We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Airline Approved Dog Carriers 2025 in the United States

Petskd Top and Side Expandable Pet Carrier 18x11x11 Inches Delta United Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Cats and Dogs with Locking Safety Zippers and Anti-Scratch Mesh(Blue)

Size: 18"L x 11"W x 11"H
Material: Polyester and metal
Ventilation: Mesