travel dog crates airline approved

7 Best Airline-Approved Dog Crates (2024) IATA-Compliant

February 23, 2024

Can you use your wheeled or collapsible super-strong crate to air travel?

But what CAN you use? That’s the question to which I have the answer.

I realized this is a topic pet parents will need the most reassurance on. So, I took my time, found about 15 potential dog crates, and brought the list down to the top 7.

As long as you read to the very end, you’ll know what to do; I won’t have to tell you.

Be sure to read after the list to discover some of the must-know information when you’re flying with your dog.

Let’s start the list!

Table of Contents

1. Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

2. petmate sky kennel, 3. gunner g1, 4. amazonbasics pet carrier, 5. away the pet carrier, 6. aspen pet dog kennel, 7. petsfit carrier, measure your dog accurately, assess your dog’s activity and level of tameness, consider the crate’s ventilation, opt for a secure locking mechanism , check for easy assembly and disassembly, consider the weight of the crate , asses the comfort features, consider the ease of cleaning, dog crate requirements of each airline, size requirements , pet documents , the nature of nuts and bolts and the door, ventilation requirement, food and water dishes aspect, feeding instructions, crate lining, features that shouldn’t be in your airline dog crate, preparing your dog for air travel, benefits of buying airline-approved pet crates, in conclusion, what is aita approved crate, are there pet carriers made specifically for air travel, are dog crates allowed on planes, 7 best airline-approved dog crates.

Diggs is a brand recognized for innovation and class.

From now on, their passenger travel carrier, which I’ll call the Diggs carrier , is the BEST airline-approved carrier.

Let’s see why it is the best.

For starters, this is not only an airline-friendly carrier; you can carry your furry friend in this bag in trains, cars, or even on foot. But remember that Diggs recommends this carrier for dogs AND cats up to 18 lbs .

You don’t have to worry about the space as the Diggs carrier comes with external dimensions 20″ L x 10.8″ W x 11.5 “H and internal dimensions 18 “L x 10” W x 10.75 “H.

In other words, it’s spacious enough for your dog and small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, as it should be.

Not only that, but the carrier also boats a front pocket with dimensions 16″ x 6″. It’s clear that Diggs has designed the crate keeping the utmost comfort and sense of safety in mind.

But the biggest problem with most dog carriers is that they’re very heavy — Diggs wins there, too, as the bag is only 4.5 lbs .

Before I go any further, these airline-approved dog carriers are made from premium nylon with four elegant colors , including navy blue, that make you look like a Wall Street executive.

I absolutely admire how this dog carrier has intelligently integrated design details that make air travel hassle-free. 

For example, it has a cross-body strap , a D-ring clip for your keys, and even a collar tether clip to secure the pet when the carrier is open.

On top of that, you get three pockets to keep the essentials within easy reach.

Multiple access points design feature helps dog parents to manage their dogs during flying easier. 

If an accident occurs, there’s a side door by which you can fix the issue quickly and discreetly. On the side, there’s a third opening which tremendously helps you with the bag’s orientation in tight spaces when you’re flying.

The cherry on top is the patent-pending pee pad with impressive absorption capabilities.

Ventilation and privacy are a top priority when flying, and Diggs also impresses you in that aspect. A special mesh is present throughout the carrier for ventilation . Your dog won’t feel anxious thanks to the well-covered design.

Not only that, you also get a 30-day return window , but the catch is the 10% return shipping fee.

But as a matter of fact, Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier is the BEST IATA-compliant dog crate.

Petmate is a brand that has almost always reached the top few of my reviews. The reason is their superior build quality.

The same quality is continued with the Petmate Sky Kennel .

Coming in only light gray , Petmate lets you pick the kennel in six sizes . It’s an impressive size range from 21″ to 48″, ensuring almost all dogs are eligible to fly.

This kennel is made from eco-friendly 90% pre-consumer recycled plastic content , whose product weight range is from 6 lbs to 51 lbs. 

I’d say it’s an outstanding balance between strength and airplane-friendly weight. To make it easier to carry the kennel, there’s a carrying handle on the top too.

These features show how amazingly Petmate understands pet parents who fly with dogs.

Unlike the Diggs carrier, the Petmate pet kennel has only one door , but it’s big enough. There’s an easy open squeeze-latch with a 4-way locking vault mechanism for sizes 21″, 28″, and 32″.

For 36″, 40″, and 48″, there is a dial latch system with a 4-way locking vault kennel door. The mesh design will keep your dog safe WHILE helping it see outside.

In addition to the door, there are t wo metal side vents and rear ventilation to always ensure ideal air circulation.

Remember that this rigid plastic carrier has a secure non-corrosive wing nut & bold design complimented with tie-down strap holes while being tamper-proof.

It’s admirable how Petmate has included airline travel essentials such as 2 Live Animal stickers , a food and water bowl , an absorbent paper pad , and ID stickers . It shows how airline-travel focussed this crate really is.

The overall build quality of the Petmate Sky Kennel is admirable. The sense of safety and the objectively superior design features ensure that your furry friend stays calm and comfortable when you’re flying.

The Petmate Sky Kennel is the BEST ALTERNATIVE if you cannot find the Diggs passenger travel carrier.

Gunner is an all-rounder kennel, and that statement further solidifies as the brand’s G1 kennel is my second-best alternative to the Diggs kennel.

Let’s see what makes it special.

For starters, Gunner positions G1 as the world’s safest travel kennel .

In fact, the kennel’s powerful frame system is reinforced with an Aluminum frame designed explicitly to contain a dog before, during, and after a car wreck.

In other words, dog owners can rest assured knowing their dogs will be safe in car AND air travel.

The crate comes in four sizes ; the smallest is 21.75″ (L – Floor) x 14.5″ (W – Floor) x 15.5″ (H) / 16.5″ (W) at the kennel’s widest interior point, weighing 27 lbs.

The largest is 33.25″ (L – Floor) x 21″ (W – Floor) x 29″ (H) / 23″ (W) at the kennel’s widest interior point, with a weight of 72 lbs.

To make the fit better, Gunner lets you choose the fit by 3 methods ; by crate size (mentioned above), by measuring your dog’s physical dimensions, and by the vehicle fit. 

G1 is the only double-walled rotomolded kennel in the marke t, further increasing your dog’s safety while skyrocketing its durability value.

What about comfort?

The Gunner G1 kennel is 12% cooler , and your dog expends 20% less energy compared to leading most leading Aluminum and single-wall rotomolded kennels. 

The reversible door makes it easier to access, and the key-in-the-hole with the paddle latch certifies protection. That peace of mind matters tremendously in domestic flights.

You’d also find the element-repelling windows helpful for your dog. They’re engineered to limit the penetration of seasonal elements like snow or rain. 

Gunner boasts the G1’s interior drainage system with an oversized and removable drain plug . This might not be useful during the flight, but it’s beneficial in the long run.

The Petmate kennel had one carrying handle, but this kennel has two kayak-grade handles . Combine that with the built-in tie-down pins and the non-slip feet ; this crate will stay put wherever you place it.

Isn’t that a mandatory requirement, anyway?

As you may already know, Gunner kennels, including the G1, are completely made in the USA . With a lifetime guarantee , its value is quite high.

With five vibrant earth-tone colors , Gunner gives you dog owners no choice but to love this travel dog crate.

So, in conclusion, the Gunner G1 is one of the best airplane crates.

The next best recommendation is the AmazonsBasics pet carrier. Let’s see how well it performs as an airline-approved crate.

The AmazonBasics crate is unique; it comes in two styles: a metal vent or a two-door top load. 

This crate is available in one color (cream and grey) and one size , which is 23.6 “L x 15.7 “W x 13 “H. The two-door top-load version comes in blue-grey, with one size, which is 22.83 “L x 14.96 “W x 12.99 “H.

So, it’s not for very large dogs like Great Danes who want more moving space. Ideally, this crate suits the best for puppies and small-medium-sized dog breeds.

I love the mixture of metal and plastic for the design, similar to the Gunner kennel. The Amazon Basics kennel is made from single-walled molded plastic , and the other elements are metallic.

If you go with the metal vent design, you get one door with a wire mesh and t hree-way air holes covered with metal wires.

The two-door top load version has a side and a top door . This makes handling your pet in the cage inside the flight easier.

The cherry on top is the securing locking door closure mechanism . They’re not 100% metallic in both cages, but the 2-door model with spring-loaded latch in the two-door version is more secure.

No matter how secure the locks are, pet owners must crate train their dogs ideally to ensure they’re safe and comfortable during airplane traveling.

The center-aligned top carrying handle makes it easier to carry it. 

You might wonder, wouldn’t it be better to have a crate with wheels? But it’s one of the forbidden features; you can read the rest at the end of this list.

You also get free Prime shipping in the link that I have recommended; no worries about safety.

The verdict? It’s a great alternative when you can’t find the most suitable airline-approved dog crates.

AWAY is not a brand dedicated to dog kennels, but you’d be impressed when reading about their pet carrier.

This pet carrier meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements while being certified by The Center for Pet Safety (CPS) — that’s where I’d like to start this review.

Away pet carrier comes in one standard size , 18.7″ x 10.8″ x 10.75″, and the company recommends this fine dog carrier for pets up to 18 lbs . 

With the retractable privacy screen , you’ll never have anxious pets. In addition, Away has ensured ideal air circulation with the mesh panels on three sides. These crate features ensure your pet’s safety.

How much does it weigh? 

It weighs 4.3 lbs with a shoulder strap and 3.9 lbs without. So, the dog’s weight will typically be around 25 lbs, which is great.

You’re highly likely to get somewhat reminded of the classy look of the Diggs carrier. After all, it comes in black , made from superior quality Nylon leather material . That’s why it lasts so long by design.

The removable and washable plush sherpa bedding is Away’s secret to providing the best comfort for your dog in air travel. Combine that with the water-resistant lining for easy accident cleanup; this pet carrier is a phenomenal alternative.

You’d like the safety collar clip ideally placed to prevent quick pet escapes when opening. You know you don’t want that risk in air travel. 

But how access-friendly this bag really is? The t wo-way zip top and side openings resemble multiple access points as they enable easy access to your pet. 

It’s admirable how Away has integrated latches that fasten to a car seat belt. When traveling by car, you can make great use of the strap that secures any Away luggage too.

Away boasts its pet carrier’s usability experience with the side pocket, waterproof lining, and raining holes. It’s bespoke for storing a collapsible water bowl.

As an established brand, Away gives you 100 days to return the bag with one year warranty . But remember that branded/customized carriers cannot be returned.

All things considered, you can definitely rely on this airline-approved dog crate as well.

I’m very picky, even when it comes to alternatives. Luckily, Petmate’s Aspen pet kennel was promising enough.

Let’s see what’s so special about it.

I admire how this product’s sizes don’t come in dimensions but are based on the dog’s weight. There are four sizes that change from 25 to 90 lbs. That’s an impressive range, suitable enough to accommodate even bigger dogs.

But Petmate gives you a simple size guide to pick the ideal kennel size. 

This heavy-duty kennel has a plastic shell and metal screws to keep the parts together. That increases the overall strength and durability. Most importantly, it gives you enough peace of mind when flying.

Thanks to the air holes , you don’t have to worry about your pet’s comfort. After all, the Aspen kennel has a mesh door , so the air circulation is superior by design.

Petmate kennels are easy to assemble, and the Aspen kennel doesn’t deviate from that. 

You don’t need a massive toolbox or box-assembling experience; it’s very hassle-free.

Once you assemble it , ideally, you have to clean it before getting your dog inside. Thanks to the plastic surface , this is when you’ll notice how easy it is to clean.

I have to emphasize the shape of the interior of this magnificent crate. It satisfies natural denning instincts , and this helps them not only stay calm but PREFER staying inside the kennel throughout the flight.

On top of its suitability for air travel, I also love how Petmate recommends the kennel for cars too. This eliminates the need for a separate kennel for traveling with your pet by car.

Although the handle and the other components are imported, the Petmate Aspen dog kennel is made in the USA . Having that reassurance helps you more than you assume when it comes to flying.

But it’s necessary to double-check with your airline because you never know how some surprise rules can delay your trip.

As an alternative, this is one of the best airline-approved dog crates by design.

If you have been unable to find the Diggs pet carrier and all the alternatives so far, then I have good news. The last resort is still terrific

This is the Petsfit expandable pet carrier.

This special kennel comes in five sizes . But the largest size is dimensions 19 “Lx12 “Wx12” H, which limits the size compatibility for larger dogs. 

At the start itself, Petsfit reassures potential customers that their carriers are airplane approved.

These are some of the airways that accept it : United Airlines/ Virgin America/ Hawaiian Airlines/ Air Wisconsin/ Air Canada/ Alaska Airlines/ Southwest Airlines/ Canadian North.

But are all sizes approved by default? No, only the small and medium sizes comply with the airlines mentioned above. 

However, it doesn’t hurt to double-check with your airlines before purchasing a large size, just to be sure.

It’s worth noting that two detachable fiber rods are on both sides of the carrier’s top. When the large size is too high to fit under a seat, you can remove these two fiber optic rods and fit in better.

The side part of the bag can be expanded . With that, your dog gets extra space in a few seconds. The best thing about this side opening is that it has an opening. 

The second point of access is the side opening, the smaller size. The third opening is on the top. With three access points , Petsfit brings a lot of value to its kennel.

The material of this crate is a mixture of Polyester, Nylon, and Polypropylene (PP), with some metallic parts.

The solid wire keeps it from collapsing and is flexible enough to compress to fit under an airplane seat. 

With these crate features comes the top and 2-sided windows . Petfits is proud to have them made of anti-scratch ventilation mesh material , and your dog will feel both safe and comfortable thanks to the ideal air circulation.

This collapsibility is greatly complemented by the soft bottom inside. It keeps your dog perfectly warm enough for as long as they want. Additionally, the self-lock zipper ensures that your pet doesn’t escape too.

What about the carrying ease? 

For that, Petfits gives you two flexible handles to hold with your hands. If that’s not enough, you can always switch to the detachable strap to hang on the shoulders.

It has a side pocket too.

In conclusion, this is one of the dependable pet crates. But remember to double-check everything with the airlines before purchasing.

With that, we come to the end of the list. But up next is some must-know information that most people discover AFTER facing issues with flying with their pet.

Let’s start with the buying guide.

How to Choose the Right Airline-Approved Dog Crate?

If you’re wondering how I choose and rank these dog crates, here are the full buying guidelines for you.

Use a tape measure to determine your dog’s height and length. 

Read the size guide of each product carefully, as your dog needs enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down throughout the flight. Here’s our well researched crate size guide .

You don’t want to make your dog feel trapped in a long airplane journey when you know they’re not tamed enough. But assuming there’s a considerable level of obedience, prioritize more robust materials.

Look for a crate that provides adequate airflow to keep your dog cool and comfortable, not too much or too less.

Ensure that the chosen crate has a reliable and secure locking mechanism to prevent any accidental openings during travel. 

Select a crate that is easy to assemble and disassemble, as you may need to set it up quickly during check-in and collapse it for storage when not in use.

It’s better to choose crates with user-friendly design features.

So many brands understand the typical requirement for an airline-approved crate. But even with all the conditions satisfied, the weight will always vary. 

Look for comfortable crates, such as a soft and cozy bed or mat, and adequate padding to ensure your dog’s comfort throughout the journey. 

Accidents happen, and it’s best to be prepared for the worst. Crates with multiple access points can do wonders in this situation. On top of that, consider the ease of cleaning surfaces when choosing the material.

If you’re unsure, you can always call the airline or find the hyperlink from their official website where you can find the information. It’s always better to double-check and confirm so that last-minute unpleasant surprises don’t happen.

Features of an IATA-Compliant Dog Crate

IATA is the international air travel association headquartered in Canada, and here are some of the main features of IATA-approved dog crates.

Remember that the chosen airline-approved pet carrier MUST be tall enough so that your dog’s ears’ topmost point does NOT touch the top of the kennel.

It’s as simple as that.

No airline wants to undertake extra work, and knowing your dog has enough space reassures them of it.

Documentation for international flights is a critical matter, and that seriousness applies to your canine companion too.

So, remember to include your pet’s information, preferably on the top of the crate, to meet IATA airline requirements.

You need to include these details:

• Your dog’s name
• Your contact number 
• Final destination 
• The flight number 
• Your address 
• Contact info of someone at the final destination 

Having these details well communicated will save you a lot of trouble if the situation arises.

IATA really wants the best or nothing, and we all know that metallic bolts and nuts are the strongest. That ultimately gives the most support for typical turbulence.

So, ensure the chosen airline-approved crates have metallic nuts and bolts, and you should be fine.

Although not known enough, IATA mandates that the crate must have ventilation or air holes on at least three sides to ensure a sufficient supply of fresh air for your dog. 

Any best IATA-approved crate would have four.

Your dog would want water or food during the flight, and IATA understands that.

But having all the food and water dishes attached to the crate door itself is an IATA requirement. This measure eliminates the risk of someone’s hyperactive dog running out when the door is opened.

You should tag along the feeding instructions on the crate and a bag of food. Give the highest priority to dry food.

In addition, you also must note down any allergies and food habits the crew must know.

A dog travel carrier must have a lining with cushions and absorbent papers; these are IATA guidelines for international travel. 

The purpose is to protect your dog from injuries during air travel. Since they will serve as pee pads, you don’t have to worry about minor accidents, as that can be mitigated.

These are the most basic ones, and it’s essential to fulfill all these requirements with many airlines. As always, do a quick background with your airline, and it should be fine.

Now that you know what to choose, you should ALSO know what to avoid for international travel. 

Here are some features that should NOT be in your airline dog crate. You’d notice that these are mostly seen in regular dog crates .

• Remember to avoid crates with built-in fixed or detachable wheels.
• Soft-sided crates prone to collapsing can compromise your dog’s safety.
• Crates with excessive openings or mesh panels on all sides should be avoided. 
• Crates with detachable parts, such as removable doors or panels, should be avoided. 
• You must not buy dog crates with weak or loose latches for air travel, leading to accidental openings.
• There must be ventilation openings from at least three sides, and lacking that will immediately disqualify the crate 99% of the time.

There can be more features, but as long as you avoid these and follow the instructions of the previous subtopic, you should be able to find the best crate.

Let me keep things brief and to the point so any dog parent would know what to do.

• Schedule a veterinary check-up to ensure your dog is healthy and fit to travel.
• Choose an airline-approved travel crate with comfort and meets all requirements.
• Familiarize your dog with the crate by making it a positive and comfortable space.
• Crate train your dog, increase the time in the crate, and reward calm behavior.
• Acclimate your dog to the noises and motions associated with air travel.
• Ensure your dog gets exercise and bathroom breaks before the journey.
• Place familiar scents and comfort items in the crate to reduce anxiety.
• Adjust the feeding and watering schedule before the flight.
• Secure identification tags and consider microchipping for added safety.
• Stay calm, offer reassurance, and comfort your dog on the day of the travel.

I’m sure there are more, but here are 10 of the most prominent benefits of airline-approved pet carriers.

• Ensures compliance with airline regulations for a smoother travel experience.
• Enhance safety measures to provide optimal protection during air travel.
• Designed to fit within airline size restrictions for comfort and peace.
• The proper ventilation system (air holes) keeps your pet comfy.
• Durable and strong construction withstands transportation rigors.
• Easy-to-clean features simplify maintenance and hygiene.
• Facilitates TSA security screening with convenient design elements.
• Provides stress-free familiarity for anxious dogs.
• Offers peace of mind for your dog’s safety.
• Reusable for multiple trips and daily use, maximizing investment.

No matter how used you are, air travel is stressful and gets more stressful when you fly with your dog.

So, ideally, you should try to fly with as much peace of mind as possible. In doing so, Diggs passenger travel carrier is the absolute best thanks to its features, which meet several airline requirements.

So, remember to make an investment that lasts and gives you peace of mind throughout the flight.

I hope this review was helpful to you. See you in another!

AITA Approved Crate is a carrier that meets International Air Transport Association requirements, such as having at least three ventilation entries, providing adequate lighting and temperature regulation, and ensuring the safety of the contents.

Yes, there are pet carriers made specifically for air travel. Many brands and products are available to meet this need.

Yes, dog crates are allowed on planes as long as they meet certain requirements.

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The 9 best airline-approved pet carriers of 2024 + tips from experts.

Find the purr-fect travel carrier for your favorite furry travel companion.

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Courtesy of Sleepypod

Flying with your pet requires its share of homework. Regulations on bringing your pooch or feline aboard an airplane include providing updated paperwork as well as picking a pet carrier that adheres to baggage requirements and size restrictions . (For other things to consider when flying with a pet and advice from animal experts, jump to the tips section .)

If you plan to bring your cat or dog with you on your next flight but aren't sure which pet carrier is best – or allowed – U.S. News is here to help. Start with this list of the top airline-approved pet carriers for your jet-setting four-legged friends.

Best Overall: Henkelion Pet Carrier – Medium

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Runner-up: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier – Medium

Best expandable: petsfit expandable pet carrier – medium, best convertible: natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier – small.

• Best Pet Carrier Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Best Luxury: Away The Pet Carrier

Best compressible: sleepypod air, best for dogs in cargo: sportpet rolling plastic kennel.

• Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate 2-Door Kennel

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

What sets this carrier apart: Designed with airline approval in mind, the medium size of this traveler-favorite carrier accommodates cats or small dogs with its spacious interior. Mesh panels zip open on three sides of the carrier as well as the top, ensuring a well-ventilated bag. The outer material is a lightweight and durable polyester. A removable, machine-washable woolen mat makes the interior comfy for your pet; there's also a safety leash you can use to secure your pet inside.

You can use the connectable loop handles and padded shoulder strap for easy carrying, and this carrier bag folds up when you're ready to store it away. The Henkelion Pet Carrier even comes in several fun colors, such as purple or green.

Travelers appreciate: "I have used the Henkelion soft-sided carrier many times," says Robbie Parker of travel blog Expat in Paradise , who travels with his small dogs. "These are great carriers as they are hardy for travel, collapse for storage, and fit perfectly under the seat for in cabin travel. Also, I like that they have one side that is mesh and the other side is solid with a pocket. You can face solid side toward the aisle so people walking around the plane don't upset your dog." He adds, "Overall, I would recommend it for in-cabin plane travel."

Frequent traveler and luxury travel advisor Ashley Les, founder of Postcards From , also appreciates that the design puts her cats at ease when flying. "I find that with more mesh, cats are exposed to more light and sight – it gets them more anxious," she says, adding: "There are multiple ways to get my cats in the carriers, from the sides or above, as well. I love that you can take out the bottom to wash it separately."

Price: $28.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Sherpa

What sets this carrier apart: Beyond a patented, crash-tested flexible wire frame that keeps your little buddy safe, Sherpa provides a Guaranteed on Board program that offers a refund for your flight and airline pet fee if you're denied boarding because of the small or medium sizes of this carrier. This mesh and polyester bag is an industry standard with good airflow. The front and top entries have locking zippers, and this collapsible carrier also features a removable (and machine-washable) faux-lambskin liner, a rear pocket for storage, and a seat belt safety strap that doubles as a luggage strap.

Travelers appreciate: This Sherpa carrier is renowned for its reliable functionality and amazing value. Recent travelers say the medium carrier fits well under the seat and keeps their pet comfortable in transit.

Price: $70 or less for medium

What sets this carrier apart: This Petsfit carrier's medium size adheres to most airline requirements (as does the small carrier). One of the mesh windows can be unzipped to form an extra compartment, expanding the carrier by 9.4 inches for an extended width of 20.4 inches. This product is a great option if you need a carrier for air travel but still want your pet to enjoy a bit more space to stretch out when not tucked under the airplane seat.

The sturdy solid wire construction ensures the bag won't collapse but is flexible enough to tuck into a small space, though you may need to remove the rods on either side if the carrier is too tall to fit easily underneath. There's a side pocket for storage, double zippers and a water-repellent inner cloth.

Travelers appreciate: "The Petsfit carrier was flexible enough to squeeze under most airplane seats, but still was sturdy enough to hold," says Alexandra Lauren of the travel blog The Bucket List Mermaid , who has used this carrier to fly with her cat. "My kitty could look around the airport with the built-in leash in the carrier. The expandable portion was an added bonus because it allowed for more room for my pet when on long layovers or when I had an empty seat on the airplane." Lauren also recommends Petsfit's expandable backpack-style carrier for a hands-free option.

Price:  $56.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Natuvalle

What sets this carrier apart: For travelers seeking versatility, this Natuvalle cat or dog carrier can be used like a backpack, shoulder bag, tote with carrying handles or even – if worn on your front – a baby carrier. This convertible choice can also be used as a car seat crate with built-in seat belt loops, and you have the option of using it either in the upright or side position. Other features include zipper locks, mesh panels, reinforced stitching, two walk-through doors and a photo ID tag. The carrier is foldable and has reflective stripes for night travel. While there are medium and large size options, the extra-small and small sizes are your best bet when it comes to fitting under an airplane seat.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the versatility of this bag; some travelers say the carrier fits best under the seat when on its side, as the upright position can be too tall.

Price:  $119.90 or less for small

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Best Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Courtesy of PetAmi

What sets this carrier apart: Go hands-free with this PetAmi backpack-style carrier. A sturdy frame maintains its shape while you traipse through airport terminals, with chest and waist buckles for extra support. Four-sided access makes loading easy, and a rollaway mesh top means your furry friend can stick their head out the top when you're not in the air. The safety strap and buckle are designed to thwart even great escape artists, and a sherpa-lined bed entices fur babies to relax. The backpack carrier color options include red and purple.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the easy carrying this style provides, though they advise that you'll need to store this bag on its side in the plane cabin, and it won't fit on every airline.

Price: $39.99 or less

Courtesy of Away

What sets this carrier apart: It's a splurge, but this cat and dog carrier is made by Away, a popular luggage brand known for its sleek design and functionality. The same applies to this nylon and leather tote, which comes in black or a coast blue. The water-resistant lining is paired with sherpa bedding and exterior pockets that can hold a phone, keys or waste bags. If you already have an Away suitcase, this carrier will fit seamlessly over the handle with its trolley sleeve.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners who travel with this bag like that it's roomy, saying their pets seem comfortable inside. This carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds but is a bit on the larger side of an airline-approved carry-on, so be sure to research your airline's policies before taking it aboard.

