10 Best Cat Carriers For Planes (2024 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

When it comes to flying with your cat, the most important thing is to make sure they are safe and secure during the flight. With the right cat carrier, you can ensure your kitty's comfort and safety while traveling. When looking for the best cat carriers for planes, there are five key points to consider.

First, make sure the carrier is airline approved. Many airlines have strict regulations on the size and type of carrier that can be used on board. Check with your airline beforehand to make sure the carrier you choose is approved.

Second, the carrier should be comfortable and secure. Look for carriers that are made of breathable fabrics, have plenty of ventilation, and have secure buckles or straps to keep your cat secure.

Third, consider the size of the carrier. You want to make sure your cat has enough room to move around and that the carrier is not too small or too big.

Fourth, make sure the carrier is lightweight and easy to carry. If you are going to be carrying your cat through the airport, you want a carrier that is lightweight and easy to maneuver.

Finally, look for a carrier that is easy to clean. You want to make sure your cat's carrier is easy to clean and sanitize in case of any accidents.

With these five key points in mind, you can find the perfect cat carrier for your next flight. Make sure your cat is safe and secure while traveling and enjoy the journey!

10 Best Cat Carriers For Planes

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. Deluxe Backpack Pet Carrier W/ Double Wheels – Heather Pink – Airline Approved

The KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Pet Travel Carrier is the perfect solution for pet owners who want to travel with their furry friends. With dimensions of 13”L x 12”W x 20”H, this pet carrier is suitable for pets up to 10 lbs, and is approved by most airlines. To make traveling even easier, the carrier features two smooth-spinning wheels that make maneuvering through airports, airplane aisles, malls, and supermarkets a breeze.

The KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Pet Travel Carrier offers three different ways to carry. The telescoping handle, strap handle, and backpack straps provide three easy and convenient carrying solutions for different everyday needs. The backpack is made from a durable 600D Oxford fabric with three ventilation mesh panels to provide a cool environment and easy visibility. The telescoping handle is made from industrial grade aluminum alloy rods and the wheels are made from high-quality polyurethane double wheels for extra stability and durability.

The KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Pet Travel Carrier has lots of storage with two large pockets, perfect for safely storing all your pet's essentials. It can be used as a backpack, rolling carrier, tote carrier, or car seat carrier, making it incredibly versatile. With a stylish heather pink design, the KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Pet Travel Carrier is the perfect companion for taking your pet on the go.

3. Airline-Approved Pet Carrier For Cats/small Dogs, Ventilated, Soft-Sided, Car Seat-Safe.

The Purrpy Pet Carrier for Cats and Small Dogs is an airline-approved soft-sided carrier that is perfect for a pet-friendly journey. Constructed with a top size of 16.93" x 9.45" x 11.02" inches (LxWxH) and a bottom size of 14.57"x 9.45"x 11.02", this carrier is designed to meet most airline requirements. It is suitable for cats weighing up to 8 lbs and is easy to assemble and fold down flat for storage.

The carrier is designed with convenience in mind. It features multiple ways to carry, including by hand, by shoulder, or through a suitcase handle, and is equipped with pockets for storing toys, treats, and other essentials. It also has three entrances to make it easier to get your pet in and out of the carrier.

Safety is a priority- the carrier has seatbelt loops to buckle the cat and its carrier into the car seat, lockable zippers to keep your pet inside, reflective strips for added visibility in the dark, and a cute bone-shaped name tag for easy identification.

Your pet will enjoy the coziness of the carrier, with a comfortable fleece pad and mesh windows for ventilation. The carrier also features a special “openning behind”, which can be unzipped to help keep your pet calm during the journey. If your pet’s size is similar to the Purrpy Pet Carrier, we recommend you choose the large size.

Purchase this product with confidence from Purrpy – the only store to offer after-sales service to customers who bought this product. Enjoy the convenience, safety, and coziness of the Purrpy Pet Carrier for Cats and Small Dogs Airline Approved Soft Sided Carrier – perfect for a pet-friendly journey.

4. Airline-Approved Pet Carrier Backpack For Small Cats & Dogs

PetAmi's Pet Carrier Backpack is the perfect way to take your beloved pet with you wherever you go. The backpack measures 12.5" x 10.2" x 16.3" (L x W x H), making it suitable for cats, small dogs, and other small/medium-sized pets.

