15 best pet carriers for travel that work for planes, trains and everywhere else

Their love is unconditional, plus they’re cute. No, I’m not talking about kids but pets! Whether you have a dog or cat, there’s no denying the joy of having a furry friend. And since it’s fun to take a four-legged pal on a weekend getaway or day trip, it’s handy knowing the best pet carriers for travel before your next excursion.

I’ve had three cats (thus far) in my adult life, which means I’ve owned more than a few carriers. However, I, nor them, have ever really liked what we’ve had. From my perspective, some were too clunky to carry to the vet, while others looked cool but were not durable at all.

Although it can be a hassle to wrangle your pet into one, a carrier is a necessity with pet family members. They’re often needed for trips to the vet or groomers, as well as planes, trains and yes, automobiles, too.

Because it only takes a mouthy lab or long-nailed Persian to teach you how important it is to select the right carrier, we spoke to Dr. Teresa Manucy, DVM veterinarian at Chewy, as well as Dr. Beth Turner from Preventive Vet to give The Post all the details about what’s the difference between hard and soft shell carriers, how to know if a carrier is TSA approved and everything in between.

“For both dogs and cats, the carrier needs to be durable, sturdy, and hard to escape from. It must also be big enough for the pet to comfortably stand and turn around in,” Dr. Turner told The Post.

“[It] should allow the pet enough room to stand, turn around, and lay down comfortably,” added Dr. Manucy.

RELATED: Best gifts for dog lovers

To learn more, jump to our FAQ below or keep reading to find the best pet carriers for travel in 2024.

Best Pet Carriers for Travel

Best Overall for Dogs: Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel

For dogs leaving on a jet plane, we like the Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel. It has a mote on its interior perimeter for potty accidents. In the incident your pooch uses the bathroom, the runoff will collect there, keeping them dry and saving you the time of having to give them a bath when you arrive at your destination. The wire front door has a spring-loaded latch to keep them from bolting out the front, and the plastic is durably thick.

According to Dr. Manucy, hard shell carriers “fit medium to large dogs more comfortably,” and are a good option for “heavy chewers and pets prone to escape.” Although they can be bulky, they’re “better suited for longer travel times, and may help with longer airplane, car, or boat rides.”

Weight capacity: Up to 70 pounds (large) | Carrier dimensions: 34.625 x 25 x 26.5 inches (large)

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Best Overall for Cats: Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel

If you’re looking to book a flight for your cat and you, we recommend this pet carrier. Another design by Frisco, the Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel also works for smaller dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas or French bulldogs. Besides being made with 95% pre-consumer recycled plastic content, the eco-friendly carrier also has a mote to collect Fluffy’s piddle. Easy to assemble, it comes in two pieces and can be stacked for storage when not in use. While it’s always recommended to check with your airline to make sure you’ve chosen an airline-approved pet carrier, this one should be a thumbs up, as it has ventilation on all sides but nothing large enough to fit a paw or nose through. We love the top door (great for getting a kitten inside) but suggest using the front for larger, more feisty felines.

Weight capacity: Up to 10 pounds | Carrier dimension: (Extra small) 19 x 12 x 10.1 inches ; (Small) 24.05 x 16.8 x 14.5 inches

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Best Budget: EliteField Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

As Dr. Manucy pointed out, hard shell carriers are superior in many ways when it comes to protecting your pet. However, this isn’t to say that soft shell carriers for pets don’t come with their benefits. “They are useful for shorter distances where your pet needs to be within reach,” she said.

As a cat owner (technically, she’s an Emotional Support Pet), a soft carrier works better for me. I can hold it against me with her inside, so she feels my warmth and is comforted as we travel. This one from EliteField is my favorite on our list for several reasons. To begin with, it has a shoulder strap, so it can be carried like a duffle bag. I really like this feature because I generally need to hold other things, as well as my cat, when I’m traveling. There’s bedding inside for her to be cozy but it’s also removable for hot days or if she gets motion sick. The carrier is also waterproof and has a seat belt loop and a strap to attach to luggage. The netted sides provide isolation and some visibility but if your pet is easily startled or stimulated by what’s happening outside, both of you will probably like the canvas-covered sides. It also comes in a variety of colors!

