10 Best Cat Carriers For Air Travel (2024 Update)

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When it comes to air travel, it is important to make sure your cat is comfortable and secure. Finding the right cat carrier can be a challenge, but there are a few key points to consider when selecting the best cat carrier for air travel.

First, make sure the carrier is the right size for your cat. It should be big enough for your cat to move around comfortably, but not so big that it doesn't fit in the overhead compartment. Also, it's important to make sure the carrier meets airline requirements. Some airlines require that the carrier be made of hard-sided material, while others require that it have a water-resistant bottom.

Second, look for a carrier with plenty of ventilation and visibility. This will help keep your cat cool and give them a view of their surroundings. Some carriers have mesh panels on the sides and top, while others have windows.

Third, look for a carrier with a secure latch. This will help keep your cat safe and secure while in the air. It's also important to make sure the carrier has a handle or shoulder strap that can be used to carry it around the airport.

Fourth, make sure the carrier is easy to clean. You don't want to be stuck with a carrier that is impossible to clean. Look for a carrier that has removable and machine-washable pads.

Finally, look for a carrier with plenty of storage. This will help keep your cat's essentials organized and easily accessible during the flight. Look for a carrier with pockets, compartments, and pouches, so you can store your cat's food and treats, toys, and other items.

When looking for the best cat carrier for air travel, these five key points will help you find the perfect one for your cat. By keeping these points in mind, you'll be able to find a carrier that is comfortable and secure for your cat, and that meets airline requirements.

10 Best Cat Carriers For Air Travel

1. Airline-Approved Pet Carrier For Cats & Dogs

The Paws & Pals Airline Approved Pet Carrier is the perfect solution for air-plane travel with your furry loved ones. This soft-sided carrier is designed for small and medium cats and dogs and is approved for on-board use. The pet carrier is constructed from thick, waterproof 600D polyester oxford fabric, breathable mesh window shades, and reinforced with iron wiring. With an 8 panel design and reinforced seams and corners, this pet carrier is sure to stand up to the rigors of air-plane travel.

The Paws & Pals Pet Carrier is easy to use and transport. Simply remove the folded playpen from the storage bag and unfold it in a matter of seconds. It is intended for both indoor and outdoor use, so you can use it inside your house or outside in the yard. The playpen also folds flat, making it great for travel. Plus, it comes with a soft and fluffy fleece blanket to keep your pet comfortable and cozy.

Cleaning up after your pet is easy with the Paws & Pals Pet Carrier. Simply wipe the mess away or spot clean as needed. This pet carrier is perfect for small animals such as puppies, kittens, dogs, cats, bunnies, rabbits, chickens, ferrets, bearded dragons, and even hamsters! It also comes with a removable top and bottom, built-in storage pockets, a soft fleece blanket, and a carrying bag with a handle for easy transport.

The Paws & Pals Airline Approved Pet Carrier is the perfect solution for air-plane travel with your furry loved ones. It is constructed from durable materials and available in black, beige, blue, and gray. It is easy to use, transport, and clean. Plus, it is perfect for small animals. Make sure your pet stays safe and comfortable during air-plane travel with the Paws & Pals Airline Approved Pet Carrier.

2. Petsfit Airline-Approved Cat/dog Carrier, Soft-Sided, Washable, Locking Zippers.

This Petsfit Expandable Cat Carrier Dog Carriers is an ideal choice for pet owners who are looking for a convenient and comfortable way to take their pet on the go. This expandable soft-sided carrier is lightweight and provides plenty of room for your pet to sprawl out and relax. It is made of durable material with a solid wire structure to keep it from collapsing, and the top and two-sided windows are made of anti-scratch ventilated mesh. The actual PP board base helps to keep your pet steady, and the thick, comfy, washable and removable plush pad covers the base.

This carrier is also airline approved and comes in sizes S, M, and L, in compliance with airline standard size rules. Additionally, it features locking safety zippers to ensure that your pet can't escape, two flexible handles and a strap on one side that can be slid around the extendable handle of rolling luggage. It also comes with a detachable strap to hang on the shoulders and a side pocket for storage.

