comes with a seat belt and non-slip shoulder strap. The large size will take a pet weighing up to 22 lbs.

2) PetsHome Dog Carrier

There is a fixed leash inside to prevent accidental escape and the ventilation is very good. The mesh comes on two sides to allow extra ventilation and there is a full zip opening on the top.

This bag conforms to the under-seat regulations of most airlines and the small size can hold a pet weighing up to 22 lbs.

3) Kenox Fashion Dog Carrier Bag

The handles are long and comfortable, and the bag has a mesh top opening. The zippers are snag-proof.

What is nice about this bag is that is does not look like a pet carrier, in fact, most people will not even know that you have your pooch inside.

4) Peanut’s Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier

The bag has breathable mesh on the sides for extra ventilation and a padded shoulder strap for easy carrying.

The travel bed is removable for washing and there is a name tag attached. The bag comes with a zippered mesh storage area for treats or paperwork. There are also seat belt attachments.

How to Properly Use Dog Carriers

Before buying a pet carrier of any type you should be clear on what you need it for. If you are travelling by plane, then your requirements will be different than if you are simply carrying your dog around town.

Make sure that the carrier or bag allows your dog enough room to stand and turn around, even though carriers for airlines are measured to fit under the seats when the dog is lying down.

Always make sure that the carrier is secured on the back seat of your car and that the seatbelt is threaded through the handle. This is because an unsecured bag can slide around the car and fall off the seat.

Don’t put a lot of items in the carrier. They simply take up your dog’s valuable moving space. They can also injure your dog.

Never pile things on top of the carrier and always make sure that the mesh vents are open, so your pooch has plenty of fresh air.

How to Make Sure Your Dog is Comfortable

Ventilation.

Any carrier or bag you buy should have enough mesh vents to allow the air to flow freely. Additionally, having mesh on the sides allows your dog to look out and this will keep your pooch calmer when you travel.

If you intend to travel with your pet in the plane with you, then the most important thing is that the carrier is well ventilated.

You will need to place your dog under the seat in front of you and this will become very hot and airless. Your dog may become dehydrated if there is not enough air circulation.

The inside of the carrier or bag should be comfortable, removable and washable. Any blankets you add should also be soft and washable.

You should not add too many layers to the inside because this will mean there is less place for your dog.

Unless it is bitterly cold where you are taking the carrier there is no need for more than one blanket for your pooch to sleep on.

Keep the number of toys inside to a minimum also, otherwise there will be no room for your dog to lie down. He will find himself surrounded by playthings and no space to sit or lie.

The exterior should be easily cleaned and have a storage pocket where you can keep some treats or a small water bowl.

The zippers should be lockable so that they cannot accidentally open and allow the dog to escape.

Small dogs prefer soft sides in a carrier, they will also prevent the smaller dog from being knocked and bumped against a hard cage.

Small dogs are easily injured, and care must be taken to keep them safe.

Ideally your dog needs to be able to see some of the outside world so having mesh on at least two sides is something to look for.

Mesh also allows for more ventilation.

Other Considerations

We’ve all heard the phrase that ‘we get what we pay for’ and this is very true in pet carriers and bags. It is not a good idea to buy the cheapest carrier because it simply won’t last as long as a good quality one.

The last thing you need is for a zip to break and your dog to escape at the airport or on a busy road.

If the carrier has external pockets you should make sure that there is no chance of your dog getting out that way.

Ideally the zips should be lockable so that they don’t open accidentally and give your dog the chance to escape.

Dogs can find travel very stressful and will run off in sheer panic if they are scared. Additionally, having a zip open unexpectedly and your small dog fall to the ground will not be good for either you or your pooch.

Buy the carrier based on the size of the dog at the time, not how tall he will be at adulthood.

Your dog needs to be able to stand and turn completely around in ease and not rattle around like a pea in a pod. Too big is not a good idea. If the carrier is too large you may find that your dog uses one end as his toilet area.

Larger dogs may prefer hard sides to their carrier, but small dogs are safer in a carrier with soft sides.

Additionally, a hard-sided carrier may be easier to clean but it will not give your dog a cosy, safe feeling, although adding homely blankets would help.

Choose the carrier based on the dimensions of the dog rather than completely on the weight. Some breeds have wider shoulders, while other breeds are taller and need extra height in the carrier.

Before buying a carrier for flight you should check the requirements of the airline you will be using as they differ from one airline to another.

All of them will insist that the carrier is completely lockable so that the dog cannot escape, either in the airport or on the plane.

If your dog is going to travel in the cargo hold of the plane, he will need a solid sided carrier, but a cabin carrier can be soft sided.

Dogs who are anxious may be more comfortable in a carrier with mesh sides so they can see out, while solid side carrier are better for the dog who always barks at strangers.

Final Thoughts: Dog Carriers & Bags

Pet carriers which are to be used for flying will be different to those that you would use for visits to the vet. Dog carriers which are to be used for hiking and cycling will be different from any others.

What is the same, no matter which carrier you choose, is that it should be well made, and sturdy enough to house your dog safely and comfortably.

Never put the price of the carrier above the safety factor. It is not worth paying a ‘bargain basement’ price only to find that the carrier falls apart when you least expect it and your dog is put in danger.

The pet carrier should be able to be harnessed to the back seat of the car, on the back seat, not on the floor and not in the front.

It must be big enough for your pooch to stand up and turn around in, and the dog should not be cramped. The carrier needs to be attached to a seat belt so that in the event of an accident it will stay in place.

Most countries stipulate that a dog must be in the back seat instead of in the front. Some state that they need to be in a carrier while other countries are happy with only a harness.

Before you travel to another country with your pet, you should find out all the regulations about what is needed for the carrier.

Good ventilation is essential, particularly if you are flying with your pet. It will get very hot under the seat in the plane and your dog must never overheat.

With so many different styles on the market, there is no reason why your pooch should not go with you to all your favorite places – in comfort and style.

Related posts:

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The Very Best Dog Carriers

Dog carriers for flying, driving, and running errands around town..

In this article

• Best overall
• Best backpack-style
• Best collapsible
• Best expandable
• Best tote-style
• Best sling-style
• Best carrier with a laptop compartment

Best dog stroller

A dog carrier is required to take your pup on planes, trains, even the New York City subway — but there are many other circumstances where having a comfortable bag to carry your dog makes good sense. Not only is a carrier often the safest place for dogs, it can also be the coziest and most peaceful place for them too. You might have to do a little convincing at first ( treats and lots of positive reinforcement help), but the right dog carrier will soon become a place of rest and refuge.

To help you narrow down the very crowded field, we talked to 17 veterinarians , trainers, and dog owners — and tested several of these carriers with our own dogs — to find the best dog carriers you can buy online.

What we’re looking for

Dog carriers range in style (and price) from soft-sided duffel-bag-shaped carriers that will fit under an airplane seat, to backpacks that let you carry your pup hands-free, to casual canvas tote bags. Many dog owners, especially those whose dogs are small, end up buying different carriers to use in different situations. But for each carrier you buy, you should think about its function first. If you and your Yorkie are newly bicoastal, you’ll need something that conforms to airline size requirements, preferably with a strap that secures it to your rolling suitcase. If you are planning a road trip with your Cavalier King Charles, you will need a carrier that’s crash-tested to keep them safe. If you’re looking for something to bring your dog along during everyday activities like riding the subway or riding a bike, you might consider something more casual, like a tote bag or a backpack-style carrier. And if your dog loves going for long walks but doesn’t actually like walking for very long, that’s exactly what dog strollers are for.

According to Parisa Fowles-Pazdro, the founder and owner of luxury dog-gear store Maxbone , the type of carrier that most of her customers seek is a “super-simple bag that fits into their everyday lifestyle , like a dog tote. They want it to hold their dog safely, but they also want something stylish so they won’t be embarrassed to be seen holding it.” While tote-bag-style dog carriers tend to be more stylish in general, we took aesthetics into consideration when choosing every carrier on this list, with several carriers recommended in large part because of how nice they look.

Short legs and a long body, brawny chest and thick thighs, skin and bones but covered in voluminous fur — these are just a few of the potential size and shape combinations dog carriers must accommodate. Not all carriers come in multiple sizes, especially those designed to meet airline size specifications, but they should all have easy-to-find dimensions and weight limits listed online. To find one that fits your particular dog, start by measuring your pup from nose to tail and around their widest part. Knowing their current weight will also help ensure you pick the best carrier for their size.

A comfortable carrier is more likely to keep your dog calm and seated while you drive, bike, or carry them around town. Once you’ve found the right size carrier, look for padded interiors, plush bedding, plenty of ventilation, and a sturdy base to help them feel at home. You’ll also want the carrier to be comfortable for you. Padded shoulder straps, lightweight materials, and an ergonomic design will make toting your best friend fun and convenient.

Carriers can be expensive, so you’ll want to make sure the one you buy is going to last. It should be made of durable materials like heavy-duty canvas or nylon, but it should also be easy to clean, with removable, machine-washable bedding and a water-resistant interior lining in case of accidents.

Best dog carrier overall

Style: Soft-sided with mesh panels | Size: Three sizes for weights up to 22 lbs | Comfort: Padded cross-body strap and handles | Materials: Machine-washable sherpa bedding, water-resistant lining and exterior

Over the last few years, Sherpa’s Original Deluxe pet carrier has been recommended to us more than any other pet carrier. It is a favorite of veterinarians, cool dog owners, and at least four Strategist staffers — myself included. I have the small Sherpa carrier, which I have used on several cross-country flights between New York and Los Angeles. It is comfortable to carry, easily fits under the seat in front of me, and is cozy enough to keep my dog Uli calm. The soft faux -sheepskin bed insert is easy to clean, and when I’m not using the carrier, the whole thing folds down to save space. Veterinarian John Iovino, who contributes to the Wildest , has flown with the Sherpa too and appreciates how the top and front openings make it easy to get your dog in and out. He also likes that the mesh-paneled carrier provides good ventilation and offers “a chance for you to see your pet to make sure everything is okay.” Alison Waszmer, the director of Dogtown, a sanctuary for homeless dogs at Best Friends Animal Society ’s Utah headquarters, is also a fan, and describes the carrier as well constructed and comfortable.

While it doesn’t have a ton of extra features, it does come in multiple sizes to fit dogs that weigh up to 22 pounds. The one I have was given to me by a friend who had used it for her cat for several years; I’ve had it for over five years now, and it still looks pretty much brand-new. I also love how lightweight it is and that it has a side strap, which you can slip over a rolling-suitcase handle or use to secure the carrier with a seat belt in the car. The carrier is not only crash-tested, but Sherpa partners with several major airlines (including Southwest, United, and Delta) through a program called Guaranteed on Board , a sort of insurance program for pet owners traveling with their dogs and cats. “The small and medium sizes of the Sherpa Original Deluxe pet carrier are included in Guaranteed on Board, so you can rest assured that your pet travels will go by without a hitch,” says Samantha Schwab, the former resident pet expert at Chewy .

Mia Leimkuhler, the Strategist’s former senior manager of audience engagement, says her dog, Reggie, loves his Sherpa carrier so much that it is now his everyday bed and a place he goes when he’s feeling overwhelmed. “It’s become Reggie’s little safe space, sort of how a crate functions for other dogs, so we leave it unzipped under our bed and that’s where he falls asleep every night,” she says.

Best backpack-style dog carrier

Style: Backpack with mesh panels | Size: Four sizes for weights up to 30 lbs | Comfort: Padded interior and support strap | Materials: Padded shoulder straps, water-resistant

For avid cyclists and hikers (or for dogs who are unable to keep up on long adventures), a backpack-style dog carrier is super-convenient. But not all dog backpacks are created equal. In fact, the K9 Sport Sack is the only backpack carrier that has ever been recommended to us by owners for its ergonomic design that’s suitable for a range of activities and dog breeds. Peter Liu, the co-founder of Rifruf ; Risa Miyamoto , a makeup artist and the owner of a Pomeranian; and Candy Godoy, the owner of Boogie , a pug with over 28,000 followers on Instagram, all own the K9 Sport Sack and use it to walk, hike, or bike with their pets.

Liu says he prefers it to tote-style carriers because his dog fits inside the backpack more comfortably (for both pet and owner). It’s much less tiring to carry his French bulldog, Caesar — who’s “a pretty dense ball of mass,” Liu says — thanks to a lumbar-support strap plus a padded base that helps the pup stay upright and evenly distributes the load on Liu’s back. Miyamoto says she has the K9 Sport Sack in black to carry her dog, Mokutan, on long trails in hot weather; meanwhile, Godoy, who travels regularly and is very active, says she uses it when she needs to be truly hands-free. It’s also the style Logan Mikhly, owner of dog café Boris and Horton , speaks to customers about the most because it’s kind of striking, with slots for the dog’s front paws up top. “It looks really cute, like the dog is giving its owner a hug from behind, with its head on the owner’s shoulders,” Mikhly says.

The brand offers several different styles of its backpack, with the Sport Sack Trainer being the most popular among our experts. It comes in four sizes, all of which can carry up to 30 pounds. Instead of listing the dimensions of the bags, they measure by appropriate size of dog for each backpack. For peace of mind, the bag has dog-safety features, including a carabiner clip, cinch straps, and a collar buckle to keep your dog from jumping out to chase a squirrel. And if your dog is a puppy (or shorter in length), you can buy a three-inch booster block for $10.

Best TSA-approved dog carrier

Style: Soft-sided with mesh panels | Size: One size with a max weight of 18 lbs | Comfort: Padded cross-body strap and handles | Materials: Machine-washable sherpa bedding, water-resistant lining and exterior

Away’s dog carrier is just as sleek, stylish, and functional as the brand’s ubiquitous (and Strat-approved) rolling luggage . It’s crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety , as well as TSA- and airline-approved. It only comes in one size that measures 18.7 inches by 10.8 inches by 10.75 inches, which will slide under an airplane seat and fit small- and medium-size dogs that weigh up to 18 pounds. It is also car-safe and can be secured by a seat belt with two snap-down latches. The carrier comes in black and a calm blue color called Coast. After testing out the blue version of the carrier, I was impressed with how sturdy and safe it feels. While it is technically a soft-sided carrier, its sides and bottom are much more rigid than those of the Sherpa Deluxe. A sturdy base means Uli can relax rather than constantly shifting her weight within the bag. When I use the Away carrier in conjunction with a rolling suitcase, I leave the top open and clip her into the safety tether to keep her from jumping out. This setup feels luxurious, especially with her name embroidered on the side — Away offers personalization with up to three letters for an extra $35. It’s like I’m wheeling a tiny royal around the subway or down the sidewalk.

I haven’t taken the Away carrier on a plane yet, but it has been very handy on the Metro-North railroad and in the subway. Uli is still getting used to it, but she seems pretty comfortable so far — and because she’s so little (she weighs just five pounds), there is room for her to stretch out or for me to pack a bag of treats and toys in the carrier too. Like the Sherpa Original Deluxe, the Away has a soft faux -sheepskin bottom to keep pets extra-cozy (though it’s lower-pile than the Sherpa bedding) and mesh panels for visibility. It also has a roll-down privacy screen to cover the mesh if needed, and lots of exterior pockets, including one with drainage holes. While I would love for it to fold flat so I could store it more easily, at the moment I have it open on the floor of our apartment to help Uli get comfortable with it, and it’s actually so nice-looking that I don’t even feel like I would need to put it away when guests come over.

Best carrier for dogs over 25 pounds

Style: Brushed canvas tote with zipper top | Size: Two sizes with a max weight of 35 lbs | Comfort: Reinforced shoulder straps, padded vegan leather base | Materials: Machine-washable pillowcase, water-repellent lining and exterior

This tote-style option from New York City–based brand Just Fred offers the highest weight capacity of any carrier on this list. Available in two sizes to fit dogs up to 35 pounds, it comes recommended by Sonali Nigam, the founder of Petminded . Although Nigam has owned the smaller model for a year and a half to carry her 10.5-pound rescue named Ella, she emphasizes that the carrier’s base is extra supportive and designed to let dogs (of all weights) rest comfortably rather than stand upright, which can be hard on their backs. And unlike other tote-style carriers, this one zips shut and has sturdy but cushy sides to prevent Ella from swaying and protects her frame, Nigam says. Nigam, who is vegan and says she appreciates that the brand’s accessories are all made of vegan materials, adds that the interior includes a removable pillow. It also comes with a waste-bag dispenser on the backside and a built-in collar clip.

Best collapsible dog carrier

Style: Soft-sided with mesh top panel | Size: One size with a max weight of 17.5 lbs | Comfort: Padded cross-body strap and handles | Materials: Machine-washable plush bedding, water-repellent lining

When we consulted Nicole Ellis , the training and product expert at dog-sitting site Rover , about her favorite car seat for dogs, this one from Sleepypod was her top pick. She is a fan of the brand because it crash-tests all of its pet-safety restraints to meet U.S., Canadian, and European child-safety-seat standards. The Sleepypod Air is both a dog car seat and a plane-friendly dog carrier that is certified by the Center for Pet Safety and meets airline requirements for flying with your pet. Ellis has used it on the road and in the sky and tells us that it has proven convenient and comfortable in both situations. It has straps on both sides that hold your car’s seat belt in place around the carrier, and it has a breathable mesh panel that allows pets to see what’s going on outside. It comes in one size that measures 22 inches by 10.5 inches by 10 inches to fit dogs up to 17.5 pounds, plus the length of the carrier can be compressed from 22 to 16 inches to help it fit into tight spaces when flying. It also comes with a padded, adjustable shoulder strap and a trolley pocket you can slide over the handle of rolling luggage for hands-free transport. Then, the whole carrier collapses and buckles flat for easy storage when not in use. It’s available in nine colors and can accommodate Sleepypod’s electric warmer pad , though you’ll have to buy that separately.

