10 Best Pet Carriers

As the holidays approach, pet owners may struggle deciding whether or not they should bring their cat Mittens or their dog Spot with them on vacation. They might look at the laundry list of questions they have about traveling with their pet and feel overwhelmed: Which pet carriers are airline approved? How can they ensure there’s enough space in the car or plane for them? How can they make sure their pet is comfortable during the entire car ride or flight?

If finding the perfect pet carrier is the thing that stands between you and bringing your pet on your holiday vacation, look no further than the list below. We’ve reviewed 10 pet carriers, covering the pros and cons of all of them.

1. OxGord Airline Approved Pet Carriers w/Fleece Bed

 

As a carrier approved by airlines, security is to be expected, and the design of this bag does not allow pets an escape. As pet owners, concern over a pet’s comfort is expected, and with a removable fleece bed at the bottom, as well as nothing harmful being in the way, comfort is assured. At 19” in length, 10” width, 13” in height, and able to carry up to 10 lbs., any cat can comfortably fit in this carrier.

Pros

• Secure straps
• Washable
• Breathable material
• Storage compartments

Cons

• Flimsy materials

 

2. Soft Sided Carrier – Airline Approved

With a sleek and simple design, this airline-approved carrier is suitable to carry cats in the safest and most comfortable ways, immediately evidenced by the mesh sides that allow for good airflow. Soft sides mean that a cat is offered all-round comfort and ventilation. Despite its comfort and light weight, the carrier is also sturdy enough to contain pets safely. The firm straps and ability to fold flat for storage add convenience to a quality product.

Pros

• Waterproof
• Soft material
• Large 18” x 11” x 10” dimensions

Cons

• Side netting doesn’t last long

 

3. Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel

Made from a sturdy plastic, dotted with pores to allow for proper ventilation, it is clear to see that this carrier does well to blend security with comfort. The dimensions are rather large, accommodating cats of any size, as well as other added paraphernalia. The 2-door construction, each of which is securely fit in place, as well as the handle at the top of the carrier, add convenience to the mix.

Pros

• Durable construction
• 21” x 14.75” x 13.25” interior dimension
• Good air circulation

Cons

• No added comfort measures

 

4. Soothing “Happy Cat” Cat Carrier

Apart from being able to carry just about any cat, no matter how large, this carrier also manages to pack a whole range of positive features. Measuring 22” in length and 15” in both height and width, the nylon canvas material offers a lot of interior space, and it is able to hold weights of up to 45 lbs. This impressive feat is complemented by the comfort it offers, with a nap pillow covering the entire bottom surface, and netting on three sides to allow maximum air flow.

Pros

• Two side openings and top opening
• Handles for easy portability
• Moisture resistant
• Washable

Cons

• Not officially airline approved

 

5. Premium Airline Approved Expandable Pet Carrier by Pet Peppy

This carrier excels in maximizing space, with the ability to expand its 11” width size to 10” on both sides, giving it a sum total of 31” when all setup. At 18” in length and 11” in height, it is rare to find a cat carrier as large as this, something that many will find convenient. A fleece base adds enough comfort to accommodate to a carrier that manages to carry up to 14 lbs.

Pros

• Front and top openings
• Ventilated sides and top
• Features secure straps, a side pocket, and bowl
• Airline approved

Cons

• Short height

 

6. Pawfect Pet-Large Soft Sided Airline Approved Pet Carrier

For a cat carrier, the fact that it can hold up to 18 lbs. of weight says a lot about it, especially when considering how portable it is. The soft fleece ensures that a cat is comfortable throughout a journey, and with a side mesh, enough air is allowed in for comfortable breathing. The all-round zip also provides maximum security.

Pros

• Washable material
• Secure opening
• Folds flat for storage

Cons

• Pliable construction

 

7. Petmate Soft-Sided Kennel Cab Pet Carrier

17” long, 10” wide, and 10” high carrier aren’t necessarily bad numbers to begin with, even as exterior measurements, but this cat carrier has a lot to offer. The entire side length of both sides consists of netting that allows air to circulate without interruption. Openings at the front and the top also mean easy accessibility; a rear pocket helps with storage, and the fitted strap makes it easy to carry. The overall material is sturdy, holds up well, with PVC backing to make it extra durable.

Pros

• Plastic feet for ground support
• Soft padded bottom
• Dual zipper openings
• Easy to carry

Cons

• Low weight carrying capacity

 

 

8. Premium Pet Travel Carrier

There is more to this carrier than its attractive vintage look, featuring a shoulder strap and hand straps, both of which are sure to come in handy. Made from reinforced polyester, and durable side meshes, not only will cats find it impossible to claw their way out of this bag, but the build ensures it will last for many a journey. At 17.5” long, 10” wide, and 11” high, any cat can comfortably fit in this carrier.

Pros

• Good ventilation
• Durable build
• Portable
• Airline approved

Cons

• Pliable structure

 

 

9. Amazon Basics Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel

For security, it rarely gets better than what this carrier has to offer, featuring a steel wire front door that complements the sturdy plastic structure. A top opening, fit with a handle, makes life easier for owners; air holes and measurements of 19” long, 20” wide, and 10” high make it suitable for just about any cat, no matter how heavy.

Pros

• Sturdy construction
• Two-door design
• Air holes for ventilation

Cons

• Top lid not secure

 

10. Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

As a product that is both light and sturdy in structure, the added benefits of having a fleece bed for comfort, and both hand and shoulder straps for easy portability, make this a complete travel carrier. All 4 sides of the bag have netting that allows for great air circulation, but despite this, the quality and a zipper at the front of the carrier mean that pets are kept securely.

Pros

• Adjustable shoulder straps
• Washable fleece base
• Great ventilation

Cons

• Low weight tolerance (8 lbs.)

Conclusion

These pet carriers will make traveling easier for both you and your pet. If you find it hard to justify buying a pet carrier, they can be an early Christmas gift for your cat or dog this holiday season! Whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or train, you can bring your pet along for the ride with these pet carriers.