10 Best Cat Carriers For Long Distance Travel (2024 Update)

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When it comes to travelling long distances with your beloved feline companion, it's important to make sure you have the best cat carrier for the journey. The right carrier can make the travel experience much more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your cat. When looking for the best cat carrier for long distance travel, there are a few key points to consider.

First, you should make sure the carrier is the right size for your cat. A carrier that is too small can be uncomfortable and stressful for your cat, while one that is too large may be difficult to transport. It's also important to make sure the carrier is secure, with a locking mechanism to ensure your cat is safe and secure throughout the journey.

Second, you'll want to consider the material of the carrier. Cats can be quite anxious creatures, so it's important to make sure the material is soft and comfortable, so they can relax during the journey. The carrier should also be easy to clean and maintain, as cats can get quite messy during long journeys.

Third, make sure the carrier has enough ventilation. Cats need plenty of fresh air to stay comfortable, so the carrier should allow for plenty of air circulation.

Fourth, look for a carrier with plenty of padding and support. This will keep your cat comfortable during the journey and help to reduce any stress or anxiety.

Finally, consider the cost of the carrier. You'll want to make sure you get the best quality for your money, as a good quality carrier can last for years.

In summary, when looking for the best cat carrier for long distance travel, make sure to consider the size, material, ventilation, padding, and cost of the carrier. With these key points in mind, you can make sure your cat is safe and comfortable throughout the journey.

10 Best Cat Carriers For Long Distance Travel

1. 2-In-1 Portable Pet Carrier For Medium Dogs & Cats, With Carry Bag, Hammocks, Mats, Tent Stakes & 2 Pet Bowls.

The Wakytu Portable 2-in-1 Pet Carrier is an ideal choice for medium dogs and large cats. This double dog crate set has two separate carriers that can be used together or individually. Each carrier measures 35.43" * 16.92" * 13.77", and when combined, the size increases to 17.32" * 16.92" * 13.77".

This set includes four tent stakes for securing the carriers to the ground, two foldable pet food bowls for outdoor use, a storage bag for easy storage, and an adjustable padded and anti-slip shoulder strap. The carriers feature four sides of breathable and anti-scratch mesh windows, a washable mat with a hard panel, and two adjustable hammocks, ensuring your pet remains comfortable.

The Wakytu Portable 2-in-1 Pet Carrier is perfect for use both indoors and outdoors. It can be used as a large pet cage for medium dogs in the house, as a car carrier by buckling it to the car seat belt, or as an outdoor pet tent for camping and picnics. Additionally, the carriers are reinforced with a plastic sheet on the top and stronger steel material on the frame, making them more stable and reliable.

At Wakytu, we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and services. We offer a 3-year warranty service, meaning that any quality problems within 3 years can be replaced for free. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the product, please don't hesitate to contact us via email and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

2. Pet Carrier For Cats & Dogs, Two-In-One, Lightweight, Compact, Carry Case Included.

This double pet carrier is perfect for transporting cats and small dogs. The two carriers can be used individually or zipped together to make one large pet carrier. Each carrier can hold up to 22lbs (10kg), making it ideal for two cats or one small dog.

The double pet carrier measures 20” (51cm) tall by 20” (51cm) wide and 18” (46cm) deep, and the width doubles to 40” (102cm) when zipped together. This makes it the perfect size to fit in most cars, and the built-in straps allow it to be connected to the seatbelt for worry free transportation. The base of the carrier also features a washable and removable pad in case of accidents, making it ideal for pets who suffer from travel sickness.

The lightweight construction of the pet carrier makes it easy to carry and store. When empty, each carrier only weighs 3.7lbs (1.7kg), and when not in use it can be folded down flat. The carrier also comes with a handy carry bag and handle, making it easy to transport.

Safety is a priority with this pet carrier, which is designed to keep your pet secure while travelling. The mesh doors give your pet a view of their surroundings, while the secure design creates a safe den environment. This pet carrier is ideal for keeping your pet safe and secure while travelling.

3. Luggage Tag Initial – Fully Bendable Tag W/ Stainless Steel Loop (Letter S)

The Shacke Original Steel Loop Initial Luggage Tag is a must-have for any traveler. Since its creation in 2017, this tag has been featured on luggage all around the world. The tag is 4 x 2.5 inches, making it easy to identify and personalize with the letter of your choice. It is made from a special PVC rubber that is fully bendable. This material is travel-tested and easy to clean with soap and water, allowing the tag to stand up to the rigors of travel.