Best expandable dog carrier

Style: Soft-sided with mesh panels | Size: Three sizes for weights up to 18 lbs | Comfort: Non-padded cross-body strap and handles | Materials: Machine-washable plush bedding, waterproof-PVC exterior coating

The Petsfit expandable carrier has an accordion-style mesh window that unzips to create a sort of screened-in porch for your dog. Conrad Russo, blogger and owner of Pet Gear Lab , recommends it for flying with nervous dogs. “Dogs traveling on a plane can have a lot of anxiety, so giving them a little more space makes all the difference,” he says. When the expandable window is zipped up, the case fits airline size regulations. Once boarded and settled, you can expand it to let your dog stretch out. This carrier comes in three sizes, with the medium likely to fit on most planes and measuring 17 inches by 11 inches by 11 inches with a max weight of 13 pounds.

Best tote-style dog carrier

Style: Canvas tote with head cutout | Size: Three sizes for weights up to 20 lbs | Comfort: Reinforced canvas shoulder straps | Materials: Machine-washable

Perry Betts, the owner of a miniature dachshund named Thor , told us that she did a ton of research before deciding to purchase the Wagwear Boat Canvas carrier. “It’s sold at all of the best fancy dog stores in town, and I’ve seen it among cool dog owners who want to avoid looking overly bougie with the Louis Vuitton carrier,” she says. As for functionality, Betts says the canvas tote is super-rugged and almost chew-proof, and there’s a lanyard inside to attach to a collar or harness. The look of Wagwear’s carriers recalls that of the classic L.L.Bean Boat and Tote , which Mindy Montney — the owner of Dog & Co., a style-focused dog-gear shop — says is what dog owners carried their pets in before the niche pet-carrier industry blew up. “Classic tote shapes are the most popular dog bags in the city,” she says, and since dog owners were already using L.L.Bean and similar canvas totes to carry their pets on the subway, it made sense for designers to customize that style of bag with “a U-shaped cutout where the pup’s head can hang out.”

Best (less expensive) tote-style dog carrier

Style: Canvas tote with head cutout | Size: One size with a max weight of 20 lbs | Comfort: Reinforced canvas shoulder straps | Materials: Water-resistant base and trim

Though L.L.Bean doesn’t specifically make a tote bag for dogs, Land’s End does. It has the same New England cachet and is made with heavy-duty canvas that’s coated on the bottom to keep water from seeping in or out of the bag. You’ll pay half what you would for the Wagwear tote, and you can have it monogrammed with your pet’s name. Miyamoto has one that she uses for Mokutan when they’re running errands together, and she says that it’s sturdy, easy to spot-clean, and very cute. Plus, the bag can be monogrammed for just $8. The only drawback she mentioned is that it’s one-size-fits-all — it measures 16.5 inches by 8 inches by 12.5 inches and fits dogs up to 20 pounds and 11 inches tall — while most of the fancier dog tote bags come in multiple sizes.

Best sling-style dog carrier

Style: Sling pouch | Size: Two sizes for weights up to 16 lbs | Comfort: Non-padded cross-body strap | Materials: Machine-washable soft-coated canvas, quilted nylon interior

Mei-i Zien, owner of Maison de Pawz , a Parisian-inspired dog “pâwtisserie,” was introduced to this sling-style carrier by a friend who used it to transport their pug around New York City. Zien bought one for her long-haired Chihuahua named Marcel five years ago and says it’s still in perfect condition after being her most-used carrier for the six-pound dog. She appreciates the hands-free design because it allows her to see her pup at all times, while the structured cross-body strap lets him rest close to her body when she’s holding a coffee , shopping, and even walking another dog. The elastic sides and quilted lining create a snug pouch to support your pet, and a built-in collar clip adds extra security. In addition to the camo pattern, shown, which Zien owns, this carrier is available in six solid colors.

Best dog carrier with a laptop compartment

Style: Nylon tote with mesh top | Size: One size with a max weight 25 lbs | Comfort: Non-padded shoulder straps and padded cross-body strap | Materials: Machine-washable sherpa bedding

The Everyday Pet Tote from Béis combines the casual feel of a tote-style dog bag with the added features of a more serious travel carrier. It has a removable and machine-washable plush lining that doubles as a cozy bed when pulled out of the bag. The recycled polyester sherpa bedding is softer than the included bedding of both the Away carrier and the Sherpa Original Deluxe. And when I laid it on my living-room floor, Uli went straight for it and lounged for hours. The same soft lining covers the zip-down front panel, giving dogs a soft place to rest their heads. The carrier has a safety tether, exterior pockets, a removable cross-body strap, and a mesh top panel. But I am most impressed with the padded laptop compartment that fits my 13-inch MacBook Air, which I have never seen on any other pet carrier. Being able to carry your computer safely in the same bag as your pup is a game changer and would come in handy for weekend trips as well as daily commutes to a dog-friendly office. The carrier comes in one size, measuring 12 inches by 17 inches by 8 inches with a total max weight of 25 pounds (including a laptop).

Style: Collapsible stroller with removable mesh window | Size: One size with a max weight of 33 lbs | Comfort: Padded foam bottom | Materials: Cushioned handlebar, water-resistant Oxford cloth

Wendy Wells, a dog owner and the mother of former Strategist audience growth director Stephanie Downes, bought this stroller because her aging Maltese–Shih Tzu mix named Chandler started having mobility issues and struggles on even short walks. “He loves to go with us everywhere, but he’s too heavy to carry for long periods of time. So now we walk him every day in the stroller and he loves it,” she says. Unsure of whether a stroller would work for Chandler at all, she bought this affordable one to start and says it has worked out great. “The basket is handy, and it’s much easier to get into restaurants and stores that don’t allow dogs with Chandler in a stroller,” she says. Though she wishes the wheels “were a little bit more substantial,” she says that “all in all, I am very happy with it.” The stroller measures 33 inches by 17.5 inches by 39.5 inches and can hold dogs up to 33 pounds when in use. When folded, it measures approximately 29 inches by 15 inches by 8.5 inches. It includes a cup holder, cargo basket, mesh window, and foot brake.

Best dog carrier on wheels

Style: Soft-sided with mesh panels and four wheels | Size: Three sizes for weights up to 22 lbs | Comfort: Padded pull strap and carry handles | Materials: Machine-washable sherpa bedding, water-resistant lining and exterior

If you’re looking for a dog carrier that functions like a stroller but doesn’t look like one, this rolling Sherpa carrier is a great choice. It has all the same features of the Sherpa Deluxe Original, but with wheels and a cute little flag for visibility in crowded airline terminals. Ian Patterson, the owner of a famous rescue Chiweenie named Tuna who has 2.1 million Instagram followers, says it’s a solid option for transporting dogs that are too heavy to comfortably carry around in a tote or a backpack. “We tend to cart Tuna around in this wheeled airplane bag from Sherpa and he loves it. It’s like his little man cave,” Patterson says. Like the non-wheeled Sherpa carrier, this one comes in three sizes to fit dogs that weigh up to 22 pounds.

Some more dog carriers we’ve written about

Our experts:

• Perry Betts, owner of a miniature dachshund named Thor • Nicole Ellis , training and product expert at dog-sitting site Rover • Candy Godoy, owner of a pug named Boogie • John Iovino, veterinarian and contributor to the Wildest • Mia Leimkuhler, former Strategist senior manager of audience engagement • Peter Liu, co-founder of Rifruf • Logan Mikhly, owner of dog café Boris and Horton • Risa Miyamoto, makeup artist and Pomeranian owner • Mindy Montney, owner of Dog & Co. • Sonali Nigam, founder of Petminded • Ian Patterson, owner of a famous rescue Chiweenie named Tuna • Parisa Fowles-Pazdro, founder of luxury dog-gear store Maxbone • Conrad Russo, blogger and owner of Pet Gear Lab • Samantha Schwab, former resident pet expert at Chewy • Alison Waszmer, director of Dogtown, a sanctuary for homeless dogs at Best Friends Animal Society ’s Utah headquarters • Wendy Wells, dog owner and mother of former Strategist audience growth director Stephanie Downes • Mei-i Zien, owner of Maison de Pawz

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The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

48 Published Articles 3400 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to consider with travel dog crates, the 7 best travel dog crates for airlines, the 8 best travel dog crates for cars, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Keep your dog safe and calm with a dedicated doggie travel crate or carrier. Made from strong and durable materials, they are comfortable, secure, and an absolute must-have for dog lovers who never want to leave their furry friends behind.

Not all dog crates are suitable for every size of dog or type of journey. Consider the following before you buy:

There are 2 main types of crates and carriers to choose from, with both styles being better suited to different situations and doggie personalities:

Hard-sided Crates and Carriers — These are an excellent choice for long road trips and can be used as a secure spot for your dog to sleep in when you reach your destination.

Strong and sturdy, they are also an excellent choice for dogs who like to chew, and the molded plastic construction is easy to clean between uses.

Soft-sided Crates and Carriers — These are good for dogs who are used to traveling, and the lightweight design makes them more suitable for use on airplanes and shorter journeys.

As long as you choose the right size to suit your dog, these flexible carriers are easy for you to carry and come with additional features, such as padded shoulder straps and handy storage pockets.

While you may be restricted by airline regulations or the physical size of your cargo area, it is super important that the dog crate or carrier that you choose has enough space for your dog to travel comfortably in.

It should be big enough for your pooch to sit, stand, sleep and turn around in while still being compact enough to keep them feeling safe and secure. As a general rule, the crate or carrier you choose should be no more than 6 inches longer than your dog.

Crates and carriers are usually available in different sizes to suit a wide variety of breeds. Measure your dog from his neck to his rear legs and again from his shoulders to the ground to get a good idea of which size crate or carrier will suit him best.

Most manufacturers will also recommend a maximum weight for their crates and carriers . This is particularly important if you are planning on carrying your dog around in it.

If your dog is between weights or sizes, always choose the crate or carrier that can offer the greatest capacity to ensure that it is strong enough and roomy enough for them to feel comfortable in.

The crate or carrier you choose should be strong and sturdy enough to secure your 4-legged friend in transit without making them feel scared or uncomfortable.

Look for crates and carriers that have strong zippers or clasps on the doors to stop your dog from making an escape, and only ever choose a model that offers mesh sides or ventilation slots to ensure that your dog can breathe easily.

If you are traveling in your vehicle, the crate or carrier should be kept secure using the seat belt or shoulder harness to stop your dog from being thrown around on the road.

Some dogs get very nervous when traveling, and others really don’t like being confined in a crate or carrier.

Try and make them feel more comfortable by looking for options that offer soft and cozy seating areas that can be washed between uses , and maybe throw their favorite toy or blanket in there with them.

Bottom Line: Mesh sides are not only useful for ventilation, but they also let your dog see out, which may help them to feel more relaxed if they have eyes on their favorite humans at all times.

1. Luxury Carrier for High-flying Pooches

Sherpa travel original deluxe airline approved pet carrier.

Take your 4-legged friend away with you in this awesome lightweight pet carrier. Suitable for medium-sized dogs, this carrier measures 17 x 11 x 10.5 inches and can hold up to 16 pounds in weight. With a patented spring wire frame, it can be pushed down to ensure that it fits neatly under your seat in transit.

Perfect for use while you fly, your dog will love the comfortable faux lambskin liner , and with a nonslip carrying handle and useful rear pocket for treats and poop bags, owners will love the convenience that this brilliant travel crate offers.

Available in a choice of colors for stylish doggos and their owners, this portable pet carrier can be folded up small for easy storage when not in use. Also available in a choice of small or large sizes, the Sherpa carry-on for your pooch is ready and waiting for your next adventure.

What We Like

• This bag is super sturdy and incredibly comfortable

What We Don’t Like

• The carrier is not as luxurious as some other models out there

Hot Tip: For all of your pet’s accessories, check out our guide to the best dog travel bags , including totes and backpacks.

2. Superstrong Pet Carrier for Use on the Plane

Petmate sky kennel pet carrier.

This hardside pet crate offers increased security for your furry friend while also being lightweight and travel-friendly.

Made from durable plastic materials, it has been constructed using non-corrodible wing nuts , extra-strong steel wire, and an interlocking door to enhance protection and ensure that your dog will never escape or be injured during transit.

Available in a choice of sizes, you can choose from the 21-, 28-, 32-, 36-, 40-, and 48-inch options to ensure that your dog has enough space to suit its size, and with vented openings all around it, this crate will ensure that your dog stays safe and healthy.

• The carrier has super-tough construction and additional safety features
• This crate can feel heavy when your dog is in it

3. Multi-purpose Crate for Adventurous Dogs

Petmate vari kennel heavy-duty dog travel crate.

Comfortable and incredibly secure, this awesome travel crate is suitable for use both on the airplane and as a comfortable kennel space when you reach your destination.

With tie-down strap holds and wire vents for ventilation, your pooch will stay safely in place during your flight, and with an easy-open front latch, you can quickly release your dog for much-needed cuddles when you arrive.

The raised interior is perfect for letting them sleep on their favorite blanket, and suitable for dogs weighing up to 70 pounds, this travel crate lets your best friend travel everywhere with you.

Designed to meet most airline cargo specifications, this super-secure travel crate will help to keep your dog calm and relaxed as they fly. Also available in a range of smaller sizes, there is a Petmate Vari Travel Kennel to suit all breeds of dogs.

• This travel kennel is practical, durable, and pleasingly affordable
• There is no carry handle

4. Rolling Dog Carrier for Longer Journeys

Coopeter airline dog carrier.

Unique and highly portable, this rolling dog carrier makes light work of long journeys for you and your 4-legged friend.

Made from superstrong materials, it comes with a detachable 4-wheel platform and a longer-length handle that lets you pull the carrier along behind you.

With additional nonslip grab handles and an adjustable shoulder strap , you can also use it without the wheels when you want to. With mesh sides, your pooch will be able to breathe well and keep its eye on you at all times, and the soft-sided interior provides a warm and cozy space for naps.

Measuring up at 19.7 x 12.2 x 11.8 inches, this pet carrier is suitable for small-breed dogs, and when not in use, it can be folded up compact for easy storage. Comfortable, cozy, and incredibly cool, your dog will love traveling around in this innovative dog carrier.

• The wheeled base and extendable handle are convenient to use
• It is quite small, so check the measurements

5. 2-in-1 Carrier and Rolling Kennel

Sportpet designs rolling plastic kennel.

This portable kennel has a spacious interior and a sturdy build, and your pooch will quickly grow to love it almost as much as you do.

The convenient removable wheels make it a breeze to glide through the airport, and with 2 dishes, 4 live animal stickers, tie-down bungee straps, and metal bolts and nuts included, this carrier meets all the IATA airline requirements for dogs in transit .

Available in a selection of sizes from S through to 3XL, this rolling pet kennel can accommodate all breeds of dog, and with superfast assembly, it is perfect for use both while traveling and back at home.

For added security, this crate also comes with locking snaps on the sides and a strong metal door with an easy-to-grasp latch to ensure that your best friend is safely tucked away during the journey.

• This is a good-sized, very secure travel kennel
• It is quite heavy when your dog is in it

6. Fuss-free Travel Kennel for Everyday Use

Aspen pet traditional kennel.

With sturdy plastic construction, this traditional-style dog carrier is an excellent choice for pets weighing between 20 and 30 pounds.

Offering a simple, fuss-free design, your furry best friend can enjoy 360-degree ventilation to feel cool and comfortable , and the easy-to-open squeeze latch door is perfect for superfast loading and unloading.

In addition, the raised interior is a safe and comfortable space for your dog, and the secure tie-down holes will ensure that your best bud doesn’t slide around in transit.

Easy to carry using the top handle, this travel kennel also comes in smaller 20- and 25-inch versions for smaller breeds. The functional design makes this suitable for use as a training kennel at home and a secure and safe space for traveling.

• The design is fuss-free and easy to use
• It doesn’t feel quite as high quality as some of its competitors

7. Lightweight Pet Carrier for Easy Transportation

Petsfit airline approved dog carrier.

Lightweight and easy to carry, this travel dog carrier comes with a nonslip shoulder strap and grab handles, making it easy to take your best friend with you while you travel.

The mesh sides help to keep your dog cool, and the wire frame ensures that this carrier keeps its shape in transit.

Designed to conform perfectly with the under-seat dimensions of most airlines, your 4-legged friend can stay by your side as you fly, and the built-in safety tether on the inside will ensure that your pet is safely secured at all times .

For increased comfort, this brilliant carrier comes with a soft fleece mat that will help your pooch feel at home along the way, and with an additional backstrap, you can fasten the carrier to your luggage for seamless transportation around the airport.

• The carrier can be folded up when not in use
• It doesn’t feel substantial enough to hold heavier dogs

1. Basic Dog Crate That Can Fold Down for Easy Storage

Amazon basics portable folding soft dog travel crate.

This soft-sided and easy-to-fold 36-inch dog crate is perfect for road trips and overnight stays and offers plenty of comfort and security for even the most nervous of 4-legged travelers.

With 2 separate doors, it is easy to load and unload your pet for their next big adventure, and with ventilation on all 4 sides, your dog will be able to breathe easily along the way.

The secure zipper closures keep the crate secure, and with roll up and down doors, you can let your dog see out or roll them back down when it’s time to snooze.

Made from strong and durable polyester material, this crate comes with a PVC frame that can be set up and folded back down in an instant , and with the ability to hold up to 90 pounds in weight, this is an excellent option for larger breeds.

• The crate is spacious and highly durable
• It doesn’t come with carrying handles

2. Soft Dog Crate for Smaller Breeds

Elitefield 3-door folding soft dog crate.

This 24-inch dog crate is also available in larger 20-, 30-, 36-, and 42-inch versions, and the soft-sided design offers incredible versatility and comfort for your furry friend.

