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Best Sellers in Dog Soft-Sided Carriers

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The Best Soft-Sided Dog Crates 2024 Review

Breed Advisor is reader supported! This page contains affiliate links, that at no additional cost to you, may earn a small commission. Find out more here .

Written by: Ann-Marie Sharpe

Crate training has so many benefits for your dog, and you!

However, some owners feel that a wire crate isn’t suitable for their furbaby or don’t fit in with their lifestyle.

With all the choices on the market today, you can find something that works for you and your best pal.

Best Soft dog crates can provide the comfort and easy portability  that many dog owners are seeking for their dogs.

In this guide, we’ve thoroughly reviewed the best soft-sided dog crates on the market.

Our top choice is the Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate . It’s lightweight, calming for your dog, and affordable too.

The Best Soft-Sided Dog Crates

Editor's Choice

• Best overall
• Quality, durable construction
• 3 doors for easy access

• Best for color choice
• Range of colors available
• High-quality construction

• Best for active dogs
• Water resistant for outdoor use
• Easy-to-clean material

1. Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate [ CHECK PRICE ]

2. elitefield 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 3. midwest canine camper single door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 4. go pet club double door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 5. frisco indoor & outdoor 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 6. midwest canine camper single door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 7. etna pop-open single door collapsible soft-sided dog crate, black & white, 33 inch [ check price ], more detailed soft-sided dog crate reviews, best soft-sided dog crates.

• Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• Etna Pop-Open Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate, Black & White, 33 inch Check Price

Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Firstrax noz2noz sof-krate n2 series 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate review.

If you’re looking for the best folding soft dog crate, the Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is well worth considering.

This crate is lightweight and assembles in seconds, making it perfect for travel. Mesh sides provide plenty of ventilation, even in summer temperatures.

I loved that despite being soft-sided, this crate was still highly durable. With a strong steel frame and a water-resistant base, this crate is designed to last.

There are 3 doors for easy access and heavy-duty zippers on the doors for security. It even comes in a choice of sizes to suit most breeds!

• Owners loved that it was so lightweight, making it easy to carry
• Most owners felt this crate was comfortable for their dog
• Many said it was sturdy and highly durable for a soft crate
• Folds flat which is convenient for storage and transport
• Multiple doors allow easy access at all times
• Zippers can be prone to sticking or breaking
• Not designed to stand up to chewing or digging

EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Elitefield 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate review.

The EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a high-quality, durable option if you’re looking for the best soft-sided crate.

It’s available in a wide range of color and size choices so you can find something that suits your dog.

There are 3 mesh doors for easy access and to provide ventilation. Made from steel tubing and polyester fabric, this crate is durable and designed to stand up to wear over time.

It’s easy to assemble and folds down quickly for storage or transport. It’s also very lightweight!

I particularly liked that this crate came with a carry case for easy transportation. There’s even a fleece bed included for your dog’s comfort.

• Owners felt this crate was comfortable for their dog to rest or travel in
• Assembles quickly and easily without the use of tools
• Many said it was sturdy for a soft-sided crate
• Owners liked the choice of colors, in particular mentioning it was nice to have the option of a bright color
• Owners liked that the crate was lightweight and came with a carry bag for convenience
• Not designed to stand up to biting, chewing, or destructive behavior
• Zippers pose a weak point and can break easily if chewed

MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Midwest canine camper single door collapsible soft-sided dog crate review.

If you have a very sporty, active dog, the MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate could be the ideal choice for you.

It’s made from water-resistant material which makes it perfect for outdoor use and means it’s easy to clean after an adventure!

It assembles and folds down easily to take with you traveling, and it’s lightweight. Mesh doors and little mesh windows allow your dog to see what’s happening around them, as well as provide ventilation.

The frame is made from steel to ensure durability, designed to wear well over time. I liked that this crate came with a sheepskin pad for the bottom, providing the ultimate comfort for your dog.

• Owners felt this crate was very high quality and well made
• Many said their dog was comfortable in this crate, even when they hadn’t liked other crates
• Easy to fold down and put back up in seconds with no tools required
• Mesh windows allow dogs to watch what’s going on during travel
• Durable, water-resistant fabric stands up to wear
• Not designed to stand up to chewing or other destructive behavior
• Zippers can be prone to breakage if not handled carefully

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate review

• Best carrier crate
• Cozy and comfortable for small dogs
• Doubles as soft crate and carrier

The Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is an amazing option for small and toy breeds, especially if you want both a soft crate and a carrier in 1.

The crate is lightweight and can fold down for easy portability. It has 2 handles when fully assembled, which I found handy for carrying my small breed dog around.

The crate is cozy and comfortable for your precious pooch, with plenty of ventilation and a removable fleece floor pad.

The crate has both a top and front door, giving you 2 ways to access your dog. Best of all, this crate comes at an amazingly low price.

• Many owners found the crate was suitable for car travel, fitting easily in the car and helping to keep their dogs calm
• Lightweight as well as easy to fold down and reassemble, making it handy for travel or storage if you aren’t using the crate all the time
• Some found that being able to carry their dog while in the crate was very helpful, especially for vet visits
• Mesh provides ventilation and lets your pup peep out at the world, which many owners enjoyed
• Lots of owners felt this crate was wonderful for puppies and smaller breed dogs
• Owners felt that the soft mat at the bottom of the crate provided extra comfort, as well as being easy to remove and clean
• Not strong enough for dogs who are escape artists
• Some found that the mesh was not strong enough for big dogs or playful puppies, and was prone to breakage
• Safety attachment to clip dog inside the crate during travel can be easily chewed by mischievous dogs
• Not suitable for dogs who are prone to chewing

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate review

• Best 3-door crate
• 3 mesh doors for easy access
• Comfortable and portable

The Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is 1 of the best soft-sided dog crates, with 3 mesh doors providing easy access for your pup.

The mesh doors also provide excellent ventilation for your dog, as well as letting them look out at the world. I found that my chihuahua in particular prefers the option of being able to look at what’s going on around her.

The high-quality materials are both durable and comfortable for your best friend. This crate folds down easily and features a carrying handle for convenient portability and storage.

The crate comes in a range of sizes to suit all breeds and comes at a great mid-range price.

• Lightweight, easily folded and reassembled, making it very convenient for travel
• Owners found the 3 doors provided easy access for themselves and their dog
• Most owners felt this crate was good value for money and was affordable
• Some felt that the crate was cozy and comfortable, creating a calming den-like space for their dog with plenty of ventilation
• Handle and straps on smaller sizes are helpful during travel
• Not sturdy enough for dogs who are destructive or try to escape
• Some felt that the material was not as durable as they expected
• Some owners found that the crate was too hot for their dogs during warmer weather

• Best for outdoor adventure
• Sturdy and portable
• High-quality, water-resistant material

The MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a fantastic choice for adventurous pups.

This crate is designed for travel with sturdy, water-resistant material and a steel frame that is easy to set up and fold down. The crate has good ventilation with 1 door and meshed windows on each side.

The crate is not only sturdy but also comfortable, with a synthetic sheepskin pad for your pal to snuggle up on (my chihuahua loves these soft faux sheepskin pads).

Available in a range of sizes, this crate is suitable for all breeds and comes at a very reasonable price.

• Easy to take down and assemble, with clear instructions included which owners found helpful
• Spacious and comfortable, even for bigger dogs whose owners said sometimes feel cramped in other crates
• Even bigger sizes are fairly lightweight, yet heavy enough to make them sturdy, making them great for travel
• Some owners stated that the mesh provided great ventilation and was sturdier than in other soft crates they had tried
• Owners found that the pad inside was very comfortable for their dogs, as well as easy to clean with a removable cover
• Not suitable for power chewers or those determined to escape their crate
• Some found that this crate was heavier than other soft-sided crates they had tried
• Some owners found that the zippers and mesh doors were easy for their dogs to break

Etna Pop-Open Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate, Black & White, 33 inch

Etna Pop-Open Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate, Black & White, 33 inch review

• Best on a budget
• Low price, simple option
• Well ventilation and lightweight

The Etna Pop-Open Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate provides a simple pop-up, mesh-sided crate for your dog to rest in.

It’s well-ventilated, cozy, and cute with a paw-print design. This crate has 1 door and is a very lightweight option, making it portable.

I found that this created a lovely den for my small dog to lounge in, particularly while sitting outside. This crate is suitable for small dogs and is a great budget option, as it has an exceptionally low price.

• Very lightweight, making it easy to carry even for those who have mobility issues or struggle with heavier crates
• Useful for travel in the car, keeping your dog cool and comfortable
• Mesh windows provide excellent ventilation as well as allow your dog to see out from all angles, unlike some other crates which restrict their view
• Some owners really enjoyed the pawprint design on the crate, feeling it was stylish and cute for their dog
• The pop-up aspect makes the crate very easy to put up and fold away
• Not suitable for destructive dogs, as the mesh sides provide weak points, and the crate is very lightweight
• Material is not as sturdy or durable as in other soft crates
• Easy to tip over if your dog is very playful or moves around a lot while inside their crate
• Care is needed during assembly as the crate pops up quite quickly

Things to Look for in a Soft Dog Crate

When you’re looking for the best soft dog crate, you should look for the following:

Correct Size for Your Dog

It’s crucial that the crate you choose is the right size for your dog, for their comfort and safety. Your pup should be able to stand up, turn around, and stretch out in their crate, but not walk around freely.

High-Quality Materials

A crate made from high-quality, sturdy materials is more likely to last longer and withstand wear. A lot of soft-sided crates will be made with water-resistant material to stand up to the weather. If you plan on using your crate outdoors, keep an eye out for this.

Number of Doors

Crates will vary from having 1 to 4 doors. Think about where you want to use the crate and how many doors are convenient for you.

Some people may only need 1 entryway. Others may prefer more options if they are using the crate in different settings, for example, fitting it into the car.

Ventilation

It’s vital your dog has enough ventilation when they’re inside the crate. Many soft-sided crates will have mesh windows or doors to allow plenty of airflows, while still keeping out any bugs and keeping your dog contained.

Ease of Storage and Assembly

If your dog isn’t going to be using the crate all the time, soft-sided crates have an advantage because they’re usually very lightweight and portable.

They can typically be folded down and reassembled easily. Look for this in the description if it’s important to you.

