When traveling with a pet, having the right airline-approved carrier is crucial for their comfort and your peace of mind. We have researched and tested various carriers based on size, quality, comfort, portability, design, ease of cleaning, and overall value. Our top pick for the best airline-approved pet carrier in 2021 is the Pet Carrier from Away, which scored perfectly across all categories. Read on to find out more about this carrier and other top options available.
Key Takeaways
- The right airline-approved pet carrier is essential for comfortable and safe pet travel.
- The Pet Carrier from Away is our top pick for the best airline-approved pet carrier in 2021.
- Consider factors like size, quality, comfort, portability, and design when choosing a pet carrier.
- Other top options include the Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate, Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier, and Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier.
- Always check the specific requirements of your pet and the airline you are flying with to ensure compliance.
Best Overall: Away The Pet Carrier
Our top pick for the best overall airline-approved pet carrier is the Away The Pet Carrier. This carrier is not only comfortable and stylish but also meets all the necessary requirements for air travel. It has a well-thought-out design, with features like sizing that fits under the seat in front, interior and exterior pockets for storage, a trolley sleeve for easy portability, and a sherpa pet bed for added comfort. It is made from durable nylon and black leather materials, making it both long-lasting and fashionable.
When it comes to choosing a pet carrier, comfort and style are equally important. The Away The Pet Carrier excels in both areas, ensuring that your pet travels in ultimate comfort while you can confidently rock a fashionable accessory. Its thoughtful design includes elements that enhance the overall travel experience, such as convenient storage options and easy portability.
With the Away The Pet Carrier, you can have peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is secure and cozy during air travel. Its durability and stylish appearance make it the perfect choice for pet owners who want the best of both worlds.
Features at a Glance:
- Sizes available for small to large pets
- Fits under the seat in front
- Interior and exterior pockets for storage
- Trolley sleeve for easy portability
- Sherpa pet bed for added comfort
- Durable nylon and black leather materials
Best for the Cargo Hold: Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate
If you need a carrier for the cargo hold, the Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate is the best choice. This carrier is known for its durability and is the gold standard for hard-sided kennels. It features a five-star crash safety rating and is made with double-wall rotomolding for extra impact protection. The wider base provides stability, while the built-in tie-down rods ensure secure placement during travel.
The Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate is designed to withstand the rigors of air travel and meet the requirements of airlines. It is built to provide optimal comfort and safety for your pet, even in the cargo hold. The all-weather windows offer protection against the elements, while the interior provides ample space for your furry friend to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
When it comes to airline-compliant pet carriers for the cargo hold, the Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate is unmatched in its durability, security, and overall quality. If you’re looking for a carrier that ensures your pet’s safety and comfort during air travel, this is the top choice.
Best Softside: Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier
When it comes to finding a comfortable and airline-compliant pet carrier, the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier is the top choice. This soft-sided carrier is lightweight yet sturdy, making it perfect for travel. With its compact design, it easily fits under the seat in front of you, giving your pet a cozy and secure space throughout the journey.
The Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier is packed with features to ensure your pet’s comfort and convenience. The carrier includes a leash tether for added security, allowing you to attach your pet’s collar or harness to prevent them from wandering off. It also has side pockets for storing essential items like treats, toys, or travel documents, keeping everything easily accessible during the trip.
The carrier’s tight-knit mesh sides provide privacy for your pet while still allowing for proper ventilation, ensuring they stay cool and calm during travel. The durable nylon material used in its construction ensures that the carrier can withstand the rigors of travel and last for years to come.
Overall, the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier is the ideal choice for pet owners looking for a comfortable and airline-compliant carrier. Its lightweight and compact design, along with its convenient features, make it a must-have for any pet travel adventure.
