The 9 Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers, Tested by Real Pet Parents

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Anna Mejorada

People / Anna Mejorada

If you’re taking your furry friend along for your next adventure and need to board a flight to reach your destination, you’ll need an airline-approved pet carrier to keep them safe and sound.

While we’d love to say it’s a stress-free endeavor to take a four-legged pal on an airplane, most pet owners will admit it can be difficult andrequires some preparation. To ensure you have the best experience possible, check your airline’s specific pet restrictions and requirements — including maximum pet weight, carrier dimensions, and paperwork — to avoid mishaps.

The More You Know

These are the best airline-approved (and pet-approved) carriers PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.comJump to ReviewBest Budget:JetPaws Official Pet Carrier at Walmart$48Jump to ReviewBest Design:Away The Pet Carrier at Awaytravel.com$225Jump to ReviewBest Design, Runner-Up:Wild One Travel Carrier at Wildone.comJump to ReviewBest Expandable:Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier at Amazon$53Jump to ReviewBest for Cargo Hold:Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon$105Jump to ReviewBest Foldable:Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier at Arloskye.comJump to ReviewBest for Cats:Travel Cat The Transpurrter at Amazon$170Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate at Gunner.com$550Jump to ReviewBest Dog Backpack Carrier:JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon$55Jump to Review

Best Overall:Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.comJump to ReviewBest Budget:JetPaws Official Pet Carrier at Walmart$48Jump to ReviewBest Design:Away The Pet Carrier at Awaytravel.com$225Jump to ReviewBest Design, Runner-Up:Wild One Travel Carrier at Wildone.comJump to ReviewBest Expandable:Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier at Amazon$53Jump to ReviewBest for Cargo Hold:Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon$105Jump to ReviewBest Foldable:Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier at Arloskye.comJump to ReviewBest for Cats:Travel Cat The Transpurrter at Amazon$170Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate at Gunner.com$550Jump to ReviewBest Dog Backpack Carrier:JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon$55Jump to Review

Best Overall:Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.comJump to Review

Best Overall:Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.com

Best Overall:

Best Budget:JetPaws Official Pet Carrier at Walmart$48Jump to Review

Best Budget:JetPaws Official Pet Carrier at Walmart$48

Best Budget:

Best Design:Away The Pet Carrier at Awaytravel.com$225Jump to Review

Best Design:Away The Pet Carrier at Awaytravel.com$225

Best Design:

Best Design, Runner-Up:Wild One Travel Carrier at Wildone.comJump to Review

Best Design, Runner-Up:Wild One Travel Carrier at Wildone.com

Best Design, Runner-Up:

Best Expandable:Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier at Amazon$53Jump to Review

Best Expandable:Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier at Amazon$53

Best Expandable:

Best for Cargo Hold:Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon$105Jump to Review

Best for Cargo Hold:Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon$105

Best for Cargo Hold:

Best Foldable:Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier at Arloskye.comJump to Review

Best Foldable:Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier at Arloskye.com

Best Foldable:

Best for Cats:Travel Cat The Transpurrter at Amazon$170Jump to Review

Best for Cats:Travel Cat The Transpurrter at Amazon$170

Best for Cats:

Best Investment:Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate at Gunner.com$550Jump to Review

Best Investment:Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate at Gunner.com$550

Best Investment:

Best Dog Backpack Carrier:JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon$55Jump to Review

Best Dog Backpack Carrier:JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon$55

Best Dog Backpack Carrier:

Best OverallLove Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel CarrierPHOTO: Love Thy BeastView on Lovethybeast.comStar QualitiesCompactShoulder straps make it comfortable to carryEasy to cleanRed FlagsOnly fits pets up to 25 poundsLightweight and durable, this pet carrier has everything you need for a solid travel day with your furry pal. We tested this bag on JetBlue and Delta flights, and it fit underneath the seat easily. Not only is it compact enough for easy storage and travel, but the roomy interior allows pets to sit, stand, lie down, and turn around while they’re inside. One key feature we loved was the mesh paneling that provides shy or anxious pets privacy from fellow travelers but still allows your four-legged buddy to see (and smell) you for reassurance.This pet carrier features supportive shoulder straps for extra security at the airport. Or, if you have a roller carry-on bag, the two smaller pockets with zippers also function as a loop for suitcase handles. (Psst: Use these to secure seatbelts in your Uber ride, too!) There’s also a large zippered pocket for your phone, wallet, boarding pass, headphones, and your pet’s treats, so you don’t necessarily need an additional bag or purse.If your dog or cat has an accident during your journey, you’ll appreciate the platform on the bottom of the bag that can easily be removed and cleaned. The only fault we could find with this bag is that it has a 25-pound weight limit, so it won’t work for all pets.Dimensions:17 x 8 x 12 inches |Weight Limit:25 pounds

Best OverallLove Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel CarrierPHOTO: Love Thy BeastView on Lovethybeast.com

Best OverallLove Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier

Best Overall

Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier

PHOTO: Love Thy Beast

View on Lovethybeast.com

Star QualitiesCompactShoulder straps make it comfortable to carryEasy to cleanRed FlagsOnly fits pets up to 25 pounds

Star QualitiesCompactShoulder straps make it comfortable to carryEasy to clean

Compact

Shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry

Easy to clean

Red FlagsOnly fits pets up to 25 pounds

Only fits pets up to 25 pounds

Lightweight and durable, this pet carrier has everything you need for a solid travel day with your furry pal. We tested this bag on JetBlue and Delta flights, and it fit underneath the seat easily. Not only is it compact enough for easy storage and travel, but the roomy interior allows pets to sit, stand, lie down, and turn around while they’re inside. One key feature we loved was the mesh paneling that provides shy or anxious pets privacy from fellow travelers but still allows your four-legged buddy to see (and smell) you for reassurance.

This pet carrier features supportive shoulder straps for extra security at the airport. Or, if you have a roller carry-on bag, the two smaller pockets with zippers also function as a loop for suitcase handles. (Psst: Use these to secure seatbelts in your Uber ride, too!) There’s also a large zippered pocket for your phone, wallet, boarding pass, headphones, and your pet’s treats, so you don’t necessarily need an additional bag or purse.

If your dog or cat has an accident during your journey, you’ll appreciate the platform on the bottom of the bag that can easily be removed and cleaned. The only fault we could find with this bag is that it has a 25-pound weight limit, so it won’t work for all pets.

Dimensions:17 x 8 x 12 inches |Weight Limit:25 pounds

Best BudgetJetPaws Official Pet CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$48 at Walmart$55 at QVCView on HSN

Best BudgetJetPaws Official Pet Carrier

Best Budget

JetPaws Official Pet Carrier

PHOTO: Amazon

$48 at Walmart$55 at QVCView on HSN

Star QualitiesSturdy yet lightweight4 storage pocketsPets can peek outJetBlue-approvedRed FlagsNo trolley sleeveBasic design

Star QualitiesSturdy yet lightweight4 storage pocketsPets can peek outJetBlue-approved

Sturdy yet lightweight

4 storage pockets

Pets can peek out

JetBlue-approved

Red FlagsNo trolley sleeveBasic design

No trolley sleeve

Basic design

One thing is for sure about this airline bag: You know it’ll fit underneath the seat for JetBlue flights since it’s the airline’s official pet carrier. There is plenty to love about this budget-friendly buy: It’s sturdy, lightweight, easy to carry, and super functional. We love the four pockets: one for treats; one for your passport, wallet, and phone; one for a tablet or book; and one for (human) snacks. We also appreciated the nylon material that’s super simple to clean in case our furry friend has an accident.

Dimensions:16 x 8.5 x 10 inches |Weight Limit:20 pounds

PHOTO: People / Morgan Ashley ParkerPHOTO: People / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best DesignAway The Pet CarrierPHOTO: Away$225 at Awaytravel.comStar QualitiesHigh-quality materialsBreathableMatches luggageRed FlagsAwkward handle lengthDoesn’t comply with some airlines' size requirementsIf you love yourAway luggage, consider giving your best friend a matching carrier. We love this bag’s sturdy, sleek, modern design, which can easily fit a small to medium-sized dog. Made with high-quality materials, the bag has plenty of spacious pockets to store your (and your dog’s) essentials.We appreciate the machine-washable, fuzzy interior lining for a cozy touch and the mesh panels to provide fresh air for your pet. In addition, the built-in shades can be pulled down to provide darkness and security to your pet while flying. You can carry it like a tote bag or put the carrier straps over your shoulder, though we did find the handle length slightly awkward. Keep in mind that it doesn’t fit underneath the seat of every airline, particularly budget airlines like Southwest, Spirit, Frontier, or Allegiant. While it’s on the pricey end, it’s a worthwhile investment for frequent fliers.Dimensions:18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches |Weight Limit:18 poundsPHOTO: People / Alessandra AmodioPHOTO: People / Alessandra AmodioPHOTO: People / Anna PoppPHOTO: People / Anna Popp

Best DesignAway The Pet CarrierPHOTO: Away$225 at Awaytravel.com

Best DesignAway The Pet Carrier

Best Design

Away The Pet Carrier

PHOTO: Away

$225 at Awaytravel.com

Star QualitiesHigh-quality materialsBreathableMatches luggageRed FlagsAwkward handle lengthDoesn’t comply with some airlines' size requirements

Star QualitiesHigh-quality materialsBreathableMatches luggage

High-quality materials

Breathable

Matches luggage

Red FlagsAwkward handle lengthDoesn’t comply with some airlines' size requirements

Awkward handle length

Doesn’t comply with some airlines' size requirements

If you love yourAway luggage, consider giving your best friend a matching carrier. We love this bag’s sturdy, sleek, modern design, which can easily fit a small to medium-sized dog. Made with high-quality materials, the bag has plenty of spacious pockets to store your (and your dog’s) essentials.

We appreciate the machine-washable, fuzzy interior lining for a cozy touch and the mesh panels to provide fresh air for your pet. In addition, the built-in shades can be pulled down to provide darkness and security to your pet while flying. You can carry it like a tote bag or put the carrier straps over your shoulder, though we did find the handle length slightly awkward. Keep in mind that it doesn’t fit underneath the seat of every airline, particularly budget airlines like Southwest, Spirit, Frontier, or Allegiant. While it’s on the pricey end, it’s a worthwhile investment for frequent fliers.

Dimensions:18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches |Weight Limit:18 pounds

PHOTO: People / Alessandra AmodioPHOTO: People / Alessandra AmodioPHOTO: People / Anna PoppPHOTO: People / Anna Popp

Best Design, Runner-UpWild One Travel CarrierPHOTO: Wild OneView on Wildone.comView on PETCOStar QualitiesWell-made and lightweightStrap for suitcase handle is very secureChic designFolds flat when not in useRed FlagsToo big to fit under seats on some airlinesFor style-conscious pet owners, the Wild One Travel Carrier is the perfect blend of chic and practical. It stands out for its convenient and functional features and easy-to-access pockets for travel essentials. Mesh panels with pull-down covers provide ventilation and privacy for pets, while supportive straps make it comfortable to carry through the airport.The carrier also has a sleeve to slide it onto your rolling suitcase handle to make travel easier. Once you arrive at your destination, it folds flat for storage. Now for the downsides: medium-sized dogs must lie down to fit, and while short dogs can lift their heads, the carrier’s height is limited. Additionally, Delta told us that it’s too big to fit under a seat in the main cabin or Delta Plus. Add if it can’t fit under a Delta seat, it may be too large for budget airlines like Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier.Dimensions:17.5 x 10 x 11 inches |Weight Limit:16 poundsPHOTO: People / Anna MejoradaPHOTO: People / Anna MejoradaPHOTO: People / Anna Mejorada

Best Design, Runner-UpWild One Travel CarrierPHOTO: Wild OneView on Wildone.comView on PETCO

Best Design, Runner-UpWild One Travel Carrier

Best Design, Runner-Up

Wild One Travel Carrier

PHOTO: Wild One

View on Wildone.comView on PETCO

Star QualitiesWell-made and lightweightStrap for suitcase handle is very secureChic designFolds flat when not in useRed FlagsToo big to fit under seats on some airlines

Star QualitiesWell-made and lightweightStrap for suitcase handle is very secureChic designFolds flat when not in use

Well-made and lightweight

Strap for suitcase handle is very secure

Chic design

Folds flat when not in use

Red FlagsToo big to fit under seats on some airlines

Too big to fit under seats on some airlines

For style-conscious pet owners, the Wild One Travel Carrier is the perfect blend of chic and practical. It stands out for its convenient and functional features and easy-to-access pockets for travel essentials. Mesh panels with pull-down covers provide ventilation and privacy for pets, while supportive straps make it comfortable to carry through the airport.

The carrier also has a sleeve to slide it onto your rolling suitcase handle to make travel easier. Once you arrive at your destination, it folds flat for storage. Now for the downsides: medium-sized dogs must lie down to fit, and while short dogs can lift their heads, the carrier’s height is limited. Additionally, Delta told us that it’s too big to fit under a seat in the main cabin or Delta Plus. Add if it can’t fit under a Delta seat, it may be too large for budget airlines like Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier.

Dimensions:17.5 x 10 x 11 inches |Weight Limit:16 pounds

PHOTO: People / Anna MejoradaPHOTO: People / Anna MejoradaPHOTO: People / Anna Mejorada

Best ExpandablePetsfit Expandable Pet CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$53 at Amazon$51 at WayfairView on Petsfit.comStar QualitiesPet can move aroundComfortableMesh sidesRed FlagsSoft-sided, so it won’t last as long as a plastic kennelCan’t fit under seat when expandedWe love a lot of things about this expandable carrier. This bag is well-made, sturdy, and portable. When waiting to board, you can expand the mesh panels to the left and right, so your pet can stretch out, move around, and get comfortable.However, when the bag is zipped shut, your pet may not be able to stand up fully (though they can likely move around and reposition themselves). Unfortunately, it can’t fit underneath the seat with the sides expanded. And while the materials feel secure, it’s made of a soft lining and is soft-sided, so we worry it may not last as long as other airline-approved pet carriers, but that all depends on how often you fly — and, ahem, how destructive your dog or cat is when under stress. We weren’t big fans of the handles since they hurt our hands over time, and we would have preferred some extra padding.Dimensions:16 x 10 x 9 inches |Weight Limit:13 poundsPHOTO: People / JT WildePHOTO: People / JT Wilde

Best ExpandablePetsfit Expandable Pet CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$53 at Amazon$51 at WayfairView on Petsfit.com

Best ExpandablePetsfit Expandable Pet Carrier

Best Expandable

Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier

$53 at Amazon$51 at WayfairView on Petsfit.com

Star QualitiesPet can move aroundComfortableMesh sidesRed FlagsSoft-sided, so it won’t last as long as a plastic kennelCan’t fit under seat when expanded

Star QualitiesPet can move aroundComfortableMesh sides

Pet can move around

Comfortable

Mesh sides

Red FlagsSoft-sided, so it won’t last as long as a plastic kennelCan’t fit under seat when expanded

Soft-sided, so it won’t last as long as a plastic kennel

Can’t fit under seat when expanded

We love a lot of things about this expandable carrier. This bag is well-made, sturdy, and portable. When waiting to board, you can expand the mesh panels to the left and right, so your pet can stretch out, move around, and get comfortable.

However, when the bag is zipped shut, your pet may not be able to stand up fully (though they can likely move around and reposition themselves). Unfortunately, it can’t fit underneath the seat with the sides expanded. And while the materials feel secure, it’s made of a soft lining and is soft-sided, so we worry it may not last as long as other airline-approved pet carriers, but that all depends on how often you fly — and, ahem, how destructive your dog or cat is when under stress. We weren’t big fans of the handles since they hurt our hands over time, and we would have preferred some extra padding.

Dimensions:16 x 10 x 9 inches |Weight Limit:13 pounds

PHOTO: People / JT WildePHOTO: People / JT Wilde

Best for Cargo HoldPetmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog KennelPHOTO: Petmate$105 at AmazonView on Cabelas.comView on Petmate.comStar QualitiesSturdyCan fit kennel pad insideEasy to wipe down and disassembleGate can open from right or leftRed FlagsNo storage or pocketsNo handles or wheelsIf you plan to bring your big buddy along for your next adventure and you’re looking for a cargo pet carrier that gets the job done but isn’t fancy, this is your best bet. This crate has enough space for a cozy kennel pad, a fewdog toys, a blanket, and a travel water andfood bowl.This super-sturdy crate is mainly made of plastic, making it easy to clean and break down to store after your trip. We liked how easy it is to open and close the gate with one hand, and the gate could be put on either side, allowing it to open to the left or the right. We also had zero problems getting the kennel through TSA; we just had to go through the scanner to ensure everything inside was safe for travel.Dimensions:36 x 24.5 x 27 inches |Weight Limit:30 poundsPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for Cargo HoldPetmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog KennelPHOTO: Petmate$105 at AmazonView on Cabelas.comView on Petmate.com

Best for Cargo HoldPetmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel

Best for Cargo Hold

Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel

PHOTO: Petmate

$105 at AmazonView on Cabelas.comView on Petmate.com

Star QualitiesSturdyCan fit kennel pad insideEasy to wipe down and disassembleGate can open from right or leftRed FlagsNo storage or pocketsNo handles or wheels

Star QualitiesSturdyCan fit kennel pad insideEasy to wipe down and disassembleGate can open from right or left

Sturdy

Can fit kennel pad inside

Easy to wipe down and disassemble

Gate can open from right or left

Red FlagsNo storage or pocketsNo handles or wheels

No storage or pockets

No handles or wheels

If you plan to bring your big buddy along for your next adventure and you’re looking for a cargo pet carrier that gets the job done but isn’t fancy, this is your best bet. This crate has enough space for a cozy kennel pad, a fewdog toys, a blanket, and a travel water andfood bowl.

This super-sturdy crate is mainly made of plastic, making it easy to clean and break down to store after your trip. We liked how easy it is to open and close the gate with one hand, and the gate could be put on either side, allowing it to open to the left or the right. We also had zero problems getting the kennel through TSA; we just had to go through the scanner to ensure everything inside was safe for travel.

Dimensions:36 x 24.5 x 27 inches |Weight Limit:30 pounds

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best FoldableArlo Skye The Pet CarrierPHOTO: Arlo SkyeView on Arloskye.comStar QualitiesElegant designComfortable and lightweightCan place over luggage handleRed FlagsNot tall enough for pet to turn around when closedPriceyIf you have limited storage, you’ll appreciate this carrier’s versatility and foldability. It’s made of high-quality materials that are easy to spot-clean when needed. The comfortable handles came in handy when carrying this bag through the airport, and the hidden pocket slips over your roller carry-on luggage if you’d rather wheel Fido along with you.Inside the carrier is a soft pad, so your pup feels cozy. However, this is a compact carrier. We found that a dog has to be lying down to close the top, and they can’t turn around in the carrier when it’s closed. Some airlines require your animal to be able to turn around in their carrier, so you’ll want to test it before a trip. Because of its small size, there also isn’t extra room for a blanket. However, if you have a small breed and value a chic, foldable design, it could be worth the investment.Dimensions:17.5 x 11 x 10 inches |Weight Limit:25 poundsPHOTO: People / Kate RousuPHOTO: People / Kate Rousu

Best FoldableArlo Skye The Pet CarrierPHOTO: Arlo SkyeView on Arloskye.com

Best FoldableArlo Skye The Pet Carrier

Best Foldable

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier

PHOTO: Arlo Skye

View on Arloskye.com

Star QualitiesElegant designComfortable and lightweightCan place over luggage handleRed FlagsNot tall enough for pet to turn around when closedPricey

Star QualitiesElegant designComfortable and lightweightCan place over luggage handle

Elegant design

Comfortable and lightweight

Can place over luggage handle

Red FlagsNot tall enough for pet to turn around when closedPricey

Not tall enough for pet to turn around when closed

Pricey

If you have limited storage, you’ll appreciate this carrier’s versatility and foldability. It’s made of high-quality materials that are easy to spot-clean when needed. The comfortable handles came in handy when carrying this bag through the airport, and the hidden pocket slips over your roller carry-on luggage if you’d rather wheel Fido along with you.

Inside the carrier is a soft pad, so your pup feels cozy. However, this is a compact carrier. We found that a dog has to be lying down to close the top, and they can’t turn around in the carrier when it’s closed. Some airlines require your animal to be able to turn around in their carrier, so you’ll want to test it before a trip. Because of its small size, there also isn’t extra room for a blanket. However, if you have a small breed and value a chic, foldable design, it could be worth the investment.

Dimensions:17.5 x 11 x 10 inches |Weight Limit:25 pounds

PHOTO: People / Kate RousuPHOTO: People / Kate Rousu

Best for CatsTravel Cat The TranspurrterPHOTO: Travel Cat$170 at AmazonView on Yourcatbackpack.comStar QualitiesSpaciousStrong, escape-proof zippersScratch-resistant meshVersatile carrying optionsRed FlagsMight not fit under some airplane seatsBackpack straps aren’t paddedWith a sturdy yet lightweight design, this long and spacious bag gives your cat plenty of room to move around comfortably. We’re fans of the scratch-resistant mesh and escape-proof zippers for curious cats. Inside the carrier is a super-soft felt lining that’s cozy for your cat and removable for easy cleaning. You can pull down a total blackout side panel to make your cat feel secure and calm.There are plenty of ways to tote this cat carrier: on your shoulder with a padded strap, as a backpack, or as a crossbody bag. However, we found the crossbody style awkward and uncomfortable, and with the backpack option, you lose the much-needed padding for your shoulders. On the plus side, there are well-organized storage pockets to carry your phone and boarding pass. The only real downfall is the length of this pet carrier, which may not comply with all airline size requirements.Dimensions:19 x 10.5 x 11 inches |Weight Limit:30 poundsPHOTO: People / Morgan Ashley ParkerPHOTO: People / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best for CatsTravel Cat The TranspurrterPHOTO: Travel Cat$170 at AmazonView on Yourcatbackpack.com

Best for CatsTravel Cat The Transpurrter

Best for Cats

Travel Cat The Transpurrter

PHOTO: Travel Cat

$170 at AmazonView on Yourcatbackpack.com

Star QualitiesSpaciousStrong, escape-proof zippersScratch-resistant meshVersatile carrying optionsRed FlagsMight not fit under some airplane seatsBackpack straps aren’t padded

Star QualitiesSpaciousStrong, escape-proof zippersScratch-resistant meshVersatile carrying options

Spacious

Strong, escape-proof zippers

Scratch-resistant mesh

Versatile carrying options

Red FlagsMight not fit under some airplane seatsBackpack straps aren’t padded

Might not fit under some airplane seats

Backpack straps aren’t padded

With a sturdy yet lightweight design, this long and spacious bag gives your cat plenty of room to move around comfortably. We’re fans of the scratch-resistant mesh and escape-proof zippers for curious cats. Inside the carrier is a super-soft felt lining that’s cozy for your cat and removable for easy cleaning. You can pull down a total blackout side panel to make your cat feel secure and calm.

There are plenty of ways to tote this cat carrier: on your shoulder with a padded strap, as a backpack, or as a crossbody bag. However, we found the crossbody style awkward and uncomfortable, and with the backpack option, you lose the much-needed padding for your shoulders. On the plus side, there are well-organized storage pockets to carry your phone and boarding pass. The only real downfall is the length of this pet carrier, which may not comply with all airline size requirements.

Dimensions:19 x 10.5 x 11 inches |Weight Limit:30 pounds

Best InvestmentGunner G1 Kennel IntermediatePHOTO: Gunner$550 at Gunner.com

Best InvestmentGunner G1 Kennel Intermediate

Best Investment

Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate

PHOTO: Gunner

$550 at Gunner.com

Star QualitiesComfortable and roomyHas wheels for travelEasy to cleanRed FlagsHeavy

Star QualitiesComfortable and roomyHas wheels for travelEasy to clean

Comfortable and roomy

Has wheels for travel

Red FlagsHeavy

Heavy

Like other cargo kennels, there is enough room to add a dog bed or pad, your pup’s beloved toys, a blanket, and a water or food bowl. We found it relatively easy to assemble, but it’s important to note that it’s heavy (27 pounds when empty) due to the high-quality, durable materials. While it does have back wheels that make it easy to move, loading and unloading it into your vehicle may require two people.

Dimensions:33.25 x 21 x 29 x 23 inches |Weight Limit:75 pounds

PHOTO: People / Lisa PezzutoPHOTO: People / Lisa PezzutoPHOTO: People / Lisa Pezzuto

If you’re shopping for airline-approved pet carriers, you might also be interested in these other PEOPLE-Tested pet products. Our recommended picks go through rigorous testing from both our editors and independent testers with their own pets.

JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier$55$50 at AmazonWhisker Feeder Robot$299 at Amazon$299 at Litter-robot.comWisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Test$105$85 at Amazon$100 at ChewyView on Wisdompanel.comFurbo 360 Dog Camera$99$64 at AmazonView on Furbo.com

JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier$55$50 at Amazon

JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier

$55$50 at Amazon

Whisker Feeder Robot$299 at Amazon$299 at Litter-robot.com

Whisker Feeder Robot

$299 at Amazon$299 at Litter-robot.com

Wisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Test$105$85 at Amazon$100 at ChewyView on Wisdompanel.com

Wisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Test

$105$85 at Amazon$100 at ChewyView on Wisdompanel.com

Furbo 360 Dog Camera$99$64 at AmazonView on Furbo.com

Furbo 360 Dog Camera

$99$64 at AmazonView on Furbo.com

What to Know About Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Airline Requirements and Restrictions

When choosing a pet carrier for a plane ride, the first step is to check your airline’s specific size requirements. Every airline has slightly different rules, so double-check that your favorite carrier complies with your favorite airline’s required dimensions.

Consider if your pet will be coming on board with you or if they will be traveling in a cargo hold. Most soft-sided, in-cabin pet carriers are suitable for pets up to 20 pounds, and most airlines only allow pets up to this size in the cabin, saysWhitney Miller, DVM, MBA, DACVPM, chief veterinarian at Petco.

Pet Comfort

“Regardless of where your pet will be during the flight, their carrier should provide enough room to stand up, sit, lay down, and turn around without issues, as well as ventilation from at least three of its sides,” says Miller.

Most airlines consider this and require your pet to be able to turn around in their carrier. Our best expandable carrier, thePetsfit Expandable Pet Carrier, provides extra space for your pet to move around safely. In addition to a comfortable carrier, perhaps add your pet’s favorite toy or small blanket in case they get anxious or chilly.

Frequency of Travel

If you only take your pet on a trip every few years, you may not need an expensive pet carrier that’s versatile and packed with features; the budget-friendlyJetPaws carriermay do the trick. If you frequently travel with your furry friend, investing in a high-quality pet carrier that’s comfortable for both you and your pet is worth the extra cash. For frequent travelers, we thinkAway’s The Pet Carrieris worth the investment.

People / Anna Popp

We tested 13 top-rated airline-approved pet carriers to determine which were the best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lindsay Tigaris an experienced travel and lifestyle journalist. Her work has also appeared in Travel + Leisure, Vogue, USA Today, Fast Company, and other publications. To bring you this review, she consulted our testers for their impressions of pet carriers, considering effectiveness, durability, and ease of use, as well as airline restrictions. While researching pet carriers, we spoke with Dr. Whitney Miller, chief veterinarian at Petco; Amanda Farah, national training and behavior coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society; and Kate Karam, pet expert and former editor-in-chief at Chewy.

Our Expert PanelWhitney Miller, DVM, MBA, DACVPM, is the chief veterinarian at Petco.Amanda Farah, CPDT-KA, is the national training and behavior coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society.Kate Karamis a pet expert and former editor-in-chief at Chewy.

Our Expert Panel

Whitney Miller, DVM, MBA, DACVPM, is the chief veterinarian at Petco.Amanda Farah, CPDT-KA, is the national training and behavior coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society.Kate Karamis a pet expert and former editor-in-chief at Chewy.

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com