Traveling with your furry friend doesn’t have to be stressful if you have the right carrier. Airlines have specific requirements for pet carriers that must fit under seats and keep your pet comfortable during flights. We’ve tested the most popular options on the market to find which ones truly deliver on durability, comfort, and airline compliance. Here’s our roundup of the best carriers that will make your next trip with your pet smoother and safer.
1. Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Carrier
The gold standard in pet safety, this carrier has earned its reputation through rigorous crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety. Most soft carriers skip this critical safety step, but not Sleepypod.
Clever engineering allows the carrier to compress from 22″ to 16″ in length to fit various airline seat configurations while maintaining structural integrity. The plush interior padding keeps pets comfortable during turbulence.
Loading options from both top and ends make getting reluctant travelers inside much easier. The carrier’s rigid structure prevents sagging that could stress your pet during long flights.
2. Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier
Veteran travelers swear by this classic carrier’s ingenious spring wire frame that compresses slightly without collapsing on your pet. The standout feature? Sherpa’s “Guaranteed On Board” program that refunds your flight if denied boarding due to carrier issues (with pre-approval).
Mesh panels on three sides provide excellent ventilation while allowing your pet to see out. The non-slip shoulder strap prevents uncomfortable sliding during long terminal walks.
Washable faux lambskin liner creates a cozy space for nervous travelers. Available in multiple sizes, the medium fits most airline requirements at 17″ × 11″ × 10.5″.
3. Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier
Engineering meets pet comfort in this thoughtfully designed carrier that stands out for its exceptional structural integrity. The reinforced base prevents sagging that often stresses pets, while the mesh top panel allows for easy checking without opening the carrier.
Storage pockets for vaccination records and treats make airport check-ins smoother. The adjustable padded shoulder strap and trolley sleeve attachment provide multiple carrying options for tired pet parents.
Cushioned interior padding creates a den-like environment that calms anxious travelers. The carrier’s lightweight yet sturdy frame maintains its shape even when stuffed under tight airline seats.
4. Away The Pet Carrier
Minimalist design meets practical functionality in this stylish carrier from luggage brand Away. The water-resistant exterior protects your pet from unexpected spills or light rain during airport transfers.
A sherpa-lined interior creates a cozy environment that encourages relaxation during stressful flights. The carrier’s rigid base prevents uncomfortable sagging while maintaining the flexibility needed to fit various airline under-seat configurations.
Thoughtful details like the latching leash attachment point and exterior pocket for documents set this carrier apart. The trolley sleeve slides securely over your rolling luggage handle, freeing up your hands during hectic airport navigation.
5. Mr. Peanut’s Gold Series Carrier
Budget-friendly without compromising quality, this expandable carrier gives your pet extra lounging space once you’re seated. The zip-out mesh sides nearly double the interior space – just remember to keep it compressed during takeoff and landing!
Excellent ventilation from mesh panels on all four sides prevents overheating. The lightweight yet durable hardware keeps the carrier’s weight manageable even with a pet inside.
The padded shoulder strap distributes weight evenly during long terminal walks. At 18″ × 10.4″ × 11″, it fits most airline requirements while maximizing the space available to your pet.
6. Wild One Travel Carrier
Sleek aesthetics meet practical design in this fashion-forward carrier that doesn’t sacrifice functionality. The cushioned interior with a machine-washable liner provides comfort while making cleanup after accidents simple.
Storage pockets keep essentials like treats and waste bags organized. The carrier’s slightly smaller footprint (17.5″ × 11.5″ × 10.8″) makes it ideal for pets who prefer a cozier, den-like environment during stressful travel situations.
The luggage sleeve slides over your suitcase handle for easy transport through busy terminals. Reinforced mesh ventilation panels maintain structural integrity while providing excellent airflow and visibility for your pet.
7. Sturdibag Flexible Height Pet Carrier
Show dog and cat enthusiasts have trusted this unique carrier for years thanks to its ingenious flexible top design. The arched roof flexes to fit under seats without collapsing onto your pet, eliminating the anxiety many animals experience in tight spaces.
Despite its soft-sided construction, internal support bars maintain the carrier’s shape. The reinforced leather bottom adds stability while remaining lightweight enough for comfortable carrying.
Multiple mesh windows provide excellent ventilation and visibility. The carrier’s design allows it to conform to various airline under-seat dimensions while maintaining a consistent interior space for your pet’s comfort.
8. Bebang Rolling Under-seat Carrier
Practicality meets convenience in this budget-friendly carrier that transforms from a wheeled transport to an airline-compliant soft carrier. The detachable wheels make navigating endless airport terminals significantly easier on your shoulders and back.
Once aboard, simply remove the wheels and slide the carrier under the seat. The reinforced bottom prevents sagging that could make your pet uncomfortable during flight.
Mesh ventilation panels keep air flowing while allowing your pet to see out. The carrier’s straightforward design prioritizes functionality over fancy features, making it an excellent value choice for occasional travelers who don’t want to break the bank.
9. Petmate Sky Kennel
Built like a fortress for your furry friend, the Petmate Sky Kennel stands as the gold standard for air travel with medium to large pets. The durable plastic shell provides excellent protection while meeting most major airline cargo requirements.
Four-way ventilation ensures your pet gets plenty of fresh air throughout the journey. The secure, interlocking door features a convenient squeeze-latch system that’s impossible for pets to manipulate but easy for humans.
Each kennel includes clip-on food and water cups plus “Live Animal” stickers for clear identification. While not the most stylish option, its IATA-compliance and rock-solid construction make it the trusted choice for pet professionals worldwide.
10. Arlo Skye
Fashionable jet-setters rejoice! The Arlo Skye carrier merges style with functionality in a sleek, cabin-friendly design perfect for small pets. Premium materials like water-resistant nylon and genuine leather accents make this carrier as fashionable as it is practical.
Mesh panels on three sides create excellent airflow while letting your pet enjoy the view. The memory foam base cushions your furry friend during turbulence, and the carrier folds flat for easy storage when not in use.
A standout feature is the luggage sleeve that slides over your suitcase handle for effortless transport through busy terminals. TSA-friendly zippered openings allow for security checks without removing your pet.