With a strong steel frame, it is sturdy enough to handle your pup’s weight, and the highly durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric will keep your dog well-ventilated in transit .

Designed to be wider and higher than most standard dog crates, your dog will have plenty of space to move around, and with 2 accessory pockets on the outside, you can keep their treats, leashes and other essentials close at hand.

As an added bonus, this model also comes with a free fleece bed included, as well as a carry bag, giving you and your pooch everything you need to stay safe, comfortable, and most of all calm on long car journeys or back at home.

• This soft crate offers stress-free transportation
• The zippers don’t feel secure enough for dogs that push against them

3. Plastic Carry Crate for the Trunk of Your Car

Ferplast atlas scenic suv & car dog crate.

Suitable for medium-size breeds, this crate measures 39 x 26 x 26 inches, making it suitable for use in the cargo area of most SUVs and hatchbacks.

Strong enough to comfortably hold dogs weighing as much as 60 pounds, this crate comes with super-sturdy molded handles that let you lift the crate (and dog) in and out of the vehicle when you need to.

Offering vented panels all the way along the sides , this model offers excellent ventilation to keep your dog comfortable and relaxed along the way, and the tough plastic and metal mesh is designed to withstand even the most enthusiastic of 4-legged friends.

With a convenient locking system built into the front door and a sliding opening, this crate will keep your dog safely contained while also helping to save space in your cargo area, and the versatile design can be completely dismantled for easy storage when not in use.

• This crate fits most vehicles
• It doesn’t feel that it would be able to stand up to escape artists

4. Multi-purpose Crate for Bigger Pooches

Noz2noz soft-krater indoor and outdoor crate for pets.

This soft-sided crate lets you take your best friend on long road trips with you, and the versatile and highly portable design is comfortable and convenient for your dog.

Made with a water-resistant base, it is perfect for nervous pooches as it can be cleaned up very easily , and the fully washable cover can be thrown into the machine between uses.

With a sturdy steel frame, it is designed to be strong and durable, and the novel design can be set up and folded down in an instant.

With mesh panels for increased ventilation and a better view for your 4-legged friend, this crate comes with rounded corners to prevent scratches. Available in a selection of sizes, this model can fit pets weighing up to 100 pounds.

• The crate can easily be cleaned between uses
• The zipper closure feels a bit flimsy

5. Heavy-duty Crate for Dogs Who Like Their Own Personal Space

Petsfit portable soft collapsible dog crate.

This 30-inch foldable dog crate is strong enough to comfortably carry dogs weighing up to 88 pounds, and the spacious interior has been designed to keep your pooch feeling calm and comfortable.

Made from high-quality materials, it comes with grid doors on the front, top, and side for easier loading and unloading, and the pocket on the back is a handy space to hold treats, snacks, leashes, and other doggie travel accessories.

Featuring an upgraded hexagonal structure grid, this crate is incredibly sturdy , and with Velcro-zippered doors, your dog will stay safely housed at all times.

With rounded corners on the top, this crate will slip neatly into your vehicle without causing any damage to the interior, and the foldable steel frame has a washable soft cover and can be folded down quickly for convenient storage when not in use.

• The spacious interior is perfect for larger dogs
• The mesh doesn’t feel particularly strong

6. Excellent Pop-up-style Dog Crate

Petsfit collapsible soft dog crate.

Perfect for small and medium breeds, this pop-up style dog crate measures 30 x 20 x 19 inches and has 2 doors for easier loading and unloading.

Both doors can be rolled up so your dog can see out, and the mesh panels allow for increased ventilation along the way.

Lightweight while still being incredibly sturdy , this dog crate can also be used as an open bed, giving your dog their own space — both in transit and when you reach your destination.

With a removable and washable soft pad, this is a super-comfy base for your best friend while you are away from home.

With a patented screw-in design that lets you set the crate up in seconds, this is an awesome travel crate that can easily be dismantled and stored between uses.

• The crate sets up superfast
• There are more sturdy dog crates out there

7. Collapsible Crate for Use in Your Vehicle

Amazon basics folding soft dog crate.

This awesome soft-sided dog crate is anything but basic and offers a cost-effective way to transport your best friend from A to B.

Measuring 26 x 18 x 18 inches, this model is suitable for small breeds weighing between 12 and 25 pounds, but it also comes in 21- , 30-, 36-, and 42-inch versions for dogs of varying sizes . Made from durable polyester and PVC materials, it collapses down for quick and easy storage.

For added convenience, it also features accessory pockets on the top and the side for storing treats and other essentials, and with a top handle and shoulder strap, it is easy to carry your dog around in.

On the inside, the plush fleece-covered pet bed offers superior comfort on the road, and the multiple screened panels offer increased ventilation and an excellent opportunity for your pooch to keep a watchful eye on you.

• The crate is comfy, practical, and easy to use
• The mesh isn’t strong enough to handle dogs that like to chew

8. For Dogs Who Like To Be Close by You

Slowton dog booster car seat.

If your dog thinks it’s human, this convenient and comfortable doggie car seat might be just the thing for it to enjoy.

Made with a reinforced metal frame, this crate provides a safe and comfy shelter for dogs who like to ride in cars, and the quick and easy installation makes it easy to fit and remove from your car seat as often as necessary.

The nonslip rubber bottom won’t slide around on the back seat of your car , and the seat belt tether will keep your dog secure. With mesh windows on 3 sides, this model offers excellent ventilation, and the front and top zipper doors let you load and unload your dog without a fuss.

With a washable and reusable pet pee pad on the bottom, your seats will stay clean and dry, even with the most anxious of doggies, and with the ability to fold up flat when not in use, this is a super-fancy and incredibly safe way for your dog to travel around with you.

• Pets are easy to secure and buckle in
• The locking system could be sturdier

Whether you are looking for an airplane carrier for your bichon frise or a cargo crate for your husky, there are lots of safe and comfortable ways to keep your best friend by your side.

From hard-sided crates to soft and flexible carriers, finding the right model for you and your dog will let you both enjoy many miles of adventures together.

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The Best Dog Carriers for Every Traveler

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Whether you and your best friend are headed to a faraway land or taking a quick trip across town, getting the right dog carrier can make the difference between a calm and uneventful trip, and a nerve-wracking one. I can’t stress how important it is to invest in a breezy, comfortable, and sturdy carrier, but with so many styles out there, it can be difficult for even the most caring pet owners to pick out the best carrier for their dog without doing some serious research first.

The good news is that because there is such a large variety of dog carriers on the market, there is certainly a premium airline-approved, purse-like, or collapsable carrier out there that will feel like it was made especially for your pup. After many hours of investigation, reading through countless reviews left by dedicated pet owners, and getting help from my own puppy to test out a few, I have assembled this year’s greatest carriers for keeping your dog cozy and safe wherever you two go.

My top picks for the best dog carriers

Best value dog carrier: frisco basic dog carrier bag.

Frisco Basic Dog Carrier Bag

Sure, there are a few particularly expensive dog carriers on my list, however the Frisco Basic Dog Carrier is proof that you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg for a rock-solid pet carrier. Available in three slick colors and two convenient sizes to best suit your dog, Frisco’s roomy, well-ventilated, airline-approved carrier is a top pick for budget-friendly traveling with your little dog. Even if you don’t travel often, these inexpensive carriers are a handy way to transport extra-small breeds and puppies to the vet, as a verified buyer shares in their review, “I bought two of these to get my puppies to the vet while strapped into seat belts. They were great. They’re very lightweight…and look really cute. I really like that they fold flat…highly recommended.”

Specifications

• Available sizes: Small/Medium, Medium/Large
• Weight: 2.09 pounds, 2.76 pounds
• Materials: Polyester, fleece, mesh, synthetic fabric
• Dimensions: 11.5” H x 8” W x 17” L (Small/Medium), 14” H x 10” W x 19”L (Medium/Large)
• Maximum weight recommendation: 10 pounds, 22 pounds
• Price on publish: $20.13, $29.52
• Featherweight
• Comfortable and adjustable straps
• Inexpensive
• Water-resistant
• Machine-washable sherpa
• Comes in three trim colors: Gray, Pink, Teal
• Best for smaller pets

The bottom line:

Although there are far more durable and feature-rich dog carriers, this comfortable sherpa-lined model is easily the best affordable travel-friendly option on the market.

Best airline approved carrier: Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline Approved Guaranteed On Board Travel Pet Carrier Bag

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline Approved Guaranteed On Board Travel Pet Carrier Bag

Selecting the perfect dog carrier while needing to be absolutely certain that it’ll be accepted by your airline can be stressful, but Sherpa’s Guaranteed On Board (GOB) program and lineup of plush, well-ventilated, and premier-quality carriers help to make getting ready for takeoff much easier. Some of this universally airline-approved carrier’s standout features include its convenient top-load zipper position, rugged reinforced stitching, and an especially cozy removable liner that is sure to make your little dog forget all about the stresses of traveling too.

• Available sizes: Medium, Large (both intended for small breeds)
• Weight: 4.1 pounds, 4.9 pounds
• Materials: Polyester, mesh, faux fur, synthetic fabric
• Dimensions: 10.5” H x 11” W x 17” L (Medium), 11.5” H x 11.75” W x 19” L (Large)
• Maximum weight recommendation: 16 pounds, 22 pounds
• Price on publish: $35.95, $53.30
• Sturdy escape-proof zippers
• Breathable mesh enclosure
• Optimized to fit neatly under airplane seats
• Only available in black
• GOB program has required forms

Lightweight, ruggedly made, and comfortable to carry, Sherpa’s dog carrier bags really go a long way toward making your flight an easier one.

Best dog carrier backpack: Pet Gear I-GO2 Escort Backpack & Rolling Carrier

Pet Gear I-GO2 Escort Backpack & Rolling Carrier

Why settle for an average over the shoulder dog bag, when you can get a high-quality backpack that doubles as a smooth roller bag, secure car seat, and a convenient tote? The I-GO2 Escort from Pet Gear sports a breezy design with seven mesh ventilation slots, a telescoping handle for cruising through the airport terminal, a spacious interior for pets to easily move around in, and a trio of stylish colors to choose from. Backpacking dog owners will get their money’s worth from this premium carrier, and verified buyers praise the I-GO2 Escort’s sturdiness, quality, and versatility

• Available sizes: One size for small breeds
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Materials: Nylon, mesh, synthetic fabric
• Dimensions: 19” H x 9” W x 14” L
• Maximum weight recommendation: N/A
• Price on publish: $47.53 - $59.98 (depending on color)
• Wheeled, with telescoping handles
• Makes an excellent car seat
• Washable fleece liner
• Extra-large mesh window and breathable side-windows
• Bigger size options would be appreciated

The Pet Gear I-GO2 Escort works well as a comfortable backpack for pets and pet owners alike but its versatility as a tote, wheeled roller, and car seat combo gives it far more value than the average backpack.

Best dog carrier purse: Jespet GooPaws Comfy Dog Sling

Jespet GooPaws Comfy Dog Sling

The GooPaws Dog Sling is everything you would want from a purse-like pet carrier. Tiny dogs will appreciate its spacious interior, cooling breathable fabric, and adjustable peep hole, while their owners will value its featherweight feel, cozy shoulder strap, and convenient zippered pocket. This hands-free carrier’s ability to securely hold your smartphone and cash, as well as poop bags and treats via its rugged external pocket makes it a versatile puppy purse, and one verified buyer completely agrees: “It fits perfectly around me and my chihuahua loves the snug fabric! Looks so adorable on! I can slide my phone in the sling…keys go on [the] side. Perfect for the mama of a fur baby! Fits well for winter, spring, and fall! The fabric is warm & cool!! Adore”

• Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Materials: Fleece, synthetic fabric
• Dimensions: 9.5” H x 3.6” W x 8.1” L
• Maximum weight recommendation: 12 pounds
• Price on publish: $24.99
• Breathable and soft inner fabric
• Convenient zippered storage pouch
• Adjustable head hole size
• Inner tether keeps your pup from jumping out
• The strap itself isn’t adjustable

With enough space to store your smartphone, a few cards, and some cash, this cozy dog carrier is the best purse-alternate if you own an extra-cuddly small dog or a young puppy.

Best dog carrier tote: Mobile Dog Gear Week Away Tote Bag

Mobile Dog Gear Week Away Tote Bag

Prepared pet parents will want to bring everything their dog may need during a longer journey, and that’s why this specialized tote bag is a must-have for those prolonged flights and road trips. Available in your choice of pink, blue, black, gray, and a charming paw print design, this tote has many pockets and compartments for securely storing prepared dog food, medicine, and snacks. There are also useful extras such as an integrated placemat and a cute bone-shaped luggage tag. With its sturdy design, convenient collapsible silicone bowls, and a comfortable adjustable strap, this tote carrier goes a long way towards making trips less stressful for both you and your cuddly companion.

• Available sizes: Small, Medium/Large
• Weight: 1 pound, 3.42 pounds
• Materials: Polyester, synthetic fabric
• Dimensions: 11” H x 6” W x 12” L (Small), 14” H x 7” W x 15” L (Medium/Large)
• Price on publish: $49.99, $59.99
• Includes two lined food carriers, two collapsible silicone bowls, placemat, and ID tag
• Tons of storage room
• Available in five fun color options
• Some colors are pricier than others

Traveling can be tough on a dog, but this tote’s generous storage space makes it easy to bring along all your best friend’s creature comforts and a bit more just in case.

Best dog carrier for a bike: K&H Pet Products Travel Bike Backpack

K&H Pet Products Travel Bike Backpack

K&H’s bike-based pet carrier stands apart from the pack for multiple reasons. It's so easy to attach and remove from a bicycle, it has a safety tether to clasp onto your dog’s harness, and most importantly, it doubles as an all-around excellent backpack. I appreciate its padded adjustable shoulder straps, how much room the pack provides for its four-legged passenger, and its extra-large mesh side pockets perfect for holding dog treats.

I’m not the only one who knows how this backpack carrier is perfectly suited for a Yorkie like mine, as according to a purchaser's beaming review: “This is the perfect dog carrier for my four lb Yorkie. It barely weighs anything despite being a fairly sturdy backpack. The attention to detail and craftsmanship is really great. There are enough pockets and storage areas to carry everything…and the inside area is comfortably spacious for my dog.”

• Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 14” L x 9.5” W x 15.75” H
• Maximum weight recommendation: 15 pounds
• Price on publish: $59.82
• Backpack easily mounts onto a bike
• Large breathable mesh window
• Plenty of storage pockets
• Rear bike mount sold separately

This featherweight biking backpack is surprisingly sturdy, and it’s a snap to attach to the front of a bike, making it the top option for pet-loving cyclists.

Best collapsible dog carrier: Richell Foldable Pet Carrier

Richell Foldable Pet Carrier

People love the security of knowing their dog is safely locked inside of a hard-sided carrier, but no one wants to make room in the closet for a bulky kennel when the vacation’s over. Richell’s Foldable Carrier delivers the best of both worlds with its rugged plastic shell, and how easily it folds down for storage. With a highly ventilated design and the ability to attach it to a car seat for extra-safe travels, its charm goes beyond collapsing to a fraction of its full size.

• Available sizes: Extra Small, Small, Medium
• Weight: 4.9 pounds, 6.8 pounds, 12.6 pounds
• Materials: Polypropylene
• Dimensions: 19" L x 12" W x 12" H (Extra Small), 22” L x 13.5” W x 15” H (Small), 26.5" L x 17.5" W x 20" H (Medium)
• Maximum weight recommendation: 11 pounds, 17.6 pounds, 44 pounds
• Price on publish: $100, $150, $220
• Folds down in seconds for easy storage
• Rugged plastic construction
• Available in three sizes
• Not airline approved

Anyone looking for a dependable dog carrier that easily folds down for storage will get their money’s worth from this rugged hard-sided model.

Best expandable dog carrier: Frisco Single Soft Sided Expandable Dog Carrier

Frisco Single Soft Sided Expandable Dog Carrier

If you feel bad about having to place your little buddy in a cramped carrier for an extra-long flight, you’re not the only one. Thankfully Frisco’s popular expandable dog carrier gives your dog plenty of extra legroom. It may seem like the average carrier at a glance, but this lightweight model includes an expandable middle section that provides almost twice the “floorspace” to move around, spread out, and get comfortable. It takes moments to release, or put away, the expansion making this an inexpensive pick for dogs who aren’t comfortable sitting in a more cramped carrier.

• Available sizes: One size for small and medium breeds
• Weight: 2.8 pounds
• Materials: Polyester
• Dimensions: 17.3” L x 11” W x 11” H
• Maximum weight recommendation: 22 pounds
• Price on publish: $39.99
• Expands to almost double the width for extra legroom
• Plush padded mat
• Reinforced comfortable handles
• Only available in gray

Its low price, extra storage, and expandable mesh segment makes this carrier a top option for dog owners who want to provide their pet more room to stretch out while traveling.

Best dog carrier with a laptop compartment: Roverlund Ready-for-Adventure Pet Backpack

Roverlund Ready-for-Adventure Pet Backpack

While there are plenty of backpack-style dog carriers on the market, Roverlund’s is easily the best choice for storing your tech alongside your puppy’s travel supplies. In addition to the Ready-for-Adventure Backpack’s protective laptop sleeve—which is its own pocket between your dog’s compartment and your back—its other key features include genuinely comfortable padded straps, a trio of zippered ventilation windows, lots of storage for other items, and it's suitable for flying with most airlines.

I’m not the only one who appreciated this stylish doggie bag. A verifed reviewer notes, “My miniature poodle loves a backpack and Roverlund's backpack is our favorite. It is large enough for him to climb in on his own. He is 20 lbs and has a nice amount of room to reposition himself. The shoulder straps are nice and puffy so I'm comfortable carrying him, too!”