Weight capacity: Up to 18 pounds | Carrier dimensions: 17 x 9 x 12 (Small-Medium) ; 19 x 10 x 13 (Large)

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Best Luxury: Ibiyaya JetPaw

Whether you’re a jet setter or your dog likes lounging on the lap of luxury, this pet carrier is built to impress. The pet carrier with wheels has a bottom compartment to hold your personal essentials or pet toys, while the bag has an abundance of pockets for treats, a leash, and whatever pet tech device you may need on standby. Best of all, it extends, creating an almost limo-like ride (almost), complete with extra paw room for those who need it. The material is waterproof, too, and the stroller is collapsable, so it can easily fit in your car, beside you on the train or beneath your airplane seat. h

Weight capacity: 16 pounds | Carrier dimension: 31.5 x 20.5 x 40 inches

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Best Backpack: Jespet Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack

Carrying your pet via backpack is easier on the forearms than a traditional carrier. It also frees up your hands. This carrier from Jespet is our pick. Although it doesn’t work for medium to large dogs, it’s big enough for smaller breeds to sit upright or turn around. It also has a top opening, which is good for cats. Dr. Turner explained, “For cats, having a carrier that opens from the top or [that has a top that] can easily be removed is beneficial, as it makes placing the cat in the carrier and removing them much easier – for the cat and owner!”

The carrier’s interior has a washable fleece pad, so your pet has a comfy surface to rest on. The backpack can be positioned horizontally for car trips. Annie Wermiel, NY Post Senior Photo Editor, uses it for her cat and gives it the thumbs up.

“This carrier is great for city-dwellers who may need to transport their pet by walking,” she said. “The backpack straps make it comfortable and easy to wear while also keeping your hands free, and the mesh panels offer plenty of breathability for your pet.”

As for keeping the carrier in pristine condition, it couldn’t be easier. “The inside is easy to wipe down in case of any ‘accidents’ and the faux shearling lining at the bottom comes out easily for washing,” Wermiel told The Post. “If you have an anxious pet, you can even turn the bag around and wear it front-facing so you can keep an eye on them through the top mesh hatch!”

Weight capacity: 16 pounds | Carrier dimension: 17 x 13 x 12 inches

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Best for Cargo-Hold: Sport Pet Travel Kennel Dog Carrier

Many pet owners traveling by plane with their fur baby worry that their carrier won’t meet TSA approval. However, according to Dr. Manucy, the agency doesn’t have much to do with it.

“TSA does not approve carriers for pets,” she explained. “Your pet’s travel kennel must be made of fiberglass, metal, rigid plastic, solid wood or plywood and must have ventilation on all four sides. The interior must be completely smooth, for your pet’s safety, so they do not become injured. Welded metal mesh can be used for ventilation ‘windows’ and doors, but the holes must be small enough that your pet cannot stick their nose or toes through the openings.”

The Sport Pet Travel Kennel checks all the above boxes, plus has transport wheels, making it easier to move the carrier with your pooch inside. They also snap on and off. Best of all, the cargo-style carrier also has a protective mote and an impact-resistant poly shell for your dog’s protection.

Weight capacity: 15-43 pounds (depending on carrier size) | Carrier dimension: (Large) 31.5 x 22 x 23 ; (Extra large) 35.5 x 23.75 x 26.75

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Best Convertible Pet Carrier: Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around 4-in-1 Travel Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack

Different travel requires different types of carriers, which is why we like this 4-in-1 style bag. It can be used like a backpack when you need your hands free, but quickly converts to a wheeling carrier — very handy if you’re traveling by bus or have a vet that’s more than a block away from your home. Our Commerce VP, Jacqueline Goldstein, has been using hers for her very cute cat, Neptune.

“Around March 2016, I adopted two cats from Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition . They were being surrendered from a family on the Upper West Side because someone in the household had allergies and could no longer live with the cats. The family dropped them off at my apartment themselves; [both cats were in the Snoozer carrier],” Goldstein said.

“It’s a 4-in-1, the ‘four’ here being: wheeled carrier, backpack, car seat, or pet bed. The pet bed feels a bit like a stretch for a clawless cat, but I understand where they are coming from and believe they can claim it. I’ve definitely heard Neptune snoring in there.”

Goldstein loves the design of the pet carrier, especially its mesh walls, straps, and size. “[Neptune] can sit up, lie down, and easily adjust her position,” she told The Post. “I love the pockets (I usually put treats in there), and I also love how the carrier can open at the top or bottom. The backpack straps are huge for me. When going back and forth from Brooklyn to upstate, we tend to bring a ton of stuff with us, so free hands are a must.”

Although life has changed since bringing the Snoozer into her home (one of her cats passed away and she purchased a second house upstate), the carrier has remained as reliable as ever, making it a must-consider in our book.

“Neptune is probably among the top feline travelers in the country because we bring her with us every time we go,” Goldstein said. “She typically hides when she sees the signs that we will be putting her in the carrier, but she’s gotten very used to getting in there, immediately settling into the Snoozer. She barely even protest-meows at all now. I love knowing that she is comfortable and safe in a convenient and flexible traveler.”

Weight capacity: Up to 30 pounds | Carrier dimension: (Medium) 14 x 11 x 20 inches; (Large) 15.5 x 12.25 x 23 inches

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Best for Short Trips: Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

Even if this soft carrier didn’t come recommended by one of our NY Post staff members, we’d still include it in our list. Look at all the happy pets enjoying it in the Chewy reviews section — too cute! Sweetness aside, the bag has several features that make it a winner, starting with its cozy faux lambskin liner. It’s wrapped around a wooden board for better stability, too, so your pet won’t feel like it’s sinking into the bottom. There’s ventilation on all sides, two points of entry, plus the strap is thicker than other carriers we’ve reviewed. What does that mean for you? Nothing, except an easier carrying experience. Instead of digging the strap out of your arm, you’ll be able to focus on keeping your cat or dog steady and anxiety-free. Although there’s no mote (that’s a feature found in hard shell carriers), the liner is washable. The bag can also be collapsed for when it’s not in use. And according to the NY Post staff member who owns it, it’s light and easy to travel with.

“The Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Carrier Bag is basically your standard soft-sided carrier, which we use to carry our smaller cat, Morris, to the vet or family visits,” he said. “It’s lightweight, and the shoulder strap is so helpful when hauling a second cat or luggage. The one thing to [note] is that our other (craftier) cat did manage to figure out how to undo the top zipper from the inside, so that’s one thing to keep in mind.”

Weight capacity: 16 pounds (for medium carrier), 22 pounds (for large carrier)| Carrier dimension: (Medium size) 17 x 11 x 10.5 inches, (Large size) 19 x 11.75 x 11.5 inches

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Best Carry-On: Sherpa Delta Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag (Medium)

If you have a cat or small dog, carrying your pet on the flight may be an option.

“The airlines determine that a carrier must be small enough to fit under a standard airplane seat,” said Dr. Manucy. “The size should generally not exceed 45 linear inches (length plus width plus height), or roughly 21.5 by 15.5 by 9 inches. Depending on the airline, carrier size limits may be even smaller.”

This soft shell carrier from Sherpa not only meets those size requirements but has some additional features to keep your pet (and you) comfortable. The padded strap, for example, is easier to carry on your shoulder, while inside features a faux lambskin liner. It’s non-allergenic. machine-washable and should keep pets cozy for the duration of the flight. Best of all, this pet carrier is part of the Guaranteed on Board Program.

Weight capacity: 16 pounds | Carrier dimension: 18 x 11 x 10.5 inches

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Best with Wheels: Pet Gear Happy Trails Lite No-Zip Pet Stroller

Need to make a grocery run but can’t leave your dog at home? This stroller-style pick is for you. This is one of the best pet carriers with wheels for travel, and hundreds of Chewy customers agree with me. For you, it has cup holders and a large bottom basket to place groceries, books, and whatever else you’re carting. For your pooch, the carriage is roomy enough to sit tall or lay down, plus its netted canopy lets them see the sights of the city.

Weight capacity: 25 pounds | Carrier dimension: 22 x 10 x 19 inches; Stroller height to handle: 40 inches

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Best for Small Pets: Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel

This pet carrier may not come with fancy features but it has everything needed to keep your pet safe. It’s made of plastic, metal, and stainless steel for durability, plus it has dual entryways. “Nervous pets or ones that chew or scratch should not use soft-sided carriers as they may allow an escape route if the shell is damaged,” said Dr. Manucy. “They can be more difficult to clean and may provide less protection from bumps or falls.”

To make your pet feel cozier, we suggest adding the Pawtect Blanket ($15) or something similar to the carrier’s bottom.

Weight capacity: 10 pounds | Carrier dimension: 19.4 x 12.8 x 10 inches

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Best for Large Pets: EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

While hard shell carriers are the safest, soft shell carriers can work for short trips, like to the vet. For larger dogs, we like this collapsible option from EliteField. It offers multiple points of entry for your pet to choose from and also comes with a fleece bed for them to rest on during transit. The mesh side panels provide proper ventilation and visibility. Deep side pockets are ideal for storing toys, treats, or a leash, plus the carrier is available in a variety of sizes and colors.