Price: $225 or less

What sets this carrier apart: The Sleepypod Air is designed to compress to fit under the seat during takeoff and landing; when the seat belt sign is off, your pet can enjoy slightly more room (but be aware that it doesn't hold its reduced size in a freestanding position, only when tucked into a small space). This unique carrier employs sturdy luggage-grade ballistic nylon for its base, with a panel of mesh running along the front, top and back. A removable privacy panel can be slid over part of the mesh. Available in multiple colors, this crash-tested model also has a seat belt strap, a trolley sleeve and a comfortable shoulder strap for carrying it.

Travelers appreciate: Users like the carrier's many features and say it's a good option especially for larger cats traveling by air, but some pet owners felt there was not enough airflow (especially with the privacy panel) for longer flights.

Price: $199.99 or less

What sets this carrier apart: Any furry friends larger than about 20 pounds will likely have to travel in the cargo hold if they're not a service animal. You'll want a very sturdy dog crate for the journey that meets every regulation, and SportPet's kennel passes the test for many travelers. This carrier meets International Air Transport Association guidelines with two snap-on water dishes and four stickers that indicate a live animal is inside; a "floor gutter" contains messes for easy cleanup. The durable plastic frame is connected with metal nuts and bolts and features airline-required tie holes for bungees.

This travel crate comes in six sizes, from small up to XXX-large, so be sure to determine the right size for your pet. A cushioned bed is not included and costs extra. For more information on pets traveling in cargo, consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the sturdy construction and the compliance with airline regulations, but the traveler-favorite feature is the removable wheels, which are included with the carrier (except with size small).

Price: Ranges by size from $76 to $385

Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate Two-Door Kennel

Courtesy of Petmate

What sets this carrier apart: This option made of hard plastic and steel wire is tough enough to protect your cargo-contained cat, according to recent travelers. (Keep in mind that airlines do not recommend hard-sided carriers for in-cabin travel, and this kennel is too large to fit under airline seats.) The two front and top doors assist with entering and exiting, and color options like hot pink or blue will make this kennel easy to spot. The carrier comes in small (24-inch) and extra-small (19-inch) sizes, so choose accordingly based on the measurements of your cat. As with most hard-sided crates, you will have to purchase a plush bed separately.

Travelers appreciate: "I haven't traveled by air with this carrier, but I've owned it for years and really appreciate how sturdy it is," says Catriona Kendall, associate editor of travel at U.S. News. "The assembly of the carrier is straightforward, and my cats feel safe enough to hang out in it at home."

Price: $66.99 or less for 24-inch

How to choose the best pet carrier

There are a few major points to consider when choosing a carrier that will serve as your pet's safe space during a flight:

Size: Selecting the right carrier size for your pet is essential not only for your pets' comfort but also for their safety, according to Sara Hogan, hospital manager at Clarendon Animal Care in Virginia. "Please ensure the measurements for your carrier meet a standard that allows for your pet to comfortably turn around AND lay down," she says. But be aware that if the carrier is too large for your furry friend, they could end up injured in transit. The best way to determine the right size is to take measurements of your pet; to be as precise as possible, use the IATA's formula .

Keep in mind that only carriers able to fit under the seat in front of you are allowed in the plane cabin – a space that will vary by airline. Consult the next section on airline policies for more information.

Airflow: Don't underestimate the importance of adequate airflow. "Carriers and crates really need to have proper ventilation for short or long-term travel," Hogan says. "There IS a difference between taking your pet down the street to a friend's house or the vet and taking your pet on a trip with any sort of additional time involved."

Stability: Check the quality of all the zippers and materials − you want this to be an escape-proof carrier, and any malfunction can put your pet at risk. "If something has previously broken or fallen off the carrier or crate look to replace the piece or the entire crate/carrier," Hogan advises.

Soft-sided vs. hard-sided: If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, most airlines highly recommend a soft-sided carrier, which gives the most flexibility. Airlines are often slightly more lenient with the dimensions for soft-sided carriers in the cabin as long as they are able to fit underneath the seat without blocking the aisle of the airplane. Another bonus: Soft pet carriers often come with removable fleece bedding for extra comfort.

Note: Crates and carriers destined for the cargo hold of the plane must be hard-sided. Find more details on carrier specifications for the cargo hold in the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Airline pet carrier dimensions

Each airline sets its own specifications and safety rules for pets in the plane cabin with you, so be sure to check with your intended airline for dimension limits, breed restrictions and other guidelines. Be aware, too, that most major airlines based in the U.S. do not offer an option to transport animals in cargo.

Use the links below to find more information on the specific pet policies for the following U.S.-based airlines. Each airline's size limit for soft-sided pet carriers in the cabin is also listed, with dimensions given in length by width by height.

• Alaska Airlines : 17 x 11 x 9.5 inches
• Allegiant Air : 19 x 16 x 9 inches
• American Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Delta Air Lines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Frontier Airlines : 18 x 14 x 8 inches
• Hawaiian Airlines : 16 x 10 x 9.5 inches
• JetBlue : 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches
• Southwest Airlines : 18.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches
• Spirit Airlines : 18 x 14 x 9 inches
• Sun Country Airlines : 16 x 10 x 8 inches
• United Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches

How to prepare to fly with a pet

Help your pet acclimate.

When preparing to travel with your furry companion, planning ahead is key, especially if your pet isn't used to being confined in a crate or carrier. "I recommend buying the carrier as far in advance of travel as possible to allow your dog to become comfortable relaxing in the carrier in a familiar home environment before traveling," says Amanda Farah, CPDT-KA, national training and behavior coordinator for Best Friends Animal Society.

Some pets are sensitive to loud noises, so one way to prepare them for the journey is by playing recordings of sounds they might encounter in transit, Farah says. "I'd say a good general rule is that because so much of what they encounter during air travel will be new and potentially stressful, you should familiarize them to many factors as possible in the weeks or even months leading up to travel."

Book your travel far in advance

Keep in mind that airlines limit the number of pets allowed on a flight, so book early and try to secure a direct flight to cut down on travel time.

Familiarize yourself with your departure airport

Before you set off on your journey, familiarize yourself with the airport you're departing from – such as where to find a pet relief area – and how to go through security with a pet in tow. For example, you must never place your pet on the security conveyor belt (only the empty carrier goes through the X-ray tunnel).

Research your destination

This is a crucial step. Some countries will not allow pets in at all, while other destinations (such as Hawaii) may have strict rules about rabies vaccines or require all animals to travel in cargo. Christine Barton, a veterinarian with The Vets , recommends checking the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website to learn about requirements for health certificates, vaccines and more.

Other considerations will depend on what type of vacation you're planning; if it involves hiking or camping with your dog, Barton suggests checking the expected weather, making a small emergency kit for you and your pet, and considering a GPS tracker for remote areas. Wherever you're headed, locate the closest emergency animal hospital just in case and make sure to book pet-friendly accommodations .

Consult your vet

Once you've done your research, your veterinarian can help ensure your pet has everything you both need to travel, such as microchipping, required or recommended vaccines (and proof of them), testing, and health records, Barton says. A vet can also address any health concerns. "Doctors can discuss risks, precautions, and things to monitor while traveling," Barton explains, adding that you should make sure your pet is up to date on needed preventive medications, such as treatment for fleas or heartworm.

If your furry friend struggles with anxiety, your vet can prescribe them a medication to make the journey less stressful for both of you. "Talk to your veterinarian before administering any sort of medication to your pet, but definitely consider it for future travel," Hogan says.

Frequently Asked Questions

A carrier being "airline-approved" typically means it adheres to the airline's size requirements, is leakproof, provides adequate airflow and keeps your pet securely inside.

You can find a pet carrier on wheels, such as the  Snoozer 4-in-1 Roll Around Pet Carrier  or the  SportPet Rolling Plastic Kennel , but keep in mind that most wheeled pet carriers are too large to fit under the seat on most airlines, even with detachable wheels. Wheeled options can make your furry friend easier for you to transport, but they also tend to make for a bumpy ride for your pet, so consider carefully whether a carrier on wheels is right for your cat or dog, especially if they're easily frightened.

Most major airlines in the U.S. do not allow pets to travel in cargo; some, like American Airlines, only offer this service for active military or diplomatic personnel. Of the major U.S. airlines, only Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines currently accept animals in the cargo hold, so keep that in mind if you have a medium or large dog – or if your intended destination does not welcome in-cabin pets.

Most animals who fly in the cargo hold are fine, but there's still a risk of your pet being killed, injured or lost, according to the Humane Society of the United States. The most common dangers are excessively hot or cold temperatures, poorly ventilated crates, and rough handling. Be sure to follow all IATA guidelines for cargo crates to ensure your pet's safety. Before you book a flight, you may also want to research the airline's history with companion animals in the cargo hold.

The kennel you choose for cargo travel must allow your pet enough room to stand, sit upright, turn around while standing and lie in a natural position, according to the IATA. Carriers must made of rigid materials and include a solid roof, a leakproof base, a door with well-maintained hardware, working handles and ventilation on all four sides. Labels that say "Live Animal" and "This Way Up" are also required by the IATA.

A water dish must be securely affixed to the inside of the carrier, with open access for your pet to drink and for someone to refill it from the outside without opening the crate. A food container can either be inside the carrier if it's sealed or attached to the outside.

A pet carrier usually counts as either a personal item or a carry-on. Depending on the airline policy, you may be able to bring either a personal item or a carry-on bag (not both) in addition to your carrier. Check your airline's carry-on luggage allowance and pet policy to see what you can bring.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old to travel, but airlines may impose their own age restrictions on top of that. On Delta, for example, companion animals must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic flights. United Airlines says your pet should be at least 4 months old for international travel to comply with rabies vaccine requirements.

Your furry friend will incur certain fees for flying, but the cost will vary by airline. American Airlines, as an example, charges a $125 service fee for a carry-on pet, while Allegiant's fee is $50. Cargo fees may depend on trip details: Hawaiian Airlines charges $60 in fees for domestic flights and $225 for flights between Hawaii and North America, while the cargo fee on Alaska Airlines is $100. Service animals typically fly at no charge as long as they meet the airline's requirements.

It depends on your pet, according to Hogan. "If they're quite anxious you may want to offer food with a bit more advanced time prior to the flight to avoid vomiting in the carrier or on themselves, however, not too much time where they'll be hungry throughout the travel day," she advises. "Water is important to offer as often as possible in any setting. Access to using the bathroom more than once prior to travel is also advised so as not to miss an opportunity for output!"

Conveniently, some airports may have pet relief areas your dog can use either before or after you go through security, but that's something you'll have to research beforehand.

No. Unless your pet is a service animal of a certain size, airlines typically require pets in the cabin to be secured in their carrier and stowed under the seat in front of you.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Catriona Kendall is a frequent traveler and longtime cat owner who knows the importance of a sturdy and secure pet carrier. Her cats haven't managed to damage or escape from the Henkelion and Petmate carriers she's owned for years (despite their best efforts). She also recommends this pop-up Pet Fit for Life carrier for road trips. Kendall compiled this list of airline-compliant carriers using her experience as a pet owner, advice from animal experts and extensive research.

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• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces
• The Top Luggage Trackers
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?
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The 6 Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 13 carriers on roundtrip domestic flights

The Spruce Pets / Lecia Landis

The Winners

How we picked, more we recommend.

We tested 13 airline-approved pet carriers on roundtrip domestic flights with both cats and dogs. Our favorite is Away's The Pet Carrier , which features a removable liner, mesh ventilation on three sides, and a trolley sleeve for easy use with your handled luggage. Plus, it's crash test certified.

After testing on domestic flights, Away's The Pet Carrier is our favorite airline-ready pet carrier . It's not only attractive but fully featured, with multiple points of entry, a trolley sleeve, lots of ventilation, a waterproof lining, and a machine washable bed. For a more affordable option , check out the Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier instead. It's got lots of ventilation, and zip-out accordion sections that let you make the carrier a lot bigger—and more comfortable for your cat or dog—when you're not walking around with it.

We also identified four more airline-approved pet carriers that we think are worth your consideration:

• Best for Small Dogs: Wild One Travel Carrier
• Best Kennel: Gunner G1 Kennel
• Best Tote: Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier
• Best for Cats: Travel Cat The Transpurrter

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

Away the pet carrier.

The Spruce Pets / Sarah Naftzger

• Quality 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Design 5 /5

What We Like: Crash test certified by the Center for Pet Safety; Water-resistant lining; removable and washable bed; trolley sleeve for seatbelt or rolling suitcase attachment

What We Don't Like: Not suitable for pets over 18 pounds

Available in Jet Black or Coast Blue

The Away Pet Carrier is sturdy, sleek, versatile, and easy to clean. Plus, it meets the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) so it’s suitable for in-cabin use on most major airlines (always check with your flight provider). 

During the testing period, our Chihuahua-mix participant was comfortable and secure for the duration of a six-hour flight. The Away carrier's leather and nylon exterior is structured enough to offer protection and stability, but has enough flexibility to squeeze into tight under-seat spaces. We also found it easy to carry by hand or over a shoulder, with double straps similar to a gym bag. 

The Pet Carrier has both internal and external pockets, including a side pocket with a waterproof lining and drainage holes—ideal for a collapsible water bowl. Mesh panels on three sides make for excellent ventilation, and each can also be unzipped for quick access to your pet, or covered with privacy panels to block external stimulation. The interior has a padded, fuzzy bed that is both removable and machine washable.

The Spruce / Sarah Naftzger

The Spruce Pets / Alessandra Amodio

The carrier has a weight maximum of 18 pounds, which is lower than others on our list, but keep in mind that some airlines have a 20 pound weight maximum for pet and carrier combined. Airlines may weigh pets with their carriers on the luggage scale, and an 18-pound dog combined with the 4-pound Away travel carrier might lead to travel disruptions, so it's a limit you'll want to be conscious of before traveling.

This bag is more expensive than many of our other favorites, but we found the craftsmanship of this pet carrier to be worth the premium. Away provides a warranty for one year after purchase. It also comes with a dust bag for storage between flights. And to top it all off, this carrier received a five-star crash test rating certification from the Center for Pet Safety .

An Affordable Alternative

Petsfit expandable pet carrier.

The Spruce Pets / JT Wilde

• Size 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

What We Like: Plush liner can be unzipped and removed for cleaning; expandable side gives pets more room to spread out; includes external pocket and a loop for wheeled luggage handles

What We Don't Like: Handles are not padded and can become uncomfortable

Available in three sizes and four colors

The wire-framed structure of the Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier allows for flexibility when placed under an airline seat. While you wait to board, a zippered mesh encasement can be opened up while keeping your pet fully contained. Pets are usually required to stay in their carriers unless you are in a designated pet area of the airport. With this carrier, a zippered mesh encasement can be opened up while giving your pet extra room to stretch while keeping them fully contained.

Our participating dog could not fully stand in the small-sized carrier, but they did have room to move around and get cozy. The carrier comes with a plush pad that can be unzipped and fully removed for cleaning. 

The carrier has a padded shoulder strap and two unpadded handles. We found the latter to be slightly uncomfortable when holding for a longer duration (e.g. waiting in line to deplane). To give your hands and shoulder a break, there is a loop on one side to slot through the telescopic handlebar of a suitcase.

Testing: We selected 13 bestselling and highly-rated pet carriers for real-world testing. Tests were conducted with both cats and dogs, with testers using the carrier on domestic flights. Our testers primarily tested the products on long, roundtrip flights , many six hours or more. Carriers were also tested on roadtrips, Amtrak travel, in the subway , and a variety of other travel scenarios, with many testers subjecting their carrier to a wide range of activities over several weeks or months. Testing was completed during the peak holiday season, further stress-testing each of the carriers.

Throughout testing, our volunteer testers followed a methodology created by our testing and research team to ensure we received back consistent notes from tester to tester. Testers provided feedback in the following categories: size, design, portability, ease of cleaning, comfort, quality, and value . Equipped with their first-hand observations and scoring feedback, our editors then ranked and categorized our top picks for the perfect pet carrier to suit your travel needs.

Other Carriers We Tested

In addition to our winners and recommended pet travel carriers, we also tested:

Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel : While not as tough as our favorite cargo hold kennel, this more affordable option scored well with our tester, who used it to travel with a 55-pound dog.

Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier : Our tester cat was able to pry open the zipper and tear this carrier up with her claws—we have some durability concerns. Also, only the smallest two available sizes are suitable as an under seat carry-on.

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier : This is a high-quality, premium carrier, but its duffle bag design was a little too claustrophobic for our big cat tester, and so at this price point we preferred carriers with a stiffer leather construction.

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier : We liked the rectangular construction and abundant ventilation, but felt that some of the other premium carriers are an overall better value.

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier : Another excellent premium option, this carrier earned the same crash test certification from the Center for Pet Safety as our best overall, but it's a little bigger and bulkier, making it a slightly less attractive option for lugging around the airport.

What To Look For

Size Guidelines

The exterior measurements of the carrier you select must fall within the sizing guidelines provided by the airline provider for your flight. A typical limitation is that pet carriers need to be within 18 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 11 inches tall to fly in the cabin. Some airlines also have a maximum weight for your pet plus their carrier, but this varies between airlines, so we recommend using the guidelines provided by the airline you intend to fly with your pet most frequently. Here are the restrictions for some popular airlines:

• Alaska Airlines
• United Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• American Airlines

Beyond requirements, the interior of your carrier should be spacious enough for your pet to stand (even temporarily), turn around, lie down, and adopt multiple positions.

Hard-Sided vs. Soft-Sided

The carriers that made our list tend to fall in between hard and soft, offering structured yet flexible coverage for your pet that is just malleable enough to accommodate under the seat dimensions on an airplane. The softest of our selects, the tote-style Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Carrier, has firm base which is important for your pet to feel steady while being carried. If you dog is too big to fly in cabin, then you definitely need a hard-sided kennel, like our Best for Cargo choice, the Gunner G1 Kennel . 

Easy Carrying

If your pet carrier will be your personal item on a flight, then it's likely you'll also be juggling a piece of carry-on luggage. If you have a piece of wheeled luggage with a standard handle, then look for what's called a "trolley sleeve" when shopping for a carrier. A trolley sleeve is a tight band that attaches to your luggage handle, allowing your carrier to ride on top of your luggage.

While most carriers feature two handles, you may also want to seek out a carrier with a third, cross-body shoulder strap. This can make it easier to tote a carrier through airports, leaving your hands free for additional luggage. Many of our favorite carriers have a removable shoulder strap, which can be left off if you're trying to save a little weight.

Wild One Travel Carrier

The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada

• Size 3.5 /5
• Comfort 4 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Design 4 /5

What We Like: Versatile design includes a shoulder strap that can be used as a leash; easy to wipe clean; folds flat when not in use; can be personalized with your dog's name

What We Don't Like: Very snug fit under airplane seat; carrier's measurements exceed limits for some airlines

Available in black, tan, and a limited edition spruce color

Best for Small Dogs: This versatile pet carrier has an internal padded mat that can be unfolded to expand giving your dog a cozy space to nap once you arrive at your destination. The bag has a cylindrical shape that does not allow for all small dogs to stand up inside when fully zipped up but does offer more space horizontally for them to spread out. Our tester dog, an eight-pound Pomeranian, had space to lay down, put their head up, and get comfortable, but if you’ve got a short-legged friend, like Dachshund , or a very petite pal, like a Chihuahua , then they’ll fit right in. 

The carrier is well made with durable zippers, allowing for flexibility in use and mesh paneling for airflow and to keep your dog in view. To get your dog acclimated to the bag, you can open up one of the sides to let them come in and out as they please, and when you are on the plane, you can unzip just the top to slide in a treat. The shoulder strap can be removed and used as a leash, and there are two additional padded handles for a comfortable and secure grip.

A slotted panel on the back allows you to place it on the handlebars of your suitcase or secure it in a car by passing a seatbelt through. However, unlike our selection for Best Overall, the Away Pet Carrier, this bag has not been crash test certified by the Center for Pet Safety. The carrier is available in black, green, and tan, and folds up flat for storage.

Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate

The Spruce Pets / Lisa Pezzuto

What We Like: Lifetime warranty, back wheels make the heavy carrier easier to transport; small, medium, and intermediate sizes are 5 Star Crash Test certified by the Center For Pet Safety ; reinforced sides absorb impact and regulate temperature

What We Don't Like: Very heavy and typically requires more than one person to move

Available in four sizes and five colors

Best Kennel: If your dog is too big to fly in the main cabin—which for most airlines is around 20 pounds—then they will have to ride in the cargo section of the airplane. The best option we found is the Gunner G1 Kennel. It’s designed to keep your dog as comfortable as possible, with rotomolded double walls to regulate the temperature and absorb the impact for any bumps that may occur during takeoff, in the air, and when landing. You won’t be able to access your dog during your flight, so it’s important to make sure they are secure prior to boarding.

Your dog will need water in their kennel for the flight, and the recessed floor for this carrier will limit any discomfort they may experience in case of a spill. You can also add an orthopedic bed designed for the kennel or your dog’s favorite blanket.

The Spruce / Lisa Pezzuto

The kennels are made in the United States and come with a lifetime warranty. There are four sizes available and all except the largest received a five-star crash test certification from the Center for Pet Safety .

To find the right size for your dog, Gunner offers an online tool that takes into consideration your dog’s weight and measurements with length from nose to base of tail and height from front paws to top of the head. The kennel has rear wheels to help with transport, but we found it necessary to have two adults at a minimum for moving, especially with a dog inside. And in case anyone with hands instead of paws gets stuck inside, the door can be opened from both sides by humans.

Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier

Love Thy Beast

What We Like: Sturdy base with an easy-to-remove platform; large zipper pocket on one side; smaller zipper pocket also functions as a loop for suitcase handle or seatbelt; lightweight and suitable for daily use

What We Don't Like: Soft sides don't provide much protection.

Available in multiple colors and material s , including waxed canvas and nylon

Best Tote: The Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier is a soft-sided tote-style bag with two shoulder straps and a sturdy base so your pet can stand confidently. It’s made of nylon and canvas, and the internal panel, which is held in place with hook and loop straps, is easy to take out and wipe clean. It’s also very lightweight and suitable for daily use. 

Our eight-pound canine participant was able to stand up, sit, lay, and turn around inside the bag when fully zipped. The bag is designed to support dogs up to 25 pounds.

The two longer sides of the rectangular-shaped bag are opaque and each features a zippered pocket. One pocket is large enough to stash essentials such as puppy pads , a leash , and a collapsible water bowl . The other pocket is slimmer with dual zippers so it can also be used as a loop for a seatbelt or suitcase handlebars. The top and shorter sides are made from a durable mesh so you and your pet can keep an eye on each other.

We found that the mesh made it difficult for other passengers to see our furry traveler, and the bag has less structured protection than other carriers we tested, so be sure to give your aisle mates notice that your pet is inside so they can watch their step.

Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier

The Spruce Pets / Morgan Ashley Parker

What We Like: Scratch-resistant mesh and water-resistant interior; full blackout capability to keep pets calm; various straps allow for customized carry

What We Don't Like: Carrier is long, limiting ability to fit under all airline seats; too unwieldy for wear as a cross-body carrier

Available in Dark Charcoal, Heather Grey, and Heather Grey & Teal

Best for Cats: With scratch-resistant mesh, the Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier from Travel Cat is an excellent choice for air travel with a kitty companion. If you have an anxious cat or one that is new to travel, this carrier is designed to offer a calming space with a black interior and a full blackout side panel to block out external stimulation.

The versatile bag can be carried in multiple ways including as a duffle, a backpack, and on top of a suitcase. We found the bag to be easy to carry in all formations except as a crossbody bag. But the weight distribution might feel different for you with your cat inside. 

The Spruce / Morgan Ashley Parker

A leash tether is located inside so you can open up one of the panels to let your cat poke their head out. This is both adorable and very convenient for layovers, giving your cat the opportunity to see where they are without worrying that they will escape. To further foil any spur-of-the-moment urges to bolt from the bag, the zippers snap closed to prevent your cat from pawing it open. 

The carrier features external pockets for essentials, is easy to spot clean, and has an internal mat that can be removed and machine washed. 

There is no standard among airlines so you have to check the guidelines with your flight provider for each flight. All of the carriers on our list have been approved by at least one major airline provider based in the United States, including Delta, United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest, or Jetblue, but each has its own pet policy.

Some airlines have a maximum weight of 20 pounds, which typically includes both your pet and their carrier. But each flight provider has their own pet policy.

It’s important to give your dog or cat as much space as possible but you can offer a few comforts. A small treat or toy to reinforce good behavior, and a small blanket can make the interior a little cozier. Introduce your pet to the carrier at least a few days before your flight to help them get accustomed to the space. 

Introduce your pet to the carrier at least a few days before your flight to help them get accustomed to the space. Place a treat inside so they build a positive association with the carrier. Before you board, make sure your pet has the opportunity to pee–no one likes to be contained with a full bladder. Try to remain calm and upbeat, pets pick up on the emotions of their humans very quickly, so if you are relaxed, they are more likely to be relaxed. If anxiety is a reoccurring issue for your pet, speak with your veterinarian about the appropriate options for your cat or dog.

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

This story was written by Anna Mejorada , a writer for The Spruce Pets, who shares her home with a happy pomeranian named Gidget. From NYC, Anna and Gidget have flown to various locations including Aruba, Nantucket, and San Francisco. Before researching and writing about pet products for a living, Anna embarked on a self-mandated, ongoing quest to find the optimal items for her dog. She is now delightfully devoted to helping humans discover and select the most favorable products for their pets.

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The 8 Best Airline-approved Pet Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These high-quality pet carriers allow your furry friend to travel in comfort, safety, and style.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven

If you’re heading out on a trip with your dog or cat, there’s hardly anything more important for your animal’s comfort than picking the right pet carrier. The best airline-approved carrier is one that will check several boxes for you, your pet, and the airline. 

An airline-approved pet carrier is one that is designed to accommodate an animal comfortably, eradicate hassles associated with traveling with your pet, and satisfy the material and sizing requirements for most major airlines. To find the best carriers on the market, we personally tested and scored 13 popular airline-approved pet carriers based on size, quality, comfort, portability, design, ease of cleaning, and overall value.