• Available sizes: One size for extra small to medium breeds
• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Materials: 1200D waterproof polyester , mountain climbing rope
• Dimensions: 18” H x 13” W x 9” L
• Maximum weight recommendation: 25 pounds
• Price on publish: $189
• Hidden laptop sleeve
• Inner leash clip for safety
• Airline compliant
• Pair of cute mesh side windows
• Comes in three colors: Black/Yellow, Camo/Magenta, and Camo/Orange
• Any complaints would be nit-picking

While its secret laptop sleeve is great, this backpack’s comfortable ergonomic straps, breathable mesh windows, and plenty of additional storage makes this a top-tier dog carrier.

Best dog carrier on wheels: Katziela Luxury Rider Pro

Katziela Luxury Rider Pro

When it comes to pure versatility, Katziela’s Luxury Rider Pro is easily the best wheeled carrier available. It’s a sizable soft-sided carrier with plenty of ventilation on all sides, exceeds all TSA flight-approved carrier standards, and is available in six stylish designs. But what sets this model apart from the competition is its unique wheel base. You’ll appreciate transporting your dog throughout the terminal on six gliding wheels while holding the carrier’s telescoping handle. And it only gets better when you see how easily you can snap off the wheel section to stow in the overhead bin while tucking the carrier under the seat in front of you.

• Weight: 8 pounds
• Materials: Mesh
• Dimensions: 19” L x 13” W x 15” H
• Maximum Weight Recommendation: 22 pounds
• Price on publish: $149.99
• Its six wheels provide an extra-smooth glide across floors
• Handy collapsible suitcase-like handle and strap handles
• Breathable mesh sides
• Machine washable fleece bed
• Locking zipper
• It would be nit-picking to complain about this model

Between how quickly its wheeled base can be removed or added, how smoothly it rolls, and its all-around durability, the Katziela Luxury Rider Pro is easily the most conveniently designed wheeled dog carrier out there.

Best dog stroller: Gen7Pets Promenade Pet Stroller

Gen7Pets Promenade Pet Stroller

Buying a dog stroller can be tricky, as it needs to comfortably seat your dog, be easy to push, and feature the storage you need for a water bowl, leash, poop bags, and other dog walking essentials. Not only does the Promenade easily fit all breeds up to 50 pounds, it has plenty of room for your essential supplies and more. I’m particularly impressed with how effectively it absorbs bumps in the road and glides across pavement. Its breezy mesh canopy and multiple color options add to the Promenade’s appeal.

• Weight: 15.5 pounds
• Materials: Rubber, aluminum, mesh, polyester, metal, synthetic fabric
• Dimensions: 35” H x 21” W x 39” L
• Maximum weight recommendation: 50 pounds
• Price on publish: $149.97 - $199.95 (depending on color)
• A snap to fold and unfold
• Roomy interior and cool mesh enclosure
• Plenty of storage
• The included padding is adequate, but you may want to bring a blankie for additional comfort.

Dogs will love its multiple cooling mesh windows and roomy seating area, and you’ll enjoy how well this stroller maneuvers and absorbs shocks for an especially smooth stroll.

Best wearable dog carrier for small dogs:: FurryFido Classic Reversible Sling

FurryFido Classic Reversible Sling

It can be difficult to do chores around the house if you own a tiny dog who’s always by your side and hoping to cuddle, but this snuggly wearable carrier is designed to make everyone happy. FurryFido’s Classic Sling sports a reversible design, a conveniently designed safety hook that easily snaps on a collar or harness to keep jumpers close, and most importantly, little dogs won’t mind napping away inside its cozy interior while you go about your day. I was also glad to see that it’s available in four colors, is machine washable, and has a featherweight design that you won’t mind wearing whenever you and your pup need a continuous cuddle.

• Available sizes: One size for extra-small and small breeds
• Weight: N/A
• Dimensions: 21” L x 4.5” W x 6.5” H
• Maximum weight recommendation: 13 pounds
• Price on publish: $22.99
• Integrated metal tether
• Comfortable reversible hands-free sling
• Available in pink, blue, gray, and black
• Although the shoulder strap is accommodating, it’s not adjustable

FuryFido’s simple, yet dependable sling is the best wearable carrier because of its roomy interior, conveniently metal safety clasp, and machine-washable design.

Best luxury dog carrier: Maxbone Global Citizen Pet Carrier Bag

Maxbone Global Citizen Pet Carrier Bag

If you and your dog are frequent fliers, this roomy, especially sturdy, and comfortably designed carrier is certainly worth the $325 investment. Some of the standout features of Global Citizen’s premier carrier bag include its reinforced cotton canvas body, adjustable shoulder strap with leather trim and gunmetal hardware, ultra-plush, faux sherpa-lined bed, and bonus storage for small items.

I’m not the only one who appreciates the impressive craftsmanship of this pet bag. A verified buyer notes, “This pet carrier was everything I wanted it to be, and more. My dog loves it, most importantly. It is extremely well made and beautiful as well. It is sturdier than most bags, [and] gave no [indication] of my dog becoming uncomfortable.”

• Available sizes: One size for small to medium dogs
• Weight: 3.5 pounds
• Materials: Nylon, faux sherpa, leather, cotton canvas
• Dimensions: 10.5” H x 12” W x 17” L
• Maximum weight recommendation: 20 pounds
• Price on publish: $325
• Spacious and especially cozy interior
• Extra pockets and card holders
• Durable, yet stylish
• Sherpa liner is hand wash only

Although the Global Citizen Pet Carrier Bag is a particularly pricey option, it’s an excellent investment for frequent travelers who need a surprisingly sturdy, yet fluffy and comfortable carrier.

How I selected the best dog carriers

I spent a lot of time researching, comparing, testing, and scrutinizing reviews left by other buyers to hand-select the best dog carriers on the market. I investigated both big and small pet product manufacturers to highlight both popular models that absolutely deserve every bit of praise they receive, as well as hidden gems that deserve their spot in the limelight. I also noted important aspects of each carrier, such as overall comfort for pets and their owners alike, durability, whether or not they are generally airline approved, storage, style, price, and additional features.

What to consider when buying dog carriers

It’s extremely important to buy a carrier that allows your dog to easily turn around, stretch, and comfortably sit inside, so you will need to measure your pet before buying the first carrier that grabs your attention. Take a tape measurer and see how long your dog is from the end of their nose to the base of their tail, and note their height from the floor to their shoulders. Next, you’ll add three to five inches of additional space in both directions to determine the best size carrier for your dog. Smushed-face (brachycephalic) dogs like pugs, Boston terriers, and French bulldogs require more ventilation, and for safety reasons, it’s best to get them a carrier that’s one size larger.

Dog carriers also have a weight limit, so be sure to buy a carrier that easily accommodates your dog’s weight. If you’re having a difficult time choosing between two carriers because your dog’s weight is somewhere between their respective weight limits, always go with the larger model to be safe.

Safety and comfort

Speaking of safety, look for a carrier with ventilation features on two or more sides, (usually in the form of a sturdy mesh window) and a method of attaching a seat belt directly to the carrier. Because of the potential for dangerous breathing issues, brachycephalic dogs (like pugs) will need ventilation on all four sides. These dogs should also only travel in a horizontal carrier and not in a vertical one like backpacks, even for short trips.

Additional features that will keep your pet from getting stressed while on the go are plush machine-washable dog beds to curl up on, and additional storage to bring favorite treats, meals, medicine, and other travel essentials. For sling type carriers, look for a metal clasp that connects to your dog’s harness to prevent them from jumping out.

Don’t discount your own comfort. A carrier with an ergonomic handle or straps, smooth-rolling wheels, and the ability to be tucked neatly under an airplane seat will all come together to give you extra peace of mine while you’re out and about.

It doesn’t matter whether your dog is gentle or an avid chewer, it’s well-worth paying extra for a sturdier carrier made to easily endure your travels. Look for carriers made with durable materials such as thick plastic, leather, and reinforced nylon, as well as fabric models made with reinforced stitching that will easily hold up over many trips.

If you’re concerned about durability, consider buying a carrier with a higher weight limit, as they are designed to be more rugged than carriers intended for extra-small toy breeds. For further reading on materials that can withstand determined dogs (and why they chew), check out our guide to the best dog beds for chewers .

There is a sizable variety of dog carriers out there, and each was crafted for a unique purpose. For example, a sling or purse-styled carrier is an excellent choice for keeping a small, anxious dog comfortable and out from under your feet as you walk around. Little dogs who need more consoling during an anxiety-provoking trip will appreciate your closeness while you go about your day.

Bag-like carriers are some of the best picks for air travel and road trips, as many of the models on my list were explicitly designed to accommodate the pet-related rules of most airlines. Whether you’re taking a car, bicycle, or hiking with your dog, a backpack-style carrier is another convenient option that usually includes bonus storage and a comfortable design for pet owners to carry around hands-free.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How do you know if a pet carrier is airline approved.

Although the exact specifications slightly differ between airlines, there are a few reliable ways to find out if a pet carrier is a good fit for your next flight.

The best place to start is to do your own research by visiting the website of the pet brand that created the dog carrier to definitively learn if it is airline approved. In addition, it’s a good idea to look up the rules regarding pet carriers via your airline’s website just to be certain that your dog’s new bag meets all the criteria of permitted carriers.

For example, these are the rules Delta Airlines has regarding dog carriers:

“Your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel with the ability to move around without touching or sticking out from the sides.

The kennel must fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.

The soft-sided kennel must be leak-proof and have ventilation openings on three sides for domestic travel and four sides for international travel.

The maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by the aircraft dimensions of your flight, as the under-seat space varies by aircraft. Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.”

Is it safe to carry your dog in a backpack?

For some dogs, yes, but only in backpacks specifically designed to hold a dog. These unique backpacks are designed with multiple ventilation windows, plenty of cushioned padding, and a rugged closure to prevent your favorite escape artist from getting out on their own. Keep an eye out for backpack dog carriers that are waterproof and chew-proof, have a lightweight ergonomic design that you won’t mind carrying around, and that have additional storage for water, snacks, and other puppy essentials.

Note that some dogs, such as brachycephalic breeds (like pugs, Boston terriers, and French bulldogs), fragile seniors and puppies, injured or sick dogs, as well as individuals who are larger and heavier, are not a good fit for a backpack dog carrier. These dogs should have a horizontal carrier and you may need to get a larger size for enhanced comfort and ventilation. If you have any questions, talk with your veterinarian.

How long can a dog stay in a backpack carrier?

Generally, a healthy, non-brachycephalic dog can stay in a backpack for three to four hours at a time. If you’re taking a road trip and using a backpack carrier, it’s a good rule of thumb to give your dog a break to potty, eat, drink, and stretch their legs every few hours to keep them comfortable throughout your journey. Backpacks are not appropriate for long journeys such as overnight or to the other side of the world.

It’s also good to note that even the best backpack carriers are unsafe for brachycephalic dogs like pugs, French bulldogs, and Boston terriers. Being held in a vertical position while traveling in a backpack (even on a short trip) can cause them to have trouble breathing, which can become life threatening. Dogs with medical issues such as anxiety, obesity, arthritis, or back problems should also not use a backpack carrier.

Can a dog sleep in a carrier overnight?

Yes, if it’s a horizontal carrier! Not only are the best pet carriers made for a dog to comfortably curl up and snooze during your trip, some models are so comfortable on the inside, they may want to keep using it as a bed if you leave it on the floor when you get home. However, your dog should not sleep overnight in a vertical carrier.

How can I help my dog feel calm inside a travel carrier?

While some dogs take to a travel carrier like fish to water, others may feel anxious about being enclosed inside of a bag or crate. The good news is that there are plenty of techniques to get a nervous dog content with staying inside of their new carrier.

Set the carrier in your home with its entry points open and leave it there for a while so your dog is used to being around the carrier. Incentivize going inside by tossing a few of their favorite treats inside. Snack hunting inside of the carrier will help to reassure a dog that it is a happy place to be.

Once they seem better about the carrier itself, try placing the dog inside the carrier for five minutes at a time with you standing beside the bag. Reward and praise them once you let them out to emphasize that the carrier isn’t so bad, and steadily increase the time they’re inside the carrier until they are trained to accept being inside it.

Make the carrier a more soothing place to be by adding a favorite blanket, toys, and other comfort items. The familiar scent and collection of beloved possessions will help them to warm up to their new carrier. Spraying the carrier with a dog calming product can also help.

The information presented here is created by TIME Stamped and overseen by TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About Us page .

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The 11 Best Dog Carriers Tested With Real Canines Inside

Jillian Dara is a fact checker for The Spruce Pets, reviewing articles about pet care and pet products for factual accuracy and consistency. She has more than five years of experience in lifestyle editing and media and has been published in a variety of prestigious outlets.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

How We Tested

• What to Look for

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

The Spruce Pets / Alli Waataja

The best dog carrier will provide enough space for your dog to spin around and get comfortable while remaining manageable and compact in size for you to carry and support your dog.

While dog carriers are primarily made for carrying smaller dogs (less than 20 pounds), there are some styles, like backpacks, that are designed to distribute the weight of a dog more evenly, making it more accessible for a human to carry a bigger doggo. There are also different carriers (e.g. hard-sided, soft-sided, tote, sling) to meet different needs. For example, a carrier to bring a dog along while running errands is more open less structured than the carrier you place your dog inside of for the duration of a flight.

To find the best dog carriers, we evaluated a collection of top ranked carriers, all of which provide proper ventilation and are equipped with an internal tether to connect to a dog's harness or collar to prevent them from hopping out. We made selections based on our thorough testing sessions conducted in our labs, in both New York City and Des Moines, along with hands-on testing of select carriers in the real world with real dogs. You can learn more about our testing process and methodology in the " How We Tested " section of this story.

Our favorite dog carrier is the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier , which promotes fresh airflow with its mesh roof and sides, includes a leash strap, and several travel conveniences, such as a zippered panel on the back to loop a seatbelt through or attach the bag atop your wheeled luggage.

Best Overall

Love thy beast nylon pet travel carrier.

Lightweight for daily use and suitable for airline travel

Sturdy base with an easy-to-remove platform for cleaning

Fully enclosed zipper compartment

Large zippered pocket and optional loop for slotting through seatbelt or trolley handle

Soft sides might not provide enough structure for some dogs

Only available through one retailer

For most dogs that enjoy (or will tolerate) being carried in a bag, the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier offers sufficient space, a sturdy base, mesh windows to allow air to flow, and two sturdy shoulder straps to keep the bag balanced. The tote-style bag is extremely lightweight for everyday jaunts and, with the main compartment fully zipped, suitable for in-cabin use on most commercial airlines (always check with your flight provider).

The large zippered pocket on one side of the bag provides ample space for keeping essentials on-hand, including a leash, hand sanitizer, dog wipes, a collapsible bowl, puppy pads, and treats. On the opposite side is a versatile panel with horizontal zippers that can be used as a pouch or a loop for a seatbelt or suitcase handlebars. The soft-sided canvas and nylon carrier is easy to spot clean and features a removable internal panel that attaches to the base with hook and loop strips.

We tested this bag in various settings, including commercial flights operated by domestic carriers, with an eight-pound Pomeranian participant who was able to stand up, sit, lay, and turn around inside the bag when fully zipped. The bag is designed to support dogs up to 25 pounds, but their overall shape and height should also be factored into your decision.

And if you like to keep your dog incognito, we found that the mesh paneling makes it difficult for others to spot our companion. But if you are in a crowded space or seated in row on a flight, you should let others know your dog is with you to avoid any run-ins.

Materials:  Nylon, canvas | Dimensions:  17 x 8 x 12 inches |  Color Options: Black, forest, dust, red

Best Hard-Sided

Petmate pet kennel.

Two doors for top or front access

Lots of ventilation

Relatively lightweight design

Only suitable for dogs 15 pounds and under

Top latch doesn’t always line up properly on first try

The Petmate Two-Door Dog Kennel is our favorite dog carrier for short errands like car rides and veterinary appointments. In addition to the standard latched, wire front door, the Petmate Kennel has a top that also opens. This is especially useful for veterinary visits, since it will allow for your dog to be lifted out from the top. It also makes the Petmate carrier easy to access for cleaning.

While we have stress-tested the Petmate Two-Door Dog Kennel—pulling 33 pounds of force against the carrier’s door—and found it to be a durable traveler, it’s nevertheless only appropriate for small dog breeds. While the 24 by 17 inch footprint is relatively roomy, the carrier is only 14.5 inches high, which may not provide enough room to stand for even many small dogs. That makes this carrier best for temporary trips, rather than long travel times. Correspondingly, the well-ventilated plastic frame feels surprisingly lightweight and maneuverable for this type of carrier.

Materials: Plastic | Dimensions: 24.05 x 16.76 x 14.5 inches | Color Options: White, rose, blue, tan

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

Best for Public Transit

Roverlund out-and-about pet tote.

Larger size roomy enough for medium breeds

Neck scoop for your dog to enjoy the view

Big, padded straps

Built-in leash attachment clip

Structured bottom for stability

Reflective for nighttime

Storage pocket a little narrow

No ventilation aside from top opening

Roomy and lightweight, the Roverlund Commuter Pet Tote is made from sturdy, 1200-denier polyester, which is waterproof. The handles are made from climbing rope, and similarly beefy. This tote comes in two sizes, and the larger is appropriate for medium-sized dogs up to 30 pounds. It’s built tall, encouraging your dog to stand and stick their head out of the neck scoop opening in one side. It’s got a canvas-covered padded bottom, that’s suitable for lying down, but also provides enough structure for your dog to stand on it. 

While the tote can be zippered shut across the top, it’s easy for a dog to push their head back against the zipper, opening it again. Instead, your dog is kept most secure by the deep design and the interior leash attachment clips. The tote also includes a zipper storage compartment on the outside, but it’s a little narrow and is unlikely to be an all-day storage solution for all of your pup’s gear. 

