Best Cat Carriers for the Plane: Top 10 Picks Reviewed for 2026

A cat carrier is not only essential for air travel for making sure your cats are traveling safely; they are also required by all airlines. Cat carriers need to be able to fit under the seat in front of you during air travel, and so your cat carrier must comply with that airline’s size requirements. It varies depending on the airline, but typically your carrier size should be between 16 x 12 x 6 inches and 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

There are a lot of other factors to consider when buying carriers specifically for the plane. Typically soft-sided carriers are better for the plane, as they will more easily fit under the seat. However, there are also other features you can look for, such as an expandable option if you have more personal room in the cabin for your cat to spread out safely while still complying with airline requirements of staying in their carrier.

Or maybe you prefer a carrier that blocks out all light and noise to keep your kitty calm during a stressful travel day. We’ve gathered up some of the best options for every context to help you make the best decision for your airline-compliant cat carrier.

Our top plane cat carrier picks

We’ve scoured all available retailers and have found the best cat carriers to keep your kitties safe and comfortable during air travel. Read on to see some of the best options to meet your plane travel needs when traveling with cats.

• Best overall: Sleepypod Air

• Best expandable: MASKEYON Airline Approved Pet Carrier

• Best budget: EliteField Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

• Best multipurpose: Jespet Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Travel Dog & Cat Carrier

• Best side entry: PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Travel Carrier

• Best basic: EliteField Deluxe Soft Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

• Best springwire: Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

• Best backpack: PetAmi Dog Backpack Carrier

• Best luxury: Tavo Pets Dupree II Airline Carry-On Dog & Cat Car Seat

• Best oxford cloth: Mr. Peanut’s Store Airline Approved Pet Carrier

How to choose the cat carrier that is right for you

What size cat carrier should I buy?

The size of your cat carrier is very important. Make sure it’s an appropriate size to comfortably fit them; a more snug carrier will help them feel safe and secure, whereas there is a risk of them slipping around and hurting themselves if it’s too big. It should be no larger than one and a half times the size of your cat.

What are the best measurements for my cat carrier?

You should also make sure that its measurements are airline compliant and can fit under the seat on a plane. Those dimensions usually fall within 16 x 12 x 6 inches to 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

How many openings should my cat carrier have?

There should be at least two openings, one in the front and one from the top. A top opening is preferred for most vet visits, for example. Having multiple openings will also lead to an easier journey for getting your cat in and out. 

What material should my cat carrier be made of?

The material is an important consideration; a hard carrier versus a soft carrier is usually left up to personal preference, but you’ll want to make sure it’s made of a material that is easy to clean regardless. Make sure to buy a material that your cat feels the most comfortable in.

Can I fit multiple cats into one carrier?

Number of carriers is also a consideration. If you own multiple cats, they should each have their own carrier to ensure ultimate safety.

Our top Kinship-reviewed picks for plane-friendly cat carriers

Our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

Best overall

Sleepypod Air

$200

This Sleepypod cat carrier was designed specifically with air travel in mind, meeting all airline and TSA requirements and having been crash-tested and certified by CPS. To ensure comfort and safety for your cat on the plane, you can compress the carrier from 22 inches to 19 or 16 inches in length. Its zipper design allows for both side and top entry and has two mesh windows on either side for ventilation. It has a side pocket for storage, and it can hold cats up to 18 pounds. There is also a seatbelt strap on both sides to ensure your cat can travel safely both on a plane and in the car.

$200 at Amazon

Pros

• Meets all airline and TSA requirements.

• Has been crash tested and certified by CPS.

• Can hold up to 18 pounds.

• Can be compressed for a snug fit from 22 inches to 19 or 16 inches in length, depending on the size of your cat.

• Side and top entry.

• Two mesh windows for ventilation.

• Seatbelt strap on both sizes.

• Side pocket for storage.

Cons

• Price is high at $200.

• Not good for large cats over 18 pounds.

Overall review

This compact Sleepypod cat carrier not only meets air safety requirements, but also ensures your cat will be comfortable during air travel. We love that this carrier can be compressed to the length that will make your cat feel snug and secure, helping manage any anxiety they may be feeling during a stressful day of travel.