Table: Comparison of Softside Pet Carriers
| Carrier | Weight Capacity | Leash Tether | Side Pockets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier | Up to 25 pounds | Yes | Yes |
| Carrier 2 | Up to 20 pounds | No | Yes |
| Carrier 3 | Up to 15 pounds | Yes | No |
Best for Cats: Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier
When it comes to flying with cats, the Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier is the top choice. This carrier is sturdy and durable, with multiple carrying options. It has thoughtful features like multiple access points, calming privacy flaps, and plenty of storage pockets. The carrier is versatile and can be carried in five different ways: over the shoulder, by side handles, via the trolley sleeve, as a crossbody, or as a backpack.
The Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier is designed to keep your cat comfortable and relaxed during travel. The carrier’s calming privacy flaps help create a secure and cozy environment, reducing stress and anxiety for your feline friend. The carrier also has well-ventilated mesh sides for proper airflow and visibility, allowing your cat to stay calm and content.
In addition to its calming features, the Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier offers ample storage options. It has multiple pockets where you can store your cat’s essentials, such as treats, toys, and even a leash. This carrier is not only practical but also stylish, with a modern design that is sure to turn heads.
Key Features of the Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier:
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Multiple carrying options: over the shoulder, side handles, trolley sleeve, crossbody, and backpack
- Calming privacy flaps for a secure and cozy environment
- Well-ventilated mesh sides for airflow and visibility
- Ample storage pockets for cat essentials
When it comes to finding the best carrier for your cat, the Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier provides both comfort and convenience. With its versatile carrying options, calming features, and stylish design, this carrier is a top choice for cat owners looking to travel with their feline companions.
Best Budget Hardside: Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel
If you’re looking for an affordable hardside pet carrier that meets airline requirements, the Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel is an excellent choice. This basic yet reliable crate-style kennel provides ample space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lay down comfortably during the journey. It is made with durable materials to ensure long-lasting performance and meets FAA standards for airline travel.
The Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel features three-sided ventilation to keep your pet cool and comfortable. The stainless steel door adds an extra layer of security, preventing any accidental openings during transport. The spacious interior allows your pet to move around and stretch their legs without feeling confined.
While this carrier may not have extra features like storage pockets or expandable sections, it fulfills all the necessary requirements for a reliable and affordable pet carrier. It is a practical choice for pet owners on a budget who prioritize the safety and comfort of their furry friends while traveling.
Key Features of the Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel:
- Meets FAA standards for airline travel
- Three-sided ventilation for optimal airflow
- Stainless steel door for added security
- Spacious interior for your pet’s comfort
Specifications:
| Dimensions | Weight | Material | Ventilation | Door |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28″L x 20.5″W x 21.5″H | 10.83 lbs | Plastic | Three-sided | Stainless steel |
Best Expandable: Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier
When it comes to providing extra space for your pet during travel, the Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier is the best choice. This expandable carrier allows your pet to have more room to move around and stretch their legs, ensuring their comfort throughout the journey. It features a sturdy construction and multiple entry points for easy access.
With its comfortable interior mat, your pet can relax and enjoy the ride. The carrier is also collapsible, making it convenient to store when not in use. Whether you have a small dog or a cat, the Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier provides the extra space they need to travel comfortably.
You should note that the Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier is airline-compliant, so you can have peace of mind knowing that it meets all the necessary requirements for air travel. Traveling with your pet has never been easier with this expandable carrier.
Key Features:
- Expandable design for extra space
- Sturdy construction for durability
- Multiple entry points for easy access
- Comfortable interior mat for relaxation
- Collapsible for convenient storage
- Airline-compliant for hassle-free travel
Best for Small Dogs: Siivton Expandable Pet Carrier
When it comes to traveling with small dogs, the Siivton Expandable Pet Carrier is the ultimate choice. Designed with the needs of small breeds in mind, this carrier offers versatility, comfort, and convenience. It is specifically tailored to meet airline requirements, ensuring a stress-free travel experience for both you and your furry friend.
The Siivton Expandable Pet Carrier features an expandable design, allowing your small dog to have more space and freedom of movement during the journey. With its durable construction and secure zippers, you can feel confident that your pet is safe and protected at all times. The carrier also has a sturdy bottom pad for added comfort and a built-in interior tether for extra security.