For over 8 years, Shacke has been trusted by thousands of customers worldwide to help with their luggage tag needs. Their philosophy is to make travel products that maximize your adventures. With this tag, you can be sure that your luggage will be easy to identify and that the tag won’t be taken off easily. Get the Shacke Original Steel Loop Initial Luggage Tag and experience the Shacke difference for yourself.

4. Mosiso Laptop Shoulder Bag For Macbook Pro 16"/pro 15", 15-15.6" Notebook, Watercolor Marble Sleeve W/trolley Belt, Blue

This MOSISO Laptop Shoulder Bag is the perfect companion for your laptop, whether you're working on the go or just commuting to class. With internal dimensions of 15.75 by 0.79 by 11.42 inches (L x W x H) and external dimensions of 16.34 by 0.79 by 12.01 inches (L x W x H) it offers plenty of space for your laptop and all of your other needs. The back horizontal side pocket measures 15.35 by 7.68 inches to easily store documents, tablets or cell phones.

The bag is designed with foam padding and a fluffy fleece fabric lining to provide shock absorption and protection from accidental scratches. The top-loading double zippers glide smoothly and allow you to easily access your laptop. The adjustable padding shoulder strap ranges from 27.6 to 48.8 inches and the top handles can be tucked away in the pockets when not in use. You can use it as a shoulder bag, cross-body bag or briefcase. Additionally, the back trolley belt makes it easy to use during business trips.

The stylish watercolor marble design will make you stand out in a crowd and the protective laptop sleeve provides additional protection. This bag is compatible with the MacBook Pro 16 inch 2023-2021 M2 A2780 M1 A2485 Pro/Max Touch ID, the MacBook Pro 16 A2141 2019 2020, the MacBook Pro Retina 15.4 A1398, the Surface Book 3/2/1 15, the Asus ZenBook/VivoBook 15, the Acer Swift 3 14/Swift 5 15.6, the Acer Aspire 3/5/7 15.6, the HP ProBook/Spectre x360/Envy x360 15.6, the HP Omen/Pavilion x360 15.6, and the Dell XPS/Precision/Vostro/Latitude 15.

With the MOSISO Laptop Shoulder Bag, you can transport your laptop in style and with confidence, knowing it is safe and secure. It is the perfect bag for work, school or travel.

5. Pet Carrier 24"x17"x17" For Large Cats/dogs, Car Travel, Locking Safety Zipper

This Petskd Pet Carrier is the perfect solution for transporting cats and other small pets in comfort and safety. Measuring 24"x17"x17", the carrier can accommodate pets up to 55 pounds, making it ideal for large cats or several small cats. The carrier is equipped with an adjustable, secure strap to ensure it is securely held in place when being transported, plus a travel litter box and collapsible water bowl for easy feedings and waste disposal.

This pet carrier is designed for maximum comfort, with a soft and durable waterproof, non-toxic, scratch-resistant polyester fabric that is designed to last. The mesh material has been upgraded to prevent pets from tearing it with their nails, and the top has been reinforced to prevent it from collapsing. The carrier also has an adjustable rope buckle, making it easy to lock the collar, plus customized lock zippers to ensure pets cannot open or grab the zipper open.

The pet carrier can be folded for easy storage and has extra pockets for storing folded litter boxes and bowls. This makes it the perfect choice for car travel and ensures a comfortable and safe journey for both pet and owner. The carrier can be strapped firmly in the front car seat with seat anchors and the shoulder strap, keeping pets restrained for safety while driving.

The Petskd Pet Carrier is an essential item for anyone that travels with their pet. It offers a safe, comfortable and secure environment for cats and small pets, and is the perfect choice for car travel. With its durable construction and extra large space, it is the ideal choice for transporting your furry friends.

6. Airline-Approved Pet Carrier, Small.

This Objoy Airline Approved Pet Dog Cat Soft Sided Carrier is ideal for small animals, cats, and puppies, and is perfect for both outdoor and travel use. It features a unique expansion design that is collapsible, allowing for a wider space and reducing anxiety for pets. The carrier is also lightweight and portable, and is approved for use on some airlines.

The strong and durable structure of the carrier is supported by steel rims and fiber rods, and the bottom is reinforced with a hollow board and a soft, short-plush fabric. The carrier also has five entrances, all covered with hexagonal double-layer mesh, providing ample ventilation and preventing pets from feeling too stuffy.

The convenience of the pet carrier is unmatched – it is easy to clean and the bottom cushion is removable and machine-washable. There is also a pocket on the side for extra storage, and it is equipped with a rope so that it can be worn on a seatbelt in the car. Additionally, the outside of the carrier has a reflective design, making it visible even in dark environments.

