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Best Cat Carriers for Airplane Travel 2025
Written by Adam Lee-Smith
Veterinary reviewed by:
Published: 07/30/2024, edited: 01/17/2025
The Wag! team conducts independent research and consults pet experts to curate our recommendations. This content is supported by our affiliate pet partners and we may receive a commission on the links provided.
Traveling comfortably and effortlessly with their feline friends is essential for pet parents. Luckily, airlines are becoming increasingly pet-friendly, whether you're flying cross-country or jet-setting internationally.
But what’s the best way to transport your feline friend? When picking out a carrier for flying with your cat, you’ll want to pick an option that’s comfortable, durable, and airline-approved.
If you’re struggling to find the right crate for your purring pal, we've got you covered. We've picked out the top-rated cat carriers for airplane travel so you can plan your next getaway knowing your purring pal is safe, cozy, and secure!
Overview
Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Bag
The Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier is one of the highest-rated airline-approved cat carriers—and with good reason. Made with felines and canines in mind, this mid-sized carrier is approved by major airlines like American Airlines and United Airlines.
It features mesh windows on all sides to keep your kitty cool while letting them observe the outside world. Padded, non-slip carrying straps make for easy and comfortable transportation. A spring wire frame makes it easy to fit this cat carrier under an airplane seat, so you won't have to worry about dimension requirements.
- Available sizes: Medium (up to 16 lbs), Large (up to 20 lbs)
Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier Bag
Why Wag! loves Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier Bag
- Breathable mesh windows on top and all sides
- Rear pocket for storage
- Seat strap for safe transport
- Spring wire frame allows size adjustments
- Easy-to-clean machine-washable faux lambskin liner
Considerations & concerns
- Mesh could be ripped by cats with sharp claws
- Large size may not meet airline carry-on requirements
What pet parents say about Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier Bag
"I've got an almost 20 lb kitty and he fits very comfortably. Bottom is nice and strong and zippers stay despite his attempts. Looks nice too."
"Noticed cat looked a little tight in his carrier. Took new measurements and bought this one. Really like the top opening. Seems to be sturdier than the old one. And he likes it."
Read more reviews on Chewy.
Image sourced from Chewy. Copyright PetWise, Inc.
Jespet Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Travel Cat Carrier
The Jespet Soft-Sided Travel Cat Carrier boasts three entry points on the top and sides, making getting kitties into their travel crate easy. Sturdy mesh lining means it's highly breathable and difficult for felines to damage.
This excellent airline-approved cat carrier includes a large pocket for storing your fur-baby's travel essentials. And, with its anti-slip bottom, you won't have to worry about your kitty sliding around during turbulence.
- Available sizes: Small/Medium (17″ x 10″ x 11.5″), Medium/Large (19″ x 12″ x 12″)
Jespet Soft-Sided Travel Cat Carrier
Why Wag! loves Jespet Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Travel Cat Carrier
- Three openings make loading and unloading your cat simple
- Safety belt strap for secure transport
- Scratch-proof mesh lining is ideal for feline escape artists
- Large side pocket for all your cat's essentials
- Folds flat for easy storage
Considerations & concerns
- Cat claws can get caught in mesh lining
- Hand washable only
What pet parents say about Jespet Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Travel Cat Carrier
"I ordered 2 of these carriers for my 2 kittens. I ordered the large ones because one of my kittens will be a large cat. It is light weight. I like the 3 openings, which makes it easy to put the cats in the carriers and take them out. Being able to attach the carrier with a seatbelt when transporting the cat to the vet is a plus!"
"I have a cat that is bigger and has a bad leg. I love the multiple openings and the sturdiness! Great bag!"
Read more reviews on Chewy.
Image sourced from Chewy. Copyright Jespet Inc.
Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Cat Carrier Bag
Produced by Chewy's team of pet experts, the Frisco Premium Cat Quilted Carrier Bag is fantastic for air travel. It meets the carry-on requirements of most US airlines, from Delta to Spirit.
Side and top openings and mesh linings mean this Frisco carrier is breathable and easy to access.
This cat carrier includes a collapsible water bowl and a name tag, among other handy extras. It's also super comfy, with a padded, fluffy sherpa-style liner that is sure to have your cat taking a mile-high snooze.
Frisco Premium Quilted Cat Carrier Bag
Why Wag! loves the Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Cat Quilted Carrier Bag
- Quilted exterior and sherpa-style padded bottom for unbeatable comfort
- Top and side openings
- Padded shoulder sling strap for comfortable carrying
- Comes with extras like a collapsible bowl and name tag
- Reasonably priced
Considerations & concerns
- Unsuitable for large cats like Maine Coons
- Velcro securer for zips makes it easier to escape than some alternatives
What pet parents say about the Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Cat Quilted Carrier Bag
"Loved the Cat Carrier Bag - especially since it's "airline compliant". Happy that it's substantial enough so that it won’t collapse on my kitty! The pockets are great for her harness and treats!"
