Whether you’re driving to the vet for an appointment or taking your cat on a flight, you need a cat travel carrier that’s safe and secure. From traditional crates to cat backpacks, here are some of our favorite options that pet parents love.
On long trips, an expandable carrier gives your feline space to stretch out. It also passes airport security and X-rays easily and has a roll-down privacy window.
Hard-Sided Carriers
Hard-sided carriers, also known as kennels, are rigid boxes that are normally made of tough plastic. They typically feature one or more doors and may also come with clip-on food and water bowls for longer journeys. Some are designed to look like traditional cat houses and even include a padded bed. These types of carriers are usually airline-approved for cabin travel and offer a more secure, enclosed space than soft-sided ones.
Some airlines may require a sturdy lock for your carrier, so check the airline’s policies before buying. You should also look for a carrier with firm but flexible materials, and make sure the bottom has a protective liner to prevent urine leaks or damage. Soft-sided carriers are softer and lighter, but they can be harder to keep your cat in and they can often fall apart or tear easily. They’re also less durable than hard-sided models, and cats who are determined to escape can push their way out of the opening before you can zip the zipper shut.
If your feline is very nervous on trips, consider covering the carrier with a towel or blanket to create a dark, closed-in space that will feel more familiar and safe. You should also choose a carrier with ample ventilation through the door and along the sides to ensure your pet has plenty of fresh air on board. A ring to hook a short leash on is a handy feature that will keep your pet from escaping through the mesh air vents or working their way between the zipper and the material, and it’s worth considering a carrier with a removable bottom pad for easy cleaning if your cat has an accident during the trip.
Some hard-sided carriers come with handles that you can use to lift and carry them, which is a lot easier on your arms than trying to pick up a bulky bag. They can also be positioned to rest on top of rolling luggage, which makes them easy to transport between the airport and your hotel.
Soft-Sided Carriers
If your cat is used to a comfortable, enclosed space, she’ll probably love traveling in one of these soft carriers. They’re lightweight, easy to clean, and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, including some that expand. But they may not be as sturdy as hard-sided carriers and aren’t a good choice for feisty or scared cats that want to chew or claw their way out of the carrier.
Soft carriers are a great option for short trips such as vet visits, Sunday drives, or running errands. They are also less bulky and can be more easily stowed away in the car. Some models even have a luggage strap, so you can use them like a wheeled suitcase to pull along on the trip.
They usually feature zippered doors and 2 different sets of straps so you can carry the carrier like a tote bag, a backpack or shoulder bag, or use it as a sling across your body. In addition, a few have removable trays for food and water that are easy to clean.
Some models even have a small leash loop and a safety tether, so you can better control your pet while on the go. They are typically made from durable, weatherproof nylon that washes well and resists stains. We also look for models that have a strong handle, since you don’t want your carrier to fall over on your cat during the journey.
A few of the soft-sided carriers we’ve reviewed are designed to be airline-approved for in-cabin flights. If you plan to travel this way, make sure to check the airline’s requirements and regulations before booking your flight.
This large soft-sided model from Mr. Peanut’s Gold Series is front- and top-loading, with a roll-down privacy flap over the top door to help your kitty feel more secure inside her cozy little travel cave. It passed our in-cabin fit test and offers plenty of ventilation to prevent overheating. It also has a soft plush bolster bed, a safety tether, a luggage strap and detachable padded shoulder strap, and a faux leather carry handle.
Expandable Carriers
Air travel can be uncomfortable for humans, but it’s even more stressful for pets. Cats who fly in the cabin can feel claustrophobic, especially if they’re in a small cage in a tight space. An expandable carrier is a great way to give your pet extra room so they can stretch out and relax during the flight. It’s also a good option for pet owners who need to transport their pets in other situations, like taking them on public transportation or to the vet.
When zipped, this carrier compresses from 22″ long, 10 1/2″ wide, and 10 1/2″ high to 16″ long, 10 1/2″ wide, and 8″ high. It’s made with luggage-grade nylon on the outside and plush, comfortable polyester inside. It’s designed to keep your pet safe and comfortable during the flight, while keeping them away from any potential germs in the cargo hold. It comes in several colors, including dark chocolate, glacier silver, jet black, orange dream, and robin egg blue.
Unlike hard-sided carriers, this one has mesh windows on both the top and front for easy access. It also features a roll-up privacy flap over the top door for additional security. In our tests, this carrier passed airline in-cabin fit requirements and provides plenty of ventilation to help keep your pet comfortable on a longer flight. It comes with a soft, plush bolster bed that’s washable and a safety leash to keep your cat secure during transit.
Another popular option for kitty travelers, this backpack style carrier is lightweight, comfortable to carry, and easy to maneuver. Unlike traditional box-style carriers, it has multiple pockets and a large leash clip for attaching a safety leash to your pet while walking. It’s available in several sizes, but the smallest is only suitable for a very small cat or kitten.
If you’re unsure whether this type of carrier will work for you, check with your airline to see what their rules are. For example, on JetBlue, your pet’s carrier counts as a personal item and can replace one of your own carry-on bags, but you may only have enough space for one additional bag on other airlines.
Rolling Carriers
If your cat is not easily coaxed into a carrier or prefers to hide in a small space, this rolling option may work better for both of you. Look for a model that has a variety of ways to get your cat inside, including multiple doors and side windows that provide good ventilation. Many also have a zipper lock that can help keep your pet secure.
Some models have a hood that adds additional warmth and protection, which can be helpful for cold weather. Others feature a removable bed, which can make the carrier more comfortable for your kitty. Some have pockets for storing treats, medications and other necessities. Some can also convert into a backpack, which allows you to hold your cat in front of you rather than on your back, which some cats find less stressful.
You should also consider how easily your carrier can be wiped down. Carriers can take a beating during travel and can become saturated with bodily fluids, so you’ll want to select one that can be sanitized quickly. Look for a carrier that has easy-to-clean materials, such as nylon or vinyl, so you can clean out any messes your cat makes.
Many of the best rolling carriers on the market are made with acrylic resin wheels similar to those found on luggage. These are able to roll over most surfaces, but are also a great choice for indoor use or when you’re traveling short distances on foot. Some also have a retractable handle, which makes it easy to maneuver your cat through airports and other tight spaces.
Another option is a rolling carrier that looks more like a piece of luggage, such as this model from FrontPet. This carrier has a top-loading opening and can fit under airline seats, although it does not have a seat belt loop and is not third-party crash-tested for car travel. It can, however, be secured to the seat with a strap or harness. It has a padded shoulder strap, interior safety tether and luggage strap, as well as multiple exterior pockets for storage.