This Objoy Airline Approved Pet Dog Cat Soft Sided Carrier is the perfect choice for pet owners looking for comfort, convenience, and safety for their beloved pets. Its expansion design, lightweight and portable construction, and convenience features make it a great choice for both outdoor and travel use.

7. Airline-Approved Pet Carrier, 5-Sided Open Doors, Expandable, Foldable, Grey

This BAGLHER Cat Carrier Bag is the perfect choice for pet owners looking to take their furry friends with them on the go. This airline-approved pet carrier is made of high-grade polyester and mesh, which ensures its durability and strength. It also has a self-locking zipper design that provides your pet with a spacious, safe space.

The cat carrier measures 17.5"L x 12"W x 11.5"H and can be expanded to 30"L x 27"W x 11.5"H by expanding the 3 mesh windows. It is suitable for small or medium cats and dogs up to 12lbs. The carrier also features 5 sided mesh design that provides excellent breathability and visibility for your pet. Additionally, it comes with 3 expandable compartments and 3 layers of removable comfy pads for your pet's comfort.

This carrier comes with a seat belt and shoulder straps, which make it easy to secure it to the front car seat and keep your pet restrained and safe while driving. It is also designed to meet TSA and IATA requirements for under-seat use, making it perfect for long trips, car rides, and plane rides.

The carrier also has a wide range of carrying options, including handheld, carried on an adjustable shoulder strap, car seat, luggage top, and under an airline seat. This makes it easy to take your pet with you no matter where you go. Plus, the carrier is lightweight and easy to carry, making it an essential companion for any pet owner.

8. Portable Twin Compartment Cat Cage & Condo With Carry Bag, Hammocks, Mats & Litter Box

This Porayhut Mispace Portable Twin Compartment Show House Cat Cage/Condo is an excellent choice for any pet owner looking for a comfortable, easy-to-fold and carry kennel. It is made of a thick and durable Oxford cloth, which prevents your pet from scratching or tearing the material, and a strong glass rod frame, which will not deform after repeated use.

The cage measures 100 x 55 x 60 cm and weighs just 3.8 kg, but can be folded and stored in the one-shoulder bag provided for easy portability. This makes it ideal for trips to the park, beach or shopping mall, or even to take to pet exhibitions.

The cage is divided into two symmetrical compartments, each with a zippered Oxford cloth door for separation. Inside, there are two detachable, fine and comfortable flannelette hammocks and flannelette mats for your cat to relax in. For added comfort, a foldable litter box is also included.

We are committed to providing our customers with excellent service and reliable quality. If you have any questions regarding this product, please don't hesitate to contact us. We will be more than happy to help.

9. Protec Universal Replacement Shoulder Strap With Thick Pad And Metal Hardware, Model Shstrap

This Protec Universal Replacement Shoulder Strap is designed for comfort and convenience. It's a great way to provide your bag or case with a secure and comfortable fit. The thick non-slip adjustable pad and strong metal swivel snaps provide the ultimate in shoulder fatigue relief.

This universal strap is adjustable from 34" to 51", so you can easily find the right fit for you. It's also crafted with high-quality materials, so it's sure to last even with regular use. The metal hardware is also designed to be durable and reliable, ensuring your bag or case stays secure.

This strap is the perfect way to provide your bag or case with a comfortable carry. Whether you're heading to school, the office, the gym, or just out for a day of shopping, this strap is sure to keep your bag or case secure and comfortable. And because it's adjustable, you can easily find the perfect fit.

So if you're looking for a comfortable and secure shoulder strap for your bag or case, the Protec Universal Replacement Shoulder Strap is perfect for you. With its thick, non-slip adjustable pad, strong metal swivel snaps, and adjustable length, it's sure to provide you with the ultimate in shoulder fatigue relief.

10. Portable Cat Carrier For 2 Cats, Double Soft-Sided W/ Litter Box, Carry Bag & Mats

This Totoro ball Double Cat Carrier is perfect for carrying two cats in comfort and style. The carrier is made of thick Oxford cloth to prevent pets from scratching and tearing, with a strong glass rod frame that won't deform with repeated use. There are two front and rear doors with zippers, and the inner floor is made of high-strength mesh, allowing air to flow freely.

The carrier is a reasonable size of 40.1 x 25.6 x 25.6 inches, and it folds down to a travel size of 28.5 x 28.5 x 2.4 inches. It's lightweight, at only 9lbs, with an individual carry case for easy storage. It also comes with an interior hook for hanging a hammock, as well as a foldable litter box for added convenience.