"I saw the reviews and thought they were good, but this carrier exceeded my expectations. Very well made. Incredible value for the money, highly recommended."
Read more reviews on Chewy.
Image sourced from Chewy. Copyright Chewy, Inc.
Petmate Two Door Top Load Cat Kennel
Check out the Petmate Two Door Top Load Cat Kennel if you're searching for a hard-sided cat carrier for airplane travel. This top-rated, durable cat carrier is made from plastic and stainless steel — perfect if your cat is traveling in the cargo hold.
Front and top doors make it ideal for loading and unloading skittish kitties. Steel latches help prevent your cat from escaping in transit. Plus, it's super stylish and practical, with four pearlescent and metallic colors available.
- Available colors: White, Pink, Blue, Tan
- Available sizes: 19″ (up to 10 lbs), 24″ (up to 15 lbs)
Petmate Two Door Top Load Cat Kennel
Why Wag! loves the Petmate Two Door Top Load Cat Kennel
- Durable and stylish
- Suitable for cats and dogs
- Front and top doors with sturdy steel latches
- Grates on top and sides for breathability
Considerations & concerns
- May not be suitable for larger cats
- No attachment to secure the carrier in a car
What pet parents say about the Petmate Two Door Top Load Cat Kennel
"I like that I didn't have to read the instructions to be able to put this carrier together - I just looked at the picture to see if the screws went on the top or bottom. I also love that you have the option of using the front or the top to get kitties in. It seems well made and I can't see any defects."
"I've used this brand of carrier ever since I found it. It's easy to assemble very sturdy, and easy to clean and sanitize. I especially [love] that it has both a front door and a top door."
Read more reviews on Chewy.
Image sourced from Chewy. Copyright Petmate.
EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier Bag
The chic, airline-approved EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier is available in six vibrant colors, from black to sapphire blue. It includes removable padded bedding for comfort and is waterproof for quick and easy cleaning.
This soft-sided cat carrier features mesh windows and a small, unzippable window to give your cat some extra fresh air. A seatbelt means you can safely transport your cat to and from the airport, and a storage pocket means you won't misplace your kitten's favorite kicker or food bowl.
- Available colors: Black, Pink, Purple, Sky Blue, Charcoal Grey, Sapphire Blue
- Available sizes: 17″, 19″
EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier Bag
Why Wag! loves EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier Bag
- Very affordable
- Mesh netted and available in several bright colors
- Small openable window extra breathability
- Large storage pocket for all your feline accessories
- Seat belt loop makes it attachable to luggage
Considerations & concerns
- Partially solid sides mean it's less breathable than some alternatives
- Some pet parents said the carrier's floor is too flimsy
What pet parents say about EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier Bag
"This is a beautiful and functional carrier. I especially like the little side door for petting the cat while waiting for the vet. My only problem is I should have gotten the larger size. I measured my cat and he fits in the smaller one, but would have a bit more room in the larger one."
"My kitty loves this. I have it on the floor [so she gets] used to it. She walks in by herself and sleeps on a soft blanket I put in it."
Read more reviews on Chewy.
Image sourced from Chewy. Copyright EliteField LLC.
Petmate Vari Cat Kennel
Made from eco-friendly plastics, the Petmate Vari Cat & Dog Kennel is purrfect for environmentally conscious pet parents. It's available in several sizes, giving your purring pal extra space to move around while airborne.
One of the best features of this hard-sided cat kennel is its squeeze latch door, which is secure and effortless to open and close. Another handy attribute is an internal moat to keep your kitty dry during sudden downpours. Made specifically for air travel, it includes zip-tie strap holes to help secure it while flying.
- Available sizes: X-small (up to 10 lbs), Small (10-20 lbs), Medium (20-30 lbs), Intermediate (30-50 lbs), Large (50-70 lbs)
Petmate Vari Cat Kennel
Why Wag! loves Petmate Vari Cat Kennel
- Tie-down strap holes to help keep the carrier in place while flying
- Squeeze latch door for easy opening and closing
- Internal moat prevents cats from getting wet
- Super simple assembly—no tools required
- Reasonably priced
Considerations & concerns
- Ridges on the bottom of the crate may make it uncomfortable to sleep on without additional padding
- Some pet parents said the sizing is misleading
What pet parents say about Petmate Vari Cat Kennel
"Was exactly what we wanted. Arrived promptly and in perfect condition."
"This carrier is the perfect in between size, not too big not too small. Seems sturdy and easy to put together. Great carrier for the price."
Read more reviews on Chewy.
Image sourced from Chewy. Copyright Petmate.
FAQ
What's the right size carrier for a cat on a plane?
Do cats prefer soft or hard carriers?
How much does it cost to fly with a cat?