We also spoke to two experts — Dr. Chyrle Bonk, a veterinarian working with excitedcats.com, and Dr. Paola Cuevas, a veterinarian, MVZ, and behaviorist with petkeen.com — for tips and insight on how you can safely fly with your pet in the cabin or as cargo.

Best Overall

Away the pet carrier.

The Spruce Pets / Sarah Naftzger

• Quality 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Design 5 /5

This comfortable, well-designed carrier checks all the boxes on our list and looks great, too. 

It taps out at carrying any more than 18 pounds of pet.

Away’s The Pet Carrier delivers the same sophisticated look, streamlined design, functionality, and quality you’ll find with their luggage products. We particularly liked how the bag’s size makes it easy to carry and slide under the seat in front of us without sacrificing a pet’s comfort. We also appreciated its interior and exterior pockets where we could stash must-grab items for both us and our pet — and the waterproofed side pocket with drainage holes meant for storing collapsible water bowls was a standout touch. 

Other notable features include overall water-resistancy for easy cleanup, a trolley sleeve for easy terminal-side portability, seat belt latches, and breathable mesh side plus a retractable calming screen to give anxious pets a bit of privacy without cutting off airflow. It also comes with a removable sherpa pet bed to keep your pet comfy during travel, and leaves enough room to add their favorite blanket or toy, too. 

Made from durable nylon and stylish black leather, this is the little black dress equivalent of a pet carrier — as long as your furry friend doesn’t weigh more than 18 pounds. If we could change one thing about this bag, it would be that it was available in more than one size. 

The Details: 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches | 4.3 pounds | Up to 18 pound pet size | Nylon and leather

Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best for the Cargo Hold

Gunner g1 kennel intermediate.

The Spruce Pets / Lisa Pezzuto

It’s the gold standard of hard-sided kennels.

This gold standard doesn’t come cheap.

The Gunner G1 Kennel is a superlative hard-sided kennel with a five-star crash safety rating from the Center for Pet Safety. There have been multiple reported instances where owners have been in severe crashes and said using a Gunner kennel has saved their dog’s life. And we can see why. Worried about the plane hitting rough air? This kennel has double-wall rotomolding for extra impact protection. It’s also got a wider base for stability against tipping, comes with built-in tie-down rods, and features all-weather windows that shield your pet from nasty weather it may face while being loaded and unloaded at the airport.

Pets stay comfortable inside by adding a soft bed, while raised non-slip feet lower temperature transfer from hot or frigid surfaces. The only downside is that the larger sizes may be tough for one person to manage with a dog inside. We tested the large size, which is 72 pounds empty, though this kennel also comes in small, medium, intermediate sizes, too. 

The Details: 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) | 27 pounds (small), 38 pounds (medium), 48 pounds (intermediate), 72 pounds (large) | Up to 110 pounds for large pet size | Rotomolded plastic and stainless steel

Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Softside

Love thy beast nylon pet travel carrier.

Love Thy Beast

The 12-inch height makes it ideal for layovers. 

The narrow width may not be comfortable for girthy pets.

We found the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier to be lightweight yet sturdy, and flexible enough to squeeze under the seat in front of us, even though the carrier pushes the limits when it comes to height. Some airlines may eyeball it at check-in, but this tote-style carrier can also be used during layovers to give your pet more head room. It also comes with a leash tether so you can confidently carry your dog with the zippers down, and it’s possible to slip the bag onto the handle of a suitcase or a seat belt as the back pocket converts to a luggage sleeve when unzipped. 

This bag has a sturdy, removable platform on the bottom that makes for easy spot cleaning, and an extra-large zippered pocket on the front (in addition to that smaller, convertible luggage sleeve pocket on the reverse). The tight-knit mesh sides allow for one-way pet privacy to aid anxious pets as well. We tested this carrier out with an 8-pound dog who fit comfortably inside (as did a slim 12-pound pup), though it’s quite likely a wider-framed pet would find this 8-inch wide carrier too narrow. 

The Details: 17 x 12 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Up to 25 pound pet size | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Anna Mejorada

Best for Cats

Travel cat the transpurrter.

The Spruce Pets / Morgan Ashley Parker

• Size 4.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5

It’s loaded with thoughtful features throughout and can be carried five ways. 

The soft-lined interior quickly becomes covered in cat hair.

The Travel Cat The “Transpurrter” Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier is a sturdy and durable cat carrier with five options for carrying — over-the-shoulder, by side handles, via the trolley sleeve, as a crossbody, or as a backpack. One of our favorite features is the number of access points you have to reach your pet. It opens at both ends and the top, plus one full side panel opens up completely to give your cat more space while waiting at the gate. (We clipped them onto the bungee tether and opened it up so our cat felt less confined.) It also has calming privacy flaps, two stretchy slip pockets, one pocket loaded with several organizational pockets, a slide-out lined basket, and anti-scratch mesh on three sides. We’ve flown several times with this carrier and it still looks brand new, except for the inside, which immediately became covered in cat hair. 

The Details: 19 x 10.5 x 11 inches | 3.4 pounds | Up to 30 pound pet size

Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven

Best Budget Hardside

Petmate aspen pet porter dog kennel.

• Quality 4 /5
• Design 3 /5

It’s a basic but solid crate-style kennel that meets FAA standards.

There aren't any extra pockets or storage features, it’s just the kennel.

This hard-sided kennel is a great value bang-for-your-buck. There are no extra fancy bells and whistles, just your basic heavy-duty plastic kennel that is approved for domestic air travel in the U.S. You get three-sided ventilation, a stainless steel door with squeeze latches to prevent accidental opening during flight, and a spacious interior that will easily fit your animal, food and water bowls, and your pet’s favorite blanket and toy (if allowed). The darker bottom helps activate a dog or cat’s natural burrowing reflex, helping them to relax. The kennel can also be taken down and put together quite easily for storage or transportation. We do wish there were at least some kind of storage area, though, to hold important papers or treats, but overall we can’t complain because this carrier ticked all the necessary boxes to make our pet comfortable and our travel day swift and easy. 

The Details: 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) | 9 pounds (small), 14 pounds (medium), 19 pounds (large), 24 pounds (extra-large) | Up to 30 pounds (small), up to 50 pounds (medium), up to 70 pounds (large), up to 90 pounds (extra-large) pet size | Heavy-duty plastic and metal

Best Expandable

Petsfit expandable pet carrier.

The Spruce Pets / JT Wilde

• Quality 4.5 /5

Fiber rods in the frame can be removed for extra flexibility to fit under the seat in front of you. 

The carry handles would benefit from a bit of padding.

The Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier’s dual expandable, scratch-resistant mesh sides are great for giving your pet extra room while waiting at the gate or during layovers without officially letting them out of the bag. We also hacked this feature while testing, unzipping the sides while our pet was under the seat in front of us, to give our furry passenger a tad more space on both sides. Plus, the carrier is collapsible, and the fiber rods in the top frame can be removed for extra “give” to squeeze under the seat. The bottom of the carrier is lined with a soft material for pet comfort. This bag is lightweight and portable, but our hands hurt after carrying it via the handles after just a short time (we didn’t have the detachable crossbody/shoulder strap with us); padded handles would be a welcomed addition but it’s hard to knock the bonus space with this style.

The Details: 16 x 10 x 9 (small), 17 x 11 x 11 inches (medium), 19 x 12 x 12 inches (large) | 2.1 pounds (small), 2.5 pounds (medium), 3 pounds (large) | Up to 9 pounds (small), up to 13 pounds (medium), up to 18 pounds (large) pet size | Polypropylene

Travel + Leisure / JT Wilde

Best Organization

Jetpaws official pet carrier.

• Comfort 4.5 /5

It takes the guesswork out of wondering if the carrier will fit under the seat. 

This carrier will only comfortably fit small dogs and medium-sized cats.

The JetPaws Official Carrier of JetBlue Airlines carrier is specifically designed to adhere to JetBlue’s strict size rules and fit under all of the airline’s seats. This makes it a shoe-in for complying with almost all other airlines’ size requirements, taking the guesswork and anxiety out of wondering if your carrier will fit. The colors may be a bit of an eyesore, but the bag’s many features are a good balm. This featherlight carrier comes with five pockets for storing necessities (some of the most we’ve seen), and a detachable padded shoulder strap for carrying (though no trolley sleeve). The carrier itself is made from a durable, undisclosed material that is easy to wipe clean. Our pet seemed right at home in this carrier and didn’t even seem to mind that his usual plush padded bed had been replaced with a simple soft lining. As one might expect with a little carrier, it can only accommodate small pets. 

The Details: 16 x 8.5 x 10 inches | 2 pounds

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Caraa Pet Carrier

Caraa 

The smooth material is sleek and stylish on the outside while keeping your pet cozy on the inside.

It can become bulky if you utilize all of the pockets.

This stylish carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds and features huge external pockets for all of their accessories. The large pockets are great for also storing your own items like wallet, phone, water bottle, and even a book, which is perfect for those times in which your pet is your personal item. We love that all of the zippers run smoothly and keep items (and pets) secure. While we wish the shoulder strap had a bit more padding, we do love that you can carry the bag in many ways thanks to the adjustable cross-body strap and smaller handle. There's even a luggage sleeve to make your commute to and from airplanes even easier.

The Details: 16.5 x 8 x 10.5 inches | 3.5 pounds | Vegan leather and nylon

Other Airline-approved Pet Carriers We Liked

A few pet carriers we tested didn’t quite make the list for the best airline-approved pet carrier but grabbed enough of our attention and admiration for an honorable recommendation as pet carriers that may work well in other travel situations. 

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier : At 4.5 pounds this is the heaviest (and largest) soft-sided carrier we tested. Since it felt heavy before we even put our dog in, and because its large size seems likely to get flagged at check-in, it didn’t make the list. However, its five-star crash test rating, custom seat belt and buckle clips, pee-pad-friendly design, and a zip-down fourth wall side plus interior tethering clip make it an excellent choice as a pet carrier for the car. 

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier : We found that this bag (which comes in heights of either 8.5 inches or 10 inches) felt a bit too snug for our dog, and the smaller size would be best suited for teacup-sized breeds. However, if your pet is on the tiny side, standout features include four-sided mesh ventilation, an included memory foam travel pad, and a sturdy trolly slip for easy portability atop your carry-on.

Wild One Travel Carrier : This lightweight and smaller-sized bag is loaded with thoughtful travel features, from its dual-sided zippers and calming fold-down side panels to the lie-flat breakdown design that makes it a cinch to spot clean and built-in option to use a strap as a leash. Since we couldn’t zip the 10-inch high bag closed unless our 8-pound dog was laying down, it felt like too much of a squeeze when placed under an airplane seat.

The T+L team tested 14 airline-approved pet carriers in real world traveling situations with our own cats and dogs. After measuring, weighing, and assessing the overall quality of each bag — and making sure our furry travel friends were comfortable with the carriers — we took to the skies to test how well the carrier stacked up when it came to carry comfort, pet comfort, durability, cleaning, overall design, size, and relevant features. 

To see how they functioned, we traveled with our pets on roundtrip domestic and international flights on U.S. major airlines, including JetBlue which has some of the smallest general size restrictions for in-cabin pet carriers. We took notes along the way on how easy it was to get through security, wait at the gate, slide under the seat, and transport through the airport, checking on our pet’s comfort before, during, and after the flight. We also considered how easy it was to access our pet during the flight and the traveling process. Scoring was largely based on pet comfort, portability, features, price, and performance of purpose in order to select the best airline-approved carriers for this roundup.

Travel + Leisure / Kate Rousu

Tips for Buying Airline-approved Pet Carriers  

Choose the best size for your pet.

The best size carrier will depend on your pet’s mobility, weight, and body frame. Remember, in-cabin pets must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in a carrier. Do not try to squeeze your pet into a smaller carrier just to meet an airline’s sizing rules. 

Check the rules for your mode of transportation 

Always check the rules and requirements for pets and pet carriers of your specific airline and general FAA requirements before purchasing a new carrier. Many train companies, such as Amtrak , will also have their own pet carrier policies as well. If riding in the car with your animal, consider crash safety when shopping for a pet carrier. 

Decide if you need soft-sided or hard-sided 

Soft-sided carriers, such as dog backpacks , are a bit more flexible when it comes to fitting into several under-seat spaces, and many airlines allow for larger soft-sided pet carrier dimensions because of this. Pets transported as cargo will have to be inside of a hard-sided carrier for their safety in the hold of the aircraft. Owners traveling with heavier and/or larger in-cabin pets may also want to consider a hard-sided carrier as it provides better support for the animal. 

Look for features that add comfort and ease to a journey 

Remember that your pet’s comfort is paramount, so give extra points to carriers that have comfort features such as breathable mesh, supportive and strong bottoms, several opening/access points, multiple pockets to hold treats, water, and clean-up supplies, or calming blackout panels. Most airlines will also require your carrier to have a waterproofed bottom in case of accidents.

Opening the pet carrier, placing it in your home, and allowing your pet to become comfortable with it or even sleep in it is a good first line way to get them acclimated. Next, try taking your pet on short rides in the car while inside the carrier, going a little bit longer each time (and not just to the vet), and then reward with a treat. You can also line the carrier with their favorite blanket or toy to make it feel more welcoming and familiar. 

Dr. Bonk explains that it's safe for most pets to stay in an in-cabin travel carrier for six to eight hours, as long as the carrier is appropriately sized for your pet. She says dogs traveling in cargo may be able to stay a little longer as long as they are comfortable and/or have access to pee pads, food, and water. Dr. Cuevas suggests it’s best if your pet can have a bathroom break every six hours, something that is only possible if you’re booked on a shorter flight or hire a private pet transport service. 

While there is nothing you are required to pack for in-cabin pets, both vets suggest having food and water (or treats) for the journey, any medication your pet may need, and any necessary paperwork such as vaccination records that may be required for boarding or landing. Lining the carrier with an absorbent pad, tossing in a scent-soaked item (e.g., something familiar that smells like them or you), and adding their favorite toy can help make the journey easier.  

There are several rules that come with bringing your pet on a plane — including specific carrier size and weight rules, pet fees, how many pets can travel on any plane, weather restrictions, and what documentation is needed. It’s always best to check with your specific airline about your specific flight and both departure and arrival destinations.

A few guaranteed rules to remember include that in-cabin pets will count as your carry-on or personal item depending on the airline, that pets are not allowed to be taken out of their carrier at any point during the flight, that carriers must remain under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight (on most airlines), and that pets traveling as cargo cannot be sedated. 

• American Airlines Pet Policy
• United Airlines Pet Policy
• Delta Air Lines Pet Policy
• Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
• JetBlue Airways Pet Policy

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven spoke with two vets to get tips on how to safely and comfortably travel with your pet, in cargo or in the cabin. She also crunched testing insights from our T+L testers and pets, which included Alex and her 15-pound nervous travel cat @hellomisterbo . In researching airline-approved pet carriers, we spoke with Dr. Chyrle Bonk , a veterinarian with excitedcats.com, and Dr. Paola Cuevas , a veterinarian, MVZ, and behaviorist with petkeen.com. 

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12 Best Pet Carriers to Keep Dogs and Cats Comfortable and Safe in Transit

By Madison Roberts and Madison Flager

Traveling with a pet requires sorting out a whole lot of logistics—beyond making sure your own packing list has been properly ticked off, you’ll need to factor in the food, toys, and gear your pet will need on the road and wherever you’re headed. But even before that’s been mapped out, you’ll want to find a trustworthy pet carrier. Reliable, comfortable, and sturdy pet carriers to throw over your shoulder or on your back when your hands are full make navigating the airport a more streamlined experience, and keep your pet comfortable while in transit.

Whether you’re traveling with your furry friend on a month-long vacation to another state, heading to a rental house for a week or two, or just setting out on a quick weekend getaway, these airline-approved carriers will keep your pet safe on the go. Scroll down for a dozen great pet carriers for dogs and cats, including a space-age pod that's perfect for naps and an  Arlo Skye carrier that attaches to your favorite carry-on—but first, a few tips to keep in mind while you shop and plan.

What size pet carrier will fit under an airline seat? 

Size requirements vary by airline, so always double check with the one you’re flying for the latest pet guidelines before departure. Here are size and weight specifications for  JetBlue (17" x 12.5" x 8.5"),  American Airlines (18” x 11” x 11” for soft-sided bags, 19” x 13” x 9” for hard-sided kennels), and Delta and  United (both 18” x 11” x 11”). Make sure your pet has room to stand up and turn around while inside.

Does a dog carrier count as a carry-on?

Pet carriers must fit under the seat in front of you. However, they can effect your luggage allotment. On JetBlue, for fares above Blue Basic, a carry-on suitcase, backpack, or duffel is allowed so long as it fits in the overhead compartment. However, on other airlines, like American and Delta, your pet carrier replaces your carry-on bag, and your second item is limited to a personal item.

What type of carrier should I get? 

It depends on what size pet you have and how you travel. A soft side carrier or backpack carrier is easiest to fit under an airplane seat, and may be more comfortable and breathable for your pet. 

Think through your typical (non-pet) travel routine and how you’ll need to adjust it when your personal item is dedicated to your pet. If you often travel with another person, that person can store things you’ll want accessible during the flight in their personal item, but if you’re traveling solo, you’ll probably want to pick a carrier with additional storage for your boarding pass, earphones, and other small essentials. Backpack carriers are best for smaller dogs or cats, though all come with weight guidelines to help you determine whether it'll fit your pet.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

• Dimensions: 11"L x 20.5"W x 11"H
• Weight maximum: 20 pounds

One of the chicest new additions to the pet carrier world is Paravel's latest ideation, which is largely inspired by their wildly popular Cabana Tote (yes, the one that’s sold out seven times). The design team has resized it to fit a pet up to 20 pounds and added comfortable elements like a washable liner and mesh panels for airflow, all while maintaining the sustainability that the brand is known for by constructing it out of 38 upcycled plastic water bottles. It folds down to be completely flat for easy storage, even if you live in a tiny Upper West Side apartment like me. But the best part? The ability to embroider your pet's name or initials on the side of the carrier. Traveling with your pet has never been more fashionable—or sustainable. — Scott Bay, associate editor

Wild One Travel Carrier

• Dimensions: 17.5"L x 11"W x 10"H
• Weight maximum: 16 pounds

Tested by  Traveler  contributor Lauren Dana Ellman, Wild One’s design-friendly pet carrier comes in tan, spruce green, and black, and fits dogs that are 16 pounds and under. “It’s clear this carrier was designed with versatility, durability, and functionality in mind,” Ellman wrote. "There are mesh walls for added breathability, a built-in collar clip, a detachable shoulder strap that pulls double duty as a leash, and a cushion that can be rolled out to use as a plush dog bed or travel mat when you get to your destination.” That interior mat is machine washable, too.

Read a full review   here .

Sherpa Original Deluxe pet carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 17"L x 11"W x 10.5"H

A tried and true favorite, this carrier is just about perfect. The Sherpa Original comes equipped with non-slip shoulder straps for easy carrying, locking zippers, and a store pocket for those very important treats. While the design comes airline-approved, its special spring wire frame allows for the carrier to keep its shape, while still being flexible enough to conform to multiple under-seat dimensions.

Away pet carrier

• Dimensions: 18.7"L x 10.8"W x 10.75"H
• Weight maximum: 18 pounds

It should be no surprise that Away’s pet carrier is just as streamlined and chic as their hit luggage. The bag, which fits pets up to 18 pounds and comes in standard black or an au courant gray-blue, is incredibly thoughtfully designed. Standout features include plush, removable sherpa bedding, plenty of pockets for you to store travel documents, and a side pocket with drainage holes (so you can store your included collapsible water bowl inside). Plus, wide openings on both the side and top for easy access, mesh panels on three sides for maximum ventilation, and a roll-up screen so your pet can see what's going on outside. As for safety: Innovative exterior latches can fasten the carrier to a car seat belt, and an interior safety-collar clip prevents adventurous pets from scampering out as soon as you unzip the carrier, And, of course, it’s designed to strap onto any type of Away luggage, making toting this carrier a breeze, even through a crowded terminal. — Juliet Izon

Laura Kiniry

Blane Bachelor

Stacey Lastoe

Texsens innovative traveler bubble backpack

• Dimensions: 12.6"L x 11.4"W x 16.5"H

If you’re looking for a bag for road trips or other non-plane travel (it can lay sideways under some airplane seats, but is a little large), this budget-friendly backpack carrier from Amazon is a solid option. Cat mom Becca Guthrie says her pet, Joe, likes to be able to see out from nearly every direction, and she likes that the sides unzip, making it easier to get him inside. It fits dogs up to 15 pounds or cats up to 18 pounds, and comes in a half dozen colors and patterns, with two side pockets to store treats, a leash, or personal items.

Arlo Skye Pet Carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 17.5"L x 11"W x 10"H
• Weight maximum: 25 pounds

Obsessed with your silver Arlo Skye suitcase? Well, now you can pair it with the brand's very own pet carrier, which manages to be totally practical while still looking chic (not an easy feat). With 360-degree ventilation, your travel buddy will be safe and secure nestled on top of the aluminum or polycarbonate Carry-On or Check-In suitcase, and the carrier includes a memory foam mattress so they'll feel like they're flying first class (even when you're not). When it's not in use, the foldable design makes it easy to pack.

Mark & Graham Buddy pet carrier

• Dimensions: 18"L x 11.5"W x 11"H
• Weight maximum: 50 pounds

If you're the type of shopper who puts a monogram on everything your pet owns, this is the carrier for you. The nylon bag comes in two neutral colors (ivory or navy) that'll match most any travel gear, and can be customized with your pet’s name embroidered on top for an additional $12. Inside, the carrier features a removable fleece lining for comfort, a built-in leash for security, and netted sides that can be rolled down if your pooch gets hot.

Sleepypod mobile pet bed

• Dimensions: 17"L x 17"W x 13"H
• Weight maximum: 15 pounds

Multi-use functionality is key, and this pet carrier triples as a carrier, car seat, and mobile sleep solution. The design is perfect to help your pet cope with long road trips, plus it works as a super-cozy bed once you reach your destination. Ready to hit the road again? Zip the bed up its sides to transform it into a portable carrier.

Petsfit double sided expandable carrier

• Dimensions (for large size bag): 19"L x 12"W X 12"H (not expanded)

This carrier is basically the animal world equivalent of a lie-flat seat on an overseas flight. The Petsfit Double Sided Carrier comes in standard, airline-approved sizing with machine-washable fleece bedding, padded shoulder straps, and a side strap for securing to the top of your suitcase handle. In the event that no one takes up the middle seat next to you, it also has two expandable compartments so your pet can stretch its legs out.

Natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier backpack

• Dimensions (for XXS bag): 14"L x 8.3"W x 8.3"H
• Weight maximum: 8 pounds

This multi-use 6-in-1 pet carrier is for travelers who love having a ton of options: It can be worn as a backpack, front pack, shoulder bag, hand bag, two-position carrier, or used as a car seat crate. Plus, the flexible frame helps keep its shape no matter which way you're carrying it, leaving your pet with plenty of room to lounge in. It comes in three sizes based on weight, with the largest made for pets up to 19 pounds.

Mr. Peanut Gold-Series Dog & Cat carrier

• Dimensions: 18"L x 10.5"W x 11"H

When traveling with a pet, safety is key, and this carry-on pet bag is built with that in mind. It’s designed with self-locking zippers that don’t slide up or down, so you won’t have any worries about chasing your pet down the jetbridge. The bag also includes an ID tag holder, an interior leash attachment, and a safety seat belt in case your flight encounters unexpected rough air. Just as stylish as it is practical, the carrier features a fabric rollaway cover, faux fleece bedding, mesh windows on the top and sides, and an extra pocket. (If you often fly first or business and have slightly more room at your feet, spring for the expandable option .)

Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around 4-in-1 pet carrier

• Dimensions (for medium size bag): 14"L x 11"W x 20"H 

Thankfully, there are plenty of pet carriers out there with wheels, too. This one will let you roll through the airport with ease and comes equipped with side storage pockets, as well as a seat-belt loop to keep your pet safe—and the 4-in-1 design means it can also be carried as a backpack. A carry-on that only holds a puppy? Now that's our idea of "packing light."

The Best Dog Crates For Travel 2024 Review

Breed Advisor is reader supported! This page contains affiliate links, that at no additional cost to you, may earn a small commission. Find out more here .

Written by: Ann-Marie Sharpe

Traveling with your pup can be so much fun for you both, allowing you to see the world and explore together.

A travel dog crate can make travel easier, safer, and more comfortable for your dog , as well as give you peace of mind.

There are lots of fantastic options, allowing you to find something suitable for your adventurous pup.

In this guide, we’ve thoroughly reviewed the best dog crates for travel on the market.

Our top choice is the Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate . It’s lightweight, easy to fold down and assemble, and most importantly safe during travel.

The Best Dog Crates For Travel

Editor's Choice

• Best overall travel crate
• Strong, durable material
• Easy fold-down and assembly

• Best collapsible wire crate
• Folds down easily for travel
• Strong metal construction

• Best for small breeds
• Sturdy and secure
• Great for air and car travel

1. Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate [ CHECK PRICE ]

2. midwest icrate fold & carry single door collapsible wire dog crate [ check price ], 3. petmate two door top load dog & cat kennel [ check price ], 4. go pet club double door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 5. frisco indoor & outdoor 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 6. proselect empire single door steel dog crate [ check price ], 7. sherpa original deluxe airline-approved dog carrier bag [ check price ], more detailed travel dog crate reviews, best dog crates for travel.

• Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate Check Price
• MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate Check Price
• Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel Check Price
• Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate Check Price
• Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag Check Price

Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Frisco fold & carry double door collapsible wire dog crate review.

The Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is 1 of the best travel dog crates on the market. It can be folded down quickly and has handles to make transportation easy.

It’s also quick and easy to assemble when you get to your destination (I found this very handy), making it a great home-away-from-home for your pup.

This dog cage is made from durable and robust material, making it safer if used during travel. There’s even a dual latch on larger crate sizes to provide extra security for stronger dogs.

The crate comes in a range of sizes to suit all breeds and has a removable divider panel you can use when your dog is a puppy, so the crate can grow with them (see also ‘ The Ultimate Dog Crate Sizing Guide ‘). It comes at a very reasonable price.