Not only is the Siivton Expandable Pet Carrier highly functional, but it is also designed with style in mind. The carrier features a sleek and modern design, with a neutral color palette that complements any travel ensemble. It also has a convenient shoulder strap and a luggage handle sleeve, giving you multiple carrying options and making it easy to navigate through airports and other travel hubs.
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
|
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With the Siivton Expandable Pet Carrier, you can travel with confidence, knowing that your small dog is comfortable, secure, and compliant with airline regulations. Make your next trip a breeze with this top-rated carrier that is specifically designed for small dogs.
Testimonials
“I absolutely love the Siivton Expandable Pet Carrier! It’s the perfect size for my small dog and provides plenty of ventilation. The expandable feature is a game-changer, giving my dog more room to stretch and relax during our flights. Highly recommend!” – Jessica S.
“Traveling with my small dog used to be a hassle until I found the Siivton Expandable Pet Carrier. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and fits perfectly under the airplane seat. The expandable feature is genius and makes a world of difference for my dog’s comfort. I wouldn’t travel without it!” – Michael T.
Best for Large Dogs: Gorilla Grip Original Pet Travel Carrier
When it comes to traveling with large dogs, the Gorilla Grip Original Pet Travel Carrier is the best option. This carrier is designed to accommodate larger breeds comfortably and has a strong and sturdy construction. It features a soft interior mat, a front and top-loading design, and adjustable straps for easy carrying. The carrier is also collapsible for convenient storage when not in use.
With its spacious and well-ventilated design, the Gorilla Grip Original Pet Travel Carrier provides ample room for your large dog to move around during travel. The soft interior mat adds an extra layer of comfort, ensuring a cozy and relaxing experience for your furry friend. The front and top-loading design makes it easy to secure your pet while also allowing for quick and convenient access. The carrier’s adjustable straps make it comfortable to carry, whether you prefer to use the shoulder strap or the top handle.
The Gorilla Grip Original Pet Travel Carrier is made with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of travel. Its collapsible design allows for easy storage when not in use, saving you valuable space. Whether you’re going on a road trip or flying to your destination, this carrier is a reliable and airline-compliant choice for traveling with your large dog.
Best for Anxious Pets: Sleepypod In-Cabin Pet Carrier
When it comes to traveling with anxious pets, the Sleepypod In-Cabin Pet Carrier is the top choice. Designed with their comfort and security in mind, this carrier is ideal for keeping your pet calm during air travel. The carrier features a dark mesh that reduces stress and anxiety by creating a private and cozy environment for your furry friend. With a removable privacy panel, you can customize the level of visibility and interaction for your pet.
Made with high-quality materials, the Sleepypod In-Cabin Pet Carrier is durable and built to last. It has been crash-tested for safety, giving pet owners peace of mind during their journey. The carrier also has multiple access points, including a large top opening and a front zipper, allowing for easy loading and unloading of your pet. Ventilation is also a top priority, ensuring proper airflow throughout the carrier.
“The Sleepypod In-Cabin Pet Carrier is designed to provide the utmost comfort and security for anxious pets during travel.”
Whether you have a dog or a cat, this carrier is suitable for pets of various sizes. It is available in different dimensions to accommodate different breeds and weights. The Sleepypod In-Cabin Pet Carrier is also airline-compliant, meaning it meets the necessary requirements for in-cabin pet transportation.
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Dark mesh with removable privacy panel | Suitable for pets of various sizes |
| Crash-tested for safety | Airline-compliant |
| Multiple access points | High-quality and durable materials |
| Ventilated design |
Traveling with anxious pets can be stressful, but with the Sleepypod In-Cabin Pet Carrier, you can provide them with a safe and secure space. Whether it’s a short flight or a long journey, this carrier will help ease their anxiety and make the travel experience more comfortable for both you and your pet.