Comfort for Your Dog

Of course, you want your best friend to be as comfortable as possible. Soft crates tend to provide a cozy, comfortable cave.

Choosing the right size of crate and picking 1 with good ventilation will be key for comfort.

Many will come with removable soft bottoms for your dog to lie on. It’s always a good idea to check whether a bed or comfortable mat comes with the crate. If not, you can always add 1 of your own.

Crufts Soft Dog Crate is ideal for providing comfort and security. It’s available with multiple doors and is made from lightweight, durable material. The mesh panels in the design provide good ventilation and airflow.

The soft crate kennel is another great soft dog crate to choose from. It comes with a breathable mesh cover and removable bottom for easy cleaning. Plus, it folds flat for storage, making it convenient and versatile.

Easy Cleaning

We all know that dogs can get messy and muddy very quickly. Sometimes they have accidents when they’re traveling. So, of course, you need a crate that’s easy to clean.

Some soft crates will have material that’s easy to wipe down. Others will have removable covers or bases that you can put in the washing machine.

Most soft crates have mesh windows and doors, which allows your dog to see out and watch the world go by.

Soft Crate Vs Wire Crate

Soft crates have many advantages over heavy-duty metal dog crates , including being more comfortable and cozier for your dog.

They tend to be far more lightweight and fold down, making them easy to store and carry. Soft crates don’t make much noise when your dog moves around, while wire crates can be a bit noisy at times.

Soft crates often look more aesthetically pleasing, and many owners prefer them. However, if your dog tends to chew things or try to escape their crate, a soft crate may not be a sensible option (see also ‘ What To Do When Your Dog Chewed Through Crate! ‘). A wire crate provides more security and safety.

If your dog is a puppy, older, or tends to be prone to accidents in their crate, a wire crate may be a more hygienic option.

Wire crates tend to come with removable, plastic bottoms which can easily be cleaned and disinfected. Some people prefer wire crates when traveling in the car, as they can provide additional protection in the event of an accident.

Both types of crates can be very useful for both owner and dog. Choosing which type is best for your dog is a matter of knowing your dog, the purpose of the crate, and personal preference.

Soft Crate Safety Advice

It’s vital you crate train your dog before using a soft crate. There are lots of guides online to help you. Always choose the right size of crate for your pup.

If your dog is prone to destructive chewing, a soft crate may not be safe for them as they’re easily chewed and could cause a choking or blockage hazard.

Are soft dog crates safe?

Yes, soft dog crates are generally safe to use, particularly as a place to sleep and when traveling. However, they won’t give your dog extra protection in the event of a car accident.

How do you clean soft dog crates?

Some soft crates will have detachable covers you can put in the washing machine. Others will have removable bottoms you can wash. Some may wipe down.

Can you crate train with a soft dog crate?

Yes, you can crate train a dog with any crate. However, if you have a puppy or a dog prone to chewing or escaping, a wire crate may be better.

This particularly applies if you plan on leaving your dog alone in its crate often.

Are crates cruel?

No, crates aren’t cruel, provided you crate-train your dog. In fact, crates have many benefits for both the dog and the owner.

A soft crate can be a welcoming, cozy space for your pup. Choosing the right crate can help your dog to feel more secure , keep them safer, and allow them to enjoy adventures with you.

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Ann-Marie Sharpe

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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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

Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio

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

Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Softside

Love thy beast nylon pet travel carrier.

Love Thy Beast

The 12-inch height makes it ideal for layovers. 

The narrow width may not be comfortable for girthy pets.

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Anna Mejorada

Best for Cats

Travel cat the transpurrter.

The Spruce Pets / Morgan Ashley Parker

• Size 4.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven

Best Budget Hardside

Petmate aspen pet porter dog kennel.

• Quality 4 /5
• Design 3 /5

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

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

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

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

Best Expandable

Petsfit expandable pet carrier.

The Spruce Pets / JT Wilde

• Quality 4.5 /5

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

The carry handles would benefit from a bit of padding.

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

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

Travel + Leisure / JT Wilde

Best Organization

Jetpaws official pet carrier.

• Comfort 4.5 /5

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Caraa Pet Carrier

Caraa 

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

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

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

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

Other Airline-approved Pet Carriers We Liked

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Kate Rousu

Tips for Buying Airline-approved Pet Carriers  

Choose the best size for your pet.

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

Check the rules for your mode of transportation 

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

Decide if you need soft-sided or hard-sided 

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

Look for features that add comfort and ease to a journey 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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Best Dog Crates for Car Travel of 2024

Taking your pup on a road trip can be a fun experience but only if you have one of the safest dog crates for car travel. Even if you’re not traveling cross-country, a crash-tested carrier is one of the most important purchases to keep them safe for long-haul car trips and even a quick jaunt to the vet.

We selected crates and carriers that are crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit that evaluates the safety of pet travel products. To aid in our selection, we also enlisted the guidance of a dog trainer who helped inform us about the importance of pet safety when traveling in a vehicle. Our list of the best dog crates for car travel has something to make every dog’s next road trip a success.

Table of Contents

• Best Dog Crates for Car Travel
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Gunner G1 Kennel  »

Crash-tested and certified by CPS

Double-walled

Available in four sizes

Proven to protect pets in serious accidents

Tie-down straps sold separately

Not chew-proof

When traveling with your pet, keeping them safe in the car is the biggest priority. While there are plenty of travel crates on the market, the most effective are crash-tested and certified by CPS. This nonprofit evaluates the safety claims of pet travel products. Passing crash tests is no small feat, and only a handful of products receive the CPS’s seal of approval. One of those products is the Gunner G1 Kennel.

Available in four sizes – though the large size hasn’t been tested and certified by CPS – for puppies to large breeds, the Gunner G1 Kennel has a double-walled design to keep pets safe in an accident. Its double walls also have the added benefit of providing temperature regulation, keeping your pup cool even in hot weather. The crate has built-in pins for tie-down straps to secure the crate in a vehicle, although customers must purchase the straps separately.

Crash-test certification is an excellent feature and something pet parents should prioritize when searching for a travel crate. However, it does come at a cost. The Gunner G1 Kennel is on the higher end of travel crates and one of the most expensive options. Aside from its cost, some users take issue with the crate’s weight, which ranges from 27 pounds for the small kennel to 72 pounds for the large kennel. Sturdiness and durability are important in a travel crate, so we don’t necessarily consider this to be a con. However, a heavy crate can be an inconvenience.

Sleepypod Atom  »

More affordable option

Features top and side entries

Available in six colors

Not as much ventilation

Only suitable for pets up to 12 pounds

A budget dog crate for car travel is hard to come by, especially if you’re looking for a crash-tested and certified model, but the Sleepypod Atom is one of the safest options that doesn’t cost a few hundred dollars. This carrier features comfortable bedding for your pet to relax in, is suitable for the back seat of a car, and fits under the seats of most airplanes. The Atom also sports top and side entry points to make getting in and out a breeze for your pet. Plus, like all Sleepypod carriers, the Atom is available in various colors.

A downside of this crate is that it isn’t suitable for larger pets. With a weight limit of 12 pounds, only toy breeds can take advantage of this carrier. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a great car restraint for larger pets with a smaller budget. Sleepypod also makes one of the best car seat belts to keep large dogs safe and comfortable in a vehicle.

Sleepypod Mini  »

Suitable for puppies and kittens up to 7 pounds

Doubles as a bed

Can fit under airplane seat

Available in nine colors

Some users had sizing issues

Zipper that connects cover to bed can be flimsy

The correct size of travel crate is essential for keeping your pet safe during transit, says Nicole Ellis, a professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert for rover.com. When traveling, a dog should touch three of the four walls of the crate or carrier to minimize the chance of movement during a collision. Getting a tiny crate that fits a puppy properly can be challenging, but the Sleepypod Mini is ideal for pint-sized pups with a weight capacity of 7 pounds. Beyond being crash-tested and certified by the CPS, this carrier can be used with cats and allows you to carry your furry friend with you on an airplane. (However, always check individual airline recommendations before flying with your pet.)

Regardless of how you’re traveling, this carrier will keep your pet cozy, comfortable, and safe. The included bed can be used as your pup’s primary sleeping place when not jet-setting around the world, which may help acclimate your puppy to being contained in a small carrier during travel times.

While the Sleepypod Mini suits most teacup pups, some users struggled to get the correct fit, as Sleepypod also makes the Mobile Pet Bed, a medium-sized equivalent of the Mini. We recommend measuring before purchasing to ensure you get the right fit for your four-legged friend.

Away The Pet Carrier  »

Compact but safe for smaller pups

Clip to secure your pet within carrier

Airline-approved

Removable bedding

Only suitable for pets up to 18 pounds

Not as soft as some soft-sided carriers

Small breeds can be easier to travel with because they don’t take up as much space, but the travel is only simple if you have the right gear. The Pet Carrier by luggage brand Away is the ideal soft-sided crate for transporting small dogs in a car. Its features include top and side entry points for your animal, removable bedding for comfort, a retractable mesh privacy screen, and a collar clip to keep your pup from springing out of the carrier when opened. It also has a firm bottom, which stops the carrier from folding during transit – a feature Ellis says is important to prevent your dog from sliding around in the crate.

Car travel is a breeze with this carrier: Just secure it to your vehicle’s back seat via a belt around the headrest. Traveling by air with your pet? This carrier can sit snugly on top of your luggage , securing to the handle of any Away suitcase via a trolley sleeve. (For travelers who do take their pups on planes, note that while the material is soft, some users found it wasn't flexible enough to fit under every airline seat.) The downside of this carrier is that it’s only suitable for small breeds weighing less than 18 pounds, so medium and large pets are out of luck.

Lucky Duck Lucky Kennel  »

Suitable for pets up to 110 pounds (large size)

Drainage holes for easy cleanup

Lightweight

Bed pad sold separately

Finding a dog crate for car travel that suits big breeds can be tough, but Lucky Duck makes one of our favorite kennels ideal for medium to large dogs. With a capacity to hold pups as big as 110 pounds, the large version of the Lucky Kennel can keep up with large dogs without weighing you down. Unlike most crash-tested travel crates, this kennel is lightweight at only 45 pounds, making it much more accessible to lift in and out of a vehicle. Another nice feature is its drainage and ventilation holes. The drainage holes are excellent to have in the event of a potty accident, as any liquid in the kennel is directed to the drainage holes via the slightly pitched floor of the crate .