The M size of this carrier measures 17"L x 11"W x 11"H and is expandable to 20"L x 17"W x 11"H by expanding the one mesh window. It is suitable for small and medium-sized cats, kittens and puppies, and can fit pets up to 13 lbs.

This Petsfit Expandable Cat Carrier Dog Carriers is a great choice for pet owners who need a reliable and comfortable way to transport their pet. It is lightweight and durable, and is designed with comfort and safety in mind.

3. Air-Venture Pet Carrier For Small-Medium Dogs

The Pet Life® 'Air-Venture' Panoramic Airline Dog Carrier is the perfect travel companion for small and medium-sized dogs. This airline-approved pet carrier features a panoramic sunroof and dual-zippered entrances, allowing for convenient pet placement and providing much-needed space. In addition, the carrier is composed of durable material with ventilated mesh for complete breathability, reinforced stitching along the edges and a leash securer inside for added safety.

The Air-Venture Dog Carrier includes an above-top carrying handle and over-the-shoulder carrying straps that clip onto the dual outer edges. This makes it easy to take your pup anywhere you go, from the grocery store to the airport. And the carrier is available in multiple colors so you can pick the one that best matches your pup’s personality.

The Air-Venture Dog Carrier is designed to make traveling with your pup easier and safer. The reinforced stitching and ventilated mesh provide breathability and the leash securer inside adds an extra layer of security. So you can rest assured knowing your pup is comfortable and safe.

Whether you’re taking a road trip or an international flight, the Pet Life® 'Air-Venture' Panoramic Airline Dog Carrier is the perfect travel companion for your pup. With its reinforced stitching, ventilated mesh, dual-zippered entrances, and leash securer, you can take your pup anywhere in comfort and safety. Choose from multiple colors and enjoy the convenience of taking your pup with you wherever you go.

4. Airline-Approved Pet Carrier For Small/medium Cats/dogs, Airplane Travel Under-Seat Bag W/fleece Bolster Bed.

This Airline Approved Pet Carrier is the perfect travel companion for small to medium cats and dogs. This carrier is designed with safety, convenience, and comfort in mind. It measures 16.5"L x 8"W x 12.25"H inches and weighs 1.31 pounds, with a 10-pound weight limit. It is ideal for dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, and other small-sized animals.

The pet carrier is FAA compliant and works with most airlines, conforming to under-seat dimensions. It is easy to store and fold flat when not in use. It is also equipped with various features to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet during long trips. It includes safety seatbelt buckles, reflecting strips, a removable cushion padded shoulder strap, and a firm hard baseboard. The carrier also has mesh screens and roof, side pockets, two secure entryways, a zippered mesh window, and a removable fleece pad bed with raised bumper.

This carrier is also easy to clean and maintain. It is made with durable, water-resistant, and leak-resistant materials that are machine washable. It is the perfect carrier for airline travel, car trips, and even walking. Use it as a cab or taxi to take your pet wherever you go, whether to the office, park, vet, or on vacation. It is much more convenient and comfortable than a portable crate, kennel, backpack, or sling. With this pet carrier, you can rest assured that your pet is safe and comfortable during their travels.

5. J.l. Childress Wheelie Car Seat Travel Bag, Black

The J.L. Childress Wheelie Car Seat Travel Bag is the perfect solution for keeping your infant carriers, convertible car seats, and booster seats safe and secure during air travel. This heavy-duty bag is specially formulated to withstand scrapes, abrasion, and moisture, plus its smooth exterior ensures pockets and straps don’t get caught in airport machinery.

The bag also comes with an elevated wheel platform and sturdy base, which makes it easy to maneuver through the airport. You can easily tilt-and-roll the bag with your car seat inside. Plus, the bag folds flat on top of the wheel base, making it easy to store in airplane overhead compartments or when not in use.

J.L. Childress has been creating and improving car seat travel bags for over 15 years, so you can trust their quality and craftsmanship. The bag is airline certified and recommended for checking car seats at the gate or bringing onto the airplane. It is compatible with most major car seat brands, including Britax, Chicco, Safety 1st, Maxi Cosi, nuna, Graco, and UPPAbaby. The bag is also designed to fit Britax Roundabout, Marathon, Boulevard, Decathlon, and Diplomat car seats.