Pet Carrier Safety Tips for Air Travel
When traveling with your pet by air, it is essential to prioritize their safety and ensure a comfortable journey for both you and your furry friend. Here are some important pet carrier safety tips to keep in mind:
Choose an Airline-Approved Pet Carrier
Before traveling, make sure to check the specific requirements of the airline you will be flying with. Look for an airline-approved pet carrier that meets their guidelines and regulations. This will ensure that your carrier is the right size, shape, and design to fit under the seat or in the cargo hold as required.
Provide Proper Ventilation and Comfort
Ensure that your pet carrier has adequate ventilation to keep your pet cool and comfortable throughout the journey. Look for carriers with mesh windows or breathable panels and make sure there is enough space for your pet to move around and lie down comfortably. Consider adding a soft bedding or familiar item from home to provide extra comfort and reduce stress.
Secure the Carrier Properly
You might want to securely fasten and lock the carrier to prevent any accidental openings or escapes during transit. Check that all zippers, latches, or fasteners are secure and in good working condition before departure. Additionally, make sure the carrier is stable and won’t tip over during the journey, especially if placed on a seat or in an overhead bin.
Prepare Your Pet for Travel
Help your pet acclimate to the carrier before the trip by gradually introducing it and encouraging positive associations. Familiarize them with the carrier by allowing them to explore it in a comfortable and relaxed environment. Additionally, consider consulting with your veterinarian about any necessary vaccinations or medications to ensure your pet’s health and well-being during travel.
By following these pet carrier safety tips, you can ensure a smooth and secure journey for your pet when traveling by air. To put it simply, your pet’s safety and comfort should always be a top priority.
Table: Pet Carrier Safety Tips for Air Travel
| Tips |
|———————————-|
| Choose an Airline-Approved Pet Carrier |
| Provide Proper Ventilation and Comfort |
| Secure the Carrier Properly |
| Prepare Your Pet for Travel |
Final Thoughts
Finding the best airline-approved pet carrier is essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of your furry friend during air travel. Based on my research and testing, the Pet Carrier from Away, the Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate, the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier, and the Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier are among the top recommendations.
For the best overall option, the Pet Carrier from Away delivers on all fronts, combining comfort, style, and functionality. If you need a carrier for the cargo hold, the Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate is the gold standard for durability and safety. The Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier is an excellent soft-sided choice, while the Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier caters specifically to feline travel needs.
Regardless of whether you have a small dog, a large dog, a cat, or an anxious pet, there is a carrier available to suit your needs. Try to consider the specific requirements of your pet and the airline you will be flying with to make the best choice for their well-being.
FAQ
What is the best overall airline-approved pet carrier?
The Pet Carrier from Away is our top pick for the best overall airline-approved pet carrier. It offers comfort, style, and meets all necessary requirements for air travel.
What is the best pet carrier for the cargo hold?
The Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate is the best choice for a carrier in the cargo hold. It has a five-star crash safety rating and is made with double-wall rotomolding for extra impact protection.
Which pet carrier is the best for cats?
The Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier is the top choice for traveling with cats. It has multiple carrying options and features designed to reduce stress and anxiety.
What is the best budget hardside pet carrier?
The Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel is a great choice for a hardside carrier on a budget. It meets FAA standards and provides the necessary space for your pet to move comfortably.
Which pet carrier is best for anxious pets?
The Sleepypod In-Cabin Pet Carrier is designed to provide comfort and security for anxious pets during travel. It has features like a removable privacy panel to reduce stress and anxiety.
What are some pet carrier safety tips for air travel?
Some pet carrier safety tips for air travel include ensuring the carrier is the right size for your pet, securing the carrier properly, providing comfort and ventilation, and labeling the carrier with your contact information.
What are the top recommended airline-approved pet carriers?
Based on our research and testing, the top recommended airline-approved pet carriers include the Pet Carrier from Away, the Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate, the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier, and the Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier.