The drain holes are a nice plus, but they make it difficult to place a bed within the crate. As such, Lucky Dog offers its own bed to fit inside – a nice-to-have feature to ensure your pup’s comfort during travel. However, if you want to purchase the bed pad for your dog, you’ll have to do so separately. Lucky Dog also requires the separate purchase of ratchet straps – a type of restraint that keeps the crate tied down to a vehicle – instead of providing them with the kennel. Remember this when purchasing this crate because Lucky Dog kennels are only crash-tested and certified by the CPS in combination with these tie-down straps.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier  »

Smaller footprint than most carriers

Folds flat for easy storage

Made from recycled materials

Only fits pets up to 20 pounds

Some users found shoulder strap held up poorly

The best dog carriers for small cars won’t take up too much space in the back seat of a vehicle, and the Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier fits the bill. At just 11 inches long, this soft-sided carrier can easily fit within the back seat of any small car. It’s also less than 1 foot high, easily letting you see over the top of the carrier. However, the small footprint won’t squeeze your pet.

The Cabana Pet Carrier is more than 20 inches wide, which makes it easily able to hold pups up to 20 pounds. Another handy space-saving element of this carrier is its ability to fold completely flat so that when your pet isn’t in the vehicle with you, the back seat can be reclaimed for passengers or cargo.

While this crash-tested and certified carrier is a safe, space-saving option for small cars, a few users found it wasn’t the best option as a shoulder bag, as the shoulder strap broke for some buyers.

Cabela's GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel  »

Tie-down strap kit and safety bar included

Nonslip rubber feet

Only one size

No included crate pad

When using a crash-tested crate in a large vehicle such as an SUV, it’s important to tie it down using straps or bolts to ensure the kennel doesn’t shift during transit. However, most crate manufacturers don’t include these tie-down straps with the purchase of a kennel, and these can often pack on an additional hundred dollars to an already expensive purchase. The Cabela’s GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel is an excellent option for those who want the tie-down straps included to keep their pup safe in the back seat or trunk of an extra-large vehicle. The included tie-down strap kit can secure this crash-tested crate to most large cars, and the rubber feet offer additional nonslip reinforcement for more stability.

The kennel allows users to choose on which side they want the door to open – a handy feature to ensure ease of use. The downside of this crate is that it’s only available in one size, leaving few options for dogs between a medium and large size. It also comes as is, meaning no crate pad or bedding is included for your pup.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best dog crate for car travel is a weighty decision, and you should always keep your pet’s safety top of mind. The good news is there are many excellent crates and carriers available that are crash-tested and certified, providing your pup with a safe and comfortable place during a road trip.

Our best overall pick is the Gunner G1 Kennel, which has some of the best features we’ve seen on a travel crate. Its double-walled design reinforces the kennel's safety while keeping your dog cool on hot days. It also has one of the most diverse size ranges available for crash-tested crates, making it suitable for small pups and large breeds alike.

Things To Consider When Buying Dog Crates for Car Travel

Safety Certifications: The best dog crates for car travel are crash-tested by the CPS. The pet industry has few regulations for travel products, and some brands may make unjustified safety claims. Even with products certified by the CPS, remember that certifications vary, and a product may not be approved for use with dogs weighing more than a certain amount or without additions such as tie-down straps.

Size and Weight Capacity: Choosing the correct size kennel is vital for keeping your dog safe during travel, whether traveling with your pet in a car or on a plane. There’s no one-size-fits-all crate, so remember to measure your pet and follow the measurement and weight guidelines provided by the manufacturer to achieve a good fit.

Ellis says that while we might have an instinct to buy a bigger crate to give our pups more space to lounge, it’s important to hold off on this impulse. “[O]ur dogs should be snug. So when thinking of a [crash-tested crate], our dog should really be touching three of the four walls [when they] lay down,” she says. Ellis also encourages pet parents to avoid extra space within a crate because that’s where the dog will move during a collision.

Material: Each dog kennel is constructed differently, but there are some materials to look for when considering dog crates for travel. Ellis likes soft-sided carriers with a firm bottom that ensures a pet stays stable during transport. She also says that ballistic nylon – a material that’s resistant to water and chew damage – is great.

Hard crates tend to be made of materials like rubber or rotomolded walls. Rotomolding is a type of plastic construction, and its benefits include being durable and thick enough to withstand excessive force, such as the type that would be exerted in a car accident.

While crash-tested crates vary in material, Ellis notes that one material pet parents should avoid is wire, specifically in wire-style crates. These crates are acceptable for at-home use but not for travel. Ellis says a wire crate may break into small pieces and impale your pet in the event of a collision.

Vehicle Compatibility: Most crash-tested crates suitable for car travel can be used in any vehicle. However, measure the back seat of your car to ensure that the crate will fit. Some crates intended for larger dogs may not fit in the back seat as easily as smaller soft-sided carriers. These crates may instead be used in the trunk of a vehicle, although they usually require tie-down straps to keep them in place. Ellis says it’s important to check your specific vehicle’s attachment points if you opt for a crate that requires latching in that way.

It’s also vital to remember that while a crate may sit in a vehicle's back seat, trunk, or bed, it should never be placed in the front seat. Ellis says regardless of what crate or carrier your pup is in, your dog can still be injured by an airbag if traveling in the front seat of a car.

How We Chose the Best Dog Dog Crates for Car Travel

At U.S News 360 Reviews, our editors and contributing writers evaluate products based on research, expert guidance, and our own experience as professional product reviewers. Our contributing writer consulted the CPS’s list of crash-tested and certified dog crates and carriers to find the best options for dogs big and small. We also consulted Nicole Ellis , a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with rover.com to understand how to keep pets safe during car travel.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Sophia Carlisle , the author of this piece, has covered pet products for Business Insider as a fellow and, prior to that, fostered dogs and cats for years. She has tested dozens of dog products with her rescue pit mix Lyla, including harnesses, food, and leashes. For U.S. News 360 Reviews, Sophia has covered some of the best products for pups, such as the best dog harnesses and slow feeder dog bowls .

The most important safety feature of a dog crate for car travel is that it’s crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). Other safety features to watch for include crates and carriers with tie-down straps. Some crates for large dogs are only certified by the CPS with tie-down straps, which help to keep a large crate stable during transit.

Regardless of which CPS-certified crate you choose, Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer, says it’s always essential to restrain your pet in a vehicle. Even the most well-trained dog can cause a distraction, leap out of an open window, or become a projectile in the event of an accident, so keeping them secure during travel is necessary.

If a crate or carrier passes crash safety standards set by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), it receives a rating between 1 Star and 5 Star. The very best dog crates for car travel receive a 5 Star safety rating.

If a brand or product claims to be certified by the CPS, check directly on the website to ensure it has passed crash testing. Some products have undergone crash testing but have failed or had their certification revoked. If a crate or carrier isn’t crash-test certified by the CPS, it’s unsafe to use with your pet for car travel.

Finding the correct size crate for your dog can be tricky, so take careful measurements of your pup and compare them with the weight and length measurements provided by the brand. Ellis, a pet lifestyle expert with rover.com, says that dogs should fit snugly inside their crates, so avoid opting for a larger size than your dog needs.

Compatibility with your vehicle is also important to consider when selecting the best travel crate for your pup. Ellis says it’s best to place the crate in the trunk or back seat of the car. Ensure you check whether or not the crate requires tie-down straps and if those straps can be attached to the latch points in your vehicle.

About Our Team

Sophia Carlisle

Contributor

Kayla Randolph

Associate Editor

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

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

WRITTEN BY:

April 18, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Airline-Approved Dog Carriers

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

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

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

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

1. Bergan Soft-Sided Airline Pet Carrier

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

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

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

Features: 

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

SIZING DIMENSIONS:

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

2. Prodigen Airline Approved Pet Carrier

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

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

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

3. X-Zone Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

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

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

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

4. Sleepypod Dog Carrier

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

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

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

5. AmazonBasics Soft Travel Carrier

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

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

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

6. Katziela Pet Carrier

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

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

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

7. Sturdibag Airplane-Friendly Dog Carrier

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

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

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

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

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

8. PetAmi Airline Approved Dog Carrier

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

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

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

9. Sherpa Original Deluxe Bag

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

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

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

Sizing Dimensions: 

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

10. Natuvalle 6-in-1 Pet Carrier

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

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

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

11. Mr. Peanut’s Soft Sided Pet Carrier

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

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

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

12. Morpilot Pet Travel Bag

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

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

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

Airline Pet Policy Sizing Requirements & Pricing

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

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

UNITED AIRLINES PET POLICY

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

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

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

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

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

For more info, see the United pets travel page .

AMERICAN AIRLINES PET POLICY

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

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

Pricing: $125 per kennel

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

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

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

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

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

There are also additional rules for certain regions:

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

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

ALASKA AIRLINES PET POLICY

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

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

Pricing: $100 each way

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

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

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

For travel to:

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

For more info, see the Alaska Airlines pet travel page

DELTA AIRLINES PET POLICY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more info, see the Delta pets travel page.

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

JET BLUE PET POLICY

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

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

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

For more info, see the JetBlue pets travel page.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES PET POLICY

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

Pricing: $95 each way

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

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

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

VIRGIN AIRLINES PET POLICY

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

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

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

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

ALLEGIANT PET POLICY

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

Pricing: $100 per segment per carrier

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

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

FRONTIER AIRLINES PET POLICY

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

Pricing: $75 each way

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

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

SPIRIT AIRLINES PET POLICY

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

Pricing: No information available

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

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

Other Airline & Flight Details to Consider When Traveling With Pets

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

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

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

Dog Carriers for Airplanes FAQ

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

What size dog carrier fits under airplane seat?

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

What kind of dog carriers are allowed on planes?

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

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

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

Do airlines actually measure pet carriers?

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

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

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

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

Can a 25 lb dog fly in cabin?

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

How strict are airlines with dog weight?

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

Can I fly on a plane with a puppy?

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

Can I take two dogs on a plane with me?

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for the tip, Bruno!

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

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

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

Thank you for any other informative web site.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best of luck!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I understand your frustration as iäm in the same situation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for the tip Regina!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for this post – so helpful!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also interested for Frenchie

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

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

According to Spirit website, only soft carriers are allowed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy to help!

Hey Meg –

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks in advance June

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Bonnie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Best Travel Carrier for Cats and Small Dogs

By Kaitlyn Wells

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

Everything we recommend

Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier

The best pet carrier.

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

Buying Options

Kurgo Wander Carrier

Better warranty, but thinner fabric.

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

May be out of stock

Upgrade pick

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier

Expensive, but safest for driving.

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“2015 Carrier Study Results” , Center for Pet Safety

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

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

Meet your guide

Kaitlyn Wells

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

Further reading

The Best Dog Crate

by Kaitlyn Wells

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Adopting a New Cat Checklist

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

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

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

Adopting a New Dog Checklist

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

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14 best travel carriers for dogs, according to editor reviews

We’re celebrating National Pet Week at NBC Select by sharing our favorite pet products. Shop puppy supplies , kitten essentials and more on our pets homepage .

We all want our dogs by our side as much as possible, and that might include them tagging along on vacations and holiday trips. But traveling with a pet usually involves a range of safety considerations, including gathering the right health paperwork , keeping treats and water on hand and making sure they’re comfortable. Since most airlines and other transportation methods will require taking your dog in some kind of enclosure, the pet carrier you choose is crucial in keeping your dog safe and comfortable. 

We spoke to veterinarians, vet technicians and travel safety experts about what to look for in a travel carrier for your dog and how to shop for one that’ll keep them safe. We also compiled a list of carriers either tested by NBC Select staff or recommended by our experts to consider.

SKIP AHEAD Best dog travel carriers | How to shop for a dog travel carrier | How to help your dog feel calm in a travel carrier

Selected. Our top picks

How we picked the best dog travel carriers

When shopping for the best travel carrier for your dog, our experts recommend considering the following factors:

• Size: Pick a carrier that’s big enough for your pet to comfortably stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. The carrier should be as long as the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the tail, says veterinarian Dr. Kristen L. Nelson . Carriers will usually come in a variety of sizes to fit different breed types (though keep in mind that airline-approved carriers have very specific dimension requirements that will usually only fit small dogs under 20 pounds, according to our experts). 
• Materials and build: Carriers are usually soft-sided and made of polyester or nylon, which are easy to clean and water- and tear-resistant, according to our experts. Choose one with mesh sides to provide a good amount of ventilation. Most importantly, you should opt for a carrier that can stand up on its own and not collapse around your pet or deform easily, says Dr. Christina Carlo , a veterinarian and medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital. Hard plastic carriers are usually designed for airplane cargo holds, but they’re a safe and durable option for car rides, too, says Carlo.
• Airline requirements: Commercial airlines will usually have certain dimension requirements for carriers that go in the plane’s cabin (with the passenger) and crates that travel in the cargo area of the plane. Most airlines like United Airlines , Jetblue and American Airlines have varying dimension requirements, so be sure to visit their site before traveling. 
• Crash testing: Look for carriers and crates that have undergone independent crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), which gives your pet the best possible chance of survival if a crash occurs, says Dr. Wendy Hauser , a veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.

Best dog travel carriers of 2024

Below are the best dog travel carriers based on experts’ guidance and NBC Select staff experience. We also include top-rated options and key factors to consider, including the carrier’s material, weight capacity and dimensions. 

Best overall travel carrier: Away The Pet Carrier

Away Pet Carrier

• CPS certified
• Mesh sides and top
• Removable and washable bedding
• Recommended for smaller dogs

This Away travel carrier, an NBC Select Pet Award for best overall travel carrier, is designed for both car and airline travel. It has zip openings on the top and front with see-through mesh to help your pet see out of the carrier (if you prefer to avoid this, there’s a piece of fabric that rolls down to cover their view).

I use this carrier to fly with my 16-pound havanese and bichon frise mix, Bella, because it’s sturdy and makes her feel safe and supported thanks to its durable nylon and leather construction. The mesh gives her enough visibility to know what’s going on outside and helps me keep tabs on her, too. It also comes with machine-washable bedding on the inside that’s soft to the touch, and multiple pockets that keep my belongings and pet essentials accessible during the whole flight. If you’re traveling by car, the carrier has latches on one side that securely fasten to a car’s seat belt system. The Away carrier comes in black and blue colors and you can also personalize it with your initials for an additional $35.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions (LxWxH): 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 in. | Material: Water-resistant nylon

Best airline-approved carrier: Sherpa Pet Carrier

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

• More affordable option
• Very well ventilated
• Removable and washable liner
• Recommended for smaller pets

Another NBC Select Pet Awards winner, this Sherpa carrier is a favorite of CPS founder Lindsey Wolko, who has used it for years to travel with her own pets. She specifically recommends it for air travel because it fits under the passenger seat (it meets the dimensions for most airlines, but always check your specific airline’s requirements before traveling) and has a large zip pocket to store pet supplies like water bowls, leashes and treats. However, it’s not the best pick for car travel because you can’t strap it in using your vehicle’s seat belt system — you’re better off placing it on the floor behind the driver’s seat for safety and to avoid the stitching or zippers to fail, says Wolko. 

NBC Select manager of editorial operations Shari Uyehara uses this carrier to fly with her 20-pound cavalier King Charles spaniel, Loki, and says it’s a great affordable option. Loki can comfortably shift positions during the flight, and the carrier itself is structured enough to maintain its shape while under the seat, says Uyehara. The sides are made of see-through mesh that allows your pet to easily see out of it. Available in medium and large sizes, the carrier also has shorter top handles and a longer shoulder strap to fit your carrying preferences. 

Pet weight: Up to 16 lbs | Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 10.5 in. (medium size) | Material: Polyester and mesh

Best hard-sided carrier: Gunner Kennel G1

Gunner Kennel G1

• Can't be used as carry-on

This crate earned a 5-star safety rating from the CPS in both the crate and carrier class (the only product to earn a dual certification), and it’s a favorite among our experts. The crate has a thick exterior layer for impact protection, which keeps your pet safe if there’s a crash or a fall, according to the brand. Its reversible door design with an aluminum frame lets you open the crate from either side, and won’t pop open in the middle of a flight, according to the brand. It comes in four sizes — small, medium, intermediate and large — and Gunner offers a size guide that gives recommendations based on your dog’s weight and length.

Pet weight: Up to 30 lbs for small, up to 45 lbs for medium, up to 75 lbs for intermediate and up to 110 lbs for large size | Dimensions: 24.5 x 18.625 x 19 in. (small), 29.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 in. (medium), 34 x 23 x 28.5 in. (intermediate), 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 in. (large) | Material: Reinforced aluminum frame

Best soft-sided carrier: EliteField Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

EliteField Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

At just over two pounds, this is the most lightweight soft-sided pet carrier on our list. It comes recommended by Dr. Amber Karwacki , a veterinarian and partner doctor at Heart + Paw in Callowhill, Pennsylvania, because it has mesh panels on both sides and the front to let air in and prevent your pet from overheating, according to the brand. It also comes with removable and machine-washable bedding and has a back sleeve that attaches to your suitcase, as well as loops that latch onto your car’s seat belt system. The polyester and synthetic build is water-resistant and available in six colors to fit your personal style. 

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions: 19 x 10 x 13 in. | Material: Polyester

Best tote carrier: Wild One Everyday Carrier

Wild One Everyday Carrier

• Remains open

If you’re looking for a tote to carry your dog around town or on the train, consider this Wild One carrier. This NBC Select staff-favorite option has a small dip in its design, which allows your dog to peek their head out while you carry them around. “I love that Loki’s weight remains balanced in the carrier, but he still has room to move around,” says Uyehara, who appreciates its stability. It also includes a safety clip that attaches to your dog’s harness, ensuring they won’t jump out at a bad time, according to Karwacki (but be sure to never connect this clip to their collar since it poses a choking hazard). It also comes with carrying straps of two different lengths — one for carrying it like a shoulder bag, and shorter straps to carry it by hand. There is a machine-washable mat on the inside and three exterior pockets to hold all your pet’s essentials like bags, treats and toys.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 21.5 x 7.5 x 14.25 in. | Material: Recycled polyester outer, cotton interior

Best collapsible carrier: Roverlund Out-Of-Office Pet Carrier

Roverlund Pet Carrier

An NBC Select Pet Awards winner, the small version of this Roverlund carrier is an airline-approved option for both dogs and cats because it’s less than 18 inches long. The straps are all ropes, which our staff found to be more comfortable and supportive than other carrier straps made from typical polyester or fabric. The interior lining is machine-washable and you can also shop the larger version of this carrier for dogs up to 25 pounds.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 10.5 in. (small size) | Material: Water-resistant polyester, mountain climbing rope

Best backpack carrier: Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

• Adjustable straps
• Pet can see outside

This highly rated backpack carrier, which has a 4.6-star average rating from over 4,900 reviews on Amazon, has shoulder straps and two separate straps that buckle around your sternum and waist to help evenly distribute the weight of your pet, according to the brand. It has mesh panels on all sides to let your pet see out and comes with removable fleece bedding to keep them comfortable while creating a sturdy base that can hold their weight, according to Apollo. It also comes with a clip that attaches to your pet’s harness to prevent them from escaping or falling out.

Pet weight: N/A | Dimensions: 12.6 x 11.4 x 16.8 in. | Material: Polyester

Best expandable carrier: Midwest Duffy Dog & Cat Carrier

MidWest Duffy Dog & Cat Carrier

• No removable bedding
• Not as ventilated as others

This Midwest Duffy carrier comes recommended by Karwacki because it’s expandable — the mesh sides open up to give your pet more room to move around and stretch their legs. It has two zippered side openings, as well as one on top to make taking your dog in and out easier, according to the brand. It also folds completely flat, so you can store it away when it’s not in use. It comes in three colors and sizes small, medium and large. 