The Roverlund Commuter Pet Tote has reflective trim for visibility. It’s available in two sizes (small and large) and five color combinations.

Materials: Nylon | Dimensions: 15 x 8 x 10 inches (small), 17 x 8.75 x 13 inches (large) | Color Options: Camo/magenta, black/magenta, black/yellow, camo/orange, desert camo

Best Airline-Approved

Away the pet carrier.

Meets the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for in-cabin use on most major airlines

Trolley sleeve for seatbelt or suitcase handlebar placement

Removable and washable bed

One year warranty from Away

Not suitable for pets over 18 pounds

While testing the Pet Carrier from Away on a six-hour flight, our participating chihuahua mix was comfortable and the bag's straps and trolley sleeve made navigating the airport a breeze. The leather and nylon construction of the carrier strikes a nice balance between structured support and flexibility for streamlined under-seat placement that provides ample stability for the dog inside.

The Pet Carrier meets the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for in-cabin use on most major airlines (always check with your flight provider), and is designed to support small pets up to 18 pounds. When empty, the carrier along with the removable shoulder strap weighs about four pounds, and depending on which airline you and your dog are flying on, the maximum weight limit for an in-cabin pet is generally around 20 pounds for pet and carrier combined.

The carrier is equipped with a waterproof lining and a removable, machine-washable plush sherpa bed. It also features internal and external pockets for storage, and zippered panels on mesh windows for optional coverage which can help anxious dogs feel less stimulated.

Plus, for the car ride to and from the airport, the carrier received a five-star crash test rating from the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), an organization that conducts independent safety tests on products designed for dogs.

Materials:  Nylon, leather | Dimensions:  18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches |  Color Options:  Black, blue

Best for Outdoors

K9 sport sack plus 2 dog carrier.

Wide base to accommodate a dog's tail

Dog faces towards human's back, so it's easy to check on them

Easy to store when not in use

Finding a comfortable fit your dog may take a little adjusting

The K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Carrier is a backpack-style bag with wide straps designed to keep your dog supported while evenly distributing the weight you are carrying. We found this backpack to be highly beneficial on walks with a senior dog weighing around 30 pounds who was comfortably hoisted up whenever they appeared to get tired.

This carrier requires a dog to be positioned in an upright position which some dogs really enjoy and others do not. It can take a bit of finesse to find the right fit for a dog, but once a dog is comfortably inside and placed on their human's back, the result is objectively adorable—with a dog's face positioned right by their humans making it easy for the pair to check in on each other.

The K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large) to fit dogs weighing up to 40 pounds, but you should also carefully factor in your dog's length from collar to tail to find the right size. The backpack has two mesh sides with pockets and a padded back panel. It also comes with a 14 by 9-inch detachable bag for carrying essentials like a collapsible water bowl and treats.

Materials: Polyester | Dimensions:  10 x 9 x 17 inches (small), 11 x 10 x 19 inches (medium), 12 x 11 x 22 inches (large) | Color Options:  Black, mint, gray

Best for Medium Dogs

Sturdibag pro 2.0.

Padded fleece inside for comfort

Machine washable

Durable polyester construction

Extra-large exceeds requirements for use on most flights

Constructed from thick and durable polyester, the SturdiBag Pro 2.0 is enitrely machine washable. It uses internal rods, like a tent, to form a semi-rigid structure that lands in between soft-sided and hard-sided making it a flexible travel option. The lightweight bag is made in four sizes (small, medium, large, and extra-large) to comfortably fit dogs weighing up to 40 pounds. 

Inside you'll find an internal leash tether and a padded fleece mat. Plus, the bag features zipper-locking clips for extra security, allowing you to lock a mesh door zipper in position. The bag is equipped with two hand straps, a padded shoulder strap, and deep side pockets for storing accessories.

But the extra-large version of the carrier is too big to fit under the seat in-cabin on most airlines (always check with your flight provider).

Materials: Polyester, leather, fleece | Dimensions: 18 x 10 x 10 inches (small), 15 x 12 x 12 inches (medium), 18 x 12 x 12 inches (large), 20 x 12 x 16 inches (x-large) | Color Options: Black, blue jay, bordeaux, navy, purple, smoke, earthy tan

The Spruce Pets / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Backpack

Kurgo nomad carrier backpack.

Provides a hands-free carry option

Weatherproof and ventilated

Multiple pockets and a tablet sleeve

Can be used as a backpack and a carrier

Very snug fit for dogs around 15 pound maximum

The Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack is a great option for small dogs weighing under 15 pounds. Its window allows your dog to observe the action while your hands remain free. The backpack-style carrier offers many different adjustment points to obtain the perfect fit, and we felt the bag provided even weight distribution and comfort for our dog participant, Mac.

The inside is padded and features an interior safety tether to secure a dog inside. There are pockets for essentials and even a sleeve for a tablet. It's great for daily adventures, including walks and hikes, but it is not suitable for airline travel. Our tester hiked with her pup in 85-degree weather, up steep terrain, and the pack held up nicely. However, it might not offer enough ventilation for some dogs, but if your dog is close to the 15 pound maximum, it might be too snug.

Materials: Nylon | Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 8 inches | Color Options: Red, blue

Best for Car Travel

Sleepypod mobile pet bed.

Crash tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety

Removable and machine-washable liner included

Functions as pet carrier, bed, and car seat

Our tester found that the bulky design of bed made it difficult to use as a carrier

For canines that like to cruise in a car, the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed provides a comfortable and secure spot for dogs weighing up to 15 pounds to strap in for rides of any duration. The well-designed pet carrier has been tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety , the leading nonprofit organization conducting independent crash tests on travel products designed for dogs.

Using the hook and loop positioning points on the carrier, a seatbelt easily passes through to secure the Mobile Pet Bed to the backseat of a car. For clear instructions, we highly recommend watching this instructional video on proper car seat use .

This pet carrier from Sleepypod has a unique round shape with a mesh top for airflow. While testing we found the top easy to unzip and the internal, machine-washable pad offered cushioned support for our participating dog. The mesh cover can be completely removed for use as a dog bed, and the carrier is equipped with a shoulder strap. But we found the circular dome-like shape to be rather cumbersome to carry.

Materials:  Nylon, mesh, foam |  Dimensions:  17 x 13.5 inches |  Color Options:  Arctic white, glacier silver, robin egg blue, blossom pink, strawberry red, dark chocolate, jet black, first blush, olive

Best Duffle-Style

Wild one travel carrier.

Cozy, padded interior

Folds flat when not in use

Shoulder strap that can be used as a leash

Airline compliant for most domestic flights

Not all small dogs can fully stand up when the carrier is closed

The Travel Carrier from Wild One is duffle-bag style carrier that can accommodate a dog weighing up to 16 pounds. The versatile pet carrier has a lot of carefully considered design elements that make it convenient for humans (like a shoulder strap that doubles as a leash) and comfortable for dogs (like a padded cushion inside).

With an eight-pound Pomeranian inside we found they had sufficient space to lay down, put their head up, and get comfortable, all while the bag was fully zipped for a flight. If you have a short-legged pal, like a  Dachshunds , or a very petite pups, Chihuahuas , this carrier will likely provide sufficient space for your dog to fully stand up and move around.

The carrier has mesh paneling throughout for airflow and to keep your dog in view, and each side panel can be unzipped. A slotted panel on the back allows you to place it on the handlebars of your suitcase or secure it in a car by passing a seatbelt through.

Materials: Neoprene, mesh, polyester | Dimensions: 17.5 x 11 x 10 inches | Color Options: Black, tan, spruce

The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada

YUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier

Shoulder strap has pocket for phone

Reflective strip

Drawstring closure

Not recommended for dogs over 15 pounds

The YUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier is a supportive cross-body style dog carrier that will keep your hands free and your small dog snug. If you have have an anxious dog, this carrier might help them feel more at ease.

To suit your needs, the opening to the main compartment where your dog will nestle has drawstring that can be gently adjusted while allowing their head to poke out. The carry is made out of polyester, mesh, faux leather, and has a reflective strip for added visibility in low light. There is also a pocket on the shoulder strap designed to fit a smartphone.

The Reflective Pet Sling Carrier comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large), and while testing, the medium provided sufficient space for a 12-pound Chihuahua who quickly got comfortable and seemed to enjoy riding in the pouch. But even the large will likely be too snug for heavier dogs and has a maximum recommended weight limit of 14 pounds.

Materials: Faux leather, polyester | Dimensions:  15 x 3.9 x 7.8 inches | Color Options:  Black, pink, teal, red, gray, blue, orange

Best for Versatility

Ibiyaya pet carrier.

5-in-1 design

Fits snugly on a carseat

Not for large breeds

This nifty, 5-in-1 dog carrier can shapeshift depending on your preferences and the situation in which you’re using it. Ideal for small to medium dogs, it offers several ways to switch up your carrying style. From a suitcase-styler roller bag that accommodates dogs who like to feel the wind rushing by their faces, to a no-nonsense backpack, to a sporty stroller you can jog behind, to a compact car seat pod, this do-it-all dog carrier is perfect for virtually any scenario you and Fido may find yourselves in. 

We’re particularly impressed by its carseat form: a compact, soft-shelled pod designed specifically to fit into standard vehicle seats, where it can be strapped securely by buckling up with your car’s existing seatbelt. 

This car-friendly format ensures your furry friend is strapped in as safely as any two-legged, seatbelt-donning passenger, which can add peace of mind on road trips and in inclement weather. Moreover, it does so without the need to purchase additional accouterments to make your car a safe, strapped-in space for your dog. 

When not in use, the soft exterior of the pod portion folds neatly in on itself, so it can be tucked away while commanding very little closet or shelf space.

Materials: Nylon, plastic | Dimensions: 19 x 37.4 x 36 inches | Color Options: Pink, blue, brown, orange

The Spruce Pets / Tamara Staples

Final Verdict

Our favorite dog carrier is the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier which is well-ventilated, lightweight, suitable for everyday use, and has a large zippered pocket. If you're looking for a backpack-style carrier to more evenly distribute your dog's weight, the K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 is supportive, durable, and can hold up to 40 pounds of doggie cuteness.

Select dog carriers featured in this story have been part of our hands-on testing evaluations. We've tested over 700 pet products—spending thousands of hours with in  our labs in New York City and Des Moines , and in real homes with real pets. Each participating tester carefully follows our methodology to evaluate a given product. For dog carriers, the ease of use, ease of cleaning, durability, functionality, and overall appearance were carefully assessed.

For real world testing with dog carriers, our participants interpreted their respective dog's reactions and overall demeanor when being placed inside and carried. Our human testers compared and contrasted their dog's behavior with a given carrier to how they typically express joy and comfort.

For lab testing without dogs on duty, weighted sand bags were used to mimic the weight of a dog in a carrier. We also used these weighted props, combined with measured force, to evaluate the resilience of a product.

What to Look for in Dog Carriers

Hard vs. soft.

Dog carriers come in either rigid or soft-sided styles, which are made from nylon fabric similar to duffle bags, usually with mesh windows to provide ventilation and visibility. Hard-sided carriers may be made of plastic or wire, or both. Some dog carriers are a hybrid of both styles, made of sturdy nylon with rigid sides. Some hard-sided carriers collapse and fold for easy storage. As you look at these materials, consider your travel needs and what will be best for your dog and family.

Your pup's overall comfort is key when shopping for dog essentials for air travel . Thus, it’s crucial to take note of the dimensions of your dog carrier you intend to buy, and ensure there’s enough extra room for your dog to stretch out and curl up for sleeping purposes. Most dog carriers will also include size charts, list the dog breeds that do well within the particular carrier, or list the measurements of the ideal pup size for the carrier.

There are numerous styles for dog carriers, including totes, duffels, crates, backpacks, and even dog bike baskets designed specifically for carrying your pup around on the likes of hiking and cycling trips.

Duffle-style dog carriers are great for small to medium pups, though there are expandable options for larger dogs, too. One key benefit of a soft-sided dog carrier is the ability to fold the carrier away and tuck it neatly on a shelf or inside a closet once you’re finished using it. For plane travel, many duffle-style bags are within the size limits for many airlines, and can be stowed comfortably beneath the seat in front of you.

If you’re looking for a hands-free option for your dog carrier, a backpack-style dog carrier could be the way to go. Backpack carriers are designed to allow your pup to nestle comfortably within the carrier, which you can then hoist on your back. This style can accommodate large dogs in many instances, which makes it among the most versatile style of dog carriers there is. 

Soft exterior dog carriers are typically best for airline travel , as they can easily be placed beneath the seat in front of you, as you would with a purse or personal item that has a soft exterior. It’s worth looking into your particular airline’s specifications in terms of what is allowed, size-wise for pet carriers prior to purchasing a dog carrier for travel. Also, it’s worth looking for travel carriers that have a specifically designed slot for sliding the carrier over the handle of your suitcase, so that you can give yourself all the more flexibility when you’re at the airport. For large dogs, a hard crate may be the best way to go, as larger pets are typically transported separately in the plane from their owners.

Totes can be a great way to travel with your pup on public transport and day-to-day errand-running. There are many options for dog totes that are both stylish and sturdy; just make sure there’s enough room for your dog by measuring the dimensions. Also important: a loop or clip built inside the bag where you can securely attach your dog’s leash. This allows for extra security and a safer mode of transport for your dog.

Airline Approval

“Getting in touch with the airline to find out what their policies are is very important, because each airline has its own rules,” Paola Cuevas, a Veterinarian, MVZ, and Behaviorist with Petkeen.com, told The Spruce Pets.

“Some airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin inside a carrier,” she said, which makes a good opportunity for a soft carrier. “Other airlines require pets to go down in the cargo,” she adds, in which case, “a hard and sturdy carrier is best.”

Here are the pet travel guidelines for some of the top airlines:

• American Airlines Pets
• Delta Pet Travel
• Southwest Airlines: Flying with Pets
• United Airlines: Traveling with Pets
• Alaska Airlines Pet Travel
• JetBlue: Traveling with Pets

Dog carriers should be large enough for your dog to comfortably turn around in, as well as stand up with a bit of extra clearance in all directions, says Cuevas.

“The carrier should allow the dog to be comfortable inside, measuring its length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail when standing,” from there, she advises “adding an extra 4-6 inches to the total carrier length.” As for the height, it’s “calculated by measuring the dog’s height from the head to the floor and adding 4 inches.”

Yes! That said, it’s important to choose a dog carrier backpack that’s made specifically for dogs. In other words, you cannot simply put your pup in a backpack and call it a day! Dog carrier backpacks are specifically designed for utmost safety for both you and your pup; for you, many dog backpacks distribute your pup’s weight evenly enough for them to feel comfortable on your back without weighting you down too much. Also, a dog backpack should always have a leash attachment inside to ensure safe carrying and lessen the risk of escape.

This story was updated by  Anna Mejorada , a writer for The Spruce Pets, who shares her home with a happy pomeranian named Gidget. Before researching and writing about pet products for a living, Anna embarked on a self-mandated, ongoing quest to find the optimal items for her dog. She is now delightfully devoted to helping humans discover and select the most favorable products for their pets.

A previous version was written by Sophie Wirt , a writer and cat mom of two. Wirt gleaned expert advice regarding how to choose the best dog carrier from Leigh Siegfried , CEO and Founder at Opportunity Barks , and Paola Cuevas , a Veterinarian, MVZ, and Behaviorist with Petkeen.com.

More from The Spruce Pets

Protect Your Trip »

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

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

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Courtesy of Sleepypod

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

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

Best Overall: Henkelion Pet Carrier – Medium

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

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

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

• Best Pet Carrier Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Best Luxury: Away The Pet Carrier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $28.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Sherpa

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

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

Price: $70 or less for medium

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

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

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

Price:  $56.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Natuvalle

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

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

Price:  $119.90 or less for small

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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.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces
• The Top Luggage Trackers

What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?

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12 Best Airline-Approved Dog Carriers Of 2024

Looking for the best carrier for traveling? Check out these airline-approved dog carriers that will make traveling or commuting a breeze.

Taylor Walsh

Updated March 05, 2024 • Published December 07, 2020

Traveling with your dog can be stressful—especially if you don't have what you need to make them feel safe and comfortable throughout your journey.

Whether you're traveling by air, land, or sea, you'll likely need to invest in a crate or carrier to transport your pup. And when it comes to airline travel in particular, it can be difficult to know which products are approved. Different airlines have different policies, so it's important to check with yours beforehand so you don't run into any trouble once you're ready to board.

The best airline-approved dog carriers are comfortable for your pet, aligned with airline regulations, and easy for you to transport. Here are our top picks for your jet-setting four-legged friend.

Overall best airline-approved dog carrier

Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier $149

Sizes: Small: Up to 15lbs, Large: Up to 25lbs Dog Carrier Features: This dog travel carrier is our #1 pick due to its durability, practicality, and innovative 3-in-1 design. Need more convincing? It was People Magazine's Best Pet Carrier of 2022 and has hundreds of 5-star reviews. Plus, it comes with a bonus leash!

Other top airline-approved dog carriers

Wild One Travel Carrier $125

Sizes: Up to 16lbs Dog Carrier Features: This airline-compliant carrier is breathable and folds out into a comfortable bed. It also has convenient strap configurations for carrying over your shoulder, in your hands, or over your suitcase.

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier $275

Sizes: Up to 25lbs Dog Carrier Features: If you and your dog like to travel in luxury, this is the carrier for you. It's foldable when not in use, has 360 degree ventilation and a memory foam mattress, and easily attaches to your suitcase.