Weight capacity: 17 pounds | Carrier dimension: 42 x 28 x 32 inches

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Best Bag: Katziela Luxury Lorry Pro Removable Wheels and Double Telescopic Handle Dog and Cat Carrier

We love the versatility of this carrier from Katziela. It’s not just its wheels that we dig, but the fact they’re detachable so that the carrier converts into a bag when needed. Your pet will love the bed — removable and washable, FYI — and the mesh sides allow enough air to get in.

Weight capacity: 22 pounds | Carrier dimension: 19 x 13 x 15 inches

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Best Bike: Retrospec Rover Waggin Dog & Cat Bike Trailer

I’m constantly seeing this bike trailer pet carrier when I’m jogging. The bikers look happy and so do their pets. And I’m guessing it’s not just that both like feeling the wind in their hair but how easy the carrier makes it to travel together. It’s foldable and has a leash for extra security, plus the canopy is made with weather-resistant material and provides 360 views for your pooch.

Weight capacity: Up to 50 pounds | Carrier dimensions: 32 x 20 x 20 inches

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Best for Multiple Cats: Sport Pet Cat Carrier

Carrying two carries can be a pain, so we wanted to include an option that works for dual fur baby households. While it may not work well for large breeds, it has plenty of room for kittens and small adult cats. Featuring a large entryway, the carrier will seem more inviting to the skittish. Although it doesn’t come with bedding, a fluffy bath towel should do the trick, and the plastic material is very easy to wipe down. One of our NY Post staff members uses this for his cat Oyster.

“The Sport Pet Cat Carrier has been our household’s go-to for our larger-size [cat], Oyster, with plenty of space for him to scoot around, as well as gaps we can fit a finger through to gently pet and calm him down at vet visits,” he said. “It’s quick and easy to snap together, and when collapsed, takes up minimal storage space in our apartment. It is a little bulky, and the plastic material is unsurprisingly a little heavier than soft-sides cases we’ve used before.”

Weight capacity: 35 pounds | Carrier dimensions: 18.75 x 23.13 x 17.25 inches

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FAQ

What are some things pet owners can do to make traveling with a pet easier?

“All pets should be examined by their veterinarian prior to travel to be sure they are in good health, especially those with known medical issues,” said Dr. Turner, who also suggested looking into medications or supplements for motion sickness.

“Starting the pet on probiotics about 4 to 6 weeks before travel can provide several benefits, such as easing anxiety, calming the gut, and boosting their immune system.”

Don’t forget to pack food, especially if your pet has a specialized diet. Although it may be tempting to “just pick something up” when you land, switching up your animal’s diet is not a great idea, “especially when the pet is already stressed from travel.”

If it’s not possible to bring it on the plane, online pet stores, such as Chewy, can have food shipped to your destination. This is who I’ve used for one of my cat’s who has a special diet prescribed by her vet.

Like people, it’s important to make sure your pet has all their documents in order before travel. “Be sure your pet is wearing proper identification and has updated microchip information,” said Dr. Manucy. “Keep a photograph of your pet with you, along with their vaccination records and pertinent medical information.”

Your travel type will dictate other best practices when traveling with a pet. For flying, try to go direct to avoid layovers. “Attach a small pouch of dry food to the outside of the carrier to offer during a layover,” she said. “Consider freezing a shallow bowl of water the night before to reduce spillage as it slowly melts in the carrier. For pets in cargo, mark the carrier with the words ‘Live Animal,’ as well as with your name, cell phone and destination phone number, and a photo of your pet.”

Make sure the carrier is secure but not locked, so airline personnel can reach your pet in case of an emergency. Attaching a list of care instructions is also wise. “This will help airport workers care for your pet if they are sent to the wrong destination.”

Similarly, Dr. Turner recommended keeping an emergency contact listed on the carrier, in the event of an accident. If you’re driving with your pet, plan breaks for them to relieve themselves and get some exercise.

“Be sure to stop every couple of hours so that dogs can stretch their legs and potty. Be sure to keep them on a leash. If a cat is leash-trained and calm, stopping in an area away from other people and pets can be beneficial. But for cats that are not harness trained or are stressed, it is often easier for them to be kept in the carrier till reaching a place to stay. For these types of cats, this is where an oversized hard-shell canine carrier is beneficial as you can put the litter box in the carrier.”