If you’re looking for a reliable, durable bag to keep your car seat safe during air travel, the J.L. Childress Wheelie Car Seat Travel Bag is the perfect solution. With its heavy-duty fabric and easy maneuverability, you can rest assured that your car seat will be safe and secure.

6. Rightline Gear Full-Size Short Truck Bed Tent, 5.5 Feet

The Rightline Gear Full-Size Short Truck Bed Tent is the perfect camping companion for weekend warriors and seasoned professionals. This off-the-ground tent is designed to fit any full-size, short bed truck and provides a comfortable, dry sleeping space for two adults.

The tent features a floorless design, color-coded poles and pole pockets, tape-sealed seams, and protective heavy-duty straps and plastic buckles that won't damage your vehicle’s finish. Additionally, the tent comes with two gear pockets for small personal items, an overhead lantern hook, and glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls for easy visibility. The sky view vent allows for air circulation, and the rainfly ensures a dry interior.

Setting up the tent is a breeze, with all attachment points accessible from outside the truck bed. Plus, the tent setup can be completed with your feet firmly planted on the ground – no step stool required!

The Rightline Gear Full-Size Short Truck Bed Tent is a must-have accessory for anyone who loves to camp. This tent ensures a comfortable, dry sleeping space for two adults, and is designed with intuitive features that make it easy to use and set up. The tent, rainfly, and stuff sack with sewn-in setup guide are included.

7. Car Seat Travel Bag With Wheels & Backpack – 3-In-1 Padded Carrier For Air Travel Essentials.

The Little Stork Car Seat Travel Bag With Wheels is a revolutionary 3-in-1 solution for family air travel. This padded carseat carrier backpack offers parents a no-struggle way to bring their child’s seat along on their flight. The adjustable ergonomic backpack straps and 360° no-wobble wheels make it effortless to navigate the airport with the bag in tow.

The universal infant car seat travel bag is designed with lockable zippers and an ID window, so parents can easily keep track of their bag as they travel. This car seat bag for airplane travel is also equipped with an extra drawstring storage bag, allowing parents to store all the extra essential items they need for their trip.

The extra protection of this carseat travel cover is unsurpassed. The triple layer, waterproof, tear-resistant, padded carseat cover with 900D polyester fabric and sturdy polycarbonate base with curb-proof corners ensures that the car seat will remain in pristine condition through any journey.

The Little Stork is a USA-based small business focused on family, so it’s no surprise that this car seat bag with wheels is top of the line. It is designed to protect the thing that protects your child. With this car seat travel bag, parents can rest assured that their child’s car seat will remain safe and secure during their flight.

8. Hard Shell Carrying Case For Nintendo Switch (2021/2017), Rose Gold

This Fintie Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch OLED Model 2021/Switch 2017 is the perfect way to protect your gaming device from accidental bumps, drops, and scratches. The hard EVA shell encases the Nintendo Switch OLED Model 2021/Switch 2017 to ensure maximum security and protection. A soft interior protects the console from everyday wear and tear.

The carrying case also features a storage sheet that can accommodate up to 10 game cards, as well as a zipped mesh pocket that can fit extra Joy-Cons, cables, and other small yet essential accessories. It cannot, however, fit larger items like the dock or pro-controllers.

An elastic strap is built-in to fasten the Nintendo Switch/Switch OLED Model, so that it won't collide with other items while in the case. This case is designed for maximum protection and convenience, with an all-around zipper and easy double zipper open and close. The handle and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, perfect for traveling.

The Fintie Carrying Case is designed to make your Nintendo Switch/Switch OLED Model console and accessories more portable and travel-friendly. It fits the Switch Console with both Joy-Cons attached, allowing you to take your gaming experience on the go. Protect your console in style and convenience with this Fintie Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch OLED Model 2021/Switch 2017.

Best Cat Carriers For Air Travel FAQs

Does TSA make you take cat out of carrier?