• Many owners felt this crate was made with high-quality materials, making it durable
• Strong enough for most dogs who are crate trained
• Owners found it was easy to fold down and put back up, making it great for travel
• 2 doors provide easy access and more options for positioning, which owners felt was handy during travel and when positioning the crate in the home
• Some said the crate was lightweight, particularly for the security and strength it provides
• Owners stated that they felt this crate was of great value
• Not suitable for escape artists, as some owners found their determined dog could get out of the crate
• Not strong enough for very destructive dogs, who can chew and break the crate
• With frequent use some owners found that the latches became misshapen, making it hard to lock the crate
• Some found the divider panel hard to install

MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Midwest icrate fold & carry single door collapsible wire dog crate review.

The MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is one of the best dog crates for travel, with durable construction and plenty of ventilation.

It assembles in minutes with no tools and folds down flat for transportation. There’s even a carry handle to make your life easier.

The strong wire construction paired with secure latches keeps your dog safely enclosed on the move. I liked that the plastic bottom is leakproof and removable so if there are any accidents on your adventures, they’re easy to clean up.

This crate comes in a wide range of sizes to suit most breeds. It even has a divider panel so it can grow with your dog, which is fantastic if you have a puppy.

• Many owners said this crate was well-made and durable
• Owners generally felt this crate was spacious and comfortable for their dog
• Folds flat easily with little effort and is easy to transport
• Most owners felt this crate was secure and kept their dog safely enclosed
• Owners found this crate was easy to assemble
• Divider panel can be tricky to take in and out (see also ' How To Make A Dog Crate Divider ')
• Some owners found their strong dog could break out of this crate

Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel

Petmate two door top load dog & cat kennel review.

The Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel is 1 of the best dog crates for air travel or car travel, as well as providing a cozy home base for your precious pooch.

Steel wire and durable plastic are combined to make a safe, secure crate for small breeds. I found that the crate’s plastic sides made my dog feel safely enclosed, keeping them calmer during travel (see also ‘ What Kind of Crate Is Best For My Puppy? (5 Types Analyzed) ‘).

The crate provides plenty of ventilation for your dog. This dog car crate has a handle on top, providing easy portability even when your little furbaby is inside.

It’s available in 2 sizes for small breeds and comes at a great low price.

• Owners found the crate easy to assemble with no tools required
• 2 doors allow your dog to look out, while also providing easy access for both dog and owner
• Some found the option to use the crate as a carrier very useful during travel
• Plastic is easy to wipe clean, which is convenient if your dog has an accident when traveling
• Lightweight, making it easy to transport and move around when needed
• Some owners found the ventilation holes were sharper than they expected, which they felt was a safety hazard
• Some said they found the size description was misleading, leading them to purchase the wrong size for their dog
• 2 plastic sections clip together during assembly, which some owners said made the crate weaker and less sturdy than they had hoped

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate review

• Best crate carrier
• Suitable for toy and small breeds
• Comfortable and cozy

The Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a fantastic option if you’re looking for both a crate and a carrier in 1.

With soft sides, plenty of ventilation, and a removable fleece floor pad, this fabric crate makes a comfortable, cozy space for your dog. A reinforced steel structure provides some security during traveling.

Handles allow you to carry your dog while they’re inside the crate, which I found very sturdy when carrying my small dog. It also folds down and re-assembles quickly for convenience during travel.

Most dog car carriers have doors that open from the top or side, but this crate has zippered double doors on the top and front for easy access. This makes it easier to put your pet in and out of the crate, especially if they have any mobility issues.

This soft crate is suitable for toys and small breeds and comes at an exceptionally low price.

• Lightweight and easy to fold down and reassemble, which owners found helpful for travel
• Being able to use the crate as a carrier was handy for most owners
• Owners found it was excellent for car travel, keeping their dogs safe and comfortable
• Additional pockets for dog’s belongings are very useful when traveling
• Most owners felt this crate was great value for money
• Not strong enough for dogs who are destructive or try to escape
• Some owners found the crate was easily torn if their dog moved around a lot while inside
• Not sturdy enough to stand up to chewing
• Some found this crate harder to assemble than other crates they’d tried
• Some owners found the mesh was a weak point in the crate, being easily torn by their pup

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate review

• Best soft-sided crate
• Comfortable and secure
• Suitable for all breeds

The Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is an amazing on-the-go home for your pampered pooch, with soft sides and 3 doors for easy access.

With a sturdy steel frame, water-resistant material, plenty of ventilation, and the ability to lock the zippers, this crate offers safety during travel as well as comfort.

The crate can be folded down and put back up easily, which I found made traveling much easier with my dogs.

It’s lightweight and features a carrying handle to make transportation easy. This crate comes in a range of sizes to suit all breeds and is an affordable, mid-range price.

If you’re looking for the best dog travel crate, this is a wonderful choice.

• Great for use as your dog’s ‘bedroom’ when they are on holiday with you
• Owners found the crate was very portable, being easy to fold down and assemble
• Great for car travel, creating a cozy safe space for your dog
• Owners found the crate was dark and created a cave-like space for their dogs, which kept them calmer, particularly during travel
• Most owners felt this crate was excellent value for money
• Not strong enough for escape artists or dogs who are prone to chewing
• Some owners found the zips weren’t very sturdy and were easily broken
• Some felt that the material was not as high-quality as they expected

ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate review

• Best for escape artists
• Reinforced steel with dual locking
• Suitable for medium and large breeds

The ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate is an excellent option for big, strong dogs who are escape artists.

This sturdy crate is made from steel and is reinforced, making it extremely strong to keep your dog safely contained during travel. While this crate doesn’t fold down, I found the wheels make it easier to transport.

It comes in 2 sizes for medium and large dogs. While this crate is on the higher end of the price range, if you have a dog who is prone to escaping its crate, I feel it’s worth the cost to keep your best friend safe.

• Owners stated that this crate was escape-proof, even in cases where their dog had escaped all other crates previously
• Many said that the crate was worth the investment to keep their dog safe during travel or when they were home alone (see also ' Should Dogs Be Crated? ')
• Strong enough for dogs who dig or chew when they’re in their crate
• Sturdy materials provide extra protection during travel, which gave owners peace of mind
• Some stated that their dog found the crate comfortable, and they were able to add additional comfort items
• Due to its heavy-duty construction, this crate is heavy and hard to move around for travel
• Some owners found the assembly of the crate difficult and somewhat confusing
• Some very determined dogs were able to figure out the latch mechanism
• In some cases, owners felt the crate didn’t stand up to wear over time as well as they had hoped

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag review

• Best airline-approved carrier crate
• Approved for use on most airlines
• Shoulder strap for easy carrying

If you travel a lot with your best friend, the Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag might be just what you need.

Ideal for small dogs, this carrier bag allows you to take your pup with you on the go. It has a carry strap so you can carry them easily and is approved for use on most airlines.

There are mesh windows so your dog can see where they’re going and to ensure they have adequate ventilation. There’s both top and side entry, so you can easily access your dog during travel.

I liked that this bag came with a faux lambskin liner for your dog’s comfort and locking zippers for security. At an affordable price and with high-quality construction, this carrier crate is excellent value!

• Many owners said this carry crate was easy and comfortable to carry
• Most owners felt this crate was comfortable for their pet
• Several owners said they took their dogs on a plane and had no issues with this carrier
• The top door allows easy access and lets pets sit up and look out on their travels
• Many said the carrier was durable and lasted well over time
• Not designed to stand up to biting or destructive behavior
• Some experienced breakage over time, in particular around the zippers and lining

Things to Look for in a Travel Dog Crate

When you’re looking for the best travel dog crate for your pup, it’s crucial you keep a few things in mind to help you make the safest, most suitable choice for you and your dog.

Fit for Purpose

If you’re going to be carrying the crate with you to use as your dog’s ‘bedroom’ away from home, a foldable lightweight crate will be best.

If you’re searching for the best dog crate for car travel, you need to think about how safe and secure your dog will be in the crate, as well as how you will fit and secure the crate into your car. Often plastic or wire crates are the best choice for car travel.

If you’re looking for the best dog crate for airline travel, the type of crate you need will depend on whether your dog will be in the cabin with you or in the cargo hold.

If your dog is in the cabin, a smaller, softer crate may be better. If they’re in the cargo hold, a sturdy, solid crate to keep them safe from being bumped around would be best.

Each airline has individual regulations and rules about which carriers they will allow onboard, so vital to check those requirements specifically.

If you’re going to be traveling by air with your dog a lot, it’s a good idea to look for crates that state they are ‘Airline Approved’ or ‘Guaranteed On Board’.

Furthermore, pet safety crash testing is also an important factor to consider, as these tests can guarantee the safety of your pet in the event of a car accident.

Most car crates proudly display their Center for Pet Safety certification, which is a good sign that the crate has undergone rigorous testing. Ultimately, you should feel confident knowing your pet is safe, secure, and comfortable in its crash-tested crate.

High-Quality Materials

Choosing a crate made with high-quality materials means it’s likely to be safer, as well as more sturdy and secure. It also means the crate is likely to last longer and stand up to wear as you go on adventures with your pup.

Correct Size for Your Dog

It’s vital to choose a crate that is the right size for your dog. Ideally, you should measure your dog:

• from their nose to the base of their tail, and add 3 to 4 inches for the length of the crate
• from the top of their head or ears to the floor, and add 3 to 4 inches for the height of the crate
• across their shoulders and multiply by two for the width of the crate

Your dog should always be able to stand up fully, turn around comfortably, and stretch out in their crate, but not be able to walk around.

Correct Strength for Your Dog

Think about how strong you need the crate to be for your dog. If your dog is smaller or generally calm when they’re in its crate, a soft-sided crate might be suitable.

If your dog is bigger and typically chews their crate or tries to escape, a solid plastic or metal crate will be better suited.

Secure Closure

Any crate you choose should have a secure closure to keep your dog safely inside the crate during travel (see also ‘ How To Secure A Dog Crate In A Car ‘).

A zip or small lock may be enough for some dogs, while escape artists may need double, reinforced locks. It’s also essential that the seat belt in the car should be securely attached to the crate.

Easy Entry and Exit

Think about how your dog will enter and exit the crate. Some crates have multiple doors to make things easier.

Good Air Flow

A crate must have good ventilation. Wire crates typically have a lot of ventilation. Look for ventilation holes in the side of plastic crates and mesh windows on soft-sided crates.

Easy Cleaning

There’s no denying that dogs can make a mess. If you’re traveling, particularly if your dog is nervous, it might have an accident. Choosing a crate that is easy to clean will be helpful and more hygienic.

Some crates will have removable or washable linings. Others may be easy to wipe down. Some are ‘potty proof’, meaning there’s a pull-out area under the crate that easily pulls out so you can clean it, or you could add a puppy pad to the pull-out area during travel to absorb any accidents.

Comfort for Your Dog

Of course, it’s crucial your dog feels comfortable. Choosing a crate that is the right size with good ventilation is key for this. You can also add in a comfortable bed, blankets, crate-safe toys and chews, and water.

Ease of Storage

If you’re going to be storing the crate when you aren’t traveling, think about how much room you have. A crate that folds down may be more suitable.

Portability

Consider the weight of the crate as well as how easy it is to carry. Some will be more lightweight, may fold down, and may even have handles to make lifting them easier. The best heavy-duty dog crates may have wheels to help you move them.

Why You Might Buy a Travel Dog Crate

Just like people, when dogs are traveling by air or by road, they need to be secured safely to protect them in case of an accident. A crate can be a great way to keep your dog safe.

If you use a crate at home, your dog can see it as their ‘bedroom’ or safe space. Often when dogs travel in a crate or use it as a place to sleep while on holiday, it keeps them calmer and happier because they see the crate as a positive place.

The Importance of Crate Training

It’s crucial that your dog sees their crate as a safe place. This means you need to crate train your dog before you use a travel crate (see also ‘ Dog Crate Training Pros & Cons (Is It Really Necessary?) ‘).

Do your research if you’ve never crate trained before; there are lots of great guides online.

Some general crate training tips are included below:

• Get your dog used to their crate for a while before you plan on traveling.
• Never use the crate as a punishment, only as a positive place.
• Use lots of treats and praise to encourage them and make training fun.
• Never force your dog into the crate; encourage them to enter on their own.
• Start your dog off with being in the crate for short periods while at home and gradually increase the time as they get more comfortable.
• Use long-lasting treats or crate-safe toys while they’re in the crate to make it fun.
• Make their crate a comfortable, cozy place by using things like bedding and blankets.

Travel Dog Crate Safety Advice

Always choose a crate the correct size for your dog and ensure it’s sturdy enough for your purposes. Always secure the crate correctly during traveling. It’s crucial to make sure your dog can’t escape from the crate to keep them safe.

Travel Dog Crate FAQ

Can dog crates be too big.

Yes, a crate that’s too big can be dangerous, especially when traveling. Choosing the correct size of crate for your dog is crucial.

Is it really safe for your dog to travel in a crate?

Yes, the right crate can help to keep your dog safe during travel.

Do dogs prefer wire or plastic crates?

Dogs have preferences just like humans, but in general, a dog won’t mind what kind of crate they’re in as long as it’s cozy and comfortable and they are crate trained.

Finding the right travel dog crate can keep your pup safe and happy during travel, allowing you both to enjoy your adventures together. The world is yours to explore!

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Ann-Marie Sharpe

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Before You Go, Save Up to 50% on Your Pet Supplies…

How to Select the Best Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Your Dog & 12 of Our Favorites!

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March 11, 2018

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K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Have an upcoming flight with your four-footer? You’re in luck!

Today we’re covering the basics of air travel with your furry friend! We’ll detail how to select an airline approved pet carrier for keeping under the seat in front of you, in the cabin of the airplane.

If you’re looking for info on checking your dog in the cargo hold of the plane, see our post on the best airline approved dog crates for cargo hold air travel .

Best Airline Approved Pet Carriers for Cabin: Quick Picks

• Prodigen Airline Pet Carrier [Most Affordable Airline-Approved Pet Carrier] : This ultra-affordable carrier includes four panels of mesh ventilation plus three zipper openings to give you easy access to your pooch.
• X-Zone Expandable Pet Carrier [Best Expandable  Airline-Approved Pet Carrier ] :  This expandable pet carrier features tons of mesh ventilation and two expandable panels to give your pooch more room when needed.
• Katziela Pet Carrier [Best Airline-Approved Pet Carrier with Wheels] : This mesh-paneled carrier’s removable wheeled base allows you to tote your traveling canine around with ease.
• Sleepypod Air Dog Carrier [Best Luxury-Caliber Airline-Approved Pet Carrier ] : Sleepypod’s carrier features luggage grade materials for top-notch durability. Fits dogs up to 17.5 pounds.

How to Pick the Best Airline-Approved Pet Carrier: Features to Look For

There are several variations of different airline approved pet carriers to choose from. Some differentiating features include:

• ​ Wheels. Some airline friendly carriers have wheels for easy maneuverability, while others function more as standard dog backpack carriers or pet purse carriers , with handles and shoulder straps. If you have a weak shoulder, you may want to opt for wheels over traditional over-the-shoulder style carriers.
• Zipper or Velcro. Some carriers have velcro closings, while others use zippers. Velcro can be opened potentially by boisterous pets, but provides faster access. Zippers are more secure, but can be a nuisance.
• Ventilation. You’ll want to make sure that your airline approved pet carrier has plenty of ventilation for your dog to breath and feel comfortable.
• Pockets. Pockets are always handy to have on your pet carry on bag. Pockets allow for easy storage of toys, treats, and other supplies. Some airline pet carriers will have more pockets than others.

Best Airline-Approved Dog Carriers

You can check out some of our favorite airline-approved dog carriers below.

Please note that there is no one official airline approved dog carrier, as carrier requirements vary between airlines . However, all of these carriers have been used for air travel and should suit your needs.

Still, we suggest you always double check your specific airline carry-on dimensions with any carrier you consider ordering.

Looking for a carrier you can check in cargo during your flight? See our guide to airline approved dog crates for cargo hold .

1. Prodigen Airline Approved Pet Carrier

This is a sponsored placement , in which an advertiser pays a fee to be featured in this article. Learn more

Prodigen Airline Approved Pet Carrier

A 3-door, bag-style carrier that’s budget-friendly and features a strap for easy toting..

About: The Prodigen Airline Approved Pet Carrier is a feature-packed carrier at an affordable price. We’re especially big fans of the four-sided mesh panels (ventilation is very important for airplane dog carrier), along with several zipper-opening panels.

• Airplane-Friendly Dimensions.  Customers have confirmed that this carrier is accepted on most major airlines, including American Airline, United, JetBlue, Delta, & others!
• 3 Door Design.  This carrier has three doors – a top zipper panel door, along with two side zipper panels, which makes it easy to slip a hand inside and comfort your dog when necessary.
• 4 Mesh Panels.  Four sides of quality, claw-proof mesh panels for superior breathability and ventilation for your dog.
• Fleece Pad.  Removable fleece mat on the inside bottom to keep your pup cozy. Can be easily removed and washes for cleaning.
• Pockets.  Includes pockets for storing your pup’s treats, leash, etc.
• Inside Clip.  There’s a small lead clip inside the carrier which keeps your pup safe and makes sure your dog won’t jump out when you open the carrier.
• Luggage Strap.  Included luggage strap makes it easy to attach carrier onto your suitcase.
• Available in Several Colors.  Comes in Grey, Blue, Green, Pink, or Purple!

SIZING DIMENSIONS:

• One Size: 17.5″ x 10″ x 11″; accommodates pets weighing up to 14 pounds
• The 4 breathable mesh panels provide plenty of ventilation 
• Great quality for the price 
• Compact design is easy to haul around
• Some owners reported the carrier has an odor
• The soft sides don’t provide much structure

2. X-Zone Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

X-Zone Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

An affordable, airline-friendly carrier with two expansion panels for extra room..

About: The X-Zone Expandable Pet Carrier is stylish, reasonably priced carry on dog carrier that can be expanded or retracted through the use of fold-out panels. It can even be collapsed completely for easy storage and transport.

• Foldable. Lays completely flat when unzipped to save space.
• Expandable. Sides zips down to provide extra space while sturdy wire frame maintains shape.
• Zipper Opening . Pet entrance has 2 zippers for easy access.
• Adjustable Shoulder Strap . Allows for comfortable carrying for you and your pet.
• ​ Small: 17″ x 11″x 11″ (before expansion); accommodates pets weighing up to 15 pounds
• Large: 19.7″ x 12″ x 12″ (before expansion); accommodates pets weighing up to 18 pounds
• Pets love the “porch” that comes with this expandable pet carrier
• The frame features sturdy wire for stability  
• Breathable mesh design keeps canines comfy
• It’s challenging to open the expander when your pet is inside 
• Some reported the strap was weak

3. Sleepypod Dog Carrier

Sleepypod Dog Carrier

A high-end, all-in-one pet carrier featuring luggage-grade materials and a sleek design..

About: The Sleepypod Under Seat Dog Carrier is the whole package – it functions as a airline carry-on carrier, a car seat, and a dog bed!

Features: 

• Flexible Size . The Sleepypod airline approved pet carrier fits pets up to 17 ½ pounds, but is also compressible to fit under different size seats on airlines or fold up when not in use.
• Sleek Design . Very well designed, giving pets maximum room without sacrificing sturdiness or style.
• Luggage Grade Fabric . High quality nylon outside with super comfy plush inside for a class A airline approved dog carrier.
• Easy Access . Both the top and ends open, making it easy to access pets.
• Multiple Colors . Comes in Dark Chocolate, Glacier Silver, Jet Black, Orange Dream, Strawberry Red, and Robin Egg Blue.
• Single Size: 22″ x 10.5″ x 10.5″; accommodates pets weighing up to 17.5 pounds
• Sturdy carrier that’s built to last 
• Doubles as a car seat and dog bed
• Pet parents love the luggage attachment insert
• It is a bit pricey
• It’s bulkier than many owners want

4. Bergan Soft-Sided Airline Pet Carrier

Bergan Soft-Sided Airline Pet Carrier

A stylish and discreet, duffle-bag style carrier with a fleece lining for comfort..

About: The Bergan Soft-Sided Airline Pet Carrier is a soft, duffle-bag style carrier that allows for discreet transportation of your canine as a carry-on.

It’s a mid-priced carrier, not the cheapest on our list, but not the most expensive either.

• Removable Fleece Bed . Soft fleece bedding and rigid insert panel helps the carrier hold its shape. Both removable for easy washing.
• Comfort Your Pet . Exclusive “Pet Connect” zipper opening allows you to comfortably and safely interact with your pet while traveling – an excellent choice for airline approved dog carriers for in cabin travel.
• Shoulder Strap . Optional shoulder strap included is padded and adjustable.
• Multiple Zipper Openings . Several zippered mesh panels allow for maximum viewing and ventilation.
• Multiple Safety Features . This airplane pet carrier has locking zippers, seatbelt loops, and reflective strips.
• Lead & Phthalate Safe . There are no harmful chemicals for you or your pet.
• Multiple Colors . This airplane friendly dog carrier comes in Black, Mineral Blue, Rose Wine, and Spinach Green.
• Small: 14″ X 6″ X 8″; accommodates pets weighing up to 7 pounds
• Large: 19″ x 10″ x 13″; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• Cozy fleece-lined interior for comfort 
• Mesh doors provide easy access
• The extra “pet connect” zipper allows you to touch your pet while inside
• Some reported the carrier had an unusual smell
• Several owners complained about its capacity (only the smallest dogs will fit)

5. AmazonBasics Soft Travel Carrier

AmazonBasics Soft Travel Carrier

Budget-friendly, all mesh pet carrier that’s suitable for most domestic flights..

About: The AmazonBasics Airline Dog Carrier is an airy, affordable, duffle-style carry-on carrier with abundant mesh windows, providing extra ventilation for your pooch.

• Airline Approved Cabin Pet Carrier . Suitable for travel on most major domestic airlines.
• Flexible Frame . Springy wire frame with soft-sided carrier material flexes to fit under various seat dimensions.
• Straps . Includes both seatbelt and luggage strap for easy carrying and safe travel.
• Easy Entry . Contains both top and side entry panels as well as full mesh panels for ventilation.
• Small: 15″ x 10″ x 8.5″; accommodates pets weighing up to 8 pounds
• Medium:  18″ x 11″ x 10.5″; accommodates pets weighing up to 16 pounds
• Large: 19″ x 11.8″ x 11.5″; ; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• The mesh panels provide great airflow
• Embedded fleece pad provides additional comfort 
• Large model is pretty roomy
• The thin straps can be hard on your shoulders
• While roomy, the recommended pet size range appears too large

6. Katziela Pet Carrier

Katziela pet carrier, a telescopic handle and a removable wheeled base make this rolling carrier a hit at the airport..

About: Katziela’s Pet Carrier features a removable wheeled base for easy pet transport while still being airline compliant. Convert it to a tote or shoulder bag as needed with included handles and a shoulder strap.

• Ample Mesh Panels . Large mesh panels on the carrier’s top and sides offer plenty of ventilation and visibility.
• ID Panel . Clearly displays your canine’s information for convenience and safety during travel.
• Removable Interior Bed . Fleece bed keeps your dog comfortable or can be swapped out for your pet’s preferred bedding.
• Telescopic Handle . Easily maneuver the carrier around busy terminals with its accessible handle.
• Storage pockets . Carry leashes, bowls, and more within the generous side storage.
• Solid Coloring . This airline-approved pup carrier comes in two color options: Black and Gray.
• One Size: 19″ X 13″ X 15″; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• Removable wheeled base makes for easy transport while still being airline-compliant
• Offers plenty of ventilation for canines
• Versatile, allowing for use as a wheeled carrier, tote, or shoulder bag
• The wheeled base needs to be removed for under-seat storage during flight
• Some travelers were told the bag was too big for their chosen airline, so triple-check requirements before booking a flight

7. Sturdibag Airplane-Friendly Dog Carrier

Sturdibag Airplane-Friendly Dog Carrier

Lightweight, duffle-style carrier with closable flaps to provide skittish pets with privacy..

About: The Sturdibag Large Airplane-Friendly Carrier is another duffle-style carrier with multiple doors, straps, and windows for your canine’s comfort during flight.

• Lightweight . Made of very lightweight durable 600 denier polyester with flexible rods that help maintain arch shape.
• Comfortable Straps . Easy to carry with an adjustable 4-point padded shoulder strap and leather hand grips.
• Multiple Mesh Panels . Several mesh windows for viewing and ventilation that can be covered as well for privacy or comfort for your pet.
• Safety Straps . Perfect to strap in airline seats or for car seat belts.
• Huge Color Selection . This dog carry on bag comes in 11 color options including Hot Pink, Lavender, Evergreen, and more!
• Small: 10″ X 10″ X 18″; accommodates pets weighing up to 30 pounds
• Large : 12″ x 12″ x 18″; accommodates pets weighing up to 50 pounds
• Cushy interior provides plenty of comfort
• You can choose between 12 different color  
• Flexible shape makes it suitable for a variety of situations
• Only features a single door 
• Only available in one size

One of our readers likes the Sturdibag Airplane-Friendly Dog Carrier so much she felt compelled to reach out to us and share her experiences!

Overall, the bag has worked very well for her 10-pound Yorkie. She explains that it is incredibly roomy, and the vented window and privacy shade are highly appreciated features.

8. PetAmi Airline Approved Dog Carrier

PetAmi Airline Approved Dog Carrier

A sleek canine carrier with crisp lines and heaps of color options for fashion-forward floofs..

About: PetAmi’s Airline Approved Dog Carrier lets your four-footer travel in style with its modern design available in multiple solid prints and playful patterns. Sherpa bedding keeps your canine cozy, while a safety lead prevents pupper escapes during travel.

• Durable Construction . Made with quality 600D high-grade polyester.
• Ventilation . Mesh panels offer airflow and visibility for pupper comfort.
• Storage . Side storage pocket for toting pup accessories.
• Easy Access . Large top opening allows for quick access to your dog and cleaning as needed.
• Long Handles . Carry as a stylish handheld tote or sling over your shoulder.
• Multiple Styles. This airline-approved dog carrier is offered in Black, Chevron Teal, Floral Gray, Heather Charcoal, Heather Gray, Pink, Polka Dot Black, Purple, Stripe Black, and Turquoise.
• One Size: 17″ x 8″ x 11″; 12-pound weight capacity
• Available in a variety of fun, fashionable patterns
• Affordably priced
• Well-ventilated and durably built according to pet parents
• Weight limit suits toy breeds only
• Not as spacious as some other pup carriers

9. Sherpa Original Deluxe Bag

Sherpa Original Deluxe Bag

A sherpa-lined pet carrier with mesh windows to provide the ultimate canine comfort..

About: Is your canine a cuddlebug? If so, he will probably appreciate this luxurious sherpa-lined carrier. The cozy foldable carrier features breathable mesh panels and a seatbelt strap for use while traveling.  

• Comfy and easy to clean . Machine-washable Sherpa liner included to keep your companion cozy.
• Dual access points . Carrier includes both top and side door entry points.
• Soft, flexible wire frame . This provides a great combination of rigidity for safety and flexibility for tight fits.
• Extra storage space . A rear pocket for accessories is included in the design.
• Provides plenty of airflow . This carrier features mesh windows with locking zippers.

Sizing Dimensions: 

• Small : 15” x 8.5” x 10”; accommodates pets weighing up to 8 pounds
• Medium : 17” x 11” x 10.5”; accommodates pets weighing up to 16 pounds
• Large : 19” x 11.75” x 11.5”; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• Super soft for canine comfort
• Machine washable for easy clean up 
• Large zipper pocket for holding extra accessories 
• Some pet parents had trouble with the locking zipper
• The mesh lining isn’t especially durable

10. Natuvalle 6-in-1 Pet Carrier

Natuvalle 6-in-1 Pet Carrier

A spacious pet carrier that’ll accommodate larger pets than many other models..

About: Naturuvalle offers this 6-in-1 pet carrier that can be worn as a backpack, front pack, shoulder bag, or duffle bag for plenty of flexibility. The sturdy bag comes with a fleece insert to keep your best buddy feeling his best. 

• Incredibly flexible . Can be used in 6 different positions to accommodate your pup’s preferences.
• Built-in travel features . Comes with included seat belt loops for safety.
• Tons of airflow . Features 4 breathable mesh panels.
• Additional safety features . Reflective stitching for nighttime visibility. 
• Multiple size options . This carrier comes in 4 different sizes to suit a variety of pets.
• Extra Small : 14” x 8.3” x 8.3”; accommodates pets weighing up to 8 pounds
• Small : 16.5” x 9” x 11.4”; accommodates pets weighing up to 16 pounds
• Medium : 18.5” x 10.2” x 11.8”; accommodates pets weighing up to 18 pounds
• Large : 20.8” x 11” x 14.3”; accommodates pets weighing up to 22 pounds
• Works in your choice of 6 different configurations
• Available in 4 different sizes
• Several owners praised the carrier’s capacity
• The shoulder strap wasn’t super comfortable for all owners
• Carrier is a bit too rigid for some situations

11. Mr. Peanut’s Soft Sided Pet Carrier

Mr. Peanut’s Soft Sided Pet Carrier

A stylish, soft-sided pet carrier with mesh panels and a fleece lining for comfort..

About: Mr. Peanut’s soft pet carrier is perfect for puppies with its compact size, waterproof bottom panel and built-in seatbelt. This carrier will keep your precious puppy comfortable with its fleece-lined bedding. 

• Tons of airflow . Breathable mesh on all sides to provide plenty of ventilation.
• Leak-resistant bottom . Included waterproof bottom panel insert will stop leaks pronto.
• Great-looking colors . Bag is available in 5 different stylish color options.
• Bonus safety features . Comes with built-in seat belts for car travel.
• Great for tight spaces . This carrier features a flexible, soft-sided design.
• One Size : 18″ x 10.4″  x 11″; accommodates pets weighing up to 15 pounds
• Waterproof bottom panel helps prevent leaks and messes
• Comes with a number of helpful features like the embedded ID tag, stylish exterior, and skid proof bottom
• Can be attached to luggage for additional convenience
• Mesh panels won’t stand up to clawing canines
• The shoulder strap isn’t strong enough for heavy dogs

12. Morpilot Pet Travel Bag

Morpilot Pet Travel Bag

A comfy and collapsible airline-approved pet carrier with handy travel accessories..

About: If you’re ready to venture out with your best buddy, this carrier and travel accessories from Morpilot is certainly worth exploring. The foldable pet carrier also comes with a foldable water bowl and travel strap for easy pooch transport. 

• Breathable design . Comes with 3 mesh doors for plenty of ventilation.
• Cozy interior . Comes with soft pad lining for maximum canine comfort.
• Safety first . Included inner leash hook to keep your pet secure.
• Easy to carry . Comes with a compatible shoulder strap and portable water bowl.
• Stays put . Anti-skid bottom to prevent the bag from sliding around. 
• Medium : 17.3” x 12.2” x 13.4”; accommodates pets weighing up to 15 pounds
• Large : 18” x 12.5” x 14”; accommodates pets weighing up to 20 pounds
• Comes with a collapsible food or water bowl
• The soft pad insert is removable and machine-washable 
• Owners loved the carrier’s rigidity
• Some pet parents reported a faint plastic smell
• Rigidity makes it challenging to stow underneath a seat

Airline Pet Policy Sizing Requirements & Pricing

Different airlines have different sizing regulations and prices for jet-setting pets. This can obviously be quite a headache for owners, but we’ll try to help by outlining the policies of some of the major carriers below.

For the full list, check out our guide on t he best pet-friendly airlines for flying with dogs !

UNITED AIRLINES PET POLICY

​For Hard-Sided Crates: Maximum dimensions for hard-sided kennels are 17.5″ long x 12″ wide x 7.5″ high.

For Soft-Sided Crates:  Maximum dimensions for soft-sided kennels are 18″ long x 11″ wide x 11″ high (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm).

Pricing: $125 each way, plus an addition $125 for each stopover of 4 hours or more within the U.S. or stopovers of more than 24 hours outside of the U.S.

Other Details: Pets must be 4 months (16 weeks) or older to fly on United. Pets are not permitted on flights to, from, or through Australia, Hawaii, New Zealand.

Note: Soft-sided pet carriers are allowed to slightly exceed recommended since they are adjustable and be conformed to under-seat space.

For more info, see the United pets travel page .

AMERICAN AIRLINES PET POLICY

​For Hard-Sided Crates: Cannot exceed the under seat dimensions of the aircraft – you must find the under-seat dimensions for the aircraft you will be flying with.

For Soft-Sided Crates:  Can be slightly larger than hard-sided kennels if they are made of water-repellant material, are padded, or have nylon mesh ventilation on two or more sides.

Pricing: $125 per kennel

Other Details: Pets must be 4 months (16 weeks) or older to fly on American Airlines within the US. The exception is flying from or to Puerto Rico, in which case pets must be 8 weeks or older.

Carry-on dogs are not permitted in business class or first class due to lack of under-seat storage. They are also not permitted on these aircrafts:

• Boeing 757-L
• Boeing 757-EW
• Boeing 777-200
• Boeing 777-300
• Boeing 787-8
• Boeing 787-9
• Airbus A330-200
• Airbus A330-300

International Flights: While pets are allowed on most flights up to 11 hours and 31 minutes, no carry-on pets are permitted when traveling to:

• Parts of the Caribbean (Barbados, Jamaica)
• Parts of South America (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Venezuela)
• Transatlantic flights
• Transpacific flights
• Australia (service or assistance pets only – no information available on carry on vs cargo)

There are also additional rules for certain regions:

• Mexico : Pets are required to meet government regulations on vaccinations

For more info, see the American Airlines pets travel page.

ALASKA AIRLINES PET POLICY

For Hard-Sided Crates: Maximum hard-sided carry on crate dimensions cannot exceed 17″ x 11″ x 7.5″.

For Soft-Sided Crates: Maximum soft-sided crate dimensions cannot exceed 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″.

Pricing: $100 each way

Additional Info:  Option to bring two pets in the main cabin, when adjacent seat is purchased by the same customer. The pet counts as your carry-on allotment – this means you can bring your pet + a personal item, but not a pet + personal item + standard size carry on bag.

Allows option for two pets of same species and similar size ​may travel in a single carrier.

Airbus aircrafts do not allow pets to be kept in first class seating.

For travel to:

• Hawaii: Dogs or cats may be permitted, but since Hawaii is the only rabies-free state, there are additional rules about traveling to Hawaii with pets in Alaska Airlines ( details here )
• Nome, Kotzebue: Must have proof of parvovirus and rabies vaccination

For more info, see the Alaska Airlines pet travel page

DELTA AIRLINES PET POLICY

Sizing Info: Maximum dimensions depend on your flight and the size of the aircraft – you’ll need to contact the reservations desk for exact info.

Pricing: $125 each way (US, Canada, Puerto Rico) / $200 (Virgin Islands, International) / $75 (Brazil).

Delta has recently stopped allowing pets to travel as checked baggage , but they’ve started offering another travel option for pets, called the CarePod .

The CarePod is a specially designed, triple-locking, GPS-equipped crate that comes with a lot of pooch-friendly features. Flying in the CarePod isn’t cheap (it costs approximately $850 one way ), but it may be a good option for some owners.

Additional Info: Your pet counts as your personal item. Pets must be 10 weeks old for domestic travel, 16 weeks old if traveling to other countries.

With Delta, pets are not allowed to travel in cabin to/from the following destinations:

• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Pets are also not allowed in certain sections of Delta flights:

• Rows 30-35 in A330-200 aircrafts
• Rows 30-43 in A330 -300 aircrafts
• Center seats in 757-200 aircrafts

For more info, see the Delta pets travel page.

Editor’s Note: Delta has recently changed many of their procedures and regulations for owners traveling with pets. For example, they no longer allow pets to fly as cargo on any flights on the Boeing 767 , nor are pets allowed to fly in-cabin in the international business section.

JET BLUE PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions: Maximum carry-on carrier dimensions cannot exceed 17″ long x 12.5″ wide x 8.5″ high and the combined weight of your pet and the carrier can’t be over 20 pounds.

Pricing: $120 each way, only one pet per passenger is permitted.

Additional Info : Pets are not permitted as carry-on for flights to/from: Jamaica, Barbados, St Lucia, the Cayman Islands, or Trinidad & Tobago. 

For more info, see the JetBlue pets travel page.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions: Maximum dimensions for carry on crates are 18.5” long x 8.5” high x 13.5” wide.

Pricing: $95 each way

Additional Info:  Cannot travel as carry on for international flights.

Allows option for two pets of same species and similar size ​may travel in a single carrier. Pet carriers qualify as either: a) a personal item or b) a carry-on item. This means you can bring the pet carrier and a regular-sized carry on bag.

For more info, see the Southwest Airline pet travel page.

VIRGIN AIRLINES PET POLICY

Important! NO PETS are permitted to fly in the cabin with Virgin Airlines. Only service dogs are permitted in-cabin, all others must go in cargo.

Maximum Dimensions: Insubstantial information online – contact airline for details.

Pricing:  Cost varies on destination, time of year, and size of carrier. Contact airline carrier for more info.

For more info, see the Virgin Airlines pet travel page.

ALLEGIANT PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions:  9” high x 16” wide x 19” deep.

Pricing: $100 per segment per carrier

Additional Info:  No more than two pets per carrier are permitted. Each paid traveler may have one carrier each. Only cats and dogs are accepted.

For more info, see the Allegiant Airline pet travel page .

FRONTIER AIRLINES PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions: 18″ long x 14″ wide x 8″ high.

Pricing: $75 each way

Additional Info:  Pets only travel in cabin, no cargo hold options. Pets are allowed on international flights to/from the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old to travel. Soft-sided carrier recommended.

For more info, see the Frontier Airlines pet travel page .

SPIRIT AIRLINES PET POLICY

Maximum Dimensions: 18″ x 14″ x 9″, and must be able to fit under the seat. Combined weight of the pet and carrier may not exceed 40 pounds.

Pricing: No information available

Additional Info:  Two pets per container are permitted. Not pets allowed on international flights.

For more info, see the Spirit Airlines pet travel page .

Other Airline & Flight Details to Consider When Traveling With Pets

Flying with your pet can be a complicated endeavor, and there is a lot to think about. Just review the following list of important notes to ensure you’ll be prepared for a problem-free journey with your doggo!

• Most airlines require that dogs be able to stand up and lie down comfortably in their carry-on travel carrier.
• Crates must be in good condition and without cracks, breaks, or tears. Airlines may reject carrier if it is not in good condition.
• Each flight can only allow a certain number of carry-on pets per flight. Often, this number is quite small (often just one to two pets for first and business class seating, and four to five for cabin seating). Because of this, it’s important to book your flight as soon as possible.
• Pets must stay in carrier for the entire flight .
• When taking a pet as a carry-on, you may not sit in the exit row or any row where under-seat space is not available in front of you.
• Most airlines do not allow the transportation of snub-nosed dogs. If you need to get a snub-nosed dog from point A to point B, you may have to opt for a private pet transport service .
• Pets younger than 8 weeks not allowed to fly. Additional age restrictions may exist depending on airline.
• Pets cannot fly with unaccompanied minors.
• The CDC requires that all pets coming to the US are immunized against rabies and must be completed 30 days before arrival.
• Some airlines allow multiple pets of same species and similar size in one carrier,  while others do not.
• Crates must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
• Carrier regulations and requirements may vary for a single airline depending on the aircraft and the flight destination.

For more guidance on what you should know when flying with a pooch, be sure to check out our guide on tips to know before flying with your dog .

Dog Carriers for Airplanes FAQ

Still have questions about the kind of carrier you’ll need to travel to your next pet-friendly vacation destination ? We’ve rounded up some of the most common questions below!

What size dog carrier fits under airplane seat?

The exact carrier dimensions required for an airplane animal carrier vary depending on the airline, but on average, you’ll want a carrier that approximately fits the dimensions of 18″(L) x 14″(W) x 9″(H).

What kind of dog carriers are allowed on planes?

Both hard and soft dog carriers are allowed on planes, placed under the seat in front of you where a personal item or carry-on bag might normally go.

However, many airlines have slightly different size dimension requirements for hard-sided crates, usually requiring that hard-sided crates be smaller. Soft-sided crates, on the other hand, can be slightly larger since they have enough flexibility to be pressed down slightly in order to easily fit beneath an airline seat.

While most airlines allow both soft and hard crates, we’d suggest using a soft-sided crate when flying with your dog in the cabin.

Do airlines actually measure pet carriers?

Usually airlines won’t bother to measure your pet carrier, so long as it looks like generally appropriate dimensions and it can fit beneath the seat in front of you.

Can I buy a seat for my dog on an airplane?

While the rules can vary depending on the exact airline, most major airlines will not allow you to buy a seat for your dog. This is because your dog must remain in a crate at all times during the flight — buying an extra seat won’t change this.

However, you could buy two seats, keep your dog crated under the seat in front of you during take off and landing, and then move your crated dog to the seat beside you at cruising altitude.

Can a 25 lb dog fly in cabin?

Probably not. Airlines won’t measure your dog alone, but they will take into account the combined weight of the carrier and dog. A 25 lb dog will likely be too large to fit in an airline-friendly carrier.

How strict are airlines with dog weight?

How strict airlines are on their dimension and weight requirements can really vary depending on the airline and the individual staff member you’re interacting with. However, we’ve heard from many individuals that many airlines are quite relaxed about the guidelines, so long as your dog isn’t way too large or big for the carrier and the space underneath the seat in front of you.

Can I fly on a plane with a puppy?

Yes, but the exact age requirements vary by airline. Most require puppies be at least 10 weeks old in order to fly.

Can I take two dogs on a plane with me?

Many airlines will allow you to take two dogs onto a plane with you. Some require the animals be in two separate crates, while others will allow multiple dogs to be in a single crate, so long as they have enough space to be comfortable.

Do you have any experiences with airline pet carriers you’d like to share? Tell us about your favorites and review your top picks in the comments section!

Want more ways to travel with your pooch? Check out our guide to dog bike baskets !

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Do you have a hard carrier suggestions? I am moving with my dog via Alaska Airlines, and last time I moved with her, we used a soft kennel, but she’s 20 lbs and it was sagging on the bottom, and not easy to rest on a large suitcase without stability (so that I can roll her to have both my hands free for my two suitcases and keep my dog and cat on each suitcase). I am just trying to find some that are as close to the size limits/as big as possible. Also, do you know if they literally pull out a tape measure to size it? If it’s .5-1″ larger, will they care?

If you need to go on a transatlantic flight to Spain (or first point of entry in Spain) and need to use American Airlines miles (One World), you can book a flight with Iberia (spanish airline). Iberia allows animals in cabin (however only 1 animal per flight is allowed so best to call the airline and reserve the spot ahead of time).

Thanks for the tip, Bruno!

From American Airlines website January 6/2021. “Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico”. 16 weeks if traveling into the U.S. from high-risk countries.

I have been reading your articles with interest, as I may be traveling with a small dog soon. It appears the soft sided carrier I bought many years ago is too big for current standards. It would be helpful if your reviews would list the dimensions of all the carriers in the same order, i.e. either consistently l, w, h or l, h, w. My head is swimming. Otherwise, great info.

I also mean the airlines’ dimension limits, too. Thanks!

Thank you for any other informative web site.

The place else could I get that kind of info written in such an ideal method? I’ve a mission that I’m simply now operating on, and I have been on the look out for such information.

I’m travelling with my 4 kg cat from Mauritius to Toronto via Paris on Air France, overall 29 hours duration (Mauritius-Paris 12 hours, transit 8 hours, Paris-Toronto 9 hours).

Can you plz help me with soft carrier specific dimensions and other rules applied.

I’m very anxious for him as it will be his first time travelling.

Just FYI your website says Alaskan Airlines. It’s Alaska Airlines…no N at the end

Oops! Thanks for the catch, Lisa. It’s fixed now!

I am flying Allegiant Airlines soon and was wondering if anyone who mentioned they were going that airlines had any problems with their pet? Having some problems finding a carrier to use and wondering if they are a little lenient With the soft sides as they can squash down to fit under seat. Also can I carry on the dog stroller as my carry on?

It is so hard to find a flight from Minneapolis to Seattle for cat carrier. Measurements so strict and where can you find one that small? Alaska Airlines measurement is 9.5x11x17. HELP few carrier close by like an inch.

Hi everyone! I’ll be traveling with my Boston Terrier in to France and am hoping everything goes off without a hitch. For those of you who have travelled with your pets in the hold, did the airline carrier weigh the dog and carrier when you checked in? If so, what airline did you travel with? I’m a little nervous because my dog weighs ~18 lbs and the policy states 17 lbs with the carrier (I’m looking into a flight with TAP). Would love to hear about other people’s experiences/tips. Thanks in advance!

Hi! Very good info on your website! Thank you! I wondered if you could help with my situation. I have 2 nine pound Havanese spaded females, named Q-Tip and Chloe.

I am having a hard time finding a wheeled carrier that will handle both of them. I prefer a separation, because Q-tip can be a little mean to her sister, Chloe.

Can you suggest options that are Airline Compliant, as well as any other key pointers, as I have never traveled with pets? Thank you in advance for your consideration and expertise, Anxious Mom – Jené Richards

Hey there, Jené. So glad you found the article helpful (and we love your dogs’ names — especially Q-Tip). Unfortunately, we aren’t aware of a wheeled model that features a divider. You may be able to figure out a DIY solution, but you’ll likely just have to use two separate carriers. Sorry we don’t have a better answer for you! Best of luck!

Love the list but I wish it also listed the weight of the carriers. Some airlines have weight restrictions for the dog/carrier combo. I know how much my dog weighs, how much will it be altogether?

Good thinking Lynn! All these products do have the size in the product links, but we’ll work on adding that information into our review, as I’m sure it would be helpful for our readers to know.

Can you tell me where to get a carrier with the specifications for Allegiant air lines. 9”high. 16’W.10’D.

Do you have a list of which airlines allow two of the same species in one carrier? I have two 4 lbs Yorkie sand would like to take them onboard in same carrier.

Im traveling with KLM and im having a very hard time finding a kennel with a hight of max24 the problem is that if is less than 24cm or 9,44″ my dog won’t be confortable, does anyone have traveled in KLM with pets in cabin that can tell me id the are so extract in the measures because i have found kennels with 25cm or 9.8″

Can you recommend a pet carrier that Frontier will accept. Our dog is 17” x 10”

Hi I am traveling to Thailand with KLM the final flight , a 1 hr long, domestic flight is with Bangkok airways. KLM allow pets to travel, in the cabin, therefore in a soft bag, however the later flight with Bangkok airways, only allow for dogs to travel in the hold Can my Maltese travel in hold in a soft bag or is that dangerous and forbidden? Thanks

Please I need urgent help first time I’m travel with my cat and to small finch birds united airline told me I need these sizes to have them on the plane with me for the hard bird cage size 17.5inches wide x12inches wide x7.5 inches high and also for my cat I need “18×11″X11 please help me I cand find in the store thank you

Hey there, Oya. We don’t have any recommendations for the bird carrier (birds are a bit outside our focus), but the Sherpa Deluxe Carrier discussed above may work for your cat.

Best of luck!

we have bought a home in florida and also live in another state we decided we wanted to fly home. Well we have a small dog he weights 16.8 lbs . Our problem is Frontier has a ad get a carrier that your dog will be happy with can stand, turn around and lay down then the dimesions 18″x14″x8″ where can i find that size of a carrier. I know our dog will not beable to stand but we have to do something it is costing more for our dog to fly then what we are paying for both me and my husband i ask if i could buy a seat for our dog and was told no then i would beable to find a carrier that he would be comfortable in Help we are flying home in May Thanks

I am also interested in the question about tranquilizers or something to calm an anxious dog. I will be taking my 6lb maltese to Mexico for a month this summer. That is one of my biggest worries. What if he barks and won’t settle? I’m going to visit the vet and ask for their recommendation. The potty business is worrysome too. How far out of the way do I need to go to find a place for him to go? Also, if anyone has taken a dog to Mexico and returned to the US, did you have to do any additional vet checks in Mexico prior to returning?? Uff… so many questions!! Glad that there are so many people here asking questions and providing answers/experiences!!

Hi, My brother will be traveling with SAS from Chicago nonstop to Stockholm, SAS has very strict rules and restrictions regarding their pet carriers, it’s is almost impossible to find a pet carrier with the measurements SAS gives 16″ x 9.8″ x 9. I’m very nervous over this whole thing and want everything to go smoothly for my brother and his little dog a Chihuahua/dashhound mix around 10lbs, measurements 15×15 from tip of nose to rump not including tail and from ground to tip of his ears. 11×11 from chest to rump with tail added and from ground to his withers. What do i do, i’m a wreak worrying over this, can you please shed some light on this for me. Thank you in advance.

Thank you so much for this Q&A I will be flying allegiant next December with my bichonpoo She is very frightened of driving in a car she cries and sounds like Canadian goose. LOL she is very frightened of driving in a car she cries and sounds like Canadian goose lol. First of all what kind of bag do I need to carry her she’s 18 lb. And what in the world can I do to keep her quiet I plan on buying the carry bag two months before our trip and I will be putting her in it every day increasing the time that she goes in and after she settles in for an hour I will start taking her in the car I’m hoping this will help without tranquilizing her I do have to tranquilizer to groom her so I might have to do that. anything help you can give me I would really appreciate I don’t want to be thrown out the window of the airplane ha ha Or would it be better to put her in the cargo hold I really don’t want to do that if I don’t have to. This is an amazing site for beginner travelers with our dogs

Hi, Have you received an answer yet, i’ve also sent a question about air travel with pets.

If she’s that frightened, I would highly recommend tranquilizing her. It’s certainly better for her than having an anxiety attack.

Hello dear Meg I am traveling with air Canada .my dog is 15ib ,dimensions for Air Canada are 21.5 L ,10.5 H ,15.5 W ! I can not find this size ! I am traveling next week & I am really frustrated! Please kindly advise

I understand your frustration as iäm in the same situation

Has anyone flown on Allegiant with their pet? Having trouble finding a carrier that meets their specs. The Delta deluxe by Sherpa is an inch or two higher but will collapse down. Will that work? It is approved by most airlines but doesn’t specify allegiant.

Hi Tammy, most airlines are a bit more generous about soft carriers – so long as they can squish within a couple of inches to fit under the seat, it should be fine, but it’s best to contact the airline and ask.

Please HELP! We will be traveling with our cat to Mexico on Volaris airlines and they require a rigid plastic carrier 17.5L x 12W x 7.5H that goes under the seat and I can’t find it anywhere. Do you know where I can find one that size? I called the airlines and they said it had to be that size. Thanks

Hi, Have you looked on Amazon, i’ve seen many pet carriers there that might comply to yoyr needs, try writing pet carrier 17.5L x 12W x 7.5 on Amazons site, maybe that will help. Good luck! 😉

Hi. Did you end up finding a carrier for Volaris? I am having the same issue. I call the airline and they have NO clue. As far as I can tell, there is no such thing as a 7.5 inch rigid carrier!! I did find and old carrier on EBay that is 8″ and that is the closest I can come. Just wondering what happened with you and your pet 🙂

I am trying to find good crate for my girls they’re just under 30lbs and 30”from snout to butt and 23” tall and 10” wide .. we are moving to Hawaii and this is the most stressful part of all of it!!

Hey Meg! Really need help. I’ve been looking for crates for my big dog poodle 14inH 17inL 7inw. And a crate for a year old puppy. Can you help me out? I’m going on Air Canada

Can you recommend any pet carrier for Turkish Airlines for my needs? My dog is 7.5 kilos and the dimensions for the allowed cabin per carry-on is 23x40x55 cm (width x height x length). The total weight of the bag and dog shd not exceed 8kg, therefore I am looking for a lightweight but strong bag and hope that an extra kilo may be permitted or I may need to out him on a diet:) my dog is a daschund mix so he is quite long:)

how about air canada please… reading max height of 8.5 inches for in cabin. sheesh tell me this is not true. softsided carrier? from toronto to curacao (international flight) airplane 320

Okay, got the whole carrier part down. Now let’s talk about the potty situation. Any ideas

Go before and after, if you have a layover then take your dog out there. On-airplane pottying isn’t really an issue with house-trained dogs.

