Pet Carriers
Best Pet Carriers for Air Travel and Everyday Trips
4 picks compared
8 min read
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?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best overall
The Sherpa Original Deluxe is a soft-sided carrier with mesh panels for airflow and a flexible top that helps it fit under many airline seats. It has a machine-washable liner plus a seatbelt and luggage strap for secure travel. It is a longtime favorite for cats and small dogs.
Type Soft-sidedFeature Airline-friendly designNotable Washable liner
- Fits under many airline seats
- Good ventilation
- Washable and comfortable
- Always confirm your airline's size rules
- Not for large pets
Petmate Sky Kennel Hard-Sided Carrier
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best hard-sided
The Petmate Sky Kennel is a sturdy hard-sided crate that meets many airline cargo requirements, with strong wire-door latching and ventilation on all sides. It comes in several sizes for small pets up to large dogs. It also works well as a secure travel or recovery crate at home.
Type Hard-sidedFeature 360-degree ventilationNotable Multiple sizes
- Very durable and secure
- Meets many airline cargo rules
- Wide size range
- Bulky to store
- Larger sizes are heavy to move
Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best premium
The Sleepypod Air is a premium in-cabin carrier that adjusts its length to fit under different airline seats while giving your pet room to lie down. It is crash-tested and made with quality materials and plush bedding. It is a top choice for frequent flyers who want safety and comfort.
Type Soft-sidedFeature Adjustable lengthNotable Crash-tested design
- Adjusts to fit various seats
- Safety-focused design
- Comfortable bedding
- Premium price
- Best suited to smaller pets
Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best budget
The Amazon Basics soft-sided carrier covers the essentials with mesh ventilation panels, top and side entry, and a comfortable interior at a low price. It is lightweight and folds for storage between trips. It is a practical pick for occasional vet visits and short travel.
Type Soft-sidedFeature Mesh panelsNotable Foldable
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and foldable
- Easy top and side access
- Less durable than premium carriers
- Check size before flying
Published July 16, 2026 · Availability last checked July 2026 · Reviewed by the UAI editorial team · How we research and score
Pick the right carrier type
Soft-sided carriers are lighter and fit under airline seats, while hard-sided crates offer more protection and are often required for cargo travel. Choose based on how and where you travel with your pet.
Measure for a proper fit
A good carrier lets your pet stand, turn, and lie down without feeling cramped. Measure your pet and compare against the carrier's dimensions and weight limit, and double-check under-seat sizes if you plan to fly.
Prioritize ventilation and security
Look for mesh panels or vents on multiple sides for airflow, plus secure zippers or latches your pet cannot push open. Seatbelt straps and washable liners add safety and make cleanup easier.
Model numbers and safety
Each pick lists its model above. Product availability and recalls change, so confirm the exact model and its current recall status on cpsc.gov before buying.
More guides
See our full buying guides hub and our research and scoring methodology. Every pick is judged on the same weighted criteria: owner satisfaction, performance, ease of use, reliability and value.
Questions people ask
What size pet carrier do I need?
Your pet should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your pet's length and height, add a few inches, and check the maker's weight range before buying.
Are these carriers airline approved?
Soft-sided carriers like the Sherpa and Sleepypod are designed to fit under many seats, but rules vary by airline. Always confirm the exact under-seat dimensions and pet policy with your specific airline before you fly.
How do I help my pet feel calm in a carrier?
Introduce the carrier at home well before travel, leave it open with bedding and treats inside, and take short practice trips. A familiar blanket or toy inside can make longer journeys less stressful.
The bottom lineSo which one?
The Sherpa Original Deluxe is our overall pick for cats and small dogs, the Petmate Sky Kennel is best for hard-sided and cargo travel, the Sleepypod Air is the premium in-cabin choice, and the Amazon Basics carrier covers budget vet trips.