Your pet will travel in comfort and safety in this backpack. The well-ventilated design provides optimal airflow, and the two-way entry and zip-up mesh window offer more headroom and visibility. The thick, cozy sherpa-lined bedding provides plenty of comfort for your pet to rest and relax. The reinforced structure prevents the backpack from collapsing, and a safety strap and buckle secure your pet and prevent escape.

The back and shoulder straps have extra thick padding for more comfort on long trips, and the waist and chest buckles provide extra support. The side pouches and front pocket make it easy to store essential pet supplies, and a collapsible pet bowl helps keeps your pet hydrated on the go.

Made with durable 600D high-grade polyester, the Pet Carrier Backpack is available in seven colors: Black, Charcoal, Heather Gray, Heather Navy, Heather Purple, Heather Red, and Turquoise. It's perfect for hiking, traveling, going to the vet, or just taking your pet on a walk in the park.

5. Cat Carrier, Airline Approved 20lbs, Small Dog/puppy Soft Sided Collapsible Travel/car Bag

The Mancro Cat Carrier is the perfect item for pet owners looking to travel with their furry friends. This pet carrier is designed for medium cats up to 20 pounds and small dogs and puppies, providing a spacious and comfortable space for your pet.

The cat carrier is 17 inches long, 11.5 inches wide and 11.8 inches high, and is made of high-grade polyester and a solid metal frame, so it won't collapse when your pet is inside. It comes with dual metal zippers and an inner safety leash, so your pet won't escape, as well as three-sided mesh to increase resistance to scratches and bites.

The cat carrier features a removable and washable furry pad bed made of cozy fleece and durable oxford fabric, providing your pet with a comfortable sleeping space. The bottom of the carrier is equipped with two non-slip sticky belts, keeping the pad in place when your pet is inside. There is also optimal airflow provided by the mesh windows on the top and sides, allowing your pet to breathe fresh air and reducing their anxiety.

The cat carrier is easy to carry, with a comfortable handle and adjustable shoulder strap. There is also a strap on the back, allowing you to attach the pet carrier firmly to your suitcase. There is a large side pocket, convenient for storing the shoulder strap or anything else you need on the trip.

The Mancro Cat Carrier is the perfect choice for pet owners who want to travel with their furry friends. It provides your pet with a spacious and comfortable space, and is made of high-grade materials. It also has optimal airflow and is easy to carry, with a comfortable handle and adjustable shoulder strap.

6. Airline-Approved Portable Pet Carrier For Kittens/puppies – Washable, Expandable, Locking Safety Zippers.

The Petsfit Expandable Cat Carrier Dog Carriers is an airline approved soft-sided portable pet travel carrier, perfect for kittens and puppies alike. Its expandable design, measuring 17"Lx 11"Wx 11"H, can be extended to 20"Lx17"Wx11"H to give your pet extra space to sprawl and relax. Weighing only 2.5lbs, this carrier is lightweight and fits pets up to 13lbs.

The carrier is made from durable materials, including a solid wire structure to keep it from collapsing and flexible enough to compress and fit under an airplane seat. The top and two-sided windows are constructed from anti-scratch ventilated mesh, while the actual PP board base helps to keep all pets steady. The base cover is a thick, comfy, washable, and removable plush pad.

For ease of transport, this carrier has multiple ways to carry. Self-lock zippers keep pets from escaping, while the strap on one side can be slid around the extendable handle of rolling luggage. It also has two flexible handles and a detachable strap to hang on your shoulders. A side pocket provides extra storage.

The Petsfit Expandable Cat Carrier Dog Carriers is airline approved and in compliance with most airline size rules. The S and M sizes are easily able to fit under airplane seats, and for the L size, it is best to check the size standard of the corresponding airline. For added convenience, two detachable fiber rods are included at the top of the carrier to help make it fit under the seat.

7. Petsfit Airline Approved Exp. Cat/small Dog Carrier

This Petsfit Expandable Large Cat Carriers Small Dog Carrier is the perfect travel companion for your pet. This soft-sided carrier is airline approved, and is designed to provide a comfortable and secure space for your pet while traveling. The S size of the carrier is 16"Lx 10"Wx 9"H, and can be expanded to 23.5"Lx16"Wx 9"H by expanding the two mesh windows. This lightweight carrier has a solid wire structure which prevents it from collapsing, and is flexible enough to fit under most airplane seats. The top and two-sided windows are made of ventilated, anti-scratch mesh, and the actual PP board base helps to hold your pet steady. The carrier also includes a thick, comfy, removable and washable plush pad.