Pet Magasin Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Carrier $49

Size: Up to 15 lbs Dog Carrier Features: This airline-approved carrier comes in three bright and stylish colors: blue, orange, and pink. Constructed to be lightweight and easily transportable, pet parents can tote their furry friend around using the padded shoulder strap and handle.

Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier $134

Size: Small: Up to 8 lbs, Medium: Up to 16 lbs, Large: Up to 22 lbs Dog Carrier Features: This high quality airline-approved dog carrier gives pet parents everything they need at an affordable price. Lined with faux, washable lambskin, Fido will be comfortable no matter how long the journey. The spring wire frame makes it easy to fit under snug seats, too.

Bergan Voyager Dog Carrier $71

Size: Small: Up to 10 lbs, Medium/Large: Up to 22 lbs Dog Carrier Features: With plenty of pockets for toys, treats, and trinkets—oh, and a poop bag holder—this carrier is nothing short of amazing. An added seat belt loop and a washable fleece liner mean its equal parts posh and practical.

EliteField Soft-Sided Dog Carrier $55

Size: Up to 18 lbs Dog Carrier Features: It's waterproof, lightweight, and easy to clean. This airline-approved dog carrier comes with a seat belt loop for safety and a strap so you can attach it to your luggage on the go. Plus, you can choose from six stylish colors.

Sherpa Expandable Dog Carrier $90

Size: Up to 16 lbs Dog Carrier Features: With ample storage space for all your dog's accessories, a cozy base liner, and a breathable mesh construction, this carrier has it all. And for times when your fur baby needs a little more room, pet parents can easily expand the side walls.

Kurgo Explorer Dog Carrier $99

Size: Up to 20 lbs Dog Carrier Features: This sporty airline-approved carrier spoils pet parents with two carrying options, an exterior carabiner for easy car travel, and an interior tether to keep their dog safe. Your pup will love the comfortable, removable liner and breathable construction.

Katziela Voyager Backpack Dog Carrier $75

Size: Up to 13 lbs Dog Carrier Features: If you're looking for a 2-in-1 situation, look no further. Transport your pup on your back using the convenient backpack straps, then comfortably slide them under the seat when it's time to fly. This part backpack, part carrier is the paw-fect airline-approved solution.

Etna Happy Camper Dog Carrier $69

Size: Up to 20 lbs Dog Carrier Features: If you're looking for something just plain cute, opt for this airline-approved camper carrier. Zipper doors on the front and back make for easy access, and the washable material means cleaning is a breeze. Plus, the retro look is oh-so adorable.

Jespet Soft-Sided Dog Carrier $36

Size: Up to 15 lbs Dog Carrier Features: With two access points, a safety hook, and a removable, comfortable pad, your paw-tner will be safe and cozy in this durable carrier. Choose from five fashionable colors: Grey, black, pink, purple, and blue.

Need help preparing for travel?

The Vet Pros at Pawp are here to help 24 /7. Whether you have a question about your pet's travel anxiety or feeding schedule, we can point you in the right direction.

Plus, check out our dog travel packing list for more tips on how to make your journey go as smooth as paw-sible!

Talk to a vet now — it's free!

Text or video chat with a vet within minutes.

The Best Airline Approved Pet Carriers (Updated 2023)

All pet parents out there know how hard it is to part with them when you have to go away for a while. Luckily you don’t have to do that anymore; instead, you can bring your pet along with you on your next flight, as long as they are in an airline-approved carrier.

At A Glance: Our Top Picks for Airline Approved Pet Carriers

• Value for Money Siivton Airline Approved Pet Carrier Jump To Review
• Best Under-Seat Pet Peppy Expandable Pet Carrier With Tunnel Jump To Review
• Best All-Rounder Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier Jump To Review

And, while some strange cats might be perfectly happy traveling in a box or in your suitcase (no way), most airlines have certain standards when it comes to pet carriers. And you probably do too!

Pets need to have enough room and comfort, especially if you are taking them with you on long flights. So, I have taken the liberty to filter through hundreds of different pet carriers, to find the ones that are both airline approved, as well as roomy enough for your pets.

Here are the top airline-approved pet carriers!

Top Product Overview

Best airline approved pet carriers, siivton airline approved pet carrier.

This pet carrier is suitable for cats, small dogs, and all other small animals that weigh up to 18 lbs . The non-expanded dimensions of this carrier are 18” x 11” x 11”. However,  all 4 sides of this bag can be expanded , so that your furry friend can have plenty of space to move around.

Once expanded,  the wireframe will hold the shape of the carrier in place . Additionally,  a comfortable pad for your pet to rest on is included in the purchase .

In terms of the practicality of this carrier, there are both  padded shoulder straps and carry handles  for your comfort. There is also a  luggage slit on its back  so that you can prop it on your suitcase, pulling the handles of the suitcase through the slit.

The carrier fits under most airline seats, and once it is fully folded, it takes up very little space. In addition to all that, the 4 expanded sides of the carrier are all closed off with  mesh lining, which provides superb airflow.  And, your furry little buddy will always stay in your sight.

• Comfortable pad included
• Available in only one size
• Available in only one color

Product Information

• Dimensions: 18” x 11” x 11”
• Expanded dimensions: 38 x 30 x 11"
• Expandable: Yes
• For pets up to14 lbs

Sleeko Soft Sided Portable Airplane Travel Tote Bag

This is a particularly stylish pet carrier. You can get it in 3 different colors, and all of them gorgeous. With the Sleeko pet travel tote , you also get  2 removable pads for your pet, as well as a carry pouch for the bag .

The carrier is  made from tear-resistant mesh and polyester, and its structure is further reinforced with inserts on various sides  so that it doesn’t fall flat.  The mesh allows for excellent airflow , so your pets will stay comfortable. It is also  expandable , so they can have enough room to move around.

The Sleeko pet travel tote also has  clip-on shoulder straps and padded carry handles , for your comfort. In addition to that, there are also  2 seatbelt buckles so that you can secure the carrier to a car seat, or an airplane seat.

And, with a  safety buckle zipper, built-in leash ring, and night visibility reflective straps , your pet will always stay safe and comfortable, even during the night.

• Comes with 2 removable pads
• Many added safety features
• Can’t be secured to the handles of your suitcase
• Dimensions: 17.5” x 10” x 11.9”
• For pets up to 17.5” long, 10” wide & 11” tall

Sherpa Deluxe Pet Carrier

The Sherpa Deluxe Pet Carrier is suitable for most small pets, and you can choose the best size for your furry friend.  The small and medium sizes of this carrier are definitely approved in the cabin, but for the largest size, you will have to check with the airline .

It can comfortably  fit under airline seats , and the  spring-wire frame allows the rear of the carrier to be pushed down a few inches so that it can conform to any under-seat requirements.

A downside of this Sherpa carrier is that it is not expandable , and your pet will not really have much moving room. On the other hand, there are  2 openings with zippers that can be locked , so you can be assured that your pet will be safe.

This particular carrier also has a  rear pocket  for a leash or any treats that your furry friend might need during the flight. It also has mesh windows for ventilation , and a  faux lambskin liner  so that your pets can travel in style.

For your comfort, there is a  non-slip shoulder strap, as well as padded carry handles . Additionally, this carrier can be secured to the airplane or car seat, as well as the handles of your suitcase with the  seat belt/luggage strap .

• Available in different sizes and colors
• Sturdy construction
• Not expandable
• Kind of small
• Dimensions​: 15” L x 10” W x 8.5” H
• Expandable: No
• For pets up to 8 lbs and 13" L x 7.5" H
• Dimensions​: 17” L x 11” W x 10.5” H
• For pets up to 16 lbs and 16" L x 10" H
• Dimensions​: 19” L x 11.75” W x 11.5” H
• For pets up to 22 lbs and 18" L x 11"

Pawfect Pets Soft-Sided Pet Carrier Backpack

The Pawfect carrier stands out because it is actually a  backpack . The straps of the backpack are padded and adjustable, so you should stay comfortable while carrying your pet.

Additionally, there is  extra-thick padding on the back  of this carrier, for your shoulders and lower back.

This carrier comes with  2 removable soft fleece mats , so you will have an extra one, in case your pet decides to treat the first one like a toilet. There are also  2 side pockets , so you can store everything you might need to have handy for your furry friend.

The downsides of this carrier are that  it is not expandable , and is not really suitable for anything larger than a pug. My cat wouldn’t really fit into this carrier, as she weighs more than 10 lbs. But, if your cat or dog is small enough to fit into this backpack, then it is a really cool choice.

The cool thing about this is because it is a backpack, you can also use it when you want to go on hikes or walks. It features 2 mesh windows  so that your pet can have enough air, and the  zippers of the windows have mini buckles  that ensure that the tiny rascal can’t escape.

Additionally,  the top window of the carrier can roll up , and your pet can stick out its head and have a pretty good view of what is going on around them. And, there is a  leash tether on the inside , so even if you open up the window, they still can’t escape.

• Very practical due to backpack style
• 2 removable fleece mats included
• Suitable only for very small pets
• Cannot be buckled to a seat
• Dimensions: 11” x 11” x 17”
• For pets up to 10 lbs

SunShack Soft Sided Travel Pet Carrier

The SunShack pet carrier can comfortably  fit under an airline seat , and it has  4 mesh vents  so that your pet can have plenty of air. It also has a  pocket for any treats and accessories  your pet might need during transport. When it is not in use, it can be folded for easy storage.

This carrier  comes with a foldable silicone pet bowl , which is really cool! Additionally, you will also get a  removable hard base fleece pad , so that your furry friend will be sufficiently comfortable.

The carrier can be secured to a seat, and the  high-capacity steel carabiners will ensure that it doesn’t budge an inch. There is also  padded carry handles on the carrier, as well as a  non-slip shoulder strap .

The shoulder strap is not padded, unfortunately, so it carrying this bag on your shoulders might make you uncomfortable.

• Silicone bowl included
• Removable fleece pad included
• Shoulder strap not padded
• Dimensions: 17.5"L x 14"W x 11"H
• For pets up to 15 lbs

Jet Sitter Luxury Soft Sided Pet Carrier

The Jet Sitter Luxury carrier is available in  2 sizes , the smaller of which is definitely airline approved.

The larger version of the carrier exceeds airline requirements, but some people have gotten away with bringing it into the cabin! It really looks like a luxurious little condo for your pet, but the best part of it is that its price doesn’t reflect that.

This carrier is made of the same material which laptop bags are made of –  600D polyester, so you know that it is durable .  The expanded sides feature durable, scratch-resistant mesh , which also provides excellent ventilation.

Additionally, on the inside of the carrier, there is a plush fleece pad  that is removable and machine washable.  The bottom of the carrier is reinforced with plywood  so that it can support even the heavier pets.

As for the straps and handles, there are  padded carry handles, as well as a padded shoulder strap . In addition to those, there are also  buckles that allow you to secure this carrier to a seatbelt , for the ultimate safety of your furry friend. Another awesome feature of this bag is the luggage strap , which allows you to secure it on top of your suitcase.

Honestly, this is my favorite carrier out of the bunch, but there is one thing I’m not a big fan of – the color. It is available in 2 colors, both of which are really light, which means that they will get dirty really easily.

• Fleece pad included
• Stylish and comfortable for pets
• Available only in light colors
• Large version exceeds most airline carry-on requirements
• Dimensions​: 18"x11"x11"
• For pets up to 12 lbs
• Dimensions​: 19” x 12” x 12”
• For pets up to 20 lbs

WPS Airline Approved Pet Carrier with Wheels

If you want your pet to feel like the royal they are (particularly your cat), then look no further. This awesome pet carrier comes with 6 removable wheels and a sturdy metal rod , so that you can when your pet around.

Color me impressed! Once the wheels are removed, the bag itself complies with airline carry-on requirements, and it can  easily fit under most airplane seats .

The carrier comes with a  comfortable bed for your pet , and the  mesh windows provide great ventilation , as well as let your pet see what is going on around them. Unfortunately, this bag can’t be expanded, so it might get a bit tight on the inside.

A  carry case is included with the WPS carrie r. There are also  several pockets  on this carrier, as well as  padded carry handles and a non-slip shoulder strap .

And finally, the  zipper lock is escape-proof , so you have some peace of mind knowing that your pet won’t be able to get out of the bag, no matter how hard they try.

• It can be wheeled around
• Pet bed included
• Some airlines might deem the bag too big (most, however won’t)
• Dimensions: 11”x22”x16”

Pet Peppy Expandable Pet Carrier With Tunnel

This particular carrier is impressive because  one side of it can be expanded into a tunnel . This will not only help your pet feel more comfortable on an airplane (particularly your cat!), but it is also a great carrier for trips to the vet.

The tunnel will make them playful, and they’ll forget all about the fact that they are going somewhere. When the carrier is fully zipped up,  it can comfortably fit under airline seats .

Two other sides can be expanded as well, and they have scratch-resistant mesh fabric . This allows for excellent ventilation, but it also gives your pet the opportunity to see what is going on around them. And, there is also  a pocket on the carrier , in which you can store treats, toys, or anything you might need handy for your pet.

Additionally, the carrier comes with a machine-washable mat on the inside, as well as a random color food bowl !

In terms of the transportability of the carrier, it has a  padded shoulder strap ,  and carry handles (not padded, unfortunately). Additionally, there is also  a slit strap through which you can pull the handle of your luggage  so that the carrier can safely rest on the top of your suitcase.

• Integrated tunnel
• Food bowl included
• Carry handles not padded
• Pocket can’t be zipped shut
• Dimensions when folded: 18"L X 11"W X 1.5" H

Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier

This cool, futuristic carrier is made of  PU leather and durable mesh . It is available in at least  8 different colo rs, so there is plenty of variety to choose from.

The design of the window is really what makes it stand out and look so futuristic.  The bubble allows your pet to peak outside the carrier , and see what is going on outside.

On the other hand, you can also remove the bubble and just secure the mesh lining, for extra ventilation. Although, you probably won’t need the extra ventilation, as there are  several small holes and another mesh window for excellent airflow .

This backpack  opens up from the sides , for easy access. On the inside, there is a  removable soft pad for your pet , as well as a  built-in security leash . In addition to that, the shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, for your comfort.

This backpack is really plain on the inside;  it can’t be expand e d , and what you see is what you get. However, its overall design is really innovative, and it will definitely make you stand out.

Because this is a backpack, there is the added benefit of it being suitable for hikes, walks, and trips to the vet, and just superior overall practicality, in comparison to a traditional carrier.

• Innovative, futuristic design and color variety
• Window for your pet to look out from
• Kind of plain on the inside
• Dimensions when folded: 12.99"L x 9.05"W x 15.74"H
• Bubble diameter: 6.06"
• For pets up to 12 lbs cat and 10 lbs dog

Mr. Peanut's Expandable Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier

This pet carrier is made from Cationic linen , which a highly durable material . This is combined with a  durable mesh top , as well as  mesh lining on all 4 sides  of the carrier, which allows for  superb airflow .

Your furry friend will have plenty of air, and will also be able to look out and see what’s happening on the outside. This is important because  carriers that are fully closed of can cause anxiety in your pets , and you definitely want to avoid that.

This is an  expandable bag , and your pet will have plenty of room to play around in it. The expanded compartment can also be unzipped and act as a door, but don’t worry; the carrier features YKK zippers with locking metal clasps , so your furry friends won’t be able to escape from it.

Additionally, a  detachable fleece pad  is included in the purchase, as well as a bottom waterproof board.

There is also  a luggage strap, as well as a side pocket  for any accessories or treats you might want to keep close. And, for your carrying comfort, there is a  padded shoulder strap, as well as padded carry handles .

What is the  downside  of this carrier, you might be asking yourself? Well, it  doesn’t have clasps that allow you to securely attach it to a seatbelt . This means that you will have to pay extra attention to your pet during the flight, if you choose to place them on a seat, rather than under it.

• Dimensions : 18.1" x 10.5" x 11"
• For pets up to 14 lbs

Which Airline Approved Pet Carrier Is Best For Your Furry Friend?

All of these carriers are suitable for most cats (maybe not 20+lb Maine Coons) and most small dogs. Unfortunately, larger dogs will still have to get their own seat on an airplane (with select airlines). But, it’s better to have your dog as your neighbor on a long flight, than an annoying stranger, am I right?

Personally, the  Jet Sitter Luxury Soft-Sided Pet Carrier  is the winner out of the bunch, for me. And, I’m not just saying that because I own one, but because it appears to give  the best value for money .

It is a sturdy, expandable carrier, with plenty of ventilation and room for your pet. Another bonus of this bag is that it looks very luxurious, but is not at all expensive.

• TSA COMPLIANT CARRIERS - For In Cabin Under Seat conforms precisely to United Airlines. Can also fit Southwest, JetBlue, American, Delta, Alaska, Frontier, Spirit, Allegiant (soften the top). Fits Small to Medium Dogs and up to Medium Cats. Holds pets up to 12-14 pounds. Use MEASUREMENTS not weight.
• LUXURY TRAVEL CRATES - For puppy, kitten, rabbit, guinea pig, hamsters! Super plush fleece mat padding with stiff board to support heavier pets, upgraded fabrics and hardware. Large Mesh Pocket and Expandable Sides can store treats, food containers, water bowls, toys, accessories, disposable poop waste bags.

The next carrier that really stood out is the  Pet Peppy Expandable Pet Carrier With Tunnel . It is the perfect size for an under-seat carry-on, but it can also be expanded. This carrier is particularly suitable for cat owners, as we all know how much cats love tunnels, and basically anything that they can hide in. Another cool thing about this bag is that  you will get a pet food bowl as a bonus.

