Traveling with your beloved pet can be an exciting adventure, but ensuring their comfort and safety, especially during air travel, is paramount. Choosing the right Pet Carrier Airline Approved is the first step in making the journey smooth for both you and your furry friend. An airline approved pet carrier isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about providing a secure, comfortable, and stress-free environment for your animal while adhering to airline regulations.
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of airline-approved pet carriers. We’ve rigorously researched and analyzed top models, considering factors like size, comfort, durability, and airline compliance. Drawing on expert veterinary insights and real-world testing, we aim to equip you with the knowledge to select the perfect pet travel carrier for your next flight. Whether you have a small cat or a larger dog traveling in the cabin or cargo, understanding the nuances of airline pet carrier requirements is crucial for a hassle-free experience. Let’s explore the best options and essential tips to make flying with your pet a breeze.
Our Top Picks: Airline Approved Pet Carriers
After extensive testing and expert consultation, we’ve curated a list of the best airline approved pet carriers across various categories to suit different needs and pets.
Best Overall: Away The Pet Carrier
Away The Pet Carrier at Away Travel $225
Best for the Cargo Hold: Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate
Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate at Gunner.com $550
Best for Cats: Travel Cat The Transpurrter
Travel Cat The Transpurrter at Amazon $170
Best Budget Hardside: Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel
Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon $105
Best Expandable: Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier
Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier at Amazon $53
Best Style: Dagne Dover Kyoto Pet Carrier
Dagne Dover Kyoto Pet Carrier at Dagnedover.com
Best Overall
Away The Pet Carrier
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PHOTO: Away
Why We Love It: This carrier excels in comfort, thoughtful design, and aesthetic appeal, meeting all essential criteria for airline-approved pet carriers.
What to Consider: Suitable for pets weighing up to 18 pounds, which may limit options for owners of larger breeds.
The Away The Pet Carrier mirrors the brand’s renowned luggage line, boasting a sophisticated aesthetic, intelligent design, and premium quality. Its dimensions are carefully considered, making it effortlessly portable and capable of fitting under most airline seats, all while ensuring your pet’s comfort. We were particularly impressed by the inclusion of both internal and external pockets. These are incredibly useful for storing essential items for both pet and owner, with a standout waterproofed side pocket featuring drainage holes – perfect for stowing a collapsible water bowl.
Further enhancing its travel-friendly design are features like water-resistant material for easy cleaning, a trolley sleeve for seamless airport navigation, seat belt attachments for car rides, and breathable mesh sides. A retractable privacy screen offers anxious pets a sense of security without compromising ventilation. The removable sherpa bed adds an extra layer of comfort, and there’s still ample space to include a favorite blanket or toy, making it a truly comforting pet travel carrier.
Constructed from robust nylon and accented with stylish black leather, The Pet Carrier is a versatile and elegant choice, ideal for pets under 18 pounds. The only improvement we could suggest would be offering it in more than one size to accommodate a wider range of animals.
The Details: 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches | 4.3 pounds | Pet size limit: 18 pounds | Material: Nylon and leather
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
Best for the Cargo Hold
Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate
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PHOTO: Gunner
Why We Love It: Considered the gold standard in hard-sided kennels, offering unmatched protection and durability for pets traveling as cargo.
What to Consider: A premium, high-end option that comes with a significant price tag.
The Gunner G1 Kennel stands out as an exceptional hard-sided kennel, earning a five-star crash safety rating from the Center for Pet Safety. Its robust construction is underscored by numerous reports of owners who believe this kennel saved their dogs’ lives in severe car accidents. This level of protection is vital for pets traveling in the cargo hold. Concerned about turbulence? The kennel’s double-wall rotomolding provides superior impact resistance. It features a wide, stable base to prevent tipping, integrated tie-down points, and all-weather windows, shielding your pet from harsh conditions during airport loading and unloading. For those prioritizing safety above all else when seeking an airline approved pet carrier, especially for cargo travel, the Gunner G1 is unparalleled.