Yes, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that cats be removed from their carriers when going through security. This is to ensure that the cat is not hiding any prohibited items in the carrier. The TSA also requires that the cat be placed in a separate bin for screening. The cat must remain in the bin during the screening process and must be held by the owner or a companion. The owner or companion must remain with the cat at all times during the screening process.

The TSA also requires that the cat be placed in a secure carrier that is large enough for the cat to stand up and turn around in. The carrier must be able to be closed securely and must be able to be opened and closed easily. The carrier must also be able to be opened and closed without the use of tools.

The TSA also requires that the cat be muzzled or have a harness and leash attached to the carrier. This is to ensure the safety of the cat and the security personnel. The cat must also be kept away from other passengers and their belongings.

Finally, the TSA requires that the cat be kept away from food and drinks. This is to ensure that the cat does not contaminate any food or drinks with its saliva or fur.

In summary, the TSA requires that cats be removed from their carriers and placed in a separate bin for screening. The cat must remain in the bin during the screening process and must be held by the owner or a companion. The owner or companion must remain with the cat at all times during the screening process. The cat must also be placed in a secure carrier that is large enough for the cat to stand up and turn around in, and must be muzzled or have a harness and leash attached to the carrier. The cat must also be kept away from other passengers and their belongings, and away from food and drinks.

How do I know if my cat carrier is airline approved?

The best way to know if your cat carrier is airline approved is to check with the airline you are flying with. Each airline has its own specific requirements for pet carriers, so it is important to check with them before purchasing a carrier. Generally, most airlines require that the carrier be made of a hard material, such as plastic or metal, and have secure latches. The carrier should also be large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, the carrier should have adequate ventilation and be labeled with your contact information.

When traveling with your cat, it is also important to make sure that your cat is up to date on all of its vaccinations and has a health certificate from a veterinarian. This certificate should be dated within 10 days of the flight and should include the cat’s age, breed, and any medical conditions. Additionally, it is important to check with the airline to see if they have any additional requirements for traveling with a pet.

Finally, it is important to make sure that your cat is comfortable in the carrier. Make sure to provide your cat with a comfortable bedding material, such as a towel or blanket, and a few of their favorite toys. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the carrier is not too hot or too cold. If possible, try to keep the carrier in the same temperature range as the cabin of the plane.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your cat carrier is airline approved and that your cat is comfortable and safe during their flight.

What is the best airplane cat carrier?

The best airplane cat carrier depends on the size of your cat and your budget. If you have a small cat, a soft-sided carrier is a great option. These carriers are lightweight, easy to carry, and provide plenty of ventilation for your cat. They also come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find one that fits your cat and your style. If you have a larger cat, a hard-sided carrier is a better option. These carriers are more durable and provide more protection for your cat during air travel. They also come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find one that fits your cat and your style.

No matter which type of carrier you choose, make sure it meets the airline’s requirements for size and weight. Also, make sure the carrier has plenty of ventilation and is easy to open and close. Finally, make sure the carrier is comfortable for your cat and has enough room for them to move around. With the right carrier, your cat can travel in comfort and safety.

What size pet carrier will fit under an airplane seat?

The size of pet carrier that will fit under an airplane seat will depend on the size of the pet and the size of the airplane seat. Generally, most airlines will allow a pet carrier that is no larger than 17 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 8 inches high. This size is usually suitable for small cats and dogs, and some airlines may even allow larger carriers for larger pets. It is important to check with the airline before booking a flight to ensure that the pet carrier will fit under the seat.

When traveling with a pet, it is important to make sure that the pet carrier is well-ventilated and comfortable for the pet. The carrier should also be leak-proof and have a secure latch to prevent the pet from escaping. Additionally, the pet should have enough room to move around and be able to stand up and turn around. It is also important to make sure that the pet has access to food and water during the flight.

When traveling with a pet, it is important to check with the airline to make sure that the pet is allowed on the flight and that the pet carrier meets the airline’s requirements. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the pet is comfortable and secure in the pet carrier during the flight. Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe and comfortable flight for both the pet and the owner.