• AIRLINE APPROVED PET CARRIER: Dont you think your pet deserves the same kind of love and care in an airplane that it gets from you at home. With the PetPeppy Double Expandable Pet Carrier your pet can now travel safely while lying down with utmost comfort and safety throughout the journey. Expertly crafted roof ventilation design allows for air circulation, keeping your pet from overheating and providing fresh supply of oxygen at all times. Easily stow away under the cabin seat.
• SUPERIOR QUALITY: This masterfully crafted airline pet carrier tote is made from high quality safe, eco friendly and durable materials. The result, you can now easily travel with your furry little one with utmost peace of mind. Features removable plush faux fleece bedding, padded shoulder strap and spacious extra storage compartments. The pristine grade nylon material is lightweight, durable and sturdy, ensuring no hassle reliance day after day, use after use, air mile after air mile.

Last, but definitely not the least, is  the Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier . Its design really makes it unique, and I’m sure your pet will really appreciate  the window bubble .

Plus, it is a backpack, so you will be much more comfortable carrying your pet around. Additionally, I’m quite sure that you will get more use out of this carrier since it is also suitable for hikes, walks, and similar outdoor activities .

• Pet Backpack Dimensions: 12.6" L x 11.4" W x 16.5" H. Perfect for dogs up to 15-pounds, or cats up to 18-pounds. Easily fits cats, small dogs, and most other small/medium-sized pets! Please make sure your pet sits within 14.5 inches overall height and 12 inches wide
• Breathable & Perspective: Three side was made of PVC mesh for the carriers. Well ventilated design for optimal airflow and checking on pet

Whichever carrier you decide to get for your pet, I’m sure neither of you will be disappointed. Head on over to Amazon to get a great deal on any of these airline-approved pet carriers so that you and your furry friend can have a great and comfortable flight!

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5 Types of Dog Crates & Their Differences (with Pictures)

By Visnja Radosavljevic

Updated on Aug 19, 2024

Click to Skip Ahead

When welcoming a dog into your home, there are many things that you need to do to prepare for the arrival of your new furry companion. One of them is particularly important: buying an adequate crate for your dog.

The crate will be a place for your dog to sleep and rest, and it can also aid with potty training and provide a safe spot for your canine.

But how can you choose the right type of dog crate for your dog? What are the available types that you can choose from?

In this article, we talk about the five main types of dog crates, mentioning their pros and cons and helping you discover how to choose the best one for your dog.

Why Do Dogs Need Crates?

Dogs are considered den animals, which is why they need a peaceful shelter where they can sleep, rest, and get away to relax and unwind. For pet dogs, a crate functions as that necessary, cozy spot in the house.

The 5 Types of Dog Crates

1. soft-sided dog crate.

Soft-sided dog crates are excellent for people who have small breed dogs. These crates are lightweight, affordable, and easy to assemble.

They are usually made of soft fabric, which is why they’re unsuitable for large dog breeds and dogs that like to chew on things. Also, soft-sided crates are not sturdy and can be hard to clean, so be sure to consider that before getting this type of crate for your dog.

2. Metal Dog Crate

Metal crates are ideal for people looking for something that’s durable and sturdy and won’t cost a fortune. These crates are perfect for large dogs that like to chew on things, as they’re made out of metal and metal wiring.

Metal crates are usually affordable, and they provide great air circulation and visibility for your pet. However, these crates tend to be aesthetically unpleasing. Another downside is that they are often heavy and hard to assemble.

3. Plastic Dog Crate

Plastic dog crates are good for people looking for something sturdy yet affordable. These crates are made of plastic and can be ideal for anyone with a small to medium-sized dog .

While these crates are relatively durable, they can still potentially break. Therefore, it’s not recommended to use these crates for large dog breeds.

4. Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

Heavy-duty dog crates are similar to regular metal crates, but they’re even bulkier, heavier, and more durable. Due to their size, these crates are perfect for large and giant dog breeds, especially ones that like to run away or escape.

Unfortunately, these crates are heavy and expensive, so you’ll need to spend a decent amount of money on them and their transportation. You could use these crates for smaller dogs , but there’s no point in doing so, as such breeds don’t need that much space and protection.

5. Wood Dog Crate

Wood dog crates are usually the prettiest and the most expensive type of dog crates. They look aesthetically pleasing and can come in various forms. For example, many people make wood crates that are both beautiful and functional.

While pricey, they’re typically well worth the cost. Wood is extremely durable and sturdy, so this type of crate represents a good investment.

However, keep in mind that these crates can often be hard to assemble and clean, though it’s usually not too complicated.

How to Choose the Right Crate for Your Dog

When choosing a crate for your dog, you should consider both comfort and durability to ensure that you’re getting the most for your money and providing an adequate rest spot for your pet.

The crate needs to be large enough for your dog to comfortably turn around, lie down, sit, stand, and perform similar activities. That said, you should ensure that the crate is not too large, or your dog might be tempted to use one end as a bathroom. The most important thing is that your dog is comfy inside the crate and that you can easily clean it.

Dog crates come in several different options and materials, so it all comes down to choosing one that’s appropriate for your canine. Be sure to consider your dog’s size, and ensure that there’s enough space for your dog to comfortably do their daily activities.

• See also : 4 DIY Double Dog Crate Furniture Plans (With Pictures)

Featured Image Credit: Leszek Glasner, Shutterstock

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Designer Dog Brand

Made for your best friend.

DESIGNER DOG CAR SEAT

L’élianne ®  Designer Dog Car Seat  &  Travel Accessories  that is original & exclusive made for travelling with dogs in the car. Our  luxury   dog travel bed collection allows to bring your dog everywhere around the world. Will make your dog well-prepared on any ( car / airplane ) adventure!

– Made for your best friend

Airbag Effect & First-Class Safety

Our  Designer Dog Car Seat  enhances safety, comfort and protection in extremely dangerous & unsafe situations. That makes us the number #1 luxury dog car seat on the market, designed to function like an  airbag  during  sharp turns, hard braking  &  high bumps .

This dog booster car seat offers your dog a breathtaking view of the outside world. Which  instantly  helps  to master  anxiety, stress  or  car sickness  by elevation . 

Our luxurious dog travel bed can be securely attached to either the  front seat  or the  back seat  using the included safety elements and  isofix hooks .

#1 MASTER ANXIETY, STRESS & CAR SICKNESS

A car journey without a well-made  dog travel bed  could lead to traumatising experiences – even when they are adults.  Anxiety, stress  and  motion sickness  are common problems that many dogs face during car rides.

At least one in five dogs suffers from symptoms such as  nausea, panting, shivering, squealing, barking  or  drooling . For this reason, it is important to address these problems promptly.

L’élianne® ‘s mission is to strive for a future in which dogs no longer have to endure these problems. 

ICONIC DOG TRAVEL BED

Our  booster dog car seat  creates a breathtaking view of the outside world. It is perfect for recreating the comforts of home in the car for a  puppy, small or medium-sized dog . For big dogs, we also designed an  XL size . 

Our luxury travel collection can be purchased exclusively through our online website, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any car journey. Inspired by luxurious, and timeless design, for on the road, at home or at the destination.

Excellent Quality

We are proud to present our exclusive design:  Designer Dog Car Seat . An original design made from 50% vegan leather & 50% nylon. 

Every detail of this dog car seat exudes pure luxury, from the refined finishes to the top quality hardware. 

We stand behind our products and offer a generous  60-day return period .

Machine-Washable & Dog-Proof!

Correct Protection & Safety

How to transport a dog in the car?  In a collision at 50 km/h, a small dog can pose a life-threatening risk to the car’s occupants. To minimise the risk of a serious accident our dog car seat is designed with  efficient safety elements, isofix hooks , and an anti-slip coating on the bottom.

The dog seat includes a standard dog belt to secure the dog to the seat. The included large belt can be securely fastened around the  front seat  or the headrest on the  back seat. Additionally the dag seat can be secured using  isofix .

FIRST-CLASS EXPERIENCE

Discover our dog car seat.

Experience the luxury of a dog travel bed designed for your  home, car  ór  in-between!

Designer Luxury Dog Car Seat | Olive Green

Sportive Dog Car Seat | Black

Designer Luxury Dog Car Seat | Ivory Beige

Designer Big Dog Car Seat | Navy Blue XL

Designer Big Dog Car Seat | Olive Green XL

Designer Luxury Dog Car Seat | Navy Blue

Original design.

A designer dog brand that has original & exclusive products. Inspired to combine luxury, comfort & safety while travelling.

With our product at the heart of everything we do. We’re driven by ambition to create a first class experience for you and your best friend.

Excellent Service

We strive to exceed expectations and listen closely to our customers. We are respected and admired with a high score of 9,8 on Webwinkelkeur and a 4,9 on google.

Dog Travel Accessories

Luxury dog harness & dog seat belt.

L’élianne ®  Dog Harness  &  Dog Seat Belt  form a perfect combination when used with our luxury dog car seat. These luxury travel accessories significantly take safety, protection and comfort to the next level.

Our luxury travel accessories are designed to ensure safety and protection during car rides. Without the proper protection for your dog, a car journey can swiftly become dangerous and risky.

Explore our designer dog car restraint and dog seat belt, specially designed for  car travel, hiking, training,  and  much mor e.

COMBINATION: DOG HARNESS & DOG CAR RESTRAINT

Our new L’élianne ®  Dog Harness  &  Dog Seat Belt  feature a  double safety attachment.  The dog car restraint is secured to the headrest of the seat, as well as clicked into any universal seatbelt clip. The dog car restraint can be attached to the dog harness.

To encourage more outdoor adventures in the car to new places, we have put together a collection of must-have travel essentials for dogs to make your next car journey even more fun. Our L’élianne ®  dog harness  &  dog car seat  belt can be perfectly combined during car journeys.

Discover Our Travel Accessories

L’élianne ® luxury  Dog Harness, Dog Seat Belt  &  Dog Sleeping Bag  that is an excellent addition to our designer dog car seat. Our travel accessories is a must-have combination to ensure many safe miles on the road. Explore our designer collection!

Designer Luxury Dog Sleeping Mat | Charcoal Beige

Designer Luxury Dog Harness | Black

Designer Luxury Dog Seat Belt | Black

L’élianne ® is a  designer luxury dog brand  founded by Carlijn Elianne in 2020 in the Netherlands. My iconic collection is  original, exclusive & innovatively  designed. The best materials are used to create a premium experience, all designed by expert craftsmen.

Every dog that is part of the family deserves the best products made exclusively for them. My goal? To take your adventures with your dog to the next level without compromising on style.

L’élianne ® ‘s mission is to strive for a better future where dogs no longer have to feel fear, stress or car sickness.

DESIGNER DOG CARRIER

L’élianne ®  Designer Dog Carrier  is a combination between functionality and a fashion statement.

Our luxury dog carrier bag is perfect for carrying and travelling in the car or on an airplane. It is designed for  puppies  weighing up to  5 KG  or small dogs weighing up to  8 KG , such as Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, or Italian Greyhounds, Pomeranians, with a maximum weight of  12 KG .

Explore our luxury dog bag collection, exclusively available for purchase online, and elevate your travel experience to a premium level!”

HIGH QUALITY & LUXURY DETAILS

Our luxury dog bag is designed from  100% waterproof nylon & vegan leather finishes . These high-quality materials are carefully selected for durability and long-lasting use. The dog carrier bag has a functional design, machine-washable & lightweight.

DESIGNER AIRPLANE DOG CARRIER

Airline approved:  An iconic L’élianne ® in-cabin  dog carrier  for the  airplane  combines luxury and functionality for a successful plane trip together. Our luxury dog carriers are plane approved. You are allowed to take your dog with you in the cabin in Economy Class, Business Class within Europe.

LUXURY AIRPLANE DOG CARRIER

Approved Design:  Our plane dog bag complies with the rules and dimensions of airlines such as Tui, KLM and Transavia.

Multifunctional:  Besides air travel, the dog bag is ideal for car trips, vet visits and daily outings. For this reason, you can carry a puppy, small dog or a cat comfortably and safely.

Functionality:  The bottom is made of sturdy, hard material for proper stability. The reinforced mesh materials provide ventilation and visibility.

Design:  The luxury dog carrier bag is crafted from high-quality, durable materials and exquisite details. The exterior is composed of 50% nylon & 50% PU-vegan leather, which is waterproof. The slim design and compact size fit perfectly under airline seats and in luggage compartments.

Luxurious dog collection to travel comfortable on the go, in the airplane & car. A first-class experience will become your dog’s new favourite way to get from A to B!

Designer Luxury Dog Carrier | Bordeaux

Designer Airplane Dog Carrier | Black

Designer Luxury Dog Carrier | Black

Designer Luxury Dog Carrier | Camel

Copyright © 2024 L’ÉLIANNE ®

BC : +1-604-303-7384      ON : +1-647-479-4989       Toll Free : +1-877-958-7387 (Canada)

We Speak Mandarin and Cantonese

Relocating with your furry, scaly, or feathered family member.

Our expert team is ready to help!

Why Work with a Certified Pet Relocation Team?

We know how important expert care is for your pet, which is why our team is comprised of individuals from across the globe with years of experience. Let’s connect.

Not sure how to prepare your pet for their upcoming travel?

Checkout our most frequently asked questions

With over 50 years of airline and customs industry knowledge, and a certified pet relocation team, Worldwide Animal Travel has established itself as a leader in pet transportation in Canada, so you can trust your furry, scaly, or feathered family members’ well-being with pet relocation services that exceed expectations.

Why choose us

Worldwide Animal Travel is a full-service pet relocation company based in Vancouver, BC, and Toronto, ON. We are here to provide your pet with a truly comfortable and e xceptional travel experience! We love what we do, and we understand how important your pets are to you. We treat your pets as if they are our own!

International Travel

Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to ensuring the well-being and comfort of your furry friends. Our travel coordinators have access to a network of reputable and experienced agents worldwide and are ready to simplify the process for you.

Canadian Travel

We offer door-to-door service between any two points within Canada. We can provide reliable pickup and delivery services in all major Canadian cities to ensure your pet has a comfortable and safe travel experience.

Comfort Stops

If your pet is passing through Vancouver on their travels, we can provide a much-needed rest stop for feeding, exercise, and bathing at our Canada Customs bonded cat and dog kennel.

Corporate Travel

Relocating for work with your pet? We’re committed to making your corporate move a seamless experience for both you and your pet whether internationally or domestically.

Canadian Import Brokerage Services

We can help you simplify the process of filling out the necessary paperwork to import your pet. We offer import handling services, including Canada customs clearance, pet collection upon arrival, boarding, and delivery to your door To simplify your pet.

The Pet Relocation Process

You request a quote

We assign your pet a travel coordinator

Permits are obtained while we book the flight

We’ll provide a journey plan, pet carrier, and regular updates on onboarding, flight check-ins, and delivery/pick-up to keep you informed throughout your pet’s journey

Your local and federal vet approve your pet for travel

We arrange your pet’s drop off or pick up

We prepare the carrier to ensure your pet is cozy

Your pet is checked in and gets cleared for take-off

If your pet requires a comfort stop, we make the arrangements

After a government inspection you get reunited with your pet!

Contact us to get your pet ready for their next big adventure!

Achievements.

First Company in Canada to receive BOAS certification (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) snub nose

IPATA Industry Partner Award

IPATA Millie Woolf Memorial Leadership Award- Bruno Mansueto

Member of ATA

35 staff speaking 15 languages

Monthly Spotlight

This month, we’re excited to share a heartwarming story of companionship and care. We helped a furry friend make a transatlantic journey from Canada to the UK, as his family embarked on a new adventure. Entrusting us with their beloved pup, we ensured a smooth and loving relocation process.

From the start, our team managed every detail with utmost care and precision. Jacqueline, one of our experienced coordinators, worked hard to ensure that all paperwork was in order, regulations were met, and—most importantly—that the pup was on the same flight as his family. This coordination provided the family with peace of mind, knowing that their little love would be with them every step of the way.

“The 48 hours before our flight was very stressful but Jacqueline supported us through it and helped us to make sure our pup had the correct paperwork to ensure a safe journey.”

As the departure date approached, the process unfolded seamlessly. The family received regular updates, including photos of their pup preparing for the journey. We made sure our newest furry friend was comfortable and ready for takeoff.

At Worldwide Animal Travel, stories like this remind us of our mission to keep families together, even across great distances. Every wagging tail and satisfied client reaffirms our commitment to personalized care. Here’s to more journeys where pets and their humans can start new adventures side by side. 

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Owning a pet is a joy, but it can also be a financial commitment. From food and toys to grooming and healthcare, the costs can quickly add up. If you’re a budget-savvy pet owner or someone looking to relocate your furry friend without breaking the bank, you'll find...

What’s The Best Time Of The Year To Relocate My Pet?

Life can change in unexpected ways, and it can be difficult to decide when it’s the best time to travel with your family, especially your furry friends. With work, school, relationships and general parts of life sometimes interrupting or complicating plans, it’s best...

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With snowstorms covering the ground in powdered white and ice coating the streets, everyone’s top priority for the next month or so turns to safety. Although we might want to keep indoors, turn up the heat and enjoy some hot chocolate, the staples of cold weather, if...

pet travel specialists

Pet transport and animal shipping services throughout the uk, europe & overseas.

Are you looking for a safe, reliable pet transport service because you’re moving house, relocating, emigrating, or going to a new forces posting? Are you a breeder, buyer or welfare group that needs pet shipping services? Or are you simply looking for a stress-free way to transport your pets to your holiday destination?

Animalcouriers can help. We transport pets by road throughout Europe in our customised, Defra-authorised vehicles; and arrange air freight throughout the world. We can advise you on pet passports, animal health certificates and import and export requirements; and provide or source related services such as boarding  and airport collection and delivery .

PETS FLYING TO CANADA

Canada has temporarily stopped pets entering the country as cargo. if you need to transport your pet to canada, we can help by driving your pet to paris, from where it can fly with you as checked baggage in the cabin or the hold. find out more....

