Best travel pet carriers for furry friends of all shapes and sizes

The best pet carriers provide comfort and safety for traveling fur babies — Photo courtesy of Phuttharak / iStock Via Getty Images

Between managing a Pilates studio, traveling to workshops, and writing about travel, I do a good amount of trekking across the globe. When I’m on the move, I do my best to bring my pups, Tonka and Paisley, along for company. Statistics show I’m not alone: 78% of Americans travel with their four-legged pals.

Travel can be hard enough with unanticipated delays and detours, so I want to make things go as smoothly as possible when bringing my dogs. That’s why finding a reliable pet carrier is essential for seamless journeys. Because I travel at least twice a month, I’ve tested my fair share of carriers. Some are amazing, while others have been disappointing.

When purchasing a carrier, consider whether you’re flying or driving. In-cabin pet carriers need to meet airline requirements, and those requirements vary (especially when flying with a dog). On a road trip, you’ll have more latitude regarding size selections. Above all, you’ll want to ensure the comfort and safety of your precious pets.

These are our favorite pet carrier recommendations for paw parents.

Best pet carrier for flying: The Pet Carrier by Away

Away Pet Carrier makes travel a breeze for your furry friends — Photo courtesy of Away

The Pet Carrier by Away wins our overall best pick. Known for its tactical hard-sided suitcases, the brand also has a leg up when transporting your furry friend. We love its sleek design with attention to small details, such as its soft, rounded shape, which slides easily underneath most airline seats. Measuring 18.7 inches (long) x 10.8 inches (wide) x 10.75 inches (high), it accommodates pets up to 18 pounds. The carrier meets all Federal Aviation Administration requirements; however, it’s still a best practice to research each airline’s size and weight limitations.

Additional winning features include its water-resistant lining and comfortable sherpa bedding, which can ease your pet’s anxiety while traveling. Several exterior pockets help you stay organized while on the move. We especially appreciate the large, zippered side pocket for safekeeping paperwork and other essentials.

Bonus points for the mesh panels, which allow for ventilation even on hot days. The pet carrier also features a trolley sleeve that easily attaches to luggage.

Best pet carrier for a road trip: Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier Plus

Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier Plus is road-trip ready — Photo courtesy of One Flight Up

Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier Plus is our favorite choice for road trips. The company has considered everything you’ll need for your four-legged companion when traveling. The pet carrier, which measures 17 x 11 x 11, has its patented feeding system design, which includes two food carriers, two collapsible silicone bowls, and an easy-to-clean placemat.

Made with thick, durable fabric, the pet carrier offers three-sided mesh ventilation for breathability and a waterproof exterior bottom, so you don’t have to worry about setting it down on rainy days. The interior padded bottom is a comfy spot for Fido to relax and is removed easily for machine washing.

With two mesh pockets on each side and a third zippered pocket, you’ll have ample space for storing treats, paw wipes, and much more. It also has seat belt clips that lock into any car and a collar tether to transport your fur friend safely.

Best pet carrier for small dogs: Olla Petite Pet Carrycot by Lambwolf Collective

Petite pups love the Lambwolf Olla Pet Carrycot — Photo courtesy of @linotheiggy

The Olla Petite Pet Carrycot by Lambwolf Collective is our favorite for small dogs because of its multifunctional features for a petite companion. The water-resistant carrycot is super portable and versatile. It can be used as a bed, carrier, or sling pouch, making it suitable for travel. Especially designed for pets under 11 pounds, the interior features a soft temperature-regulated cushion, offering comfort for your pooch.

The cushion and cot are machine washable, making them useful and long-lasting. The cot has an adjustable drawstring opening. A safety clip inside the cot can be attached to your dog’s collar.

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Best pet carrier for big dogs: Away-We-Go Pet Crate by Roverlund

Roverlund’s Away-We-Go large pet crate keeps your pets safe for travel — Photo courtesy of Roverlund

Roverlund’s larger Away-We-Go Pet Crate option suits dogs up to 50 pounds. The easy-to-assemble kennel is made of aluminum and fabric and measures 30 x 20 x 22. It features front, top, and side entry points and a pocket with safety fasteners to carry all Fido’s travel essentials.

The waterproof bottom prevents leaks and protects from outside water getting in, should you face inclement weather conditions. The interior pad is removable and can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle.

Splurge for the ingenious add-on Ready-to-Roll Pet Carrier Wheel Base, designed to lug your bigger four-legged around easily. The smooth-moving skateboard wheels allow for stress-free navigation. The pet crate and wheelbase are available in small sizes and are suitable for pets under 25 pounds.