The Double Kennel has three ways to use it: one connected but divided compartment, one big space by unzipping the center zipper which divides the walls, and two Single Kennels when detached from each other. This carrier is perfect for pet owners who want to take their cats on the go in a secure and comfortable way. It is designed to provide a cozy cove for cats at home or on the go, making it the perfect solution for cats who need to travel.

Best Cat Carriers For Long Distance Travel FAQs

Do cats prefer hard or soft-sided carriers?

Cats generally prefer hard-sided carriers over soft-sided carriers. Hard-sided carriers provide a secure and stable environment for cats, which can help reduce their stress levels. Hard-sided carriers also provide more protection from the elements, such as rain and wind, and can be more easily cleaned than soft-sided carriers. Additionally, hard-sided carriers are typically more durable and can withstand more wear and tear than soft-sided carriers.

Soft-sided carriers can be more comfortable for cats, as they are often made of softer materials and provide more cushioning. They are also typically lighter and easier to carry than hard-sided carriers. However, soft-sided carriers may not provide as much protection from the elements and may not be as durable as hard-sided carriers.

Ultimately, the best type of carrier for your cat will depend on their individual needs and preferences. If your cat is comfortable in a soft-sided carrier, then that may be the best option for them. However, if your cat is more anxious or needs more protection from the elements, then a hard-sided carrier may be the better choice.

How big should a cat carrier be for long distance travel?

When traveling with a cat, it is important to choose a carrier that is the right size. For long distance travel, the carrier should be large enough for the cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier should also be well-ventilated and have a secure latch. It is also important to make sure the carrier is sturdy and has a handle or strap for easy carrying.

When selecting a carrier, it is important to measure your cat and choose a carrier that is slightly larger than your cat’s measurements. The carrier should be at least 18 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches high. This size will provide enough room for your cat to move around and be comfortable during the journey.

It is also important to make sure the carrier is comfortable for your cat. Look for a carrier with a soft bottom and sides that are lined with a comfortable material. Additionally, make sure the carrier has plenty of ventilation and is easy to clean.

Finally, make sure the carrier is secure and has a secure latch. This will help ensure your cat stays safe and secure during the journey.

In summary, when selecting a cat carrier for long distance travel, it is important to choose a carrier that is large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier should also be well-ventilated, have a secure latch, and be comfortable for your cat. Additionally, make sure the carrier is sturdy and has a handle or strap for easy carrying.

How do you transport cats long distances?

When transporting cats long distances, it is important to ensure their safety and comfort. The first step is to make sure the cat is comfortable with being in a carrier. If the cat is not used to being in a carrier, it is important to gradually introduce them to it and make sure they are comfortable before the journey.

When travelling, it is important to make sure the cat has access to food and water. If the cat is travelling in a car, it is important to make frequent stops to allow the cat to use the litter box and stretch their legs. If the cat is travelling by plane, it is important to make sure the carrier is airline approved and that the cat is comfortable in it.

It is also important to make sure the cat is up to date on all their vaccinations and has a health certificate from a veterinarian. This will help ensure the cat is healthy and safe during the journey.

Finally, it is important to make sure the cat is microchipped and has an identification tag with their name and contact information. This will help ensure the cat can be returned to their owner if they become lost during the journey.

Overall, when transporting cats long distances, it is important to make sure they are comfortable, have access to food and water, are up to date on their vaccinations, and have an identification tag. Following these steps will help ensure the cat is safe and comfortable during their journey.

How long is too long for a cat to be in a carrier?

It is generally recommended that cats should not be kept in a carrier for more than two hours at a time. This is because cats are naturally curious and active animals, and being confined in a small space for too long can cause them to become stressed and anxious. Additionally, cats may become uncomfortable if they are in a carrier for too long, as they may not have enough room to move around and stretch out.

If a cat needs to be in a carrier for a longer period of time, it is important to provide them with a comfortable environment. This includes making sure the carrier is large enough for them to move around and stretch out, and that it is lined with a soft material such as a blanket or towel. Additionally, it is important to provide the cat with food and water, and to make sure the carrier is kept in a quiet and comfortable area.

It is also important to provide the cat with regular breaks from the carrier. This can include taking them out of the carrier for a few minutes to allow them to move around and stretch out, as well as providing them with toys and other forms of enrichment.

Overall, it is important to remember that cats should not be kept in a carrier for more than two hours at a time. If a cat needs to be in a carrier for a longer period of time, it is important to provide them with a comfortable environment and regular breaks.