Hello Would like to konw how to bring my dog from Bangkok to Hanoi vietnam Pls let me know ASAP Thanks

Hello! I need help finding a kennel soft or hard for Alaska Airlines. It cant be bigger than 9.5x11x17 for my 13 pound cat

Has anyone found a mesh that is chew-through proof? Our 10 lb minpin/chihuahua does not like to be confined. Taking him on a short 1.5 hour flight and need to make sure he doesn’t chew is way out (which he has in the past). Thank you for any ideas!

You might want to talk to your vet about an anti-anxiety medication. I would try it out at home first in case of any bad reaction but a calm dog will help-what a crazy place an airport must be for a dog!

Hi there, we are hoping to fly with TAP Portugal but to take a cat in the cabin with you they expect the carrier to be 40cm x 33cm x 17cm – are they for real? I have searched and searched and searched and have yet to find one within these measurements. Does anyone know of any? Thanks!

I have flown with my cat in this carrier on Lufthansa, LOT, American Airlines, Austrian, Czech. No one has measured the case. They just weigh it at check in. On some flights it fits under the seat but not on all depending on how they put the lifejackets under the seats.

Thanks for the tip Regina!

I’m looking into flights with TAP — do you recall what brand of carrier you purchased?

I ha ve an “airline approved carrier on wheels that is 19x14x12 for my 15# Havanese.i have used it for 6 years but on my last Delta flight I couldn’t get it under the seat as the have added electric plug ins in that space and their leg space is now less. Luck lady attendants helped me by moving me up to a comfort seat in one flight and allowing be to have it only partially under the seat on another.

Hi Eileen, I also have a Havanese going on first flight Jed BLue, where did you get the carrier on wheels or brand name? thank you!

I, too, would appreciate any info about traveling with a pet on Allegiant. I am trying to locate a pet carrier for my 18 lb Lhasa/Peke that will fit their requirements of 9″Hx16″Wx19″D. Luckily he is short. He will, hopefully, be flying with me after Christmas.

I have used several airlines Allegent Frontier and Spirit. Spirit does not charge for taking your pet with you. Allegent wants the standard bag size. Frontier was very courageous and I was permitted to use the back pack style that she sits against your chest with the pet facing forward. My pet was secure and calm.

I’m really worried my soft sided carrier won’t meet Frontier’s size requirement due to being over 8” in height. I cannot find one 8” anywhere that will fit my 14 lb cat. How strict are they? Would hate to not make the flight. Thanks!

I’m having the same problem trying to find a 18x14x8 for a Frontier flight. Any luck??

Hi. Just wanted to mention I have a flight booked on Spirit and they do charge $110 for a pet. They also only allow four per plane, so you need to book in advance. They seem very strict about the dimensions of the carrier too. I searched for hours to find one to hold our 8 pound cat and finally found one! PHEW!

I am going to be flying with my dog for the first time and also had to pay. Can you tell me what your found? Thank you

We’re going to move to Panama in December and are taking our cats with us. What dimensions were the carrier you got for Spirit Airlines and soft or hard case?

Hi, I will be flying with my rabbit for a month visit to New Mexico, via El Paso. I will be flying Frontier as there are only two airlines that I know that allow rabbits in the cabin. Do you know of an airline approved carrier that has chew proof mesh? I’ve bought several carriers, but none that is exactly 18x14x8 (total 40″). If the soft side totals no more than 40″ will they let it slide? Thanks.

You might note that size descriptions are length x height x width ( not length x width x height as with plastic and wire crates.) I bought a couple different carriers before I finally bothered to measure and then did considerable research. Many of the agents who answer the phones on websites have no clue that the description of size dimensions is different for the soft side CARRIERS.

Thanks for this post – so helpful!

I called JetBlue and they did say they allow soft carriers larger than the listed size as long as they can be squeezed into the listed dimensions.

Delta quoted me $150 fee and 13″x13″x8″ for the 757-200 I’m flying for a transcontinental flight which seems kind of crazy. You can see slightly outdated but pretty close numbers by plane type at http://www.flygob.com/images/delta_underseat_2017.pdf

Finally it seems like the underseat storage width can actually vary by seat, with middle seats often being the widest, so the actual width there may be bigger or smaller than the carrier limit depending on how the airline decided on their limits and you may want to make your seating choices accordingly.

How can Alaska Air only allow 7.5 inches tall and expect a cat to stand up and turn around?

Hi Donna – I’d suggest opting for a soft-sided carrier if 7.5 seems way too small, as the soft-sided carriers can be up to 9.5 inches tall.

I just found out that INTERJET is the less expensive regarding both human and pet air fair. for humans you have to do your quotation and for pets is just $30.00 flat fee in cabin from the US to MEXICO and in Cargo is also $30.00, flying from Tijuana to Mexico city is just $$550.00 MX pesos around $26.86 Dollars. I am a new customer with INTERJET so far so good. very inexpensive and very reasonable. not like all other airlines that for pet travel they charge and arm and a leg and the pet has to go under as it on the floor paying over $100.00 is ridiculous .

Hi Meg! Thanks for the informative page. I was wondering if you had any recommendations for backpack style carriers for small pets (8lb cat in my case) that I can use for both everyday travels (hiking) as well as flying in cabin? Seeing some on Amazon (ie https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01M0AAEB0/ref=sspa_mw_detail_3?psc= ) but am not sure what to choose since there are so many options! Would love your thoughts. Thank you!

Hey Joyce – we actually have an article all about backpack carriers ! We focus on dogs, but maybe one of those would work well for you and your kitty.

When you say “snub-nosed dogs aren’t allowed” does that refer to travel in the cargo? I have a shih tzu and was planning to carry him on in one of the approved bags but is there a chance he’d be turned away at the airport? I have seen people fly with pugs and frenchies and just assumed he’d be fine as long as he is under the seat!

No, many snub nosed breeds are banned from any kind of air travel. It depends on the airline of course, but after the recent issue with a French bulldog suffocating on a United flight, United had since banned snub-nosed dogs from flying, even in the airplane/under the seat.

Nothing here mentions breeds https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/animals/in-cabin.html

Ah, apologies Melissa – you’re right, the rule is just for dogs flying in cargo.

Need help! having a hard time finding TSA approved carrier for my french bulldog ( 35 lbs, he is muscular).. Please help

Also interested for Frenchie

Hello Meg, just wanted to ask if dog carriers are more advisable than kennels in an international flight (in cabin). Hoping for any feedback. Planning to travel with my pet in cabin, international flight

Hi Maria – while hard or soft carriers are usually allowed by most airlines, I’d opt for soft as they can be easier to adjust and fit under the seat in front of you. My best suggestion is practice with whatever carrier you plan to use prior to the actual trip – try car rides, train rides, etc.

According to Spirit website, only soft carriers are allowed.

Elizabeth, I am looking for a 9h x 16w x19 d carrier for my 13 pound miniature schnauzer. Can you please tell me where I can find a carrier of such size? I have searched everywhere. Thanks Pat

Pat I am in the same boat. Found only 1 carrier with a 9″ measurement & only if you laid it on its side. I have sent an email to Allegiant but they have not answered me. I think they have given these measurements as a way to curtail travel with our dogs.. No way my 14-15 lb dog can stand in a 9″ high carrier.

I’m having the same issue wth Allegent airlines requirements . I can’t find the 9″height requirement. I checked their web site and spoke to an agent to get this info. I woner if I could make one?

I am a travel nurse and need to head to Texas. I have two 10 pound maltese. How would you recommend traveling with them on a plane?

Hi Elizabeth – you’ll probably need to check with airlines, as some allow for multiple pets in a single carrier, but others do not. With 10lb dogs, you’re probably best off with two carriers, but that will likely mean purchasing an additional seat as well.

We’ll be moving soon and taking our two maltese with us. I just need to clarify because I read about many owners traveling with dogs that are much taller than 9.5 inches. As long as the dog can stand up and turn around in front of the agent and then the kennel can be squished down to fit under the seat for take off and landing the kennel is good to go? My Malte’s are both around 7 lb’s and 14 inches in height.

Hey Joules – I think your best bet will be to contact the airline. They’ll be able to tell you exactly, without a doubt, what they allow on their airline.

hello how i can contact you? i need a carried i wanna buy

Hi Rojin – we don’t sell carriers, we just review the ones we deem best for airplane travel. You can find all these products on Amazon (see links in the article) and can order from there. Good luck!

I want to travel with my two (2) chihuahuas in one carrier. Can you tell me which size carrier is airline approved that fits under the seat?

Hi Darlene! I was wondering what type of dog carrier you bought. I have the same situation.

I have a 12 yr old welsh terrier. She weighs 18 lb and is 18 inches when standing. I am wondering if she just misses the mark for traveling in cabin for a short flight.

Hello!! I’m taking my 16 pound terrier mix to Mexico on Alaskan they say the requirements are : 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″ But I cannot find anything that is big enough for him to turn around in. does anyone know of anything that would work? I’m desperate :(. They said dogs under 20 pounds could travel under the seat but I don’t see how with those dimensions! 🙁

Maybe you could try the Petsfit Expandable (medium) – that way you can expand for more space to keep him comfy.

About a year late, but I’m in the same boat, I was wondering if you managed to find something that works?

I have a chihuahua/Pomeranian who is only 8lbs BUT thanks to her kangourou legs, she stands at 15.5 inches tall (foot to the top of her head) I really don’t want to put in her cargo, has anyone had success travelling with a tall small dog, in a soft carrier in cabin?

Hi Meg, i am moving cross country 3 1/2 hour flight on Southwest my 20 pound Sheltis has to go with me there is so much conflicting information I first bought the Sturdibag Large …way to cramped for my girl…bought the Petagon Large a tight fit but looks uncomfortable then I got the Sturdibag Extra Large bingo !!! Looks great and comfy shes small but tall reviews have yes and no’s for the Extra Large Sturdibag . I cant miss my flight ..I cant leave my little girl can anyone give advice ? I’m stressed !!

Hey Siri, Well Southwest’s website ( https://www.southwest.com/html/generated/help/faqs/pets_faq.html ) says that carry on carriers must have a max length of 18.5 inches and height of 8.5 inches. The Sturdibag XL is 20 inches long and 16 inches high, so that may be an issue. However, the carrier is flexible, so the ability to squish the carrier to the right size may mean it’s fine. It looks like plenty of owners have had success taking this carrier on airlines as a carry on. Honestly I think your best bet will be to contact Southwest airlines. That way they’ll be able to give you definite information and put you at ease! Good luck, let us know how it goes!

Thank you this is exactly what I needed as far as information for pet travel! I can not thank you enough!

Happy to help!

Hey Meg –

I’m traveling on Delta Airlines with my 6-7 pound chorkie (chihuahua/yorkie mix) and the maximum dimensions they gave me were 18x12x11 (LxWxH). I see on your list for the sturdi bag you have only one size but on their website I see a small. Would you still recommend the small? It’s dimensions are 18x10x10.

Hi Meg Really need help…been searching for a pet carrier for days now that meet Delta’s requirements given to me. They are 14x12x7. I have 2 Boston Terriers traveling. Thank you for your time.

Looks like the small Bergan or the small Sherpa could work. The Sherpa is 15″ instead of 14″ but I think you could squish it and it’d work fine.

HI Meg Thanks for the site. Maybe you can help me. I am having a difficult time finding a rolling carrier for my 12 pound go for Southwest Airlines. The Measurements they allow approx. 17 to 18 L 10 H and 12 W (these are the max measurements as they confuse you with 3 or 4 different ones} I can no longer carry my dog as my shoulder is not what it used to be. thanks in advance.

Hi Gay – it actually looks like the Snoozer Roll Around 4-in-1 carrier should work for you (#5) and fits the dimensions you specified. Good luck on your trip!

Just curious; did you purchase the Snoozer Roll Around 4-in-1 carrier for your pet and was he/she comfortable. I’m looking for a rolling carrier for my dog to travel SW.

Thanks in advance June

My Corgi/Chihuahua dog weighs 7.25kg. The maximum weight for a dog + carrier in the cabin is 8.5kg. Is there a lightweight carrier that would fit these dimensions? He’d be terrified in the Hold, so need to take him in the cabin. There are so many restrictions for dog travel. I wish the laws would be modernised.

Hey Olivia – not off the top of my head. You’ll have to check out the weights listed in the product description. I’ll work on adding that info here for the future!

Can you recommend any pet carrier bag for Turkish Airlines? Here is the size of allowed cages/bags for pets in the cabin is 23x40x55 cm (width x height x length) for them. All carry on cages/bags must not exceed a total weight of 8kg. We have a cat less then 8 kg and planning to fly with him from Dhaka to Toronto (about 20 hours flight time with 2 hours layover in Istanbul).

The Sleepypod might work as it can actually be compressed to smaller dimensions that I believe meet your requirement. The Petsfit Expandable carrier should work as well. In fact, many of the carriers on the list will work – I’d suggest combing through the product pages for more info. Good luck!

Hi Meg, We will be flying on Allegiant Air, and their dimensions for an in cabin pet carrier are 9 x 16 x 19. Which seems pretty small. We have a 15 lb. toy fox terrier mix that is a little tall. Allegiant also says on line that the animal must be able to stand up and turn around in the carrier. That is not going to happen with these dimensions. Should I call Allegiant or have you heard anything more about this problem?

Thank you, Bonnie

Hi Bonnie – I’ve never heard of Allegiant Air, so afraid I can’t help much. I’d definitely recommend giving them a call and getting more info – those dimensions sound like they’d be tough for any dog! Would love to know what they say- let me know how it goes! Good luck.

I am wondering how things went with Allegiant Air, as I may be traveling using that airline with my dog, too. Can you update us, Bonnie?

I still haven’t traveled with our dog on Allegiant Air. It might happen in the future as we are retired now and don’t want to drive down to Florida every time we go. Have you tried it yet?

Did you ever fly with allegiant with your dog? I’m looking to fly with them in a few months and I’m having trouble finding a carrier that will suit my 6 month old beagle’s needs. Thank you.

Have same question about Allegiant. Have searched many sites & only found 1 carrier that had a 9″ measurement for up to 15 lbs. & that was only if you laid it on its side. I didn’t see on their site where they had to be able to stand. I sent them an email asking for clarifications but they have not answered. I recommend you call because they don’t seem to answer emails. I was wondering if the height can be more than 9″ if a soft flexible carrier since it can smash down to fit under the seat. Please give us an answer if you find anything out & I will do the same. Thanks.

Ms. Harris: Per your comment from Feb.2019 did you fly with your pet on Allegiant? If so what was your experience with a carrier. I also just emailed Allegiant as they don’t pickup the phone on there customer service line said it may take up to 60 days to reply ;/ Well see. I have family flying on Allegiant in July and trying to clarify a carrier, because honestly there are no carriers that meet there sizing for Large pets up to the 20 lbs. need. Any further comment of any experiences you have had or know of will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance E.H.

Hi, I’m traveling with Allegiant in a few months and wanted to take the pup. Has anyone found a carrier or gotten clarification from Allegiant?

Allegiant air requirement is 19 by 16 by 9 has anyone found a carrier this size for my 18 lb miniature Schnauzer?

According to Allegiants website a carrier on bag can be 15 high x 7 wide x 16d. But a pet carrier should be only 9 high x 16 wide by 19 deep. That makes no sense to me. So I’m not sure they are going to restrict a pet carrier because it is 12 high x 12 wide x 18deep. I think It will all depend on if you can fit it under the seat!! I am traveling with my new puppy in Nov, so I hope I am right because I got the largest carrier i could find. The x-zone expandable (noted above) I’m sure if he is going to be about 120 pounds full grown, he will be at least 20 pounds at 8 weeks !

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The Best Airline (IATA) Approved Pet Crates for Travel

The logistics of traveling post pandemic can be stressful as is, but throw a medium to large dog into the mix and it can become even more complicated. From making sure your furry friend is fully immunized to filling out all the essential paperwork, it can be difficult to make sure you have everything you need. Have no fear, Pet Express is here to take the hassle out of pet travel.  

One thing you certainly don’t want to overlook is a comfortable and reliable pet carrier. However, it is essential for your air travel crate to comply with the airline regulations . One of these regulations is that if your pet will be stowed in cargo, it must have a hard shell carrier. Not only do the pet travel crates need to be secure and durable, but the crate needs to be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and comfortably lie down, which can be difficult to find for a bigger breed of dog.

If you’re traveling for an extended period of time interstate, changing residence, or even setting out on a short weekend escape with your furry best friend, choosing a travel crate that has been designed with your larger-sized pet’s comfort and safety in mind is important when on the road. We have compiled a list of the best travel crates for medium sized to large breed dogs from Pet Express that will make your pet happy while also complying with all airline requirements.

Finding out my airline pet policy

Most airlines that service the United States require both small and larger breeds of pets to travel in a hard shell crate. Although every airline has their own policy on traveling with pets, whether it’s KLM Royal Dutch Airlines , American Airlines , British Airways , QANTAS , Lufthansa Airlines or another airline, Pet Express makes your move easier by arranging a customized pet travel program for you and your furry friend. In addition to being completely informed about your pets every move, we stay connected with you throughout the entire journey so every question you may have is answered promptly. To learn more about your international pet shipping needs and your airline pet policy, speak to one of our friendly Pet Travel Consultant’s today. 

Features of the Pet Express travel crates :

• Strongest pet crate on the market – with a heavy duty frame you can be certain that your pet will be safe and sound throughout the flight;
• Dual spring locking system – properly secures the door to prevent any accidental openings;
• Security bar and zip tie hole – adds extra reliability for safety and security of your pet;
• Carry handle – ensures easy transportation of the travel crate;
• Tight grid mesh – the half an inch to an inch grid mesh stops your pets paws from poking out of the crate;
• Side handle – ensures easy transportation of the travel crate;
• Easy lockdown screws – the metal bolts and nuts secures the carrier by just hand tightening. No need to keep tools handy; and  
• Complete ventilation system – the meshed wire door and the distributed openings on the side allows for abundant airflow for your pet.

Accessories that come with every Pet Express travel crate:

The price of the crate includes a raised floor, funnel and water bowl.

• Raised floor – pets are kept separated from any bodily waste that may have passed throughout the flight;
• Funnel – airline employees can easily replenish the water bowl without ever opening the crate door;
• Water bowl – designed with a spill resistant lip, securely hooks on to the metal wire carrier doors; and
• A mat can also be purchased for an additional fee.

How do I know what size crate to buy for my pet?

Before you buy your pet’s crate, you will need to determine the proper size that they will fit snugly in. Start out by measuring your pet’s height when standing, from the top of the head to the floor. If your pet has ears that stay raised, you will need to measure from the top of their ears. Next, measure the length of your pet – starting from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Once you have those measurements, add 4 inches (so your pet can move about the crate with ease) for your pet’s right crate size. You can even use this crate calculator to help you navigate the measurements and to quickly establish the correct crate size for your pet.

Best pet carrier for medium to large dogs

If you’re wanting the perfect pet carrier for your medium to large dog to be placed in cargo, the Pet Express BB75 pet crate is the one to choose. The dimensions for this Pet Express pet crate is 32 inches high, spans 46 inches in length, and has a width of 26 inches. The BB75 travel crate leaves a generous amount of space for your furry friend to settle in and wriggle around for the duration of any domestic or international flight. 

Built to last, the BB75 dog crate is structured with hardened plastic, but is still lightweight with the crate weighing just 25 pounds. The plastic structure of the pet travel crate also makes it effortless to clean and disinfect.

Medium to large dog breeds that will fit in the BB75 pet crate:

• Newfoundland;
• Rhodesian Ridgeback; and

Best dog crates for large dogs

The Pet Express PP90 pet crate is a great heavy duty travel crate option for larger breeds. The PP90 has a height of 33 inches, spans 52 inches in length, and has a width of 31 inches. These dimensions give ample space for your large dog to feel comfortable and cozy during their flight. 

These dog crates were especially designed for aircrafts that have a narrow body and a lower cargo door height. As a result, it has given way to more opportunities for a variety of dog breeds to travel on aircrafts.

Dog breeds that will fit in the PP90 pet crate:

• Golden Retrievers;
• German Shepherds;
• Rottweiler; and

The PP90 pet crate is also a great choice as a dog crate for your large-sized dog for flights on airlines servicing the United States. The larger crates give your canine companion extra space to change positions easily and comfortably relax while traveling.

Best jumbo dog crates for extra large breeds

The Pet Express PP100 travel crate is famous for its durability and is suitable for both domestic and international travel. The PP100 has a height of 39 inches, spans 52 inches in length, and has a width of 31 inches. The jumbo sized crate is ideal for extra-large sized breeds of dogs that weigh up to about 165 pounds. 

The PP100 dog crate is built to last with a hardened plastic structure that is also easy to carry with a handle on the top of the crate. As it is built for larger breeds it weighs approximately 55 pounds but is easy to clean and disinfect.  Note: As this travel crate is made for larger dogs, you will need to make sure with your airline if this crate will fit through the cargo door. To do this, ask for the dimensions of their cargo door and check those measurements against this crate. This particular airline pet crate does not come with a raised floor to accommodate for the larger breeds.

Dog breeds that are most suited for the PP100 pet crate:

• Bullmastiff;
• Bernese Mountain Dog;
• Great Dane;
• Great Pyrenees;
• Saint Bernard;
• Irish Wolfhound; and

The next step in your pet crate journey

If your large dog is unfamiliar with a travel crate and has never been crate trained before, it is vital it feels safe in its new environment. Once your crate has been delivered, you will then need to prepare your pet to feel comfortable spending time in the space for long periods of time. Head on over to this blog article on how to train your pet to love their new crate, even if they suffer from separation anxiety.

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• Crate and Carriers

Best 7 Airline(IATA) Approved Dog Crates for Cargo Hold

Many pet parents travel and relocate around the world due to professional and personal reasons.  Relocating itself is stressful and pet relocation through an airport is more complicated. Pet carriers are handy portable boxes, crates, or cages that are used to transport pets of any size from one location to another. This article will provide insights into the best airline approved dog crates that will ease one’s relocation process. After all, one’s pet deserves a great piece of luggage for themselves, too. 

Why Do Furry Friends Require a Crate for Air Travel?

Furry pals are den animals and hence one needs to look for gadgets like dens for comfort in times of stress like air traveling. A crate or carrier solves this tension of providing it a den-like structure giving the pooch a safe place to sleep, retreat and maybe even eat during travel.

What Are The Minimum Cargo Crate Requirements

1.standard cargo crater requirements.

This section provides the general crate requirements that are specified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) and are accepted by many airlines.

2. Size and design 

• The pet crate should be spacious enough for the pet to turn around, rest, and stretch comfortably. 
• Snub-nosed breeds require one size larger crate than most airline-approved specifications when the pet is checked in the cargo section. The sizing instructions are explained in detail in later sections. 
• The crate design needs to be sturdy and not collapsible. 
• The carrier roof should be solid and can have ventilation if its strength is not compromised. 
• The accepted crate material is fiberglass, metal, rigid plastics, weld metal mesh, solid or plywood.
• The floor of the crate must be solid and leak-proof.

#3. Handles and door

• Handling space handles need to be present on the longer side of the carrier.
• The carrier door should have a secure, spring-loaded complete locking system with the pins that extend at least 1.6 cm beyond the horizontal extrusions above and below the carriage door. 
• Many airlines also specify that the door needs to be further secured with cable ties at each corner of the crate.
•  Doors must be a build-up of welded or cast metal or heavy plastic strong enough such that a pet cannot bend it. 
• The doors also need to be nose and paw proof for pet injury prevention.

#4. Ventilation

• The dog carrier needs to have a minimum of two to four side ventilation for domestic as well as international flights. 
• The openings should be a minimum of 2.5 cm over the upper two-thirds of the opposite end and the remaining two sides, 10 cm from the center to center of each opening.
•  The total ventilated area should be 16% of the total surface of the four sides. 
• Additional holes on the roof or sides are permitted if it doesn’t affect the strength of the crate. 
• The ventilation holes should not be taped or blocked in any way.

#5. Water and food 

• Water and food bowls need to be attached to the interior of the front door and should be refillable from the exterior of the crate without opening the door. 
• Small funnels that are attached to the door by cable ties enhance it easier handling at the airport as any crew member can refill water bowls.
•  Food needs to be attached to the carrier top in a zip-lock plastic bag.

#6. Paperwork and documents

• The container should have a “LIVE ANIMAL” sticker on the top and sides in letters at least one inch tall.  A Shipper’s Declaration sticker with the pet’s last food and water feed needs to be recorded.
• Containers without wheels are recommended, in cases where they cannot be removed one needs to securely tape it so that the kennels do not roll down.
• The container must have the pet’s name and owner’s contact information attached to the outside of the crate with a duct or other sturdy tape.

#7. Extra recommendations

• Many airlines recommend steel crate hardware instead of plastic fasteners. 
•  Most airlines recommend the use of cable ties in the corners of the crate over plastic clips.
• If the pet exceeds 132lbs or 60 kg one needs to provide a forklift spacer.

#8. Add on recommendations for furry pal comfort

• Place a leash and collar in a plastic bag and tape it to the exterior of the crate.
•  Provide a biography of the pet’s name and its owner’s name in a printed sheet and tape it on the top of the crate.
• Inclusion of a pet pad or shredded newspaper is a requirement of many airlines.
• Place an unwashed t-shirt with the scent of the pet’s favorite person to eliminate the stress of traveling alone and provide comfort to the pet.
• Tape the original documents in a sealed ziplocked bag that are required at the arrival country to the top of the crate with the following caution “DO NOT REMOVE! ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS”.
• Refrain from including any hard toys or objects that could bounce around the crate and injure the pet pal.

For more insights on crate types, choosing of crate types and tips please refer to https://allabout-pets.com/all-about-dog-carriers-how-to-choose/  

Best 7 Air Line Approved Dog Crate and Kennel for Cargo Hold 

The pet crate should be spacious enough for the pet to turn around, rest, and stretch comfortably. With so many airlines approved pet crates available in the market as well as on the web, it always to tedious to choose one from the many as each one accompanies its unique features, benefits, and some cons. Following is a list of the top seven compliant pet crates for air travel that are worth to explore prior to zeroing on the right carrier.

# 1. Aspen Pet Porter Heavy-Duty Pet Carrier

This dog kennel suits the airline specifications of many airlines and is well suited for medium to large dogs. It has an easy-open latch that can be opened with one hand. The crate is composed of the heavy-duty plastic shell and metal screws that not only offer durability and stability for smooth long or short travels but are also easier to clean and maintain. 