Manucy added, “When driving, avoid feeding your pet while in a moving vehicle to avoid motion sickness. Offer a light meal three to four hours prior to departure. Use bottled water to prevent stomach discomfort from unfamiliar water sources. Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle to avoid temperature extremes that can cause illness quickly.”

Don’t forget to look up emergency veterinary hospitals on route to your destination. Also, know where the local animal clinic is located at wherever you’re going to.

Animals need reassurance and comfort while traveling. FELIWAY Classic Calming Spray ($20), is something I’ve used with my cat for trips to the vet. I spray a little on her cat bed before placing it in her carrier, and she’s visibly less anxious.

Natrumax Solliquin Calming Support Chews ($20) is another natural way to calm scared kitties, as well as dogs. It’s given like a treat and has soothing ingredients, such as L-theanine and magnolia extract, that calm the nerves. CBD for dogs may also be an option, but make sure to check with your vet, since it’s important to get their thumbs up before introducing a new supplement to your pet.

What should I look for when selecting a pet carrier for travel?

It’s easy to get sucked in by all the fun-looking carriers on the market. However, it’s important to remember that carriers are about keeping your cat or dog safe while traveling.

“Pet carriers should be selected based on the frequency of use, intended mode of travel, the pet’s personality, and the size of the pet to help determine the ideal type of carrier,” said Dr. Manucy. “Dog carriers may range from crates to hard shell and soft shell carriers based on the dog’s weight and method of transport. Due to their smaller sizes, cat carriers typically include hard shell, soft shell, and wearable carriers.”

“For dogs that are anxious or tend to chew, a hard-shelled carrier is more secure and safe,” said Dr. Turner. If you’re searching for a carrier for a cat, she suggests looking for one that includes a top opening.

The Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel earned our top spot for best pet carrier for dogs, mainly because it provides a nice amount for an animal to move in. Its protective hard shell has four-wall ventilation, plus the interior has a mote — just in case your dog goes number one.

Our pick for kitties, the Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel, also works for dogs, as long as they’re on the smaller side. More importantly, it has a top opening, as well as a latching front gate. This makes it easier to get your pet in.

 Is a soft or hard pet carrier better?

The type of travel you’re looking to do will help you decide the best carrier for your pet. For shorter trips with smaller pets, go for a soft carrier.

“Soft shell carriers are better suited for cats and small to medium dogs as well as pets that are used to traveling,” Dr. Manucy told The Post. “These carriers are lightweight, flexible, easier to carry, store or stow, and are more comfortable for the pet. They are useful for shorter distances where your pet needs to be within reach.”

When traveling long distances with a larger animal, a hard shell is better, as it offers the type of protection they’ll need on a boat or plane. However, they’re not as comfortable as a soft carrier, so add a bed to the bottom.

We suggest something like the MidWest Quiet Time Crate Dog Crate Mat ($37, $34). It has a non-skid bottom, is plush as can be, and can be thrown into the wash whenever necessary. It’s also available in multiple sizes, so you can find the best fit for your pet carrier.

What size is a TSA-approved pet carrier?

If you’re planning on flying with your pet, boarding issues can be minimized by selecting the right carrier.

“Each airline has its own regulations with regard to pet policies,” said Dr. Turner. “Most require a soft-sided carrier that falls within these dimensions:18 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 11 inches high. However, it is always recommended that you check your airline’s requirements prior to travel.”

Visiting the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is another way to tell if a pet carrier is airline approved, though it’s still encouraged to contact the airline you are flying with. “If your pet will be flying in the cargo hold, you must use a carrier that meets U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) specifications,” explained Dr. Manucy.

Considering your pet’s size will also help you know if you’ll need to purchase a cargo style kennel or can use a soft carrier. “Generally speaking, if your pet’s weight exceeds 15 pounds or is more than 19 inches long, it likely will be too large to fit into an airline-compliant carrier.”

What carrier does TSA require for pets?

Again, it is not TSA that approves pet carriers but airlines. However, TSA does have its own requirements to travel with your cat or dog.

“TSA requires that your pet be removed from the carrier in order for the carrier to pass through the X-ray machine and so that a visual and/or physical inspection can be performed,” Dr. Turner explained. “While out of the carrier, your pet needs to have on a collar or harness, and it needs to be attached to a leash. However, remove the leash and collar if there is any metal when going through the metal detector.”

Although it can seem daunting, once you know the general guidelines, picking the best pet carrier for travel is relatively simple. In the end, it’s all about finding one that keeps your animal safe and comfortable.

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For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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