Inside, pets can relax on a comfortable bed (not included), and raised, non-slip feet minimize temperature transfer from hot or cold surfaces. The primary drawback is the weight of the larger sizes, which can be challenging to handle alone, especially with a pet inside. We tested the large size, weighing 72 pounds empty. However, the kennel is also available in small, medium, and intermediate sizes to accommodate different breeds and sizes.
The Details: Dimensions vary by size: 24.5 x 18.6 x 19 inches (small), 29.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 inches (medium), 34 x 23 x 28.5 (intermediate), 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 (large) | Weight varies by size: 27 pounds (small), 38 pounds (medium), 48 pounds (intermediate), 72 pounds (large) | Pet size limit: Up to 110 pounds for large size | Material: Rotomolded plastic and stainless steel
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto
Best for Cats
Travel Cat The Transpurrter
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PHOTO: Amazon
$170 at Amazon View on Yourcatbackpack.com
Why We Love It: Packed with thoughtful features and versatile carrying options, specifically designed to cater to cats’ needs during travel, making it a top cat carrier airline approved.
What to Consider: The soft interior lining tends to attract and retain cat hair, requiring frequent cleaning.
The Travel Cat “Transpurrter” Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier is a robust and adaptable airline approved pet carrier designed with feline comfort in mind. It offers five carrying styles: over-the-shoulder, by handles, trolley sleeve, crossbody, or backpack. One of its most appealing aspects is the multiple access points. It opens at both ends and the top, and a complete side panel unzips to provide extra space while waiting. We utilized this feature, clipping our cat to the internal bungee tether and opening the side, which noticeably reduced confinement anxiety. Calming privacy flaps, two stretchy slip pockets, an organizational pocket, a slide-out lined basket, and scratch-resistant mesh on three sides further enhance its functionality. Despite numerous flights, the carrier has maintained a brand-new appearance, with the exception of the interior lining, which, as expected, quickly collected cat hair. For cat owners seeking a feature-rich and calming pet travel carrier, the Transpurrter is an excellent choice.
The Details: 19 x 10.5 x 11 inches | 3.4 pounds | Pet size limit: 30 pounds
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven
Best Budget Hardside
Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel
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PHOTO: Petmate
$105 at Amazon View on Cabelas.com View on Petmate.com
Why We Love It: A reliable, no-frills, crate-style kennel that efficiently meets FAA requirements for airline approved pet carriers at an accessible price point.
What to Consider: Lacks additional features like pockets or storage compartments; it’s a basic kennel without extras.
The Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel offers exceptional value without compromising essential features. This hard-sided airline approved pet carrier is a straightforward, durable plastic kennel compliant with domestic air travel regulations in the U.S. It provides ventilation on three sides, a secure stainless steel door with squeeze latches to prevent accidental openings during flights, and a roomy interior capable of accommodating your pet, food and water bowls, and a blanket or toy (subject to airline approval). The darker base is designed to tap into a dog or cat’s burrowing instincts, promoting relaxation. The kennel is also easily disassembled for storage or transport when not in use. While it lacks storage pockets for documents or treats, its core functionality ensures pet comfort and streamlined travel, making it an excellent budget-friendly pet travel carrier.
The Details: Dimensions vary by size: 28 x 20.5 x 21.5 inches (small), 32 x 22.5 x 24 inches (medium), 36 x 25 x 27 inches (large), 40 x 27 x 30 (extra-large) | Weight varies by size: 9 pounds (small), 14 pounds (medium), 19 pounds (large), 24 pounds (extra-large) | Pet size limit: 30 pounds (small), 50 pounds (medium), 70 pounds (large), 90 pounds (extra-large) | Material: Heavy-duty plastic and metal
Best Expandable
Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier
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PHOTO: Amazon
$53 at Amazon View on Petsfit.com $51 at Wayfair
Why We Love It: Features removable fiber rods for enhanced flexibility, aiding in fitting under airplane seats, and expandable sides for extra pet space during layovers, making it a versatile expandable airline approved pet carrier.