Possess ventilation on all sides, therefore this portable kennel is seen to have clear pet’s visibility and fresh air for stress-free travel. The crate can be hassle freely assembled as well as disassembled with metal nuts and bolts. The product has no sharp edges providing extra comforts for the pet.

A decent product at a decent price. Every dog is different hence one needs to not only check for individual dog tastes but also check with individual airlines for their respective carrier regulations.

Buy Now From Amazon

#2. Petmate Compass Kennel

This dog crate is well suited for pets that weigh below 20lbs that is available in four fashionable colors that include denim/black, hot pink/black, island blue/black, and red plum/black. The kennel features a two-way door that is seen to open on either side for easy pet access. Possess ventilated sides for maximum visibility and airflow. 

The portable kennel has a durable plastic construction with steel door latches for security. This pet carrier is seen to comply with most airline cargo specifications for easy sky travel and has a carrying handle for smoother transport. The main features include a slide assembly with four bolts for extra security.

Overall, this IATA compliant dog travel crate is loved by most dogs for its space and openness. Good value for money. but one needs to buy the 10 to 20lbs crate for daily usage. Suits well for small to medium dogs. Compliant with the specifications of many airlines.  

#3. IRIS Deluxe Pet Travel Carrier

The IRIS Deluxe Pet Travel Carrier can carry dogs that weigh up to 75lbs and are available in two colors: navy and red. The kennel is entirely designed to comply with the specifications of many airlines for long travel periods especially.

The cage is amply ventilated with an additional padlock for extra safety. Possess a removable small food and water dish attached to the door.  One can detach the top and use the leak-proof base as a pet bed or remove the door completely in larger models to create a restful pet retreat when not traveling.

The IRIS Deluxe Pet Travel Carrier is a great investment for smaller and calmer dogs. Not recommended for frequent travelers as the product is not very durable.

#4. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels

This dog crate is spacious, sturdy, durable, easy to assemble and airline friendly. It is available in six different sizes right from small to XXX- large that can hold dogs up to 140 lbs. The crate comes with removable wheels for all sizes except for the small, hence it can be easily transported without any hassles. This airline approved crate has also the tiedown holes for bungee that many airlines specify. These plastic dog carriers are suitable for both uses that are as a home crate and travel kennel. 

The manufacturers have used metal slats to mitigate the dog chewing problem in the ventilation holes. The crate has a feature where during accident moat pulls the spills are seen to take place away from the fur pal’s body, out to the edges of the kennel. It possesses a strong metal kennel door with a smooth, easy-to-grasp poly shell latch.

A sturdy easy to assemble pet carrier that can be used both as a home crate and a travel carrier. The main attraction of this airline approved crate is that it has removable wheels and air holes for bungees that add on to secure the main doors of the crates for escape artists. Value for money.

#5. Marchioro Clipper Ithaka pet carrier

The IATA approved airline dog carrier is constructed with durable plastic for a lifetime of use and metal windows for better ventilation. It is easy to assemble or disassemble for compact storage when the carrier is not in use. 

It is suitable for medium dog’s breeds that weigh between 18-55 pounds. The spring-latch door is seen to stay securely closed but can be easily opened by us with opposable thumbs. It comes in five different sizes and the two different colors.

Marchioro Clipper Ithaka pet carrier is a customizable, airline-approved option for the furry pal’s travel. Although one needs to shed extra money for its purchase, it is worth the investment for the versatility and security that the crate offers.

# 6. Petmate Sky Kennel

This hard-sided crate is a great option to relocate a dog in. It comes in six different sizes, suitable for dogs up to 125lbs. The crate has a secure, but easy to open latch which is seen to allow easy access at food and watering time for one’s pet on a prolonged flight. 

The dog kennel comes with a pair of clip-on doggie bowls so one needs not to have to pack extras to keep the dog watered or with enough food during the travel. Possess high gauge wires on the doors and sides that are seen to not only safeguard the dog but also allow for adequate ventilation in the cargo area.

This cheapest of the hard crate options not only makes for savings on one’s wallet but is also the closest for most of the airline specifications. 

# 7.  Ruff Maxx Portable Kennel

Ruff Maxx Portable Kennel is composed of sturdy durable plastic with 360-degree ventilation that provides ample airflow and visibility for pets that travel in it. The metal door with a squeeze latch and a strong plastic shell enhances the durability of the product. 

This kennel is available in three sizes, ranging from 30 to 90 pounds. This portable dog kennel meets most of the airline’s cargo specifications and is also seen to include nuts and bolts for stress-free assembly. The camo design of this kennel is the best-suited option for hunting dogs.

A budget-friendly IATA compliant kennel that is well suited for most of the hunting dogs. The unique design makes this kennel the most attractive dog crate for air travel.

How to Prepare Your Dog For Cargo Air Travel?

Not all pets are used to staying in a closed den crate for a long time. Hence one needs to crate train the pet pal for cargo air travel 45 to 50 days prior to the actual departure date. For a detailed explanation of crate training please refer to https://allabout-pets.com/how-to-crate-train-your-dog/ .

Pet travel by air is not an easy process one needs to do prerequisite arrangements for its safe departure and arrangements. For more insights on preparing a pet to travel in the cargo section of the airplane please refer https://allabout-pets.com/prepare-your-dog-for-a-flight/ .

How to Choose An Airline Approved Dog Kennels for Cargo?

This section will provide a short insight into buying a dog crate for air travel. The following steps need to be considered while zeroing on the right kennel for air travel.

1. Accurate pet measurement 

Length: Measure the length of the dog from its nose to tail. While measuring the tail one should never forget to add 2-4 inches approximately to the overall length, depending on the dog breed.

Height: To determine the height of the crate that one will need, one needs to measure the dog from the top of the head to the ground. If one’s dog has naturally erect ears then the measurement needs to be taken from the tip of the ears.

Width: To obtain the width of your crate one needs to add two inches for smaller breeds and four inches for larger breeds on approximation.

Crate buying guide based on measurements

Checked in dog kennels need to be purchased based on this generalized guide provided in the table below.

2. Durability

A heavy-duty pet carrier that can withstand damage caused by anxious pets in the course of relocation needs to be chosen as this provides 100% protection against themselves or against outside forces.

3. Ventilation

A carrier with 360 degrees ventilation needs to be chosen as pets breathing at heights is a major issue in flight travels. 

4. Security

Speed bumps are the main concern when traveling through the air. Check if the carrier that one invests in has not only a secured latch mechanism but also has the shell fastened with metal nuts and bolts for added security measures.

5. Portability

The convenience to carry a kennel will give not only give one but also the airport crew more freedom for faster movements and transfer. Choose the crate with a sturdy grip handle for extra pet security.

6. Inclusion of the travel essentials

Check if the crate has food and water trays, “LIVE ANIMAL” stickers, pet documents holder, and other essentials specified by the IATA or USDA.

The budget plays a pivotal role in crate purchase. A lot of carriers meet standard airline pet transport rules, however, each brand crates are priced differently. To prevent excessive spending, one needs to research and compare prices among brands to choose a crate based on the pet’s requirements and one’s affordability.

8. IATA Compliance

Most of the airlines accept the dog crates that are approved by the IATA. Hence check this pivotal point or check if the crate complies with the IATA specifications.

9. Travel Itinerary

Not all airlines follow the same rules and regulations for pet cargo travel. Hence one needs to check the individual airline websites for specifications for each breed type and country of entry. The section beneath provides the web address of some of the prominent pet cargo relocating airlines.

• United ( https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/animals/crates.html )
• American Airlines ( https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/special-assistance/pets.jsp )
• Delta ( https://www.delta.com/us/en/pet-travel/overview )
• Alaska Airlines ( https://www.alaskaair.com/content/travel-info/policies/pets-traveling-with-pets )
• Virgin Atlantic ( https://flywith.virginatlantic.com/gb/en/prepare-to-fly/mobility-medical-assistance.html )

Final thoughts

The article provides great insights on choosing the right crate that complies with most of the airline’s specifications. But it’s always a great option to check with individual airlines for their specific rules and specifications to avoid last minute chaos during the pet travel. Happy flying!!!!!!  

FAQs for airline approved crates

Q. What makes a dog crate airline approved?

A. Most IATA complied dog crates are approved by most airlines. But to be on a safer side one needs to contact the airlines that are going to relocate the pet to check for their crate rules and regulations as each airline, as well as the arrival country, have different regulations.

Q. Can two dogs travel in one crate?

A. No two dogs cannot travel in the same crate.

Q. Which are the most pet-friendly airlines around the world?

A. The top twenty pet-friendly airlines around the world include American Airline, JetBlue, Air Canada, Delta, Air India, Air France, Swiss International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Lufthansa Airlines, Aeroflot, TAP Air Portugal, SAS, Open Skies, KLM, Aer Lingus, Japan Airlines, Alitalia, Copa Airlines, and Iberia.

Q. What if I cannot relocate my pet personally?

A. In cases where you cannot relocate the pet by yourselves, one can take the help of domestic and international pet relocators that are famous in your destination. They are planners who will take all necessary actions right from the documents, health certificate training, travel and departure of the pet within cargo with an assistant or without one.

Q.  Can one rent an airline approved crate?

A. Unfortunately, no airline dog crates are available for rent. A dog needs to have its own crate because it needs to get acclimatized 40 to 50 days before its original travel for a safe and comfortable relocation.

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Air Travel Crates

Airline, iata cr-82 compliant dog travel crates and pet carriers.

The rules for air travel with your dog can get confusing and frustrating, but fear not! We carry US airline compliant and international IATA CR82 compliant dog crates, pet carriers with wheels for ease of movement at the airport, and many other accessories to make travel with your pet a (compliant) breeze.

Also, to better understand the International Air Travel Association's CR82 rule, and for tips on flying with your fur child, check out our articles: How to conquer air travel with your dog How to choose which airline to fly with your dog

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I love this system! Works great and simple to use and set up!

Cushion is not memory foam as described. Dog (40 lbs). Sinks to ground when laying on bed. Will probably end up purchasing my own memory foam instead.

Why make it so the middle row houses the smallest pets, These should go at the top to minimize risk of injury, for both staff and pets,

The sink is awesome. I'm using it as a utility sink in my homebrewing beer hobby. Two things would get it to 5 stars. The unit came disassembled without assembly instructions. I was able to figure it out though. Second, it didn't come with a methodology or hardware to attach it to a wall or the floor. It's heavy, but it could still get knocked out of place, especially bathing a larger animal. Ruptured plumbing could result so securing it in some way is important.

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Petmate Sky Kennel Airline Approved Pet Kennel

Need help with finding the right size? See our Dog Crate Size Breed Chart.

Product Description

  For air travelers and those wanting more information, please continue reading on .

Special Offers:

We are excited to announce that we have become affiliates of Petmate.* This allows us to offer exclusive deals to our customers Direct. All you have to do is click here *

You will get:

• The same high-quality products you love and trust
• Factory Direct pricing
• Make your purchase at their Factory Direct pricing!
• Bonus !!! Enter one of these   promo codes   when you check out to save even more.

Product Information

Please Note: Only Models 100 & 700 have square corners; all others are rounded.

The Intermediate, Large and X-Large sizes are constructed with tie down holes in the corners.

Only the 100 and 200 Sizes come with a top handle. Some flights now require metal bolts. These kennels come with noncorrosive plastic wing nuts that are very secure and reliable.

These kennels do include metal bolts but do fit standard-sized hardware. Metal replacements are readily available at your local home improvement/hardware store. 

Air Travel:

• Leak-Proof Bottom
• Lightweight
• Eco-friendly
• Durable wire door for healthy air flow
• Wire Ventilation windows also promote air flow
• 400, 500 and 700 Models Come With 4 Point Locking Door latch for Added Security
• No Tools Needed for Assembly
• International and Domestic Airline Approved for pet travel. IATA Approved
• Add a Moisture Magnet : Optional moisture-absorbing pad to keep the trip comfortable and help keep your pet dry. Absorbs 15 times its weight in liquid in case of an accident. Washable. Re-usable.
• We recommend adding a plush  Pet Crate Pad  to your airline kennel for maximum comfort.
• Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
• Travel Kit comes with 2 'Live Animal' stickers, a water cup, metal wingnuts (non-corrosive plastic wingnuts are standard), meeting all airline requirements.
• Made in the U.S.A.

Petmate Airline Crates

From the makers of the Vari Kennel, Pet Porter, Petmate has been making quality pet crates and other pet supplies for a long time. The Sky Kennel for pets is for those that want to travel with their owners and is a perfect addition to this quality line of products suitable for international and domestic airline travel.

Made of light gray, high quality, heavy duty plastic, this pet carrier will keep your dog safe during traveling. Should the crate get bumped during the flight, you can rest assured that no harm will come to your dog.  This kennel features durable steel wire doors for added security to keep your mind at ease during the flight.

Long lasting

A Sky Kennel has a secure latch that ensures your dog stays in the crate throughout the flight. It is made with a heavy duty plastic shell that protects your pet during the flight.

Ventilation

Airlines insist that dog crates to be used in cabins must have enough inlets for air and this is a measure used to prevent your dog from coming to harm. Lack of sufficient air not only makes dogs anxious but it can also be life-threatening. This sky kennel has ventilation on four sides, ensuring that enough air gets in and out of the crate.

The sizes of this sky kennel vary and are able to carry small dogs up to an extra large dog. This line is able to crate most breed sizes, meaning you have a chance to get a crate that is the right size for your dog.

Before getting a crate, ensure that you have measured your dog to get its dimensions which you can then use in crate selection. A good crate allows your dog to turn around in it comfortably which is important for adjustment during the flight.

Portability

This kennel is very light in nature which makes it easy to carry as compared to wired crates. To assemble the crate, you will not be required to use any tools and this makes it easy to set up the crate.

What are you Waiting For?

The versatility of this sky kennel makes it possible for you to use it to carry other pets such as cats and rabbits with ease.

The Sky Kennel is perfect for airline travel when are planning to bring your pet with you for long haul and short haul flights. You will not be disappointed.

You can get one for other pets by checking out the various sizes of Petmate Sky Kennels available and choosing one which your pet can fit in perfectly. Here is to safe and reliable flights with the Sky Kennel!

* Pet Crates Direct receives a small commission from any purchases you make from Petmate. Exclusive offers and promo codes allow our customers to get Petmate products at a lower cost.

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8 Best Dog Carriers for Safe Travel and Everyday Use

Best overall, diggs passenger carrier.

W hether you and your furry friend are traveling by plane, train or automobile, the Diggs Passenger Carrier is a favorite for pet parents. This car dog item is crash-tested for safety, and custom seat belt clips and buckle straps keep the carrier secure in the vehicle. If you're flying, the carrier fits underneath most airplane seats and meets most airline requirements for pet travel. Animals prone to accidents on the go can use the Pee Pad that attaches to the bed inside. Easily swap it out without bothering your pet.

Three different access points make it easier to reach your travel buddy at all times. Closable mesh adds ventilation and privacy and extra pockets offer storage for more treats and toys. It holds dogs up to 18 pounds, but for larger breeds, try the Diggs inflatable crate .

• Inclusive carrier for planes, trains and cars
• Holds animals up to 18 pounds
• Comes with seat belt clips and buckle straps
• Three access points
• Ventilated mesh and privacy windows
• Pricier than other models on our list
• Pee Pads are sold separately

Morpilot Soft-Sided Pet Carrier

With over 13,000 Amazon ratings, the Morpilot folding fabric pet carrier is one of our favorite pet products on Amazon . The top and front zipper openings make it easy to load and unload your small dog into the cozy carrier. A fluffy, removable and washable mat turns the bag into your dog's happy place for naps or enjoying a dog treat.

The exterior polyester material is a breeze to spot clean and tough enough to resist chewing pups . The top leather handle makes it easy to tote around, and the carrier easily secures in the car. It also comes with a collapsible travel bowl for water or food.

• Affordable price point
• Breathable mesh material
• Two openings
• Machine washable wool mat
• Safety interior tether
• Four colors and two sizes available
• Some reviewers say it doesn't fit under some airline seats
• Only holds pets up to 15 pounds

Most durable

Roverlund out-of-office pet carrier.

The Roverlund Pet Carrier is made with marine and mountaineering fabric, designed to last during all travel adventures. It comes in two sizes: small (up to 15 pounds) and large (up to 25 pounds). With a leak-proof bottom and washable inner fleece bedding, your pup travels in comfort. The carrier opens on the top and front for easy access, contains a safety tether to clip to the dog's collar  and features a sturdy carrying handle. The shoulder strap doubles as a leash, too. When your pup isn't in it, the carrier folds flat for easy storage.

• Heavy-duty material stands up to wear and tear
• Ideal for all types of travel
• Airline-friendly
• Convertible strap/leash
• Available in two sizes
• Folds flat when not in use
• Because of the high-quality materials, this dog carrier is on the pricey side
• Chewers may gnaw at the bed liner

Best for small pets

Wild one travel carrier.

Available in three trendy colors, the Wild One Travel Carrier suits small dogs up to 16 pounds. Perfect for the jet-setter with a pooch by their side, the modular carrier is airline-friendly and fits under airplane seats. The zippers snap together for extra security inside. When not on the road, the interior cushion folds out as a comfy dog bed (no calming dog treats needed with your pup this carrier!) and is machine washable. The exterior is best cleaned by hand and dried flat. With a comfortable double handle and a shoulder strap that doubles as a leash, you—and your dog—will enjoy stylish travel with this carrier.

• Stylish, airline-friendly pet carrier for small dogs
• Rolls out into a dog bed
• Extra storage compartments
• Lightweight
• Luggage strap and adjustable carrying strap
• Machine washable interior cushion
• Three colors available
• Ideal for small pets only
• Some reviewers find the zippers are difficult to maneuver at times

Best hard-sided

Petmate vari dog kennel.

This hard-sided Petmate pet carrier lasts for years thanks to its durable construction. Available in six sizes, the smallest option suits pets up to 10 pounds and is airline-approved. The 24-inch size suits pets 10 to 20 pounds and is airline-adaptable. The largest size holds large dog breeds up to 90 pounds and is airline-approved for cargo. The front steel wire door opens in two directions, and the solid construction keeps dogs safe during any adventure.

• Hard side carrier has durable construction
• Easy to assemble
• Great for home or travel, including airplanes
• Easy to clean
• Approved as extra baggage for large dogs
• Available in six sizes
• No extra storage compartments
• Heavy to tote around with large pets

Best airline-approved

Sherpa the original dog carrier bag.

The Sherpa Dog Carrier Bag offers style and meets the airline-approved "Guaranteed On Board" program for small and medium-sized bags. The patented steel wire frame allows the rear to push down and compress several inches to fit beneath the airplane seat without constricting your dog's head room. The bag also features mesh windows for proper ventilation, two strong closures with locking zippers, a sturdy top handle and a shoulder strap. The washable faux lambskin pad provides a cozy bed for your pet on the road.

Sherpa, a quality brand in the pet space, receives glowing reviews from dog lovers traveling with their pets. Our Editor Madi Koetting is one such reviewer, saying, " I could go on and on about this airline-friendly pet carrier. But what really impresses me is the ‘Guaranteed on Board’ certification. My pup and I are frequent flyers, so a pet carrier that meets every airline’s requirements is a must. The Sherpa was the only one I found that checks all the boxes. My mini Aussiedoodle puppy fits perfectly in the medium size, and I feel confident knowing I can fly anywhere with her in a cinch." 

• Airline-approved guarantee
• Durable mesh construction
• Locking zippers
• Rear storage compartment
• Folds for easy storage
• Some reviewers find that this carrier runs small, so you may want to size up

Best rolling

Sherpa ultimate on wheels dog carrier.

Comfort meets airplane-friendly travel with the Sherpa Ultimate On Wheels Dog Carrier . As with the other Sherpa dog carriers, the patented spring steel frame offers flexibility and durable structure. Ventilated mesh panels provide privacy and breathability. Pets enter from the top opening and rest on a machine-washable, faux-lamb lining while they ride. The travel options are endless with this carrier and getting through TSA will be simple. Roll it on the ground, use the padded carrying straps or opt for a detachable shoulder strap—the choice is yours.

• Wheels make for easy, lightweight transportation
• Airline-friendly and fits under most airline seats
• Mesh windows have privacy panels
• Flexible frame
• Leak-proof material
• Washable bed liner
• Height is smaller than expected to adjust for wheels, so measure your dog accordingly

Best for car seats

Pet gear signature dog car seat & carrier bag.

This Pet Gear Bag doubles as a car seat and travel carrier. Perfect for dogs up to 20 pounds, the mesh top and sides offer plenty of ventilation. The shape offers your dog lots of space to sit up and poke their head out or curl up during trips. A safety tether keeps dogs from escaping and attaches to seat belts for extra security. Pet essentials ride along, too, thanks to exterior pockets. Stash a portable dog water bottle in there to keep your pup hydrated on the go.

• Durable, comfortable carrier for car travel
• Doubles as a carrying bag
• Top and front openings
• Carrying strap
• Machine washable interior fleece pad cover
• Exterior storage pockets
• Not waterproof or water-resistant
• Not airline-approved

What to look for when buying dog carriers

Comfort, safety and function are top priorities when buying a dog carrier. Narrow your search by determining what type of travel you need the carrier to suit. Then, pay attention to overall construction, like if it contains proper space and ventilation to keep your pooch cool . Special features like extra storage compartments and overall aesthetic should follow.

Some dogs have a hard time accepting carriers, so comfort should be a top priority. Wire crates let dogs see outside but aren't as cozy or mobile as soft-sided carriers. When you pick up the pet carrier with your dog inside, the base must provide a stable footing that won't buckle or tip if the they roll over. Wire or plastic crates should include a mat to reduce slip, thus helping dogs feel more confident.

If traveling by plane with your dog , make sure the carrier is airline-approved and contains mesh windows for ventilation, leakproof materials and is sized for in-cabin travel or as extra baggage. The best dog carriers have more than one opening, which is important for loading them in and breathability. Every opening should securely close to keep pets from accidental escape.

How we chose the best dog carriers

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money . Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.    

What kind of dog carriers are best?

The best carrier depends on your dog and your individual needs. It should feature proper ventilation, sturdy construction, fail-safe door fasteners and offer easy access to your pet. Opt for washable materials to make cleaning a breeze. Comfort is vital for longer trips. Hands-free options like backpacks and front slings are convenient for everyday trips to the store or for a walk in the park .

Are dog slings a good idea?

Dog slings and backpacks work best for short distances, like when hiking or shopping, for example. They aren't as comfortable for dogs during long periods of travel. They aren't airline-approved or safe for car travel, either.

How big should a dog carrier be?

A dog carrier should be big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around. Therefore, it must be tall, long and sturdy enough to hold their weight. Measure the length of your dog from nose to the base of their tail, then add about five inches. For a soft carrier, add two or three inches to your dog's shoulder height. For hard-sided carriers, add three to five inches to their height.

Are dog carriers safe for dogs?

Yes, dog carriers are safe. Airline-approved carriers are best for air travel. Some dog carriers undergo crash-tests for riding in cars. For optimal safety, secure your dog carrier with a dog seatbelt .

Craving more paw-some content? Get hilarious videos, heartwarming stories and editor-vetted product recommendations for every type of pet delivered right to your inbox.  Sign up for The Scoop newsletter .

The post 8 Best Dog Carriers for Safe Travel and Everyday Use appeared first on Reader's Digest .

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

6 Best Airline Approved Dog Crates In 2024

• Last Updated: July 12, 2023

Imagine planning a tour with your pet to Mabali, Hawaii, or any other fun site in the summer vacations. Your adventurous soul is alive. Everything is ready, your bags, passports, and hotel bookings. Then, you go to the airport, but unfortunately, the airline says they cannot allow your dog to travel with you because its pet carrier is not from any airline-approved dog crates.

Well, I can feel the pain you would suffer but relax! We are here to help. Welcome on board!  International Air Travel Association (IATA)  approves some  travel dog crates  for international flights. We have summarized the top 6 best airline-approved dog crates so that not a single holiday plan of you both gets canceled anymore.

We will also inform you about the factors you should consider before choosing the best airline-approved dog crate for your cutie pie. Of course, we will also answer your concerns at the end of the article.

Product Details

SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels

• LENGTH: 35.5IN
• MATERIAL: PLASTIC

Ideal Choice

Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier

• LENGTH: 40IN
• MATERIAL: BLEND

For Larger Dogs

Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel

• LENGTH: 48IN

Slide And Snap Design

Petmate Compass Plastic Pets Kennel

• LENGTH: 28IN

Affordable Choice

Suncast Deluxe Pet Carrier

• LENGTH:28IN MATERIAL:RESIN

Best for Medium-sized

Aspen Pet Porter Kennel

• LENGTH: 36IN

Top Best Airline Approved Dog Crates

Selecting a pet crate approved by the International Air Transport Association is necessary if you want to take your pup on an international tour. However, the same issue can also happen on domestic flights, so you should never compromise on buying the best airline-approved crates for your furry friend.

Let us give you some best options from which you can choose the best for your travel mate. But still, ask your airline prior to the flight for any sudden policy change because most airlines have specific demands which you can find in these products.

1. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels

Are you looking for a pet kennel that meets all the airline requirements? Congratulations! Your quest ends here.

This airline dog crate carrier features the best specifications. It is available in 5 sizes for dogs up to 27 inches. The kennel is made with a strong plastic with a rigid steel door and squeeze pins for easy opening and closing. The door can be zip-tightened according to the airline’s requirements. It is an overall bounty package with portable wheels, handles, bowls, nuts, and stickers.

The small size kennel has 1 handle and 2 bowls. The medium-sized kennel includes 1 handle, 4 wheels, and 2 bowls for water and food separately. While the large, extra-large, and largest kennel have 2 handles, 4 wheels, and 2 bowls. The wheels are detachable so that you can detach them while placing them in the plane. Otherwise, the crate would keep sliding.

For easy assembling, 4 nuts and 4 bolts are given. The tie-down holes are an additional feature thatprovides extra grip to the kennel.

Hinges are present on the sides for locking the upper part with the lower one. The floor has a removable gutter for convenient cleaning. The ventilation system is excellent.

Last but not the least, the company also provides travel stickers.