It’s also been specifically crash tested and certified by the CPS, which helps give you peace of mind while on the go with your kitty. The price tag on this one is pretty high, but we still think it’s a good investment to ensure your cat will feel as little anxiety as possible while flying on a plane. 

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best expandable

MASKEYON Airline Approved Pet Carrier

$50

For long days of air travel, an expandable carrier can come in handy so your cat can spread out a bit during layovers. This carrier functions as a normal soft-sided carrier, with zippered mesh top and side entries as well as an adjustable and detachable shoulder strap for easy transport. It’s airline approved to fit under the seat on planes, but for moments when you have more space to spread out, the two side pockets can be unzipped into mesh expandable compartments. Plus, it comes with a washable and detachable cozy mat as well as a luggage handle you can easily slide over a suitcase handle during travel.

$50 at Amazon

Pros

• TSA approved.

• Zippered mesh side and top entries.

• Two zippered side pockets that expand to mesh enclosures on either side of carrier.

• Removable and washable mat.

• Adjustable and detachable shoulder strap.

• Hand straps.

• Luggage strap.

Cons

• Can’t hold larger cats over 20 pounds.

Overall review

If you travel often with your cat, an expandable carrier can definitely come in handy for long wait times and layovers. We love that this carrier offers the ability for your cat to spread out a bit between enclosed under-the-seat plane travel. Its versatility also lends to being able to accommodate both long- and short-distance travel, making this a great investment. However, if your cat is on the larger side and over 20 pounds, this might not be the carrier for them. 

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best budget

EliteField Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

$40

$29

If you’re looking for a lower budget option for air travel, this option from EliteField is a great place to start. At under $40, it still has all the features you’ll need to travel safely with your cat. It’s airline approved and is made with waterproof material for all modes of travel. It has a mesh, zippered side-entry, as well as three other mesh windows for ventilation. It comes with an adjustable shoulder strap, a luggage strap that can fit over your suitcase handle, and a seatbelt loop for car travel. It also has a removable plush pad for your cat’s comfort.

$29 at Chewy

Pros

• Airline-approved.

• Made with waterproof material.

• Adjustable shoulder strap.

• Luggage strap.

• Seatbelt loop.

• Zippered side entry.

• Four mesh windows for ventilation.

• Removable plush bed.

Cons

• Only has one opening on the side.

Overall review

If you’re not ready to commit to a larger spend on your travel carrier, this one is a great alternative. We love that it comes with a lot of strap options for multiple types of travel: an adjustable shoulder strap for walking, a luggage strap you can secure to your roller bag’s handle, and a seatbelt loop to keep your cat secure in the car to and from the airport. However, there is only one entry point on the side, which could be difficult for cats who find it easier to enter through a top entry. 

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best multipurpose

Jespet Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Travel Dog & Cat Carrier

$35

$26

This Jespet carrier is a great transition carrier from your home to the plane. It comes with all the necessary straps you’ll need to get from the house to the car to the plane: an adjustable and padded shoulder strap, hand straps, a safety belt for secure car travel, and a luggage strap to slip over the handle of your roller suitcase. It also has top, side, and front entry, and it comes in two different sizes: small/medium (up to 15 pounds) and medium/large (up to 20 pounds).

$26 at Chewy

Pros

• Airline approved.

• Made with waterproof material and anti-scratch mesh.

• Front, top, and side entry.

• Comes in two sizes: small/medium (up to 15 pounds) and medium/large (up to 20 pounds).

• Three mesh windows for ventilation.

• Anti-slip bottom.

• Inner leash strap.

• Adjustable and padded shoulder strap.

• Hand straps.

• Luggage strap.

• Safety belt strap for car travel.

• Folds down flat for storage.

• Back pocket for storage.

Cons

• Can’t hold larger cats over 20 pounds.

Overall review

We love a carrier that can check multiple use options, and this bag really fits the bill. With its various straps and attachments, you’ll be all set not just for air travel, but will also be able to take your cat on long car journeys as well as on a walk around the block. We also love that it comes with a substantial pocket to keep any necessities close at hand during air travel, as well as the fact that the carrier folds down flat for easy storage. However, this is more suited toward small and medium breeds; if you have a larger cat over 20 pounds, you might need to look elsewhere. 