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: 16.3 x 10.1 x 9.3 in. (small), 18.3 x 11.3 x 11.1 in. (medium) and 19.3 x 12.2 x 12.2 in. (large) | Material: Polyester

Best for medium-sized dogs: Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier

• No mesh top

This Arlo Skye pet carrier has mesh panels on all sides, making it a well-ventilated option for your pup. It comes with memory foam bedding on the inside that’s both removable and machine-washable, as well as a foldable design you can pack easily in your suitcase or travel bag, according to the brand. It has dual openings on both ends and a back trolley sleeve to place it over your carry-on . The carrier is also highly rated with a 4.9-star average rating from over 60 reviews at Arlo Skye. 

Pet weight: Up to 25 lbs | Dimensions: 17.5 x 11 x 10 in. | Material: Poly-mesh and nylon

Best for small dogs: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is an expert-recommended and CPS-certified option that has breathable mesh and a machine-washable interior — it’s built for plane travel for dogs under 15 pounds. Nelson recommends the Sleepypod because it’s easy to carry and gives the pet privacy while traveling since it’s fully enclosed with a mesh panel at the top.

Like several other carriers on this list, the Sleepypod isn’t limited to airline travel: It straps into a vehicle’s seat belt system, so you can comfortably take road trips with your pet. You can also separate the bottom of the carrier to transform it into a bed for your pet, which makes training easier since they can form a positive association with it, says Wolko. The brand’s Sleepypod Atom is another CPS-certified carrier that’s crash-tested for even smaller dogs up to 12 pounds, the lowest weight requirement on this list. 

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: 17 in. (D) x 6.5 in. | Material: Polyester

Best lightweight carrier: Molly and Stitch Alpine Dog Carrier

Molly and Stitch Alpine Dog Carrier

• Stylish design
• Padded and comfortable
• Machine-washable
• Not for plane travel

This tote carrier is great for smaller dogs, and its lightweight design is convenient to take anywhere. It's a favorite of NBC Select social commerce editor Sadhana Daruvuri, who says her 2-year-old maltipoo Bandit fits comfortably inside. “This carrier is very high quality, and it was so stylish that I would happily use it as an everyday bag,” says Daruvuri. “Cleaning it is also easy — you can just throw it in the wash, and even after repeated uses, the bag looks brand new.” 

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: n/a | Material: n/a

Best carrier with pee pad: Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

• Includes a bed and pee pad
• Has multiple pocket
• Not as much mesh as others

Diggs is an NBC Select Pet Award -winning brand that makes some of our favorite dog crates. The brand’s Passenger Travel Carrier is great for both plane and car travel: It fits many airlines’ size requirements, and it has custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to place it safely in your car. It also comes with a Diggs Pee Pad that attaches to the included bed — if your dog chooses to use it, you can open the side panel to swap it out without disrupting your pup, according to the brand.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions: 20 x 11.5 x 10.8 | Material: n/a

Best personalizable carrier: Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

Paravel Cabana Carrier

• Personalizable with name
• Folds flat for easy storage

If you’re looking for a personalized option, this Paravel pet carrier — which is the dog-friendly version of the brand’s original Cabana Tote — lets you monogram your pup’s name or initials in the color of your choosing. It also has a washable fleece interior lining, comes with several pockets for storing treats and other small essentials, and it folds completely flat for easy storage. 

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 11 x 20.5 x 11 in. | Material: Paravel EcoCraft Canvas, vegan leather

Best sling carrier: Tomkas Dog Sling Carrier

Tomkas Dog Sling Carrier

• Easy to take on the go
• Zip pockets for small items
• Requires physical strength

Designed for small dogs up to 10 pounds, this sling carrier crosses over your body so you can take your dog around town hands-free. The base has a built-in drawstring that adjusts the size of the opening to fit different sized dogs, and the crossbody strap length is also adjustable to fit your comfort level. The carrier includes a safety buckle inside that connects to your dog’s harness to prevent them from falling out, according to the brand. I purchased this carrier for my dog Bella when she was a puppy, and I was able to comfortably carry her around when she got tired of walking. It held her weight well without tearing or damaging the fabric, and the crossbody strap caused less strain on my back.

Pet weight: Up to 10 lbs | Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 3 in. | Material: Polyester

How to shop for a dog travel carrier

Carriers and crates are the most secure type of enclosure when traveling with your dog because they prevent them from escaping and minimize distraction while you’re traveling (especially while driving), says Wolko. But the right carrier for your dog will depend on what type of trip you’re taking, your method of transportation and their temperament. 

When shopping for the right carrier for your dog, our experts recommend considering the size and fit of the enclosure, whether it’s crash-tested, if it meets airline requirements and more.

Your dog or cat should be able to easily stand up, turn around and lay comfortably in their carrier. That means the length of your carrier from front to back should measure about the same, or one or two inches more than the tip of your dog’s nose to the base of their tail, says Nelson. You should add a few more inches for brachycephalic breeds like pugs, pekingese and French bulldogs, though experts don’t recommend taking these breeds on flights because their shorter noses increase the risk of overheating and oxygen deprivation, says Nelson (some airlines even ban this breed from flying in the cargo hold , according to the American Veterinary Medical Association). To determine the right height of your carrier, make sure it measures the same or larger than the height of your pet from the floor to the top of their shoulders, says Carlo.

Place a mat or bed in the carrier to make the space more comfortable for your pet, says Carlo (though you should avoid this if your dog usually destroys their bedding because they might eat the pieces and cause intestinal obstruction). Putting soft blankets or their favorite toy in the carrier can also help them feel familiar and safe, according to our experts.

Whether your dog can see out of their carrier is a matter of personal preference, though our experts recommend mesh so the outside is visible, which prevents your dog from feeling threatened or confused while they’re traveling, says Wolko. 

Materials and structure

Most carriers are soft-sided and made from materials like polyester, mesh and nylon fabric. Consider whether the carrier has structure, meaning it can stand up on its own and won’t automatically collapse around your pet, according to Carlo. You should also look for carriers that have pockets, so you have room for your pet supplies.

You can take a hard-sided, non-collapsible crate or kennel on an airplane, but they must be able to fit under the passenger’s seat, according to Hauser (this might be harder to do compared to soft-sided carriers since they don’t mold to a different size). Plastic hard-sided crates are usually good for transporting your pet in an airplane cargo hold and the cargo area of a car — they’re considered to be the safest option since they won’t lose their shape and provide impact protection in case of a crash, turbulence or hard fall, according to our experts. However, you should avoid metal wire crates because pets might be able to stick their feet or limbs out, which can be a safety hazard while traveling, says Karwacki.

Safety considerations

For car travel, look for carriers and crates that have undergone crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety, a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash tests car restraints and containment devices. This provides an extra layer of safety when traveling with your pet, our experts say.

“Most carriers on the market only prevent distractions [for the driver], which is important, but in a crash, they may not perform as you would expect them to,” says Wolko. The CPS certification tests carriers as an unaffiliated third party. This is important when considering that many brands subjectively “pass” their carriers if they test them in their own labs, which can ultimately give pet owners a false sense of security, according to Wolko.

Though the CPS does not specifically test carriers and crates for airline travel, you can use most carriers that meet the airline’s size requirements and have ample ventilation, according to Wolko.

A CPS-certified crate usually has backup door latches and locking mechanisms to prevent your pet from escaping, which is especially useful if they travel in the aircraft’s cargo hold. “So, if something tumbles, the kennel is so robust that the pet is not getting out,” says Wolko. Most airlines have certain regulations for what carriers to use when transporting an animal in the cargo area of a plane. The International Air Transport Association, a globally recognized trade association for the world’s airlines, details specific requirements for crates to transport animals in the cargo hold, including construction and adequate ventilation (more on that below).

Frequently Asked Questions

For air travel, always check with your airline to see what type and size of carrier it allows. The approved dimensions of your carrier vary from airline to airline but, in most cases, carriers can’t exceed 11 inches in height, which allows it to fit under the seat in front of the passenger, according to Hauser. Also, the carrier will likely count as your carry-on luggage on most airlines, and in-cabin travel will usually require you to make a reservation or reserve a seat specifically for your dog.

Certain airlines might also have specific pet size and weight requirements for in-cabin travel. Typically, pets must weigh 20 pounds or less, though this varies by airline, and most larger dogs can’t ride in-cabin unless they’re a trained service animal, says Wolko. If your pet exceeds that limit, they’ll need to travel in the cargo area of the plane.

Most airlines will allow trained service dogs on board at no cost. However, some airlines like Delta Air Lines, Southwest, American Airlines and Alaska Air are no longer accepting emotional support animals on board.

Carriers and crates for dogs are usually used interchangeably, but there are a few key differences. The CPS defines crates as enclosures that are secured in the cargo area of a plane or tethered securely to the floor of a vehicle like a van or SUV. They’re usually constructed of thick molded plastic or metal and designed for larger dogs, according to our experts.

Carriers, on the other hand, are usually designed for smaller dogs and made of a soft-sided fabric (though some are constructed of a harder plastic or nylon to prevent them from collapsing on your pet). When traveling in a car, the carrier usually goes in the backseat and is strapped in using the seatbelt system of your vehicle.

Yes, it is generally safe and common to travel with your dog in the cargo hold (also known as the lower deck) of an airplane, which also holds baggage. However, experts recommend only flying your pet in the cargo hold when it’s absolutely necessary because it can be a very stressful experience for them.

“There’s a lot of weird noises, not much light down there — it’d be scary for anyone to go in the [cargo hold], ” says Karwacki. And, most handling risks come before they even board the plane: Dogs usually endure the most force when being transported across the rough, uneven tarmac to get to the plane, says Wolko.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) lists specific requirements for crates, including construction and ventilation, to keep your pet safe when flying in the cargo hold. For example, the trade association specifies that crates must be sturdy and inescapable and adequately ventilated on three sides, with the majority of the ventilation being provided on the upper part of the container.

Most aircraft cargo holds are temperature-controlled and pressurized, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture . Animals can’t be exposed to temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 4 hours, per the USDA’s website. Most airlines won’t transport dogs altogether if ground temperatures reach those extremes.

How to help your dog feel calm in a travel carrier

Your pet’s comfort level in their carrier can determine how smooth your travels are. Below, we list a few expert tips about how to get your dog adjusted to their carrier and how to keep them comfortable during long trips.