Specifications

• Squeeze pins on the door
• Zip-tightened door
• Holes for tie-down
• Portable wheels
• Nuts and bolts
• Travel stickers
• Gutter floor
• The buyers were so happy to have the feature of a removable gutter because they could easily clean the crate. 
• The users were glad over the portable wheels because they did not have to carry the crate in their hands.
• Some pet owners claimed that it was too expensive for everyone to buy.

Testers Verdict

Our team was readily excited to take an international tour with their canine partner when they found such an astonishing dog crate for flying with their beloved. They called this kennel a premium package with such luxurious and comfy specifications.

The price of ” SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels” varies, so check the latest price at

2. Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier

Petmate is as famous as Grandmother’s love tales that she improvises according to every child. In the same way, Petmate has announced crates of 6 varying sizes suiting dog breeds of different sizes. Also, it meets all of the IATA airline requirements.

The Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier is eco-friendly. It is made of a heavy-duty plastic shell. The wire door is sturdy with a dial latch system for quick opening and shutting. In addition, the 4-way locking vault door makes it easy for the users to handle it.

The kennel is robust enough to keep your dog safe during a long journey because of the steady metal bolts, wing nut design, and extra strong steel wire. Moreover, the 360-degree ventilation and metallic side openings ensure your pooch’s comfort. The interior moat never lets your pet stay wet due to any reason.

This best dog travel crate’s handle and tie-down strap make the travel kennel suitable to carry. The two “live animals” stickers, a water and food bowl, an absorbent paper pad, and ID stickers are icings on the cake. 

You can carry cats in the same crates.

Honestly! What is not there to fall in love with Petmate Sky Kennel?

• 6 varying sizes
• Suitable for all breeds
• Eco-friendly
• Plastic shell
• The convenient dial latch system
• 4-way locking vault crate door
• Bolts and wing nut
• 360-degree ventilation openings
• Metallic side openings
• Interior moat
• Handle and tie-down strap
• Additional items, water bowl, paper pad, and ID sticker
• The pet parents were happy over the easy assembling of the Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier.
• The dog owners said that their dog stayed comfortable in this travel crate.
• Many customers were unhappy because the handle came in only two sizes; 21″ and 28″.

Our testers found this dog crate an awesome travel crate. It had ample space for all-sized dogs. It was easy to assemble and carry. Also, the door and food tray system made it easier for the airplane management to take care of your beloved.

The price of ” Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier” varies, so check the latest price at

3. Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel

Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel is the largest airline approved dog carrier from the petmate brand. This airline-approved pet carrier lets your furry friend enjoy world tours. It is specifically designed for big dogs weighing 90 lbs or more.

This airline dog crate is made up of durable and sturdy recycled plastic, and hence it is eco-friendly. Its unique feature is the ultra-solid side steel meshes to ensure your dog’s safety. Moreover, this travel crate provides 360-degree upper surround ventilation.

This airline approved pet carrier for large dogs has easy assemblage because of the tie-down strap holes for fixing the zip-tie. It makes the latching mechanism convenient. The crate performs dual functions as it can be used for air travel as well as in homes when you are going out and your furry friend is in JODO karate mode.

The kennel door is made of strong steel to keep your pet unharmed if your pup ever tries to pull the door inwards experimentally. In addition, the metal nuts provide extra security.

The travel crate only lacks in having good water and food trays, causing trouble for the staff when they have to open the door to feed the pet. Also, it does have a top opening door which would be reachable by the large dogs, and they can damage it.

• For dogs weighing 90 lbs or more
• Durable and sturdy recycled plastic
• Side steel meshes
• Maximum ventilation
• Tie-down strap holes
• Used for car and air travel 
• The buyers were happy because the material of this airline compliant pet carrier   was secure and reliable for air travel.
• The users were satisfied with the easy latch mechanism because they didn’t have to struggle every time while taking their dog in or out.
• The clients were not satisfied with the top opening doors as the large dogs could reach them easily.

Our team checked this portable pet carrier for durability, and they found it highly reliable for airline travel. In addition, they only needed to include food and water trays because they are essential additions.

The price of “Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel” varies, so check the latest price at

4. Petmate Compass Plastic Pets Kennel

Petmate brand has fifty years of crate experience to announce the best airline-approved dog crate features.

Its unique feature is the slide and snap design that makes it easy to be assembled and use without using any tools. Another special feature of this dog travel carrier is the two-way lockable door system with a dual turn-dial door fastening system with 4 metal nuts.

Like the other Petmate products, the Petmate Compass Plastic Pet Kennel is made up of rigid plastic to make it eco-friendly. This travel crate is specifically designed for small dogs from 10-20 lbs.

It has an excellent ventilation system to make it roomy for your pooch. And the meshes provide enhanced visibility so that your dog can enjoy the scenes of the air travel. The crate also has a handle for convenience.

It does not have food or water bowls, but you must purchase them separately. Yet, this travel crate meets most airlines’ requirements. In addition, the company provides a 1-year warranty in case the buyer is not satisfied.

• Slide and snap latching mechanism
• Excellent ventilation
• Visibility system
• Two-way door
• Dual turn-dial door fastening system
• Carrying handle
• For cats and dogs
• The pet carers appreciated its slide and snap design.
• The parents exclaimed that the two-way door was a desirable addition
• The clients were unhappy because the crate did not have food and water trays.

Our team tested this product, and they found the slide and snap design exciting. However, testers were not happy with the fastening system that only had 4 nuts. In addition, though the ventilation and visibility were excellent, it lacked meal trays.

Overall, this product was good for dogs but not much for the dog carers.

The price of “Petmate Compass Plastic Pets Kennel” varies, so check the latest price at

5. Suncast Deluxe Pet Carrier

Suncast Deluxe Pet Carrier is the best pet carrier for flying as it is an affordable product with the required important features of an airline-approved crate.

The crate features two separate compartments on the upper side for putting treats or your pup’s favorite toys and items. It also has separate food and water bowls attached to the door. Your beloved feels royalty having everything in its hand, and trust me, our pets deserve it.

The Suncast Deluxe Pet Carrier also offers a personalized name sticker. This pet carrier comprises high-quality plastic and a wire resin kennel door. The company does not compromise on the product’s quality because that would equal risking pet safety over a few bucks.

The pups’ habit of wandering in the house and staying in the kennel can be difficult. However, the wire door is mighty enough to handle the continuous blows of your smaller pup when he starts bouncing on the doors to let him out. Only the plastic clamps are a problem because certain airlines disapprove of using them in travel crates.

It offers an amazing air crossing to make your pet feel like flying in the air. In addition, the hard-sided crates offer you and your dog more satisfaction and security.

• Affordable product
• Personalized name sticker
• High-quality plastic
• A wire resin door
• Two separate compartments on the upper side
• Attached food and water bowls
• Amazing air crossing
• Hard-sided crate
• The buyers were happy to get a personalized name sticker so that the specific pups crate doesn’t mix with any others. 
• The upper compartments were the best feature because the pet parents could put all the necessary items in one place.
• The customers were unhappy about the plastic braces. 

Our testers specified this brand as the best one for airline travel. They agreed that this dog crate for airplane does not come with accessories like the Petmate Sky Kennel, but it stands out best in the cluster of other products available in the market because of its affordable range and special features.

Only the plastic clamps are an issue, but the users can fix this issue. 

The price of “Suncast Deluxe Pet Carrier” varies, so check the latest price at

6. Aspen Pet Porter Kennel

Aspen Pet Porter Kennel is another wonder by Petmate store. This airline-approved dog crate has a durable plastic body with a strong metal door. It is best for medium-sized dogs.

It has an easy latch system and a handle. The 3-side ventilation is admirable to make your pup’s travel as soothing as yours. The metal bolts give toughness to the crate to make sure that your pet would safely land.

This crate is lightweight to be carried easily but does not compromise on the sturdiness in terms of the dog’s security. Its assembly is quick, and it is easily cleanable.

It meets almost all the necessary airline standards as the product claims. A surprising feature is that the buyers can also use it for cats. Its plastic is made in the USA, and other components, including the handle, are imported.

However, it does not have meal dishes that most buyers mostly require.

• Best for medium-sized dogs
• Lightweight
• Durable plastic body
• 3-side ventilation
• Metal bolts
• Easy assemblage
• 1-year warranty 
• The buyers were happy to have a product best designed for medium-sized dogs.
• The clients were glad to find an easily portable lightweight crate.
• Some customers claimed that the plastic body is not durable enough for long-term use.

Our testers checked this product on medium breeds, and the results were good. The crate was safe and comfortable. It was lightweight so that the owner could easily carry it. However, it was durable for heavy or large dogs.

The price of “Aspen Pet Porter Kennel” varies, so check the latest price at

Features of an IATA Compliant Dog Crate

There are plenty of dog crates available but choosing the best travel dog crate is always a concern. We have enlisted the important IATA-compliant features that should be present in a crate.

Before buying a dog crate for your canine make sure that your pup’s crate is airline approved to avoid any kind of mess prior to the flight and make your journey hassle free. The following must be the considered features before buying IATA approved dog crates.  

The pup will be uncomfortable if the travel kennels are smaller than the dog’s size. And, if it is larger, the dog will hit the walls when the crate is mistakenly handled forcefully.

According to the standards of most airlines, a travel kennel should be higher than the dog’s ear when he stands. It should be 1.5 times longer than your pet’s length. It must have enough room for the dog to turn sides, stand, sit and lay down. Just make sure not to buy such a bigger travel dog crate that your pup starts practicing for a marathon in it.

A portable dog kennel must be made of rigid materials like plastic, solid wood, plywood, fiberglass, and a wire mesh. Plastic nuts are not advised; however, metal nuts with plastic caps are preferred. In addition, it should have a zip-tight single metal door because plastic doors are not very sturdy.

Also, the pet crates should never have top-opening doors. The soft-sided carrier is never suitable for travel because the dog will be able to break them easily.

Ventilation

The airline-approved dog crates must have ventilation on the 4 sides of the crate to bless the pets with fresh air. The ventilation area should be 16% of the total space according to the guidelines of IATA . The ventilation mesh panels must be welded and tight fit so that the dog does not damage them. In addition, the meshes should be soft and plane so that they might not hurt the paws and nose of your little pup.

A solid and absorbable floor is preferred.

The best airline-approved dog crate should have the “Live Animals,” “Laboratory Animals,” or “This Way Up” labeling. Moreover, an ID sticker is more beneficial.

It will help if you buy travel crates with carrying handles. You do not have to carry the crate in your hands. Also, the airline staff would easily move the crate because of the handle.  

As per official international guidelines, the travel crates must have detachable wheels. Otherwise, they will keep rolling in the airplane, making it unsafe for the pet.

Separate Food and Water Dishes

The airline-approved crates must have food and water dishes attached with the lockable doors for the convenience of airline staff. So, they don’t have to open the crate every time to feed the dog.

No, the airlines do not provide crates. Instead, you have to buy one airline-approved dog crate yourself for your beloved.

Most airlines have different crate requirements, so confirm those before buying one.

Carrying regular dog crates on a plane is never allowed, but you can take an airline-approved dog crate. The airlines have specific demands for pet carriers, and if your crate meets all the demands, congratulations! You are all set to go.

The airplane crates must be 1.5 times higher than your dog’s length, and the dog’s ears must never touch the roof.

It should have enough space for your dog to change sides, lay down, sit or stand.

According to the airline standards, except for the crate, you should take your pet documents with you; its vaccination certificates, medical certificates, prescriptions, feeding instructions, health certificate, and passport.

Buy airline-approved dog crates and never choose soft crates for airline travel because they are not durable.

Some owners sedate their dogs so that they may not have to take care of them. But, according to airline regulations, you should never sedate your dog before flying because the airline looks after them responsibly.

Train your dog to stay in the crate because the anxious pets may get panicked if they are not already trained. Also, you should always inform the staff if your dog is allergic to any food or following some diet.

Always embellish your crate lining with a soft bed and cushions to save your sweetie pie from potential accidents.

Moreover, avoid long-haul flights because your dog may suffer from breathing problems if the temperature gets too hot or cold.

Tell the staff about your pet’s feeding instructions so that they do not have to face any issues dealing with your canine.

Human lovers demand stars and moons and many things to prove your love to them. But, on the other hand, your dog is humble and just wants to go with you when you are flying to another country. Therefore, you can fulfill its demand by buying an appropriate travel carrier approved for an international journey.

We have jotted down the top 6 best dog crates that you can opt for international or domestic tours, and the criteria for IATA accepted dog crates.

In the end, we wish you and your love to reach your final destination safely.

Written By:

Ramona Gray

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7 Best Airline Approved Dog Travel Carrier With Wheels 2024

Table of Contents

I know first-hand how traveling with a pet can be stressful, even more so if you are going somewhere new. However, having the equipment to transport your dog more easily will change the way you travel and make everything more convenient.

Using a wheeled pet carrier is a great way to avoid your dog becoming overwhelmed or stressed, especially if you have to follow airline policies.

Whether you are planning a road trip, an international flight, or a quick trip to the vet, a travel carrier is super useful. 

I don’t use a travel carrier because my dog is too big. But my sister uses them all the time for her pup! 

To help you and your pet travel more easily, here are the best pet carriers with wheels you should consider purchasing for your next trip.

• 20 x 14.7 x 5 inches
• 6 Wheel design
• Machine washable bed
• Removable handles & wheels
• Unstable if your pet moves around a lot

1. The Overall Best Dog Travel Carrier With Wheels: Katziela Rolling Pet Carrier 

⭐️ rating: 4.3/5 stars.

This lightweight pet carrier on wheels will keep your pup safe and secure during your travels . It also has a lot of great features.

You can carry it on your shoulders or roll it like a suitcase. So if you are taking your dog on a flight or public transport, it will make your life so much easier. Having these different carrying options is a game-changer when you have lots of luggage!

The rolling handle is convenient and sturdy. The handle system helps the whole carrier roll smoothly and helps your dog relax when you are on the move. This carrier has your pet’s comfort in mind with the soft bed and leash inside that you to attach your pup’s harness to keep them secure. 

After traveling, the Carrier can even break down into a flat bag for easy storage. The flat bag is handy if you have limited storage options in your hotel or home after your travels.

🐾 Check Prices Now!

• 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Easy to clean with machine washable bed
• Expanding walls
• Removing wheels can be difficult

2. Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers: Ruff Life 101

⭐️ rating: 4.4/5 stars.

This dog bag with wheels is a great purchase for any pet owner!

Many dog carriers with wheels for airlines don’t have much room. I take my large dog on flights, so I know how important it is to try and make them comfortable. And this expandable carrier makes traveling or delays more spacious!

The durable mesh material allows air to circulate throughout the carrier and keeps Your pet comfortable during long journeys. This feature will be handy in the summer months!

The Ruff Life 101 carrier is great for air travel because it has a strap and can be attached to your suitcase to help it stay stable while moving. You can easily sit the carrier on your bag while you find your travel documents and grab a coffee before your flight!

It also features a sturdy wheel system that makes it easy to maneuver. Airports can be chaotic, so these smooth wheels make navigating them with your pet easy.

And there’s no need to worry about your pet becoming anxious because the mesh lining allows them to see your face, keeping them calm. This lining is helpful for older pets, reactive pets, and pets with health problems.

Add a travel mat on these journeys to make it more enjoyable!

• Available in multiple sizes
• Easy to clean
• Water dishes included
• Snap-on wheels
• Instructions could be easier to follow

3. Best Large Dog Travel Carrier With Wheels: Sport Pet

⭐️ rating: 4.6/5 stars.

Finding an extra-large dog travel carrier with wheels can be a challenge. But this durable carrier will make traveling together a dream .

My friend has a large Border Collie and struggled so much to find a carrier for her dog, never mind one with wheels. Then she purchased the Sport Pet and never looked back. It made taking her dog to The Netherlands much less stressful!

The great thing about the Sport Pet carrier is that its wheels snap on and off as needed. This feature means you can use the Carrier without it sliding everywhere. You’ll also appreciate the carrier’s various sizes ranging from small to XXL, so you can find one that fits your large dog perfectly.

When it comes time to fly with your pet, Sport Pet carriers stand out. The durable Carrier includes animal stickers, making it a popular option for international travel and moving your pet abroad . Plus, its lightweight and sturdy material ensures your pup will have a safe journey!

Pet owners love this carrier because of the size options but equally, because it doesn’t have to be used just for airport travel. Not only does it easily roll along on any surface, but it’s also ideal for activities after your travels. This spacious carrier is so helpful!

• 23 x 16 x 12.6 Inches
• Large storage pockets
• Detectable wheels
• Multiple straps
• Dogs can rip the mesh if they try.
• Entrance needs to be held up for dog to enter

4. Best Soft Sided Carrier With Detachable Wheels: DuoLmi 

⭐️ rating: 4.0/5 stars.

This four-wheeled carrier is ideal for pet owners who want something flexible and easy to store when not in use. Whether you’re going on a road trip or just taking your pup to the park, DuoLmi makes it easy.

The mesh window allows you to see your pet at all times, while the window cover offers shade and privacy for those extra nervous pups. The Cover is helpful when you are in busy areas and need to relax your pet.

Another way to make the journey less stressful for your dog is to combine this carrier with some travel sickness tablets calming agents to help your dog relax!

A great feature of this carrier is the cushion included. It provides your pet with extra support and is machine washable, so you don’t have to worry about any mess.

This small dog carrier is popular with breeds like Pugs, Corgis, French Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers. But regardless of what breed your pup is, they’ll be comfortable!

• 14.6 x 11.2 x 43.7 inches
• 2 Compartments can become one
• 360° rotation wheels
• Foldable telescoping handle
• Side pockets could be bigger

5. Best Double-Compartment Pet Carrier With Wheels: Hovono 

⭐️ rating: 4.7/5 stars.

Have you ever tried to go anywhere with more than one pet? It can be exhausting!

So if you have multiple pets that need to travel together, the Hovono Dog Travel Carrier is a great choice. It will make your life easier and ensure your furry friends stay comfortable during car trips or vet visits!

This carrier straps quickly into a seatbelt and can also be a backpack. It’s also one of the best pet carriers with wheels for medium dogs and small pets because of its multiple uses! 

The many uses do not stop there!

The 2 compartments have enough room for two small pets. But if you have a medium-sized pet or want more space, the carrier can become one large single compartment.

The compartments stack vertically rather than side by side. Stacking them this way makes it easier to move through tight spaces and keep an eye on your pets. And when it comes to assembly, it is easy to put together and then pack away when not in use. 

So if you want to provide your pets with their own space, making them feel safe and secure during the journey, this is the carrier for you!

• 13 x 12 x 20 Inches
• Approved by most airlines
• Telescoping handle, strap handle, and Backpack straps
• Storage pockets
• Limited color options

6. Best Backpack Pet Travel Carrier With Double Wheels: KOPEKS

This multifunctional bag is the perfect choice if you want to take your dog on any journey. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a trip abroad, it will make your journey smoother. 

You can also carry it in 3 different ways!

The backpack function is the perfect mixture of convenience and comfort. It has support for your back and is durable. So no more struggling with carrying your dog or worrying about being unsafe.

You can also wheel it using the telescoping handle. The smooth spinning wheels are a real highlight of this carrier, making it easy to move through tight spaces like airports or supermarkets, while the bag provides plenty of room for your pup. 

If you are worried about the straps catching under the wheels, there is a pocket in the back of the bag with enough room to tuck away the straps!

You can also use the strap handles and use like a traditional carrier. This feature is handy if you need to move your pet quickly.

• 19 x 17 x 20 Inches
• Window has lock
• Built-in fan
• The carrier needs to be charged
• Only for small pets

7. Best Pet Carrier With Window: Pidan

This all-in-one carrier makes life easier for any pet parent!

This Shock Absorbing carrier has two air settings – low and high. So if you are traveling on a hot day, your pet will stay cool thanks to the independent ventilation system. 

The shock-absorbing feature will guarantee your dog can handle everything your journey may throw at you!

The bedding in the bottom of the carrier is also very soft and comfortable, so your pet can rest comfortably during the journey. It also adds a bit of extra padding and protection to make any trip comfortable.

The suitcase also features wheels and a strap, making carrying it a breeze. No more struggling with heavy carriers or finding space for bulky luggage!

Best of all, the Pidan suitcase has a large window that allows your pet to see you. And if your dog likes to attempt a great escape, you can lock the window.

How To Choose The Best Pet Carrier

There are many carrier options available on the market today. But there are a few points to consider before choosing a carrier that is perfect for your pet:

• Airflow: Airflow is super important. Ventilation is needed for all journey types to keep your pet safe and healthy. 
• Size: The carrier size needs to fit the type of journey you are taking. If you are taking your dog on a flight, the carrier must also be a specific size. Your dog also has to be comfortable standing and turning in the Carrier. 
• Durability: Durability is key to having a long-lasting carrier. Don’t spend your hard-earned cash on something your dog can escape or can’t handle your travel style.
• Hard or Soft Shell: If you take your dog in the cabin on your flight or on small journeys, a soft shell carrier may fit your needs more. For longer journeys or international travel, hard cases are more popular.

Can A Dog Sleep In A Travel Carrier?

Yes, a dog can sleep in a travel carrier. If you are traveling long distances or they feel their carrier is a safe space, chances are they will fall asleep. Just make sure it is comfortable and has plenty of space for them!

Can You Take Dog Out Of Carrier On Plane?

Once your dog or pet is on the plane, they must stay under the seat in their airline-approved carrier for the whole flight. Remember to use pet relief areas at the airport before you board.

Are Airlines Strict About Dog Carriers?

There are many policies about taking your dog on a flight, so airlines are often strict with carriers. Not only have they got to make sure your dog travels safely, but also that other passengers are comfortable with your dog.

How To Get Dog Use To Travel Carrier?

To help your dog get used to their carrier, make it a fun space for them by using treats and commands they already know, and start with only making short trips. Even if your dog is crate trained, getting them to use their new travel carrier can be challenging.

Should A Dog Be Able To Stand In A Travel Carrier?

For your dog to be comfortable on your journey, they should be able to stand up and turn around in their carrier fully. If you are flying, this can be hard, but a soft-sided carrier will help them have more room and stretch out.

What Is An Airline Approved Dog Carriers?

An airline-approved dog carrier allows your pet to travel safely, has a waterproof bottom, is enclosed, and follows the airline’s pet policies. Each airline has different rules regarding the number of pets and carrier size, so check their requirements before you fly.

What Size Dog Carrier Can I Take On A Plane?

Each airline has different rules in terms of dog carrier sizes. The average airline-approved size is 17 x 11 x 11 (L x W x H). However, it is a good idea to email your airline before you fly and check what size carrier they allow.

Final Thoughts

Going on any trip can be overwhelming, and If you have an active dog, a pet that doesn’t like people, or has health issues, it can be a challenge. 

I love traveling with my dog, and traveling doesn’t have to be such a stressful experience!

Consider getting a pet carrier with wheels and handles to make any journey more enjoyable. Ensuring that your dog is safe and comfortable is a must.

Whether you are looking for a large dog travel carrier with wheels or something you can quickly add to telescopic handle carriers, you will find plenty of great options. 

If you can’t decide which option to get, try the Katziela Rolling Pet Carrier for your next trip!

✅ Upgrade your pet’s travel experience to a new level of comfort and convenience with the Katziela Rolling Pet Carrier! 🐶

Read More Travel with Dogs Tips!

• 7 Best Travel Sickness Tablets For Dogs
• How to get a Dog Passport (Expert Guide)
• Dog Travel Guide
• Dog Travel Checklist: What to Bring When Traveling with a Dog
• Flying With a Large Dog in Cabin: How to Guide
• West Paw Toppl Review: How to Use It for Tough Chewers
• Muttluks Review: Fleece-Lined Dog Boots That Stay On!
• Moving Abroad with Pets: 15 Expat Tips
• Pet Travel Quiz: Find Out Where to Go With your Pet
• Can I Buy a Plane Ticket For My Dog? (17 Dog-Flying Tips)
• Ultimate Guide To Flying With A Puppy
• 17 Best Hiking Boots for Dogs: Ultimate Guide

Dog Travel Planning Guide

🐶 How do you travel with a dog?

You can road trip, go camping, fly (depending on your dog’s size), go for day trips, and even live in an RV or motorhome with your dog! I’ve done all of the above with my dog, Theo.

✈️ How to travel with a dog by plane?

Check the airline requirements, if you’re flying with a large dog you’ll need to book far ahead, get a travel crate or carrier, and make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccinations. And don’t forget to bring along a leash, collapsible dish, and plenty of treats! ( Read more )

🚗 How to travel with a dog in a car?

Get a seatbelt or car-friendly crate, a seat protector, and a few toys to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Bring along items like a leash, pee pads, treats, collapsible bowl, and some calming treats for anxious dogs. Take frequent potty breaks (I recommend every 2 hours minimum).

🧳 What should I pack in my dog travel bag?

I always pack a collapsible bowl, back up leash, 50ft long leash, Toppl food toy, plenty of dog food, and a few toys for my pup when we go on our travels. It’s important to have all the essentials packed before you leave home since it can be difficult to find pet-friendly stores in some locations. ( Read more )

📝 What paperwork do I need to travel with a dog?

The paperwork you need will depend on where you’re going. You will always need your dog’s veterinary records and their vaccine status. You may also need an international health certificate, titre test, and even a spay/neuter certificate.

🐾 What is the best travel dog crate?

This collapsible crate is great for local travel and road trips. For plane travel, I recommend this hard crate for large breeds and this carrier for small breeds.

📍 What is the best way to travel with a dog?

It depends! The best way to travel will depend on you and your dog. Small dogs will have an easier time with plane travel. Large breeds are better for long term trips to minimize plane time, or road trips.

🛌 Best dog travel mat?

This non-slip, water-proof, easy to wash travel mat is my go to!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy cheap flights?

To find cheap flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🏨  What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?

To find cheap hotels, I recommend  Booking.com .

Or stay for free with Trusted Housesitters!

🚗  What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?

To find cheap rental cars, I recommend  Discover Cars .

🚗  What’s the best site to find tours?

To find epic tours, I recommend  Viator .

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Traveling With Your Pets. She and her golden retriever, Theo, have been to 3 countries, on dozens of road trips, and explored many cities across North America. Nina has been a full time traveler since 2017 before getting Theo, but hasn't let having a dog chain her to one spot. Now she helps thousands of people plan their pet-friendly holidays around the world.

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