What to Consider: The carry handles could benefit from added padding for improved comfort during extended carrying.
The Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier stands out with its dual expandable, scratch-resistant mesh sides. This feature is invaluable for providing pets with additional room while waiting at the gate or during flight layovers, without the need to fully remove them from the carrier. During testing, we also discovered that unzipping the sides while the carrier was under the seat offered our pet a bit more lateral space. The carrier is also collapsible, and the removable fiber rods in the top frame allow for extra flexibility when fitting it under tight airplane seats. The interior base is lined with a soft material for pet comfort. While lightweight and portable, the handles lacked padding, causing some discomfort when carried for longer durations without the shoulder strap. Despite this, the added space and adaptability of this soft sided airline approved pet carrier are significant advantages.
The Details: Dimensions vary by size: 16 x 10 x 9 (small), 17 x 11 x 11 inches (medium), 19 x 12 x 12 inches (large) | Weight varies by size: 2.1 pounds (small), 2.5 pounds (medium), 3 pounds (large) | Pet size limit: 9 pounds (small), 13 pounds (medium), 18 pounds (large) | Material: Polypropylene
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / JT Wilde
Best Style
Dagne Dover Kyoto Pet Carrier
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PHOTO: Dagne Dover
Why We Love It: Combines high-end aesthetics with robust durability, crafted from premium materials for a sleek look and lasting performance as a stylish airline approved pet carrier.
What to Consider: Its slightly wider design might cause the sides to overhang when placed on smaller carry-on luggage.
Travel in style with the Dagne Dover Kyoto Pet Carrier. True to the brand’s reputation, this pet travel carrier uses high-quality materials, including 900D polyester, mesh, and sherpa, ensuring resilience against travel wear and tear. After enduring dirty airplane floors and car trips, our test unit remained pristine through six flights and numerous road journeys. We assessed the large size, ideal for a 12-pound Chihuahua mix, though a small size is also available. Our pet could comfortably turn around and adjust positions inside, suggesting ample space for comfort. Thoughtful features like multiple handles, a trolley sleeve, and large zippered side pockets enhance its portability. It also folds flat for easy storage and is machine washable for convenience. For pet owners who prioritize style without sacrificing functionality in an airline approved pet carrier, the Kyoto is an exceptional choice.
The Details: Dimensions vary by size: 16.5 x 10.25 x 11 (small), 18 x 12 x 11.4 inches (large) | Weight varies by size: 3.8 pounds (small), 4.3 pounds (large) | Pet size limit: 15 pounds (small), 20 pounds (large) | Material: 900D polyester, mesh, sherpa
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
Other Airline-approved Pet Carriers We Liked
While the following carriers didn’t top our main list, they are still commendable pet carriers airline approved and suitable for specific travel scenarios.
Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier: As the heaviest soft-sided carrier we tested at 4.5 pounds, its weight and larger size might raise concerns at check-in for some airlines. However, its five-star crash test rating, custom seat belt and buckle clips, pee-pad-friendly design, zip-down fourth wall, and interior tether make it an excellent pet carrier for car travel, prioritizing safety and convenience on the road.
Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier: Available in 8.5-inch or 10-inch heights, the snug fit might be best for smaller breeds, possibly even teacup sizes. For tiny pets, standout features include four-sided mesh ventilation, a memory foam travel pad, and a robust trolley sleeve for easy carry-on attachment. This airline approved pet carrier focuses on comfort and ease of transport for very small animals.