This carrier has multiple ways to be carried. It features a self-locking zipper to prevent your pet from escaping, as well as two flexible handles to hold with your hands. Additionally, the carrier includes a detachable strap to hang on the shoulders and has a side pocket for storage. There is also a strap on one side that can be slid around the extendable handle of rolling luggage.

Your pet will love the extra extended space, allowing them to relax and sprawl out. The carrier is also foldable when not in use. This carrier is perfect for kittens, puppies, rabbits, bunnies, chinchillas, ferrets and other small animals, and can hold pets up to 9lbs. When traveling, please verify measurements prior to booking to ensure the size is compliant with airline standard size rules.

8. Airline-Approved Pet Carrier For Small Pets (17"x11"x9")

The Smiling Paws Pets Airline Approved Pet Carrier is the perfect solution for small pet owners who need to take their furry friend with them on their travels. This carrier is designed to fit under all airplane seats, making it a great option for travelling with your pet in the cabin. It is extra small to meet the strict airline carry-on size requirements, and is recommended for pets under 15 pounds.

This pet carrier is packed with features to keep both you and your pet comfortable during your travels. It expands on all four sides to create a comfortable space for your pet, reducing anxiety during travel. It also comes with an internal leash and safety self-locking zippers, as well as reinforced rotating metallic clips and a soft machine washable pad for superb air circulation. The carrier also has thickly padded shoulder and handle holders, making it easy to carry.

The Smiling Paws Pets Airline Approved Pet Carrier is designed to comply with TSA and IATA requirements, making it perfect for both USA and international airlines. It is made with upgraded materials, including A-Grade metallic clips, high quality rods, safety self-locking zippers, and an internal leash, with the internal fabric laminated and leak-proof.

The carrier is also portable and collapsible, making it easy to store. It is thickly padded, making it comfortable to carry, and can be easily folded for storage when not in use.

The Smiling Paws Pets Airline Approved Pet Carrier is the perfect solution for pet owners who need to take their pet with them on their travels. It is designed to fit under all airplane seats and is approved for both USA and international airlines. It is packed with features to keep both you and your pet comfortable during your travels, and is portable and collapsible for easy storage.

Best Cat Carriers For Planes FAQs

Are cat backpacks allowed on planes?

Yes, cat backpacks are allowed on planes, provided they meet certain requirements. The backpack must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, and the cat must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the backpack. Additionally, the backpack must be leak-proof and have adequate ventilation. Airlines may also require that the cat be kept in a carrier or kennel while in the cabin.

When traveling with a cat in a backpack, it is important to check with the airline ahead of time to ensure that they allow cats in the cabin. Some airlines may require that the cat be kept in the cargo hold, while others may not allow cats at all. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the cat is comfortable and secure in the backpack.

When traveling with a cat in a backpack, it is also important to make sure that the cat is up to date on all vaccinations and has a health certificate from a veterinarian. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the cat is not exposed to extreme temperatures or loud noises. Finally, it is important to make sure that the cat has access to food and water during the flight.

Overall, cat backpacks are allowed on planes, provided they meet certain requirements. It is important to check with the airline ahead of time to ensure that they allow cats in the cabin, and to make sure that the cat is comfortable and secure in the backpack. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the cat is up to date on all vaccinations and has a health certificate from a veterinarian.

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.

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 by the TSA officer. 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 TSA officers and other passengers. 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 drink. This is to ensure that the cat does not contaminate any food or drink that may be in the area.

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. 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 drink.

How big can a cat carrier be on a plane?

The size of a cat carrier that can be taken on a plane will depend on the airline and the type of aircraft. Generally, the maximum size of a cat carrier that can be taken on a plane is 22" long x 13" wide x 9" high (56 cm x 33 cm x 23 cm). However, some airlines may have different size restrictions, so it is important to check with the airline before booking a flight. Additionally, some airlines may require that the cat carrier be stored in the cargo hold, while others may allow it to be stored in the cabin.

When traveling with a cat, it is important to make sure that the carrier is well-ventilated and comfortable for the cat. The carrier should also be large enough for the cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, the carrier should be securely closed and have a secure latch to prevent the cat from escaping.

It is also important to make sure that the cat is up-to-date on all vaccinations and has a health certificate from a veterinarian. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the cat is wearing a collar with an identification tag that includes the owner’s contact information.

Finally, it is important to make sure that the cat is comfortable and relaxed during the flight. This can be done by providing the cat with a favorite toy or blanket, and by talking to the cat in a soothing voice. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the cat has access to food and water during the 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.