Traveling with your beloved pet can be an exciting adventure, but ensuring their safety and comfort during air travel is paramount. For pet owners planning to fly, selecting the right airline approved carry on pet carrier is a crucial step. Navigating airline regulations and choosing from the myriad of options available can feel overwhelming. This guide is designed to simplify your decision, presenting the best airline-approved pet carriers rigorously tested and evaluated for your peace of mind and your pet’s well-being.
We understand that taking your furry companion on a flight requires careful planning and the right equipment. Airlines have specific rules regarding pet travel, including carrier size restrictions, pet weight limits, and necessary documentation. Familiarizing yourself with these requirements is the first step towards a smooth journey.
To help you make an informed choice, we’ve put in the work, testing 13 popular pet carriers on actual flights. Our evaluations focused on key aspects such as size compliance, material quality, pet comfort, ease of portability, thoughtful design, cleaning convenience, and overall value. Based on our hands-on testing, we’ve compiled a list of top recommendations to suit various needs and preferences.
Our Curated List of Airline-Approved Pet Carriers
Whether you’re looking for the best overall carrier, a budget-friendly option, or a design-forward choice, our top picks cover a range of categories to meet your specific travel requirements.
Best Overall:
Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.com
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Best Budget:
JetPaws Official Pet Carrier at Walmart $48
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Best Design:
Away The Pet Carrier at Awaytravel.com $225
Jump to Review
Best Design, Runner-Up:
Wild One Travel Carrier at Amazon $125
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Best Expandable:
Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier at Amazon $53
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Best for Cargo Hold:
Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon $105
Jump to Review
Best Foldable:
Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier at Arloskye.com
Jump to Review
Best for Cats:
Travel Cat The Transpurrter at Amazon $170
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Best Investment:
Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate at Gunner.com $550
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Best Dog Backpack Carrier:
JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon $55
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Best Airline Approved Carry On Pet Carriers: Detailed Reviews
Best Overall
## Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier
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Star Qualities:
- Compact and airline compliant
- Comfortable shoulder straps for easy carrying
- Simple to clean
Red Flags:
- Weight limit of 25 pounds may not accommodate larger pets
The Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier stands out as our top overall pick due to its exceptional balance of practicality, comfort, and durability. During our tests on JetBlue and Delta flights, this carrier effortlessly fit under the seat, proving its airline-approved dimensions. Despite its compact size, the interior is surprisingly spacious, allowing pets up to 25 pounds to comfortably sit, stand, lie down, and turn around – crucial for reducing travel anxiety.
We particularly appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of mesh panels. These provide essential ventilation and allow pets to see their owners, offering reassurance, while also giving more timid animals a sense of privacy from fellow passengers. The sturdy shoulder straps enhanced portability within the airport, distributing weight comfortably. Cleverly designed zippered pockets double as trolley sleeves, enabling secure attachment to rolling luggage and even functioning as seatbelt loops for car rides. A generously sized outer pocket provides ample space for personal items and pet essentials, minimizing the need for extra bags.
Accidents happen, especially during travel. The Love Thy Beast carrier addresses this with a removable bottom platform that simplifies cleaning. While the 25-pound weight limit is a constraint for larger pets, for small to medium breeds, this carrier delivers on all fronts, making it our top recommendation for airline-approved pet travel.
Dimensions: 17 x 8 x 12 inches | Weight Limit: 25 pounds
Best Budget
## JetPaws Official Pet Carrier
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Star Qualities:
- Durable yet lightweight construction
- Four convenient storage pockets
- Mesh windows for pet visibility
- Officially JetBlue-approved
Red Flags:
- Lacks a trolley sleeve for luggage attachment
- Basic, less stylish design
For budget-conscious travelers, the JetPaws Official Pet Carrier is an excellent choice without compromising essential features. Being JetBlue’s official pet carrier, its airline compliance is guaranteed for JetBlue flights, providing immediate peace of mind. We found this carrier to be remarkably sturdy and lightweight, making it easy to manage through busy airports. Functionality is a strong point, with four external pockets offering dedicated storage for treats, travel documents, personal electronics, and even snacks for human companions. The nylon material is a practical choice, proving easy to wipe clean should any accidents occur.