Wild One Travel Carrier: This lightweight, compact bag is packed with thoughtful travel features, from dual-sided zippers and calming fold-down side panels to a lie-flat design for easy cleaning and a built-in leash option. However, the 10-inch height made zipping it closed over an 8-pound dog challenging unless lying down, making it feel restrictive under an airplane seat. This soft sided airline approved pet carrier is ideal for short trips and pets that prefer a snug, secure environment.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure
Our Testing Process
The Travel + Leisure team rigorously tested 15 airline-approved pet carriers in real travel environments with our own cats and dogs. We measured, weighed, and assessed each carrier’s overall quality, ensuring our pets were comfortable. We then evaluated performance during domestic and international flights on major U.S. airlines, including JetBlue, known for strict in-cabin pet carrier size limits. Our tests covered ease of navigating security, gate areas, under-seat fit, airport transport, and pet comfort pre-, during, and post-flight. We also assessed accessibility to pets during travel. Scoring emphasized pet comfort, portability, features, price, and intended purpose, aiming to identify the best airline approved pet carriers.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure
Tips for Buying Airline-approved Pet Carriers
Choosing the right pet carrier airline approved requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort and compliance with airline policies.
Choose the best size for your pet
The ideal carrier size depends on your pet’s size, weight, and mobility. Remember, for in-cabin travel, pets must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably within the carrier. Avoid forcing your pet into a smaller carrier just to meet airline size restrictions. Prioritize their comfort and well-being when selecting an airline pet carrier.
Check the rules for your mode of transportation
Always verify the specific pet and pet carrier regulations of your chosen airline and general FAA guidelines before purchasing. Train companies like Amtrak also have pet carrier policies. For car travel, consider crash safety features in a pet carrier. Understanding these rules is vital for smooth travel planning.
Key rules to remember include: in-cabin pets count as carry-on or personal items; pets must remain in carriers throughout flights; carriers must stay under the seat in front of you (on most airlines); and pets traveling as cargo cannot be sedated.
Decide if you need soft-sided or hard-sided
Soft-sided carriers, including dog backpacks, offer flexibility for under-seat fitting, and airlines often permit slightly larger dimensions due to this adaptability. Hard-sided carriers are mandatory for pets traveling as cargo for safety in the hold. Owners of heavier or larger in-cabin pets might also prefer hard-sided carriers for better support. The choice between soft-sided vs hard-sided airline approved pet carrier depends on your pet and travel needs.
Look for features that add comfort and ease to a journey
Your pet’s comfort is paramount. Prioritize carriers with features like breathable mesh, sturdy bases, multiple access points, pockets for essentials, and calming privacy panels. Most airlines require waterproof bottoms to manage accidents. Comfort-enhancing features are crucial in an airline approved pet carrier to minimize stress for your pet.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my pet used to a travel carrier?
Introduce the pet carrier at home, leaving it open for your pet to explore and even sleep in. Gradually acclimate them with short car rides in the carrier, rewarding them with treats after each ride. Include familiar items like their favorite blanket or toy to make it more inviting. Positive reinforcement is key to making the airline approved pet carrier a safe and comfortable space.
How long can a pet stay inside a carrier?
Veterinarian Dr. Chyrle Bonk suggests that most pets can safely remain in an in-cabin pet travel carrier for six to eight hours, provided it’s appropriately sized. For cargo travel, dogs may tolerate slightly longer durations if comfortable and provided with pee pads, food, and water. Veterinarian Dr. Paola Cuevas recommends bathroom breaks every six hours if possible, ideally on shorter flights or via specialized pet transport services.
What else should go in my pet’s travel carrier?
While not mandatory for in-cabin pets, both vets recommend carrying food, water (or treats), necessary medications, and essential documents like vaccination records. Adding an absorbent pad, a familiar scented item (like a blanket with your scent), and a favorite toy can further ease your pet’s journey in their airline approved pet carrier.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Katherine Alex Beaven, in collaboration with Travel + Leisure editors and their pets, conducted this comprehensive review. Insights were gathered from veterinary experts Dr. Chyrle Bonk of excitedcats.com and Dr. Paola Cuevas of petkeen.com, ensuring authoritative advice on safe and comfortable pet travel. Taylor Fox and Anne Taylor further updated this article, bringing their expertise in travel gear and up-to-date information to ensure you receive the most reliable guidance in choosing an airline approved pet carrier.
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Updated by Taylor Fox and Anne Taylor.