Best crossbody pet carrier: Cloud Crossbody Pet Carrier from Pups & Bubs

Pups & Bubs Cloud Crossbody pet carrier is totes cute — Photo courtesy of Cozy Couch Studio

The Cloud Crossbody Pet Carrier, a bestseller from Pups & Bubs, is great for dog parents who want to carry their pups in a sling, similar to a baby wrap. I’m a huge fan of the cloud crossbody because it’s lightweight, stylish, and offers a solid base for your furbaby to rest comfortably. It’s perfect for smaller dogs who can’t walk long but enjoy having their head out and seeing all the activity. My three-pound shih tzu Paisley loves riding in it while I’m window shopping or running errands.

It also features several zippered pockets to carry water bottles and other essentials. When not used as a dog carrier, you can remove the interior insert to use it as an everyday bag. It easily adjusts to a lounge pod for your pet to rest, whether at home or on vacation. It is most suitable for smaller dogs and has a secure latch and mesh closure to keep your pup safe.

Best soft-sided pet carrier: Wild One Travel Carrier

Wild One Pet Carrier is airline-approved and comfortable for small dogs — Photo courtesy of Wild One

Wild One Travel Carrier is our choice for the best soft-sided because it’s airline-approved, roomy, and cozy for your four-legged friend. Made of a neoprene outer with ventilated mesh walls, it measures 17.5 x 11 x 10 and is suitable for pets under 16 pounds.

We love its ergonomic design — the case opens into a canopy bed so your pet can rest and lounge. The removable shoulder strap allows you to wear it as a crossbody when you need both hands free to navigate. You can even use it as a leash for last-minute emergencies.

Best hard-sided pet carrier: Petmate Pet Porter

Petmate’s Aspen Fashion Pet Porter Dog Kennel Hard-Sided Breeze is a classic for a reason — Photo courtesy of Petmate

Petmate’s Pet Porter is your best bet for hard-sided options for transporting your pup. The pet porter is available in multiple sizes, depending on how big or small your pet is. Made of 90% recycled plastic, it features a secure latch so you can feel confident while traveling. Side vents allow for sufficient airflow to keep your best friend comfortable.

One thing to note is that it doesn’t come with padding, so you’ll want to pick one up to ensure your pet’s comfort. The company offers a one-year limited warranty on their crates.

Best pet carrier for cats: Sleepypod Atom

Sleepypod Atom is the cat’s meow among pet carriers for cats — Photo courtesy of Sleepypod

We love Sleepypod Atom for its contemporary design, which makes transporting your pet a cinch. While the Atom is suitable for dogs and cats, we chose it as our best feline carrier because the enclosed compartment provides more privacy. The heavy-duty rip-stop mesh holds up against frisky kitties who like to claw and chew. The interior is spacious and cozy, with ultra plush bedding to support a relaxed voyage.

The Sleepypod Atom fits under most airline seats, can be used as a car seat, and folds flat for storage. It measures 17 x 8.5 x 10.5 and is suitable for pets up to 12 pounds.

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Best pet carrier with wheels: Luxury Rider Pet Carrier by Katziela

Katziela Luxury Rider Pet Carrier on wheels makes for smooth travels — Photo courtesy of Yiddy M

Luxury Rider Pet Carrier with Removable Wheels and Telescopic Handle, made by Katziela, is the best mobile pet carrier. Owners love the double telescopic handle, which slides out easily and offers effortless motion when in a hurry. Once you remove the wheels, the carrier also acts as a crate for your pet to rest at a hotel, home, or office.

Made for your pet’s comfort, the Luxury Rider Pet Carrier offers ventilated mesh on all sides so your pet can breathe easily and see what’s happening. The interior case features a fluffy bed, so pets can sit back and enjoy the ride.

Best budget pet carrier: Bruno’s Place Travel Carrier

Bruno’s Place Travel Carrier provides comfort for any small pet — Photo courtesy of Bruno’s Place

Bruno’s Place Travel Carrier with Shoulder Straps is designed for the pet-conscious paw parent and is suitable for dogs and cats that weigh up to 20 pounds. It sits along the front of your body like a baby wrap, allowing you to use your hands while in transit. They can have their head outside of the bag, or they can rest entirely inside. The removable base offers your pet additional comfort while in the carrier.

Ergonomically designed back straps offer an even weight distribution, providing ample support for the lumbar spine. Two side pockets allow you to store items you want to access quickly.