• Know your dog’s safety and security preferences. Some dogs prefer more open-sided kennels with better airflow and visibility, while others feel safer with the cave-like security of a molded plastic carrier with smaller windows, says Hauser.
• Make the carrier or crate their “happy spot.” Allowing your pet to build a positive association with their carrier helps them feel calm and safe while traveling, according to our experts. In your home and before traveling, leave the door open so that your pup can explore the enclosure on their own terms, which demystifies it, says Hauser. After some time, it isn’t uncommon to find pets that preferentially sleep in their enclosures,” she says. Once they get acclimated to the crate or carrier at home, you can then graduate to car trips and, later on, plane rides. Start off with brief trips that increase in duration over time.
• Make the carrier feel familiar. As we mentioned, putting their favorite bed, blankets or toys in the carrier can help make them feel more comfortable.
• Avoid any safety risks while on the plane. For example, if you’re traveling with your pet in-cabin, never put the carrier in the overhead compartment of the plane with your pet inside because it poses a suffocation risk, says Wolko. Also, feed your pet before you get on the plane — if they choke or get something lodged in their throat while you’re in the air, they likely won’t get help in time, according to Wolko.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Dr. Kristen L. Nelson is a veterinarian and author of “Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life.”
• Dr. Christina Carlo is a veterinarian and medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital.
• Dr. Wendy Hauser is a veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.
• Lindsey Wolko is the founder of the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash-tests car restraints and containment devices for pets.
• Dr. Amber Karwacki is a veterinarian and partner doctor at Heart + Paw in Callowhill, Pennsylvania.

Why trust NBC Select?

Mili Godio is an updates editor at NBC Select who covers a variety of pet topics, including dog food , beds , treats and toys . For this article, Godio spoke to five veterinarians and pet safety experts about the best carriers for your dog and how to safely travel with them. She also compiled experts' recommendations for the best travel carriers to consider, as well as travel carriers tested and reviewed by NBC Select staff.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

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

By Madison Roberts and Madison Flager

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

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

What size pet carrier will fit under an airline seat? 

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

Does a dog carrier count as a carry-on?

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

What type of carrier should I get? 

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

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

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

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

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

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

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

Wild One Travel Carrier

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

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

Read a full review   here .

Sherpa Original Deluxe pet carrier

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

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

Away pet carrier

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

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

Jessica Puckett

Lee Marshall

Meaghan Kenny

Texsens innovative traveler bubble backpack

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

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

Arlo Skye Pet Carrier

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

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

Mark & Graham Buddy pet carrier

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

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

Sleepypod mobile pet bed

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

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

Petsfit double sided expandable carrier

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

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

Natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier backpack

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

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

Mr. Peanut Gold-Series Dog & Cat carrier

• Dimensions: 18"L x 10.5"W x 11"H

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

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

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

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

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The 10 Best Dog Crates of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• How We Tested
• What to Look For

Standout Features

• Why Trust The Spruce Pets

The Spruce / Tamara Staples

The right dog crate offers a comfortable den-like space where a dog can go to feel safe. It should also be easy for you to clean and make it easy for you to access your dog. If you have a puppy, a crate is a valuable tool for potty training because dogs instinctually do not want to soil their home.

We conducted hands-on testing of 20 dog crates in our New York lab to find the best options, evaluating different styles of crates, including traditional wireframes, foldable soft-sided models, and hybrid crates that serve as functional side tables.

Our overall favorite is the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door and Double Door Dog Crate , which is large enough to support a growing puppy and includes a crate cover, dog bed, and two detachable food bowls.

Best Overall

Midwest homes for pets icrate single door & double door dog crates.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Durability 4 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 5 /5

Thoughtful, simple design

Easy to clean

Useful double doors

Door bent a little under pressure

Our best overall pick is the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door and Double Door Dog Crate because of its easy assembly, thorough features, and easy-to-clean tray. While many of the other crates that we tested also scored well for their easy-to-clean surfaces, the additional divider in this crate kit set it apart from the rest. Plus, this crate’s plastic tray slides out easily, making it simple to clean if any major accidents happen. We also love that this crate has rubberized rolling buffers to protect hardwood, vinyl, or tile flooring. 

This crate from MidWest Homes for Pets passed our lab tests with perfect scores in ease of setup, use, and cleaning. Its basic aesthetic may not win any beauty contests, but it's certainly functional. We especially love the double door model, which makes it a cinch to access the crate from the front or side, adding significantly to the iCrate's flexibility.

The practicality of this crate coupled with its easy-to-collapse and easy-to-clean design can't be beat. The setup is as simple as pulling the top of the crate up and snapping the hooks into place. Removing the plastic tray is also easy, as there is a slot for it to slide out from the bottom of the crate. A security hook also ensures that the tray stays in its place when your pup is on top of it. 

The only downside we found is the door does bend slightly when it’s pulled on, not significant enough for a dog to bust through the door, but it’s still a worthy concern for any owners with  especially strong, excitable or high-strung pooches . Despite this one design concern, we’d still recommend this crate as a reliable and basic option that's durable enough to withstand pet wear and tear over time.

Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 16 inches (extra-small), 24 x 18 x 19 inches (small), 30 x 19 x 21 inches (medium), 36 x 23 x 25 inches (medium/large), 42 x 28 x 31 inches (large), 48 x 30 x 33 inches (extra-large) | Material: Metal, plastic | Attributes: Collapsible, divider included, double door, removable pan, carry handle, water-resistant

The Spruce Pets / Tamara Staples

The Spruce Pets / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Amazon basics soft dog travel crate.

• Durability 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4.8 /5

Durable construction

Foldable, streamlined design

Mesh windows

Some nooks and crannies might be difficult to clean

Finding a dog crate that doesn’t break the bank but still does its job well can be challenging, but we were very impressed with this crate from Amazon Basics, which has a PVC frame with polyester and mesh fabric cover, all for a very affordable price.

This crate has three openings (one at either end of the crate and one on the top) that are secured by zippers. They can also be rolled up and fastened to the top of the crate. This crate is super lightweight, making it a great option for travel, but it doesn’t have a carrying handle. 

Overall the crate is very durable and designed to endure—it didn’t budge or break when a sandbag was thrown on top of it and at the front of it. Long term maintenance and cleaning will likely require the use of a handheld vacuum to target the smaller nooks and crannies within the crate’s frame.

Dimensions: 25.98 x 18.11 x 18.11 inches (small), 21.3 x 29.9 x 21.3 (medium), 36 x 24 x 24 (large), 42 x 31 x 31 inches (extra-large) | Material: PVC frame, polyester, mesh | Attributes: Folds flat, mesh windows, zippered entry

The Spruce / Jessica Juliao

What Our Testers Say

"We threw a sandbag at the front of it and on the top, and it was totally fine! Nothing broke or scratched."— Maria Bouselli, product tester

Best Upgrade

Diggs revol dog crate.

• Ease of Use 4.8 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

User-friendly design and durable construction

Removable tray included

Easy to clean and set up

Not very compact when collapsed

If you’re looking for a luxurious and incredibly durable dog crate, we recommend the Diggs Revol Collapsible Dog Crate. This crate collapses when you twist the top handle, and the sides lift up, offering multiple access points for your pet.

We like the intuitive design and the heavy-duty crate is hard to budge once in place, even with 45 pounds of force directed at the door in our lab testing environment. Throwing multiple sandbags at the crate also did not impact its structure or appearance.

This crate’s tray is removable so that you can easily clean it, and it has a raised edge to prevent any leakage if accidents do happen while your pet is inside the crate. The crate’s door is secured by a latch that's released by pressing a button, so it’s much more secure than other crates that only have a sliding bolt. But the crate is  not very compact , even when it’s collapsed, so it may not be easily stored under certain pieces of furniture or in small closets. While the price point on this crate is certainly a splurge in anyone’s budget, we do believe the price fairly reflects this crate’s high quality and unique design.

Dimensions: 25 x 17 x 19 (small), 32 x 20 x 22 inches (medium), 39 x 25 x 28 (intermediate), 44 x 28 x 30 (large) | Material: High grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, reinforced plastic | Attributes: Collapsible, removable tray

Best for Small Dogs

Fable pets crate.

• Ease of Setup 4 /5
• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4 /5

Doubles as side table

Metal or acrylic door option

Two wood finishes to choose from

No removable tray

Door jiggles when closed

The overall design of the Fable Pets Crate easily double as a bedside table or end table in a family room. The dual function crate is relatively easy to put together out of the box, similar to the labor intensity of Ikea furniture.

The crate is made out of bentwood and comes in two wood finishes, signature (lighter) or walnut (darker), with the choice of a clear acrylic door or white metal door. Both door options have square-shaped cut-outs for visibility and airflow. If your dog tends to paw at the door of their crate, you might find the metal door option to be more durable.

This crate has rubber pads that  prevent it from scratching hardwood and vinyl floors , but there is no carrying handle, which could make it difficult to move from room to room. That said, we recommend finding a designated spot and sticking with it to make it feel more den-like for your dog. This crate also does not have a removable tray, so you must crouch down to reach inside for any cleaning needs.

Overall, this crate is a great option for anyone looking for lockable crate blends into decor while still being very functional.

Dimensions: 26 x 20 x 23 inches (extra-small/small), 34 x 24 x 25 inches (medium), 42 x 29.5 x 34.4 inches (large) | Material: Bent wood, metal or acrylic door | Attributes: Windows, side table

Best for Travel

Petmate pet kennel.

• Performance 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

Lightweight

Secure latch

Easy to assemble and use

Does not support dogs over 15 pounds

If you like to  take your dog on road trips , you should check out the Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel. It’s easy to attach the top and bottom pieces together, and the door is incredibly secure. Plus, the front and top openings allow for easy cleaning and access to your pet. In our lab testing, this crate’s door did not budge when pulled with 33 pounds of force and was not affected by the impact of a sandbag. 

The top carrying handle also makes this crate a great option for city dwellers who commute to their vet's office or groomers. While we love how convenient this crate would be for extra-small to small dog breeds, we wish it was just slightly bigger to accommodate dogs within the 20-pound range. Nonetheless, this crate is a great, lightweight option for any travel situation for owners of small dogs.

Dimensions: 24.05 x 16.8 x 14.5 inches | Material: Recycled plastic | Attributes: Top handle, two doors with secure latches

"The crate is super simple to use! The door opens easily, and it even has a top part that comes off as well to check in on your dog. The latches definitely lock in but open easily by squeezing. And it's very easy to pick up and carry! I think a 15-pound dog would be very happy in this crate!"— Maria Bouselli, product tester

Best for Flights

Petmate aspen pet porter dog kennel.