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best side entry

PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Travel Carrier

$34

This option from PetAmi is perfect for those who prefer a wide side entry in their carriers, which can allow for easy access to pets during air travel. It has a front pocket for storage and comes with a collapsible water bowl for on-the-go hydration needs, which is great for extended hours in the air. This carrier includes a reflective safety strap that can also loop around the top of your suitcase for air travel. Plus, it includes a removable shoulder strap, safety strap, and zippers with safety buckles.

$34 at Amazon

Pros

• Comes in small and large sizes, both which can hold up to 18 pounds.

• Ventilated, soft-sided design designed for safe, long-distance travel.

• Two zippered side entries.

• Safety buckles for zippers.

• Removable shoulder strap.

• Safety strap.

• Sherpa lined bedding.

• Collapsible water bowl included.

• Price reasonable at around $30 to 35 (depending on size).

Cons

• Not good for larger cats over 18 pounds.

Overall review

Not only is this carrier safe for air travel, it also comes with storage and a collapsible water bowl. Its sherpa-lined bed and soft material means your cats will be comfy while traveling in the air, and its two side entry points helps ensure your cat won’t feel too constricted. Just make sure it’s the right size for your cat — it comes in both small and large sizes, but won’t safely hold cats who weigh over 18 pounds. 

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best basic

EliteField Deluxe Soft Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

$37

If you’re looking for something super simple for air travel, look no further than this EliteField bag. With just one zippered front entry door, three mesh windows for ventilation, and a removable plush bed cover for comfort, this simple carrier fits all your basic air travel needs. Plus, it contains a padded shoulder strap for transport and comes with a sizable back pocket for storage. 

$37 at Amazon

Pros

• Airline approved.

• Padded and adjustable shoulder strap.

• One handle.

• One zippered front entry.

• Three mesh windows for ventilation.

• Removable plush bed cover.

• Back pocket for storage.

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a dedicated luggage strap.

• Only has one entry point.

• Not good for larger cats over 20 pounds.

Overall review

This carrier is the perfect basic entry point when it comes to air travel. It’s airline approved and will fit under the seat, and it just has one zippered entry where you can keep an eye on your kitty during your flight. We love this carrier’s simplicity; it has all the necessities you’ll need for traveling while also keeping the cost down. However, because it’s so simple, it doesn’t have a lot of extra features other carriers designed for air travel have, such as a luggage strap or multiple entries.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best springwire

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

$70

This is a carrier that tops a lot of round-up lists, and for a good reason. Its spring-wire frame both provides a steady structure for travel as well as allows the carrier to be compressed for storage. The carrier can also accommodate most full-size cats in transport, with two different sizes on offer: medium (for cats up to 16 pounds) and large (for cats up to 22 pounds). It also has both top and side entry, a removable and washable faux lambskin liner, and three mesh windows that provide ample ventilation. Plus, it has an adjustable strap, security strap, and locking zippers.

$70 at Amazon

Pros

• Two sizes, medium (up to 16 pounds) and large (up to 22 pounds).

• Airline approved design.

• Ventilation throughout.

• Top and side entry.

• Removeable, washable faux lambskin liner.

• Spring-wire frame for compression and storage.

• Adjustable strap.

• Security strap.

• Locking zippers.

Cons

• Price a little high at over $100 (depending on size).

Overall review

This is a tried-and-true carrier that consistently has rave reviews that is a great option for both air travel and shorter distances. Not only does it come in two sizes that can accommodate cats up to 22 pounds, it also has multiple entrances, locking zippers, and washable liner ensures your cat will be both safe and comfortable while they’re in the carrier. Plus, it can also be compressed and easily stored when not in use.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best backpack

PetAmi Dog Backpack Carrier

$40

This PetAmi backpack is our top choice if you prefer to travel with your cat on your back, rather than in a traditional carrier. This backpack has two large mesh side entries that let your cat easily enter the carrier, as well as a small mesh zippered window on the front that allows easy access to check on your cat and even let them pop their head out if need be. In addition to sturdy backpack straps, it also has chest and waist buckles to help further secure the carrier on your back during travel. Plus, it comes with a collapsible water bowl perfect for on-the-go travel that can easily clip onto the backpack.

$40 at Amazon

Pros

• Airline approved.

• Reinforced structure that doesn’t collapse.

• Made with durable 600D high-grade polyester.

• Two zippered side entries.

• Backpack straps with chest and waist buckles.

