The Best Pet Travel Carriers
Traveling with your dog can be a fun and enriching experience, but you need to make sure you have a secure pet carrier to keep them safe. The right option will make traveling a breeze because you won't need to worry about your dog being loose in your car or uncomfortable on a long flight. Whether you have a Teacup Chiuahaha or a Great Dane, there’s an excellent travel carrier option for you and your pet.
What to Look For
When searching for the best pet travel carriers, we looked for options that were durable, easy to transport, and comfortable for your animal. Our top pick was the travel carrier bag from Morpilot, because it’s strong, lined with a cozy mat, and has several different carrying options. It’s best for small- to medium-sized dogs, so if you have a larger breed we’d recommend the plastic kennel from SportPet Designs. It’s made from strong plastic with plenty of ventilation holes, and it has handles on the top as well as wheels so that you can roll your pet rather than carry them. To learn more about all the best pet travel carriers on the market, keep reading our full reviews.
Morpilot Pet Travel Carrier Bag
Soft and safe
Tote your pet worry-free with this convenient carrying bag. The ventilated sides keep the interior cool and also let your animal see what’s going on outside. Because the bag is fabric, it’s easy to spot-clean any stains. The interior pad is removable and machine-washable, so it’s no problem if your dog has an accident.
Pros:
- The sides and top are lined with sturdy, scratch-resistant mesh for breathability.
- Although this bag is lightweight, the polyester is very strong and the base is lined with a panel to help it keep its shape.
Cons:
- The fabric sides are soft, so they collapse a bit unless the bag is zipped up completely.
PetsFit Portable Pet Travel Carrier
Over the shoulder
If you have a small dog or cat, this carrier is an excellent option. The rounded top gives you plenty of headroom while also being easier to carry under your arm than a rectangular carrier. It has wire throughout to keep it from collapsing, and the lockable zipper ensures that your fur baby won’t get out.
Pros:
- The smaller size is TSA-approved because it easily fits under the seat in front of you.
- This carrier is lined with a double-sided mat, so your pet can sit on cozy fleece or cooling polyester depending on the temperature.
Cons:
- This carrier only fits animals under 11 pounds, so it’s best for rabbits, cats, and very small dog breeds.
Ibiyaya 5-in-1 Pet Carrier
As you like it
If you’ve had trouble deciding which type of pet carrier is the best for you, this versatile option may be your best bet. You can use it as a shoulder carrier, wheeled carrier, backpack, stroller, or car seat to transport your furry friend everywhere. It folds flat for storage when you’re not using it, and the hard-bottom design is sturdy and comfortable.
Pros:
- The stroller mechanism is very sturdy, but it also folds down for simple storage and transportation.
- The main carrier is strong and durable, and it doesn’t collapse or lose its shape when your pet is inside.
Cons:
- This carrier is more expensive than other, less customizable options.
WOYYHO Pet Carrier Backpack
Hold them closer
If you’re taking your pet on lots of outdoor adventures, this small backpack is a great way to bring them along without tiring them out. The thick straps and the chest and waist belts are comfortable, and they keep the backpack secured and level while you’re walking. It also has several pockets on the outside, which are perfect for keys, treats, and more.
Pros:
- This backpack is available in a huge variety of color options, so you can choose something fun.
- The mesh fabric and open space at the top ensure that your pet won’t feel claustrophobic or hot.
Cons:
- These bags run a bit small, so you might want to size up depending on what breed of dog you have.
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel
Wiggle room
Pet owners with big dogs know that an underarm tote won’t cut it for travel, which is where this large crate comes it. It’s long and tall enough to accommodate even very large breeds, so they’ll be comfortable on long drives or flights. The base has optional rotating wheels for great maneuverability, and the handles on top allow you to steer and pick up the kennel.
Pros:
- The wheels easily snap on and off, so you can roll the kennel or leave it stationary.
- This kennel comes with two dishes for food and water that securely attach to the door grate.
Cons:
- The crate itself weighs about 20 pounds since the plastic is very heavy and strong, so take this into consideration if you plan on lifting it frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size travel carrier does my dog need?
The best way to find the right size travel carrier is to measure your dog. Measure him from nose to tail and add four inches to find the ideal length, and measure him while standing from the ground to the top of his head or ears and add three inches to find the height. Adding a little extra space will make your dog more comfortable, especially during long trips.
Can I bring a travel carrier on an airplane?
Airlines accept a wide variety of crate sizes, and they even check to make sure that carriers are large enough that big dogs are comfortable. Most airlines will accept crates under 34 inches high, and they must be made out of sturdy materials. Make sure to double-check the standards before you travel, just to be safe.
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