If you share your home with a pet, having a pet carrier is essential for travel or emergencies. A good carrier ensures your furry friend's safety, prevents them from running off, and provides comfort during unfamiliar journeys. It also protects them from other animals or people, especially during vet visits. However, not all carriers are equal. Here are the best options available online, carefully selected for pet lovers.
1. Top-Loading Cat Carrier with Three Zippered Openings
This highly-rated budget pick from Petisfam is perfect for small to medium cats and small dogs. It features three zippered openings, a soft fleece bed, and breathable mesh doors. The shoulder strap and regular straps offer versatility, while a side pocket stores treats and papers. Available in multiple colors, it's escape-proof and beloved by cats.
2. Expandable Carrier with Four Sides
A cult-favorite model that expands for extra space, this carrier is ideal for cats, dogs, and small animals. It includes fleece lining, breathable mesh, and a side pocket. With three sizes and several colorways, it's praised on Reddit and by users for its versatility.
3. Extra-Airy Carrier with Fleece Padding
This Amazon Basics carrier boasts four mesh sides for maximum breathability and soft fleece bedding. It has front- and top-loading doors, shoulder and handle straps, and comes in two sizes. With over 19,000 5-star ratings, it's a top choice for comfort.
4. Comfy Portable Kennel for Larger Dogs
This soft-sided, foldable crate from Amazon Basics is lightweight yet sturdy, suitable for German shepherds and Great Danes. It features a mesh front door and can be used as a bed. With four sizes, it accommodates dogs, cats, and rabbits.
5. Roomy Carrier for Pets Up to 50 Pounds
Made of tear-resistant Oxford fabric with steel supports, this carrier is spacious for medium dogs and large cats. It has seatbelt loops for road trips, comes in seven colors, and is highly ventilated. Reviewers love its durability and comfort.
6. Double-Decker Backpack for Two Pets
This unique backpack carrier accommodates two small pets in separate compartments. It features seven mesh windows, fleece padding, and chest/waist straps. The middle divider is removable for a single larger pet. Available in two sizes and colors.
7. Three-Sided Mesh Backpack
Ideal for anxious pets, this backpack has mesh walls for visibility and ventilation. It measures 12.6 x 11.4 x 16.5 inches, suitable for cats and small dogs. An upgraded version includes adjustable curtains. Available in five colors.
8. Spacious Travel Crate for Large Dogs
This soft-sided crate is wider and higher than similar options, with ventilated mesh and a fleece bed. It has a lightweight steel frame, folds easily, and comes with a carrying bag. With 10,000 5-star ratings and 20 colors, it's perfect for large breeds.