While the JetPaws carrier prioritizes function over high-fashion aesthetics, its straightforward design is reliable and effective. The primary drawbacks we noted were its slightly shorter length and the absence of a trolley sleeve, which would have added convenience when navigating with rolling luggage. However, for its affordable price point, durability, and JetBlue approval, the JetPaws Official Pet Carrier is hard to beat as a budget-friendly, airline-approved option.
Dimensions: 16 x 8.5 x 10 inches | Weight Limit: 20 pounds
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Best Design
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Star Qualities:
- Premium, high-quality materials
- Excellent ventilation for pet comfort
- Design complements Away luggage collections
Red Flags:
- Handle length can feel awkward for some users
- May not meet size restrictions for all airlines, particularly budget carriers
For travelers who prioritize style and coordinated aesthetics, Away The Pet Carrier is a standout choice. Designed to complement Away’s popular luggage, this carrier boasts a sophisticated and modern look while providing a comfortable and secure space for small to medium-sized pets. The use of high-quality materials is evident, ensuring durability and a premium feel. Ample pockets offer practical storage for both owner and pet essentials.
The interior features a machine-washable, plush lining for added comfort, and breathable mesh panels promote airflow. A unique feature is the built-in privacy shades, which can be rolled down to create a darker, more secure environment for anxious pets during flights. While the tote-style handles and shoulder strap offer carrying versatility, we found the handle length slightly less comfortable than ideal. It’s also important to note that due to its slightly larger dimensions, this carrier may not be compliant with the under-seat requirements of all airlines, especially budget carriers. Despite the higher price point, for frequent flyers who value design and quality, Away The Pet Carrier is a worthwhile investment.
Dimensions: 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches | Weight Limit: 18 pounds
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Best Design, Runner-Up
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Star Qualities:
- High-quality construction and lightweight
- Secure trolley sleeve for luggage handle attachment
- Stylish and contemporary design
- Folds flat for convenient storage
Red Flags:
- May be too large for under-seat storage on some airlines, particularly budget airlines and Delta
The Wild One Travel Carrier is a close second in the best design category, appealing to pet owners who seek a blend of style and functionality. Its chic and modern aesthetic is matched by practical features, including easily accessible pockets for travel essentials. Mesh panels with roll-down covers offer both ventilation and privacy, catering to pets with varying comfort needs. Comfortable straps ensure ease of carrying through airports.
A standout feature is the highly secure trolley sleeve, making navigating airports with rolling luggage significantly easier. The carrier’s ability to fold flat when not in use is a valuable space-saving feature. However, it’s worth noting that its size may be restrictive for larger medium-sized dogs, requiring them to lie down, and even for smaller dogs, headroom may be limited when sitting. Furthermore, Delta Airlines indicated that it might be too large for under-seat storage in their main cabin and Delta Plus, suggesting potential size compliance issues with other airlines, especially budget carriers. Despite these size considerations, the Wild One Travel Carrier remains an excellent choice for style-conscious pet owners seeking a well-designed, airline-approved carrier.
Dimensions: 17.5 x 10 x 11 inches | Weight Limit: 16 pounds
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Best Expandable
## Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier
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Star Qualities:
- Expandable sides to increase pet space
- Comfortable and well-ventilated
- Mesh panels for visibility
Red Flags:
- Soft-sided construction may be less durable long-term
- Cannot fit under the seat when expanded
The Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier earns our top pick for expandable carriers due to its thoughtful design that prioritizes pet comfort during travel. Its well-made, sturdy, and portable construction impressed us. The key feature is its expandable mesh panels on both sides, which can be opened during layovers or boarding waits to give your pet significantly more room to stretch out and relax. This extra space is a boon for longer journeys.
When zipped in its standard configuration, the carrier is airline-compliant and fits under most seats. While pets may not be able to fully stand up when closed, there’s sufficient space for them to move and adjust their position. The soft-sided nature of the carrier might mean it’s less durable than hard-sided options over prolonged use, but this depends on travel frequency and pet behavior. We found the handles could benefit from additional padding for enhanced carrying comfort. Crucially, remember that the carrier cannot be under the seat when expanded. For pet owners prioritizing in-flight comfort and extra space during travel breaks, the Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier is an excellent choice.
Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 9 inches | Weight Limit: 13 pounds
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Best for Cargo Hold
## Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel
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Star Qualities:
- Robust and sturdy construction for cargo safety
- Spacious interior to fit a kennel pad
- Easy to clean and disassemble
- Reversible gate opening direction
Red Flags:
- Lacks storage pockets or compartments
- No handles or wheels for easier transport
For pet owners whose larger companions will be traveling in the cargo hold, the Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel is our top recommendation. This no-frills, functional crate prioritizes safety and security for cargo travel. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates a kennel pad, toys, a blanket, and travel bowls, ensuring your pet has familiar comforts during the journey.
The durable plastic construction is designed for easy cleaning and straightforward disassembly for storage. We appreciated the user-friendly, one-hand gate latch and the option to install the gate to open from either the left or right, adding flexibility. TSA checks were hassle-free, requiring only a quick scan to ensure the kennel’s contents were travel-safe. The Petmate Aspen Pet Porter is a practical, reliable choice for cargo travel, though it lacks storage pockets and handles or wheels for easier handling outside of the cargo hold.
Dimensions: 36 x 24.5 x 27 inches | Weight Limit: 30 pounds
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Best Foldable
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Star Qualities:
- Sophisticated and elegant design
- Comfortable and lightweight for carrying
- Trolley sleeve for luggage handle integration
Red Flags:
- Limited height may prevent pets from turning around when closed
- Premium price point
The Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier excels as our best foldable option, particularly appealing to those with limited storage space. Its versatility and foldability are matched by a sophisticated, elegant design. Constructed from high-quality, easily spot-cleaned materials, this carrier combines practicality with style. Comfortable handles and a trolley sleeve enhance portability, making airport navigation smoother.
The interior includes a soft pad for pet comfort. However, it’s a compact carrier; during testing, we noted that dogs needed to lie down for the top to close, and turning around within the closed carrier was not possible. This size constraint may not meet all airline requirements regarding pet maneuverability inside the carrier. While smaller breeds will be most suited to this carrier, its chic, foldable design and premium features may justify the investment for owners who value style and space-saving convenience.
Dimensions: 17.5 x 11 x 10 inches | Weight Limit: 25 pounds
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Best for Cats
## Travel Cat The Transpurrter
Star Qualities:
- Generously spacious interior for cats
- Robust, escape-proof zippers
- Scratch-resistant mesh panels
- Versatile carrying methods
Red Flags:
- Length may exceed under-seat dimensions for some airlines
- Backpack straps lack padding
The Travel Cat The Transpurrter is our top pick for feline air travel, offering a spacious and secure environment designed with cats in mind. Its sturdy yet lightweight construction provides ample room for cats to move comfortably. We were impressed by the scratch-resistant mesh and escape-proof zippers, essential features for curious and sometimes anxious cats. A plush, removable felt lining enhances comfort and simplifies cleaning. A blackout side panel can be deployed to create a calming, darkened space for added security.
Multiple carrying options are available, including a padded shoulder strap, backpack mode, and crossbody style. However, we found the crossbody carry less comfortable, and the backpack straps lack padding, which could be a drawback for longer periods of carrying. Well-organized storage pockets are a plus for keeping essentials accessible. The primary concern is the carrier’s length, which may not comply with the under-seat size restrictions of all airlines. Despite this, for cat owners seeking a spacious, secure, and feature-rich airline-approved carrier, the Travel Cat Transpurrter is an excellent choice.
Dimensions: 19 x 10.5 x 11 inches | Weight Limit: 30 pounds
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Best Investment
## Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate
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Star Qualities:
- Roomy and comfortable for larger dogs
- Integrated wheels for easier mobility
- Simple to clean
- Extremely durable and safety-certified
Red Flags:
- Heavy weight may be cumbersome for some users
For frequent travelers with larger dogs, the Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate is a worthwhile investment in pet safety and comfort. This cargo kennel has earned a five-star safety rating from the Center for Pet Safety, the highest accolade, and comes with a lifetime warranty, underscoring its quality and durability. During our tests with larger dogs, the kennel proved to be exceptionally roomy and comfortable, providing a secure travel environment.
The spacious interior easily accommodates a dog bed, toys, and bowls. While assembly is relatively straightforward, its heavy weight (27 pounds empty) due to its robust construction is a factor to consider. Integrated back wheels aid in maneuverability, but loading and unloading may require two people. The Gunner G1 Kennel is a premium, durable, and safety-certified option for pet owners prioritizing the highest level of protection and comfort for their larger canine companions during air travel.