ID tags and detachable bowls included

Secure door latch

Meets most airline standards

Not portable with large dogs

If your dog is a frequent flier with you, then you’ll want a crate with a reliable closure and durable frame. The Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier offers crate sizes for all dogs up to 120 pounds, and it comes with two “live animal stickers,” ID tags, and detachable food bowls.

The intuitively designed crate has a secure latch that's virtually impossible for a dog to open, even if you have a Houdini-like pup in your home. This kennel also meets most airlines’ standards for pet carriers, but be sure to consult with your preferred airline before making any flight plans with your pup. 

If you have an  especially reactive pup , keep in mind that the door to this crate may bend slightly with excessive force. While testing with roughly 68 pounds of force pulled against it, the door showed a slight bend, but overall we were impressed by the door’s durability and latch strength. This crate does not have a removable tray, but its plastic interior still make it relatively easy to clean, except for a few tight corners.

While Petmate does offer carriers with handles for their two smallest sizes (21-inch and 28-inch crates), the larger kennels may be more difficult to carry and maneuver through an airport, especially with a larger dog inside.

Dimensions: 24.5 x 18.25 x 19.5 inches; 32 x 22.5 x 24 inches; 36 x 25 x 27 inches; 40 x 27 x 30 inches | Material: Plastic, steel wire | Attributes: Side vents, wire door with latch, top handle (small sizes only)

Note About Airline Travel

If your dog is too large to fly in-cabin, you will need a crate that meets your airline's requirements. In general, the crate should be lockable from the outside (escape-proof), structured, ventilated, and sized appropriately for your dog.

Best Soft Crate

Elitefield soft folding dog crate.

Dual zipper flaps on sides and top

Removable, machine washable bed included

Easy to carry with side pockets for storage of small accessories

Fabric is not chew proof

For overnight stays outside of your home, the EliteField Soft Folding Dog Crate is lightweight and easy to fold.

The alloy steel frame is covered in breathable nylon that is available in various colors. Three dual zipper flaps, one on top and two on each side, enable flexibility and convenience for checking on your dog and getting them safely inside. There are also two storage pockets on the exterior for small accessories, like a leash and a collapsible bowl. Inside you'll find a removable, machine-washable bed. The crate is durable, but not chew-proof so we do not recommend it for a teething puppy. Spills and accidents can be spot cleaned as needed.

Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 14 inches (extra-small), 24 x 18 x 21 inches (small), 30 x 21 x 24 inches (medium), 36 x 24 x 28 inches (medium/large), 42 x 28 x 32 inches (large) | Material: Alloy steel, nylon | Attributes: Mesh windows, top handles, carrying bag, three zippered doors

Tamara Staples

Best Hybrid

Casual home pet crate end table.

• Durability 4.8 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 3.7 /5

Four wood finishes: white, espresso, black, and walnut

Space to place a padded mat

Latch on door keeps it securely shut

Top surface used as end table can support up to 120 pounds

Not chew proof

Latch can be tricky to maneuver and secure

Crate pan and dog bed sold separately

The Casual Home Pet Crate End Table is available in four wood finishes to complement your home decor while providing a cozy den for your dog. The smallest size of this crate can accommodate dogs up to 18 pounds inside and the top surface, used as an end table, can support up to 120 pounds. The extra-large version can fit dogs up to 90 pounds and support 200 pounds on top.

To secure the door shut, the latch has a three-step process: pull out, move up, and then push down into place. We found it a little difficult to maneuver which then made it easier for our dog to get out. If you have a dog that is determined to get out, this crate is not the right choice, but if you have a dog that enjoys their den space, then this is a suitable option.

The crate pan and dog bed designed for the crate are sold separately, but you can also put a blanket or mat that your dog already loves inside to help them feel comfortable in their new space. Assembly is required, but it comes together easily with clear instructions provided.

Dimensions: 20 x 27.5 x 24 inches (small), 36.5 x 24 x 29.25 inches (medium) | Material: Wood | Attributes: Lockable door, windows

Best Budget, Metal Wire

Amazon basics metal wire dog crate.

• Ease of Use 3 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 3.5 /5

The crate maintained shape when picked up via handle on top with a 70-pound dog inside

Durable plastic tray is easy to remove for cleaning

Two doors and an optional divider

Door latches can be difficult to maneuver

The Amazon Basics Foldable Crate Metal Wire Dog Crate is sturdy and low maintenance. We tested the two-door style with one door on the short side of the rectangular shape and the other on the long side. The door latches are difficult to maneuver at first but loosen over time with use. If you are buying this crate for a puppy, a dividing gate is provided which gives you the option to expand the interior space they have access to as they grow. A durable plastic tray sized proportionally for each crate is easy to remove for cleaning with soap and water and dries quickly.

We placed our 70-pound dog inside the largest size of this crate (48 inches) and they had sufficient space to lay down. Using the handle on top, we were able to pick up the crate for a moment. The structure remained intact and supported our dog's weight.

Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 16 inches; 24 x 18 x 20 inches; 30 x 19 x 21 inches; 36 x 23 x 25 inches; 42 x 28 x 30 inches; 48 x 30 x 32.5 inches | Material: Metal, plastic | Attributes: Double door, foldable, removable tray

Best Heavy Duty

Rock creek crates stationary dog crate.

• Security 4 /5

Crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety

Appropriate for daily crate use and airline travel

Soft, removable pad included

10-year guarantee from manufacturer

Does not fit in all cars

The Stationary Dog Crate from Rock Creek Crates is designed to keep a dog secure and calm, even while in motion. The aluminum dog crate earned a five-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) , a non-profit organization based in the United States that conducts automobile crash tests on travel products designed for dogs. We also tested this crate with a real dog in a real life setting, and our participating canine quickly felt at ease using the crate as their main den. The crate was also used to transport our participant dog more safely in an SUV.

The crate arrives fully assembled with a removable pad inside. It's easy to wipe clean inside and out, and has non-slip feet. The front door has a lock and key and butterfly latches to securely lock your dog safely inside for roadtrips and flights. It comes in a variety of colors and four sizes: medium (30), large (36), x-large (42), and xx-large (48). To find the right size for your dog, you should measure your dog's height and length while standing on all four paws. The medium size (30) is recommended for dogs up to 22 inches tall, and the xx-large (48) is recommended for dogs under 32 inches in height.

Depending on which crate size works for your dog, you should also double check that it will fit in your car. We found the crate to be too large to fit in a smaller hatchback, but it was easy to fit in a standard sized SUV. In addition to size, the crate on its own is heavy, so you'll need at least two adults to lift and carry. It's also more expensive than other crates on our list, but it comes with a 10-year guarantee from the manufacturer.

Dimensions: 30.5 x 20 x 22.5 inches (30/medium); 36.5 x 23.5 x 27.75 inches (36/large); 42.5 x 28.5 x 32.5 inches (42/x-large); 48 x 32.25 x 35 inches (48/xx-large) | Material: Aluminum | Attributes: Lockable door, windows

The Spruce Pets / Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm

Final Verdict

For a dependable dog crate that accommodates dogs of all shapes and sizes, we recommend the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door and Double Door Dog Crate . It's lightweight yet durable and folds down for easy transport and storage. If you're looking to splurge on a crate with more features, check out the Diggs Revol Dog Crate . Designed with safety in mind, it has an open, inviting feel that your pup will love.

How We Tested the Dog Crates

We tested 20 dog crates in  The Lab  in Industry City, Brooklyn. After setting up each crate, we conducted multiple strength tests on the crates to rate their durability. We asked each tester to place a 25- and 10-pound sandbag inside the dog crate and then apply 40 pounds of pulling pressure onto the door of the crate with a luggage scale. Testers then rated (out of 5) the crates on whether the door popped open, warped, or broke from the pressure of the scale. We also asked testers to throw a 25-pound sandbag at the side of each crate (this test was skipped for soft-sided crates) and rate its appearance and durability after the impact of the sandbag. 

In addition to these strength tests, our testers also made judgments on each crate’s overall appearance, ease of use, and ease of cleaning. We also asked our testers to consider which categories or scenarios each crate would be best suited for and, finally, asked them to consider the crate’s overall value.

What to Look for in Dog Crates

Types of crates.

Wireframe Crate: Versatile style is easy to clean, collapsible, and often includes a divider to grow along with a puppy.

Carrier Crate: A structured kennel equipped with a handle is ideal for travel and may also function as the main den for a puppy or foster dog.

Foldable Crate: Easy to fold and to setup making this style amendable to travel and temporary extended stays.

Side Table Crate: The top external surface of the crate is functional for use as a side table or end table allowing the crate to blend into a room.

Aluminum Crate: Heavy-duty structured space provides lockable gate and maximum protection for travel at high speeds.

Safety is arguably the most important factor to consider when purchasing a dog crate, but the level of safety depends on the life stage and temperament of your pup. For example, a wooden crate might be safe for more mellow dogs who don't chew, but those with puppies or chewers will want to avoid this type.

Generally speaking, you’ll want to make sure that the crate has a stable frame that won't flip over or let your dog escape. Wire mesh options can pose more safety concerns , so you'll want to go for a durable, high-gauge metal option. This will minimize any possible injuries, like getting paws stuck in the wire or breaking out of the crate entirely, and give you greater peace of mind. Plastic options generally come with fewer safety risks, but you'll still want to make sure that the crate is chew-resistant, with no detachable pieces that can be swallowed or eaten.

The ideal crate size allows your pup to fully stand up and lie down, with room to stretch to his full body length without being constrained. But dogs still like a den-like experience, so make sure that the crate isn’t  too  big (for example, a smaller breed shouldn’t be housed in a crate intended for larger breeds).

So, when shopping for a crate, you’ll want to consult a dog crate size chart , considering your dog’s shape and size. Those needing crates for puppies might opt for a model that comes with divider panels, which allow the crate to grow with your pooch (and also come in handy for training).

Apart from practical design elements like a removable tray—more on that below—you’ll also want to consider the overall look of your potential crate. Your dog’s crate is most likely something you and your family will be seeing often, after all.