Don’t worry, there’s another way! We can help you transport your pets to Canada from Paris, as pets can fly out of France with their owners as checked baggage. So, a cat or small dog can go in a travel box that fits under your seat; while multiple or larger pets can go in travel boxes in the cargo hold. In line with IATA rules, there’s a designated area for pets at the front of the aircraft’s hold that shares air with the cabin.

To travel in this way, your pet would need an animal health certificate (AHC) to travel from the UK to France, in addition to the export health certificate (EHC) for travel to Canada. (We can help you obtain both of these.) One of our couriers would drive your pet(s) to Paris and meet you at Charles de Gaulle airport for your flight to Canada. To find out more, please fill in our enquiry form .

We are monitoring the situation with the Canadian authorities and Air Canada and will post updates here.

The latest from our travel blog

Frequent Traveller Chip travels from London to Austria for the summer

Frequent traveller Chip, a Border Terrier, made the journey with us from London to spend the summer in Austria. We’ve transported him several times now, as he and his family split their time between the two locations.

In July we drove the darling boy from London to […]

Petra is an absolute sweetheart, loves contact and affection. There was no way I could leave her to fend for herself over an uncertain Lesvos winter. She’s special and it has been so worth all the worry and expense to give her the forever home she deserves. Thank you so much for everything you’ve done to get her here. I’m so deeply grateful. ( Petra travelled from Greece to the UK with Animalcouriers)

Thank you for taking such a good care of Iorek. Both my family and I were amazed by the care and attention you provided for him through his first travelling experience. Iorek has settled well in Italy and is coping with the heat by taking every opportunity he gets to splash around when the garden water sprinkles are on! I will strongly recommend Animalcouriers to anyone who needs your service. ( Iorek travelled with Animalcouriers from the UK to Italy)

I just wanted to say that Chubbs loved the time you spent together, she looked so happpy and well looked after when we saw her for the first time afer her journey! Before courier S collected Chubbs from Portugal we were so scared to be giving our little princess to a stanger, but you put us all at ease and Chubbs took to you immediately! So thank you from the bottom of hearts, keep up the good work. ( Chubbs travelled with Animalcouriers from Spain to the UK)

A huge thank you for reuniting us with Jimmie and Millie last week; in addition thank you so much for the enormous effort you put in to resolving the delays after the passport problem so speedily. Mike our courier was also fantastic and kept us well informed during their trip, the cats arrived safe and sound and are now very much at home en France.I just wanted to say how very impressed we have been both with your organisation in general and particularly with the great consideration you give to the welfare of the animals you are transporting. We would be very happy to recommend your services! (Animalcouriers moved her three cats from the UK to France)

These experts from Animalcouriers were great. I picked them because they already had experience with getting a dog to Bermuda via London Gatwick and, as a bonus, their price was reasonable. It was professional service with a good dose of kindness and understanding about the stress of a move. I would recommend them and use them again. The dog was happy to go with the courier who got him and after the flight the next day, he looked well-cared for. I think he even got a home grooming because he smelled lovely. ( Capability flew from the UK to Bermuda with the help of Animalcouriers)

Loved seeing my 3 boys in transit this afternoon, they look relaxed and comfy! So glad you were recommended to us. Much better than being squashed up in little cages in the car with us amongst all our belongings!! So looking forward to having them at home soon. You really are wonderful people and do great work. Thank you ( Hugo, Red and Ruben travelled from France to the UK with Animalcouriers)

Rumy arrived safe and sound and she’s just settling in and currently sleeping under the bed after exploring the house. Thank you very much for bringing her over safely for us. The blog you guys run shows just how much you actually care about your job and the animals, which is more than I’ve seen from anyone else! If we ever have to move a pet again it will be you who we will call. Really good job and good luck with all your future trips. ( Rumy travelled from Greece to the UK with Animalcouriers)

The grand reunion took place as planned and Bart has made himself at home. He obviously travelled first class in 5-star luxury. Many thanks to you and your team. I will certainly recommend Animalcouriers to anyone we know looking for pet transport. ( Bart travelled from the UK to France)

Cooper made it home safe and sound and very happy. He is hanging out with our family in Ohio until we pick him up in a few weeks. Thank you so much for everything you did for us. We couldn’t be more happy with how he was cared for on his journey. From the pictures you posted it looked like he was having a blast and made some new friends. (Animalcouriers drove Cooper from Italy to London and arranged his flight from Heathrow to Ohio )

Animalcouriers have been amazing all the way through some very complicated beaurocracy issues that I could not have sorted out alone here in Ecuador. I want to recommend them to everyone. Despite my having to change my plans last minute due to some beaurocracy laws in Ecuador, Animalcouriers have been extremely helpful to me. They are fast to respond to document problems and help out no matter what, and are very responsible. If you hire their services you can have peace of mind with your pet in their hands. ( Carla travelled with Honi by air from London to Ecuador)

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Luxury Dog Carriers

Travel in quintessentially British style with one of our fabulous fabric luxury dog carriers. They’re perfect for busy dog owners on the go, and are available in a variety of beautiful prints. Our dog carriers help your pup feel safe and secure in their very own little happy place, wherever you go. So you can enjoy more quality time together. 

From trips to shops, cafes, to the vets, on public transport or even private jet, your four legged friend can always be by your side in their own little happy place. As featured in Conde Naste Traveller, our famous luxury dog carriers are the stylish way for you and your pooch to make your way around town.

'The Explorer' Quilted Comfort Luxury Dog Carrier

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Sand Sheltie Luxury Dog Carrier

The Belgravia Adjustable Black Plaid Tweed Luxury Dog Carrier

Pink Sheltie Adjustable Plaid Luxury Dog Carrier

Pink Sheltie Luxury Dog Carrier

The 'Queen Bee' Dusky Pink Luxury Dog Carrier

'The Louis' Luxe Grey Velvet Luxury Dog Carrier

Strawberry Thief Adjustable Luxury Dog Carrier

Liberty Print 'London' Luxury Dog Carrier

Liberty Print Luxury Dog Carrier With Waterproof Base

Luxury Dog Travel Bag

Crafted with all the care and attention you know your furry family member deserves, our luxury dog travel bags express quintessentially British style. We have various sizes to allow you and your beloved pet to enjoy their travels and adventures in comfort and style. We also offer the option to include a weatherproof outer base on your carrier or a personalised blanket . Our luxury dog carrier bags are designed with quality and style in mind and we know that your furbaby deserves only the best.

What Should I Look For in a Luxury Dog Carrier?

Dog carriers come in many shapes and sizes and we recommend you look for one (or two!) to suit the lifestyle of you and your dog. Our signature dog carriers are soft sided and most are lined with fleece for a cosy way to travel. If you plan to use your dog carrier as a handy travel bed on the go, then a carrier which can be unzipped and opened up is ideal, allowing space for your dog to curl up and catch some zeds. 

14 Airlines That Allow Pets in Cabin on International Flights [2023]

Traveling with our furry companions has become increasingly popular, and many airlines have recognized the importance of accommodating passengers’ beloved pets. Instead of leaving them behind or entrusting them to a pet sitter, more and more pet owners are seeking airlines that allow flying with pets in the cabin on international flights. There are many airlines that allow pets in cabin on international flights. 

This article will explore several airlines that go the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for both humans and their four-legged friends. From pet policies to cabin requirements for airlines that allow pets in cabin on international flights, let’s dive into the top airlines that warmly welcome dogs and cats on board.

The following airlines allow pets in cabin on international flights:

• Aegean Airlines
• American Airlines
• TAP Air Portugal
• United Airlines

Related post: Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe? Airlines that Allow Flying with a Large Dog in Cabin [Pet Policies]

Which airlines allow pets in cabin on international flights?

Aegean airlines pet policy..

• Maximum weight: 8 kg (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
• Cost: 60 EUR (prices differ depending on time of year)

Additional information:

• Transportation of dogs and cats to the UK is only permitted for flights to London Heathrow and only to be sent as cargo. 

Visit Aegean’s website  for more information.

Air Canada Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight:  22 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size : 27 x 40 x 55 cm (soft-sided crate) & 23 x 40 x 55 cm (hard-sided crate)
• Cost: $100-118 CAD
• Are an unaccompanied minor
• Are seated in an exit or bulkhead row
• Are travelling in Premium Economy
• On flights operated by their Aribus fleet, pets may not travel in the First Class cabin. 
• On Boeing 789  and 788 aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H20 x W40 x L43 cm
• On Boeing 777-300ER  and  777-200LR aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H21 x W38 x L43 cm

For more info, visit  Air Canada’s website .

Air Europa Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg (10kg including carrier) or 6kg on flights operated by ATR
• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
• Cost: 27-55 USD within Europe and 165 USD long-haul
• Prices subjects to possible surcharges for taxes in certain countries.
• Dogs must be at least 3 months old to travel on medium and long haul flights.
• Passengers are not permitted to bring pets in the Business cabin.
• Pets in the cabin may not fly in an emergency or XL seat.

Visit  Air Europa’s website  for more information.

Alaska Air Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 9kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size:  43 x 28 x 24 cm (soft) / 43 x 28 x 19 cm (hard)
• Cost: 100 USD each way
• You may not occupy an emergency exit row, or any seat with an airbag safety belt.

Visit  Alaska Air’s website  for more information.

American Airlines Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight : 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size : depends on flight (call the airline for specific restrictions)
• Cost: 125 USD each way
• Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin on international flights over 12 hours, or transatlantic flights.

For more info on additional restrictions, visit  AA’s website .

Air France Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size : 46 x 28 x 24 cm (soft carriers recommended)
• Cost: 30-125 EUR international
• Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin on international intercontinental flights.
• Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin in business on international flights.
• Each passenger may travel with only 1 pet.

For more info, visit  Air France’s website .

Delta Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: No limit, but pets must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
• Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (check the under-seat dimensions on your aircraft here )
• Cost: 125 USD within North America, 200 USD international and 75 USD to Brazil

Additional Information:

• Pets must be at least 16 weeks old for travel to/from the U.S.
• Pets must be at least 15 weeks old for travel to/from the EU.
• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

For more info on additional restrictions, visit Delta’s website .

French Bee Pet Policy.

• Maximum carrier size: 43x35x20cm
• Cost: 50€ each way
• Breeds include: pugs, bulldogs, boxers, Pekinese and shih tsus
• For more information on category 1 and 2 dogs check the French Bee website here . 

For more info, head to French Bee’s website .

JetBlue Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 17″L x 12.5″W x 8.5″H
• Trinidad & Tobago
• Cayman Islands

For more info, head to JetBlue’s website .

Lufthansa Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17.6 pounds (including carrier)
• Cost: 60 EUR international within Europe and 80-110 EUR international outside Europe
• You must complete this form before boarding your flight.
• You are not able to fly into the UK with a pet. 

Visit  Lufthansa’s website  for more information.

TAP Air Portugal Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (including pets and carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 40 x 33 x 17cm 
• Cost: cost varies – check here

Aircraft Restrictions:

• Pets are not permitted to be carried in Executive Class on long haul flights. 

Visit TAP Air’s website  for more info.

TUI Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (excluding carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (soft-sided crates only)
• Cost: 50 EUR
• On all long-haul international flights, pets are not allowed in the cabin.
• On all non-European destinations in combination with Antwerp, dogs or cats are not allowed

Visit TUI’s website  for more information.

United Airlines Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight:  No limit, but must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
• Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 28 cm (soft-sided) / 44 x 30 x 19 cm (hard-sided)
• Cost: 125 USD (+ 125 USD service charge for each stopover of more than four hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours outside the U.S)
• Boeing 757-200
• Federated States of Micronesia
• Marshall Islands
• Philippines
• Trinidad and Tobago

Visit  United’s website  for more info.

Vueling Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 10 kg (including carrier) or 8kg on flights operated by Iberia
• Maximum carrier size: 45 x 39 x 21 cm (soft-sided crates only)
• Cost: 50 EUR international

Visit Vueling’s website  for more information.

Prepare for flying with a pet in cabin on international flights.

1. select an appropriate, cabin-approved travel carrier..

As mentioned above, different airlines and aircrafts have different size restrictions for carriers. Be sure to check the restrictions for your specific airline, and aircraft.

For example, Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.

We would recommend using a soft sided carrier as they usually give your pet more space. 

2. Get your pet used to it’s travel carrier.

When flying with a pet in cabin, they will need to stay in its travel carrier for the duration of the journey. So, it’s very important that you spend some time to get your dog used to its travel carrier.

When first introducing your pet to its carrier, take it slow. Lure your dog into their carrier with plenty of treats, and let him/her play and sleep in there as much as possible. You want to avoid forcing your pet into the carrier as this may stress him or her out and may cause a negative association to the carrier. 

3. Train your pet to stay calm.

Your pet will need to be calm and well behaved when flying in cabin. If they show disruptive behaviour, they risk being sent into the cargo area of the plane.

4. Exhaust your pet before the flight.

Try to exhaust your pet a little by increasing the level of activity before your trip. A sleepy pet will be less prone to getting stressed out on the flight, and will likely be better behaved on the flight. 

5. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

When flying with a pet in cabin, your pet won’t be able to go potty. So, it’s a good idea to limit your pet’s access to food before the flight. Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before. Air Canada suggest feeding your dog four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel. 

Line the bottom of your pet’s travel carrier with a pee pad, just incase they do have an accident.

6. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.

7. Bring along your pet’s favourite comforts.

To maximise comfort and minimise stress, pop your pet’s favourite blanket or toy in the travel carrier with them. If your pet suffers from separation anxiety, you could even pop one of your t-shirts in the carrier.

Which dog and cat breeds are not allowed in cabin on international flights?

Unfortunately, some airlines have restrictions on the dog and cat breeds they permit on their flights.

This is because of their anatomical abnormalities, short-nosed breeds may be more vulnerable to changes in air quality and temperature in the cargo hold of a plane.

Only certain airlines have these breed restrictions, so while you may not be able to fly with one airline, you may be able to fly with another. However, it’s important that you are confident your pet is healthy enough to fly. 

The following brachycephalic and snub-nosed dog breeds are often not allowed in the cabin on international flights:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terriers
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldogs (all breeds)
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Presa Canario
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

The following brachycephalic and snub-nosed cat breeds are often not allowed in the cabin on international flights:

• Burmese Cat
• Exotic Shorthair Cat
• Himalayan Cat
• Persian Cat

Documents required for taking pets in cabin on international flights.

The documents required when flying with a pet in cabin will vary depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying from and to. 

You will need more paperwork when traveling internationally, in most cases you will usually require the following:

• Microchip certificate
• Rabies vaccination certificate
• Animal health certificate
• Additional vaccination certificates
• Rabies titer test results
• Parasite treatment certificate

a) Microchip.

Many airlines require microchip documents when flying with a dog or cat in cabin. Not only is it usually a requirement, it is in your best interest. If your pet was to go missing whilst abroad, then you are far more likely to be reunited with a microchip.

Your pet can get microchipped at your local vet or a charity, such as RSPCA .

b) Rabies vaccinations.

If you want your take dog or cat on flights, it is likely that he/she requires a valid rabies vaccination. Particularly when you are taking your pet on an international flight as this is a requirement for entering most countries. 

Most countries require dogs and cats to have their rabies vaccination between 30 days and 12 months prior to importing.

c) Animal health certificate.

Most airlines will require an official animal health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian when flying with pets in cabin.

In most cases, your health certificate will also need to be endorsed by the country’s authority responsible for the import and export of animals. For example, if you are traveling from the US, you will need your documents endorsed by the USDA. If you are traveling from Canada, you will need to have your documents endorsed by CFIA.

They are normally valid for 10 days.

d) Additional vaccinations.

Depending on where you are flying to, your pet may also require additional vaccinations or treatments.

For example, Turkey requires that all dogs are vaccinated against parainfluenza, leptospirosis, parvovirus, bordetella, hepatitis and distemper before being allowed into the country.  

e) Rabies titer test.

Some countries require pets to have a rabies titer test before entering. This is usually the case when you are traveling from a country that is considered high risk for rabies.

If your pet requires a titer test the process is as follows:

• Your pet will have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
• Your vet will then send the blood sample to an approved blood testing laboratory.
• Your pet’s blood test results must show a rabies antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/ml.
• You must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before you travel.
• The vet will give you a copy of the test results.

f) Parasite treatment.

To enter many countries, dogs are required to be treated against internal and/or external parasites before entering. This includes treatment for tapeworm, fleas, ticks, nematodes and cestodes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have to pay extra to fly with my dog in cabin?

You will yes. The amount you pay however, will differ between airlines as they charge different amounts. The charge also depends on where you are flying to and from. International flights usually cost more.

Can I fly with my pet in cabin on international flights?

You may be able to, depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying to and from. Some airlines allow dogs and cats in cabin on international flights, such as Aegean Air. Southwest, however, do not let pets in cabin on international flights.

Can I fly with my puppy or kitten in cabin?

This depends on how old your puppy is, and which airline you are flying with. Different airlines have different restrictions on the age of pets that can fly in cabin. Some require puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old, where others require them to be 16 weeks old.

Can I fly with a large dog in the cabin?

Unfortunately, unless your dog is an official service dog, only small dogs are permitted. Most airlines require that pets and travel carriers must have a combined weight of no more than 8kg. There are however some semi-private airlines that will allow large dogs in cabin.

Traveling with your pet is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories. Thankfully, several airlines have recognized the importance of allowing pets in the cabin on international flights and have established comprehensive pet policies to accommodate furry travellers. Whether you choose Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, or JetBlue Airways, you can rest assured that your dog will be treated with care and enjoy a safe and comfortable journey by your side.

• 21 Dog Breeds That Can Fly in Cabin 
• Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe?
• Flying with an Anxious Dog? [15 Top Tips!]
• Dog Sedatives for Flying: Should I use them?

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