Dimensions: 33.25 x 21 x 29 x 23 inches | Weight Limit: 75 pounds
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Best Dog Backpack Carrier
## JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier
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For owners of small dogs who prefer a hands-free carrying option, the JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier is an excellent choice. This backpack style carrier is designed for comfort and convenience, both for you and your pet. It features good ventilation, secure zippers, and a comfortable padded back and straps for the owner. While primarily designed for walking and everyday use, it is also airline-approved and fits under most airline seats. Ideal for smaller breeds who are comfortable being carried on your back, the JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier offers a practical and portable solution for navigating airports with your pet.
Key Considerations When Choosing Airline Approved Pet Carriers
Airline Regulations and Restrictions
Prior to purchasing any pet carrier, always verify the specific size and regulation requirements of your chosen airline. Airline policies can vary slightly, so confirming compliance beforehand is essential to avoid any airport setbacks.
Determine whether your pet will travel in the cabin with you or as cargo. Cabin carriers are typically soft-sided and designed for pets up to 20 pounds. Most airlines restrict in-cabin pet travel to this weight limit, as noted by Dr. Whitney Miller, DVM, MBA, DACVPM, chief veterinarian at Petco.
Pet Comfort is Paramount
Dr. Miller emphasizes that, “Regardless of where your pet will be during the flight, their carrier should provide enough room to stand up, sit, lay down, and turn around without issues, as well as ventilation from at least three of its sides.” This ability to move and adequate ventilation are crucial for your pet’s comfort and minimizing stress during travel.
The Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier, our best expandable pick, directly addresses this by offering extra space when needed. Consider adding a familiar toy or blanket to the carrier to further enhance your pet’s comfort and reduce anxiety.
Travel Frequency and Carrier Investment
For occasional travel, a budget-friendly carrier like the JetPaws carrier may suffice. However, for frequent flyers, investing in a more durable and feature-rich carrier, such as Away’s The Pet Carrier, is often a worthwhile long-term investment. A higher-quality carrier will not only offer greater comfort and convenience for both you and your pet but also withstand the rigors of frequent travel.
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Behind the Scenes: How We Tested Airline Approved Pet Carriers
Our recommendations are based on rigorous testing of 13 top-rated airline-approved pet carriers. Our testing process involved:
- Initial Assessment: Evaluating each carrier for size, comfort features, and overall durability prior to travel. We checked zipper and flap functionality and ensured the carrier’s structural integrity before pet introduction.
- Airport Simulation: Testing wearability and portability through airport scenarios, including check-in, security lines, and boarding procedures. We assessed trolley sleeve functionality and overall ease of handling.
- In-Flight Trials: Real-world flight tests to assess pet comfort and carrier performance during air travel. We evaluated ease of pet loading, pet calmness within the carrier, and the practicality of storage compartments for pet essentials.
- Performance Ratings: Post-flight evaluations based on size compliance, material quality, pet comfort, portability, design aesthetics, cleaning ease, and overall value proposition.
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Why Trust PEOPLE for Pet Product Reviews?
Lindsay Tigar, a seasoned travel and lifestyle journalist with publications in Travel + Leisure, Vogue, and USA Today, spearheaded this review. Her expertise, combined with insights from our testers and consultations with industry experts, ensures reliable and trustworthy recommendations. We consulted with Dr. Whitney Miller (Petco), Amanda Farah (Best Friends Animal Society), and Kate Karam (Chewy) to provide well-rounded and authoritative guidance.
Our Expert Panel
[Image of Dr. Whitney Miller]
[Image of Amanda Farah]
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What is PEOPLE Tested?
The PEOPLE Tested seal represents our commitment to identifying and recommending the best products through a rigorous, unbiased testing methodology. Our process involves lab testing and real-world evaluations by home testers across the country. Products are assessed for effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and more. Recommendations are based solely on testing results, ensuring objectivity and reliability. We regularly re-evaluate product categories to ensure our recommendations remain current and reflect the best available options. Our recommendations cannot be bought; products earn their place through merit in testing, providing consumers with trustworthy purchasing advice every time.