• Three mesh windows for ventilation.

• Includes soft sherpa bedding for comfort.

• Comes with a collapsible water bowl with a keychain that connects to backpack.

Cons

• Not good for cats over 18 pounds.

Overall review

This durable and versatile cat backpack is great for all kinds of travel, especially including air travel. We love how durable this bag is, with its reinforced structure and its 600D high-grade polyester material. We also love how secure this pack can be on your back, with the chest and waist buckles keeping your cat stable during travel — especially if you have to rush to your gate in the airport! However, this might not be the best option for larger cats over 18 pounds. 

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best luxury

Tavo Pets Dupree II Airline Carry-On Dog & Cat Car Seat

$300

This is the carrier to beat when it comes to luxury. Made from energy-absorbing memory foam, this carrier is flexible enough for under-the-seat storage while still maintaining stability with its structured base. It has all-around mesh ventilation and top and side doors that roll down and attach with magnetic holders for easy access. The doors also have locking zippers for security, and it includes rigid ISOFIX latches for easy transition between car and plane. 

$300 at Chewy

Pros

• Airline approved.

• Made out of energy-absorbing memory foam.

• Top and side doors that roll down and attach with magnetic holders for easy access.

• Integrated rigid ISOFIX latches 

• Structured base.

• Locking zippers.

• All-around mesh ventilation panels.

• Two removable, washable, and flame-resistant plush beds.

Cons

• Price is high at $300.

• Not good for cats over 20 pounds.

Overall review

While $300 is a bit steep, we do think this carrier’s high quality makes it worth it. We love that it’s made with energy-absorbing memory foam, which both allows for storage flexibility as well as keeps your cats shielded from too much external stimuli. Paired with a sturdy base, this carrier is also super stable and durable for air travel. Plus, we love how this carrier comes with not one but two removable, washable, and flame-resistant beds. 

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best oxford cloth

Mr. Peanut’s Store Airline Approved Pet Carrier

$79

When it comes to finding a durable cat carrier for the plane, you can’t go wrong with one made from Oxford cloth. This offering from Mr. Peanut’s Store is made from Oxford 2-tone fabric, which is both sturdy enough for heavy use and able to be washed after a long day of travel. It has a wide, zippered front entry door with a mesh window, along with three other mesh windows (including a full mesh top) for ventilation. It has both a handle and an adjustable shoulder strap for carrying, as well as a seatbelt attachment for the car and a locking clasp to keep your cat secure during travel. Plus, it comes with a washable fleece bed to keep your kitty cozy. 

$79 at Amazon

Pros

• Airline approved.

• Made with durable Oxford 2-tone fabric.

• Zippered front entry.

• Adjustable shoulder strap.

• Handle.

• All-around mesh for ventilation.

• Locking clasp for security.

• Washable fleece pad.

• Seatbelt attachment.

Cons 

• Not good for larger cats over 15 pounds.

• Only has one entry point

Overall review

This Oxford cloth carrier is super durable, which is perfect for a long day of air travel. We love that this carrier can withstand a full day of travel while still being flexible enough to fit under plane seats; plus, after it’s been through the wringer, you can easily wash the carrier without losing any of that durability. We also appreciate that it comes with a locking clasp to ensure your cat’s security while traveling. However, this carrier is on the smaller side and can’t hold cats over 15 pounds, and some might not like that it only has one front entry. 

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

FAQs

Why do I need a cat carrier for the plane?

Most airlines allow cats to travel in the cabin, but they must be in a carrier while doing so. It’s important that they are safe and secure during any kind of travel, which is where a cat carrier comes into play. You will also need to adhere to the size requirements for under-the-seat storage for your cat. Each airline has their own requirements, but typically the bag size ranges between 16 x 12 x 6 inches to 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

What kind of cat carrier should I get?

This depends on your cat’s individual needs and preferences. Soft carriers tend to be more adaptable to under-the-seat storage on planes and can even come with loops to secure the carrier even further.

How to ensure my cat carrier is safe?

First, size is very important; your carrier shouldn’t be any larger than one and a half times the size of your cat, as a carrier too big could cause them to slip around and potentially hurt themselves. Material is also important; hard carriers are more durable, but soft carriers also have many durable material options, as well. Also make sure there are multiple openings to ensure your cat can get in and out safely.