While a traditional wire mesh crate is neutral enough, if you’re looking for something that will either blend in or stand out a bit more, there are plenty of options. Those with wooden furniture might opt for a wooden crate, which is perfectly suited for the  living room area  (though those with puppies or chewers should opt for a more durable option). And if you want something a bit more Instagram-worthy, opt for something like the Diggs Revol Dog Crate, which is just as practical as it is easy on the eyes.

Dividers are a great way for your crate to grow with your dog, reducing the need to buy a new crate several times a year. As your puppy grows, you can adjust the amount of living space to suit her needs. Additionally, if you have  two dogs  that don’t get along, you can use a divider to split up their crate. Just make sure that each pup has enough space to do its thing.

Removable Tray

Ideally, your pup won’t be in a crate long enough to have to “do their business.” But accidents again, and when they do, you’ll be glad to have a tray that you can remove for cleaning. Luckily, most crates come with this feature; if not, you can purchase a separate fabric pad that will absorb any urine or other messes.

Casters can prove super useful for at-home crate use, as they allow you to more easily move your pup’s crate from one room to another. This is particularly great for puppies; when they’re still young and potty training, you can keep the crate in your bedroom or hallway (as you would a baby), and as they get older, you can move it to your living room or kitchen area. Just make sure to lock the casters in place every time to minimize accidents or tip-overs. 

Measure your dog's height (top of head to front paws) and length (nose to tail) while they are standing on all four paws. Then add 2 to 4 inches on each measurement to help guide your sizing choice. Your dog should be able to stand up, sit, lay down, stretch, and spin around, but they shouldn't have too much extra space.

For most, a wireframe crate is sufficient for home use. It can serve as your dog's main den and help with potty training. You might need more than one crate depending on your lifestyle, whether you plan to travel with your dog, and the size of your dog.

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

This article was originally written by dog expert Christina Donnelly , who is a writer and animal welfare advocate. When researching products to add to this article, we read dozens of customer and third-party-site reviews, keeping safety, style, and comfort in mind.

Emma Phelps , an updates writer for The Spruce, offered additional assistance in updating this article with our latest testing insights from The Lab. After reviewing our testers’ feedback on all 20 crates that were tested, Phelps and senior editors compiled the final list of crates in this roundup. She then converted our testing insights into digestible product descriptions to inform readers about the user experience with each crate and its overall value.

More from The Spruce Pets

• The 5 Best Dog Crates for Puppies, Tested and Reviewed
• The 7 Best Dog Beds for Big Dogs, Tested and Reviewed
• The 9 Best Dog Pens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
• The 10 Best Dog Houses For Any Environment
• The 11 Best Dog Beds Tested With Real Snoozing And Drooling Hounds
• The 11 Best Cat Carriers Tested With Real Cats In Tow
• The 8 Best Dog Car Seats and Restraints, Tested With Real Dogs
• The 10 Best Dog Seat Covers Tested With Real Dogs
• The 11 Best Dog Carriers Tested With Real Canines Inside
• The 10 Best Dog Agility Equipment Pieces For Training and Exercise
• The 8 Best Cooling Dog Beds, Tested With Real Dogs
• The 9 Best Dog Potties For Easy Bathroom Breaks
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Best airline-approved pet carriers for travel in 2024

Spring break is nearly here, and summer travel is just on the horizon. About 70% of American households have at least one pet and 78% of pet owners travel with their pets . That means traveling with the right airline-approved pet carrier can be a vacation game changer this summer. 

The experts at CBS Essentials have done the heavy lifting, finding the best pet carriers that suit your furry friend's needs. Keep reading for our picks for the best airline-approved pet carriers of 2024. Now all you have to do is book your flight.

The best airline-approved pet carriers for travel in 2024

Explore our top picks to find the perfect carrier for your furry friend's next travel adventure.

Best for frequent fliers: Away The Pet Carrier

• Best 2-in-1 carrier and travel bed : Wild One travel carrier
• Best for easy clean-up : Diggs Passenger pet carrier
• Best dog crate for travel : Impact collapsible dog crate
• Best pet backpack for travel : PetAmi pet backpack
• Best for pets traveling in cargo : Petmate Sky Kennel

Most versatile travel carrier: Lesure 2-in-1 pet backpack and travel carrier

• Best 5-in-1 pet carrier and stroller : Ibiyaya 5-in-1 combo pet carrier

Learn more about each of our selections below.

The Pet Carrier from Away luggage transports canine or feline friends in sleek style. It features sherpa bedding to feel like an at-home pet bed and is lined with water-resistant material in case of accidents.

Latch this pet carrier via a sleeve to your Away luggage when you're on the move.  

"I bought two of these for my 8-pound dachshund mix and my 14-pound cavalier. Both fit comfortably and have plenty of space," says one reviewer. "I love the clasps on the back that attach to the seatbelt. We also took them on a Southwest flight and had no issues with the carriers fitting under the seat side by side."

Why we like Away The Pet Carrier:

• It holds pets up to 18 pounds.
• It's water-resistant for easy clean-up.
• It meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.

Best 2-in-1 carrier and travel bed: Wild One travel carrier

Wild One, a brand focused solely on furry friends, has constructed a streamlined and reasonably priced travel carrier that doubles as an on-the-go pet bed. Mesh walls offer breathability during travel, while the shoulder strap detaches to become a travel leash. The interior cushion also folds down completely, so the carrier can double as a pet bed.

This carrier is airline-compliant and is recommended for use with dogs up to 16 pounds. It's priced at $125.

Why we like the Wild One travel carrier:

• It comes in two classic colors and two limited edition colors.
• It fits under the seat in front of you on airlines.
• The shoulder strap doubles as a leash.

Best for easy clean-up: Diggs Passenger pet carrier

The Diggs Passenger carrier is designed for easy cleaning. You can attach a pee pad to the carrier bed. Then, if your pet gets car sick or has an accident, you can easily swap out the pee pad through the side panel. The carrier meets most airline requirements and has been crash-tested for car travel.

Choose from four colors. One color option is currently on sale.

Why we like the Diggs Passenger carrier:

• It's easy to clean if your pet has an accident.
• The carrier has great ventilation to keep your pet comfortable.
• It was crash-tested and received a 5-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety for car travel.

Best dog crate for travel: Impact collapsible dog crate

Frequent fliers looking for an indestructible crate for travel should consider investing in an Impact collapsible dog crate. Engineered out of military-grade aluminum, these lightweight, stackable crates offer great features, including handles, airline rails and ample ventilation.

It is available in several sizes to accommodate a range of pets. Prices vary by size.

Why we like the Impact collapsible dog crate:

• It's available in seven colors, from neutrals to a bolder pink shade.
• The crate comes with a lifetime guarantee.
• It's made with durable aluminum.

Best pet backpack for travel: PetAmi pet backpack

Those who prefer transporting their pets backpack-style should invest in this highly-rated pet backpack from PetAmi. Designed for small to medium pets, the carrier offers two-sided access, breathable mesh windows, pockets for your personal items and a safety strap to secure your pet during transport. 

"This is so cute and highly functional. I love the support it has for me. It's lightweight and sturdy all at the same time. I also love how roomy it is for my cat." shared one Amazon buyer .

Why we like the PetAmi pet backpack:

• It's available in 13 colors.
• The backpack is TSA-approved for airline travel.
• It fits small dogs and most cats.

Best for pets traveling in cargo: Petmate Sky Kennel

Unfortunately, not all pets can fly in the main cabin of an airplane. Designed for cargo transport, this pet kennel with ventilation on all sides is available in six sizes, ranging from 21 to 48 inches, and protects animals and keeps them safe. 

It meets most airline cargo specifications for easy and safe travel. All sizes include clip-on bowls and ID stickers, while the 21- and 28-inch versions offer a handle for carrying. Make sure to get the right size kennel for your pet: They'll need space to stand, turn around, sit erect or lie down.

Prices vary by size.

Why we like the Petmate Sky Kennel:

• It has 360-degree ventilation for optimal airflow.
• The kennel meets most airline cargo specifications.
• It features a secure four-way vault door.

This TSA-approved pet carrier doubles as a backpack. The carrier features breathable mesh walls, four self-locking zippers and a built-in safety leash so that you can feel confident that your furry friend is secure. 

The two-in-one carrier can attach to your luggage, be worn as a backpack or be carried with standard pet carrier handles. It's suitable for dogs or cats up to 15 pounds.

Why we like the Lesure 2-in-1 pet backpack and travel carrier:

• It easily converts from a standard pet carrier to a backpack.
• The carrier is TSA-approved and airline-compliant.
• It comes in three colors.

Best 5-in-1 pet carrier and stroller: Ibiyaya 5-in-1 combo pet carrier  

This compact in-flight pet carrier and stroller is manufactured to baby stroller standards and quickly converts to fit all your travel needs.

This pet carrier is currently priced at $202, reduced from $225.

Why we like this 5-in-1 pet carrier and strolle r:

• This carrier can easily be converted into a shoulder carrier, a dog back pack carrier, a pet car seat, a dog stroller, or a pet carrier with wheels.
• It's compacted and converted within minutes.
• This carrier is EVA airline-approved.

What to consider when buying a pet carrier

Each airline has its own set of rules regarding pets traveling with you inside the plane, or placed underneath the aircraft in the cargo hold. If your pet is traveling with you inside the plane, its carrier will need to fit underneath the seat in front of you. Generally speaking, that means your in-flight pet carrier shouldn't exceed 45 linear inches (length + width + height), or roughly 21.5 by 15.5 by 9 inches -- according to AAA .

For dog crates traveling as cargo, the crate must be enclosed, but have ventilation openings occupying at least 16% of total wall space on two opposing walls. The crate must open easily, but should also be durable enough to sustain normal cargo transit logistics (loading, unloading and transportation). When shopping for airline-approved pet carriers, it's a good idea to check your carrier's website first for restrictions.

Most soft-sided travel carriers fit comfortably underneath the seat in front of you so your pet stays close to you during the flight. Common features include mesh sides or windows for breathability, removable pads for comfort, straps to attach the carrier to a seat belt or your luggage and pockets to stash essentials.

If your pet can only fly in the cargo space underneath the plane, look for hard-sided pet carriers to offer the most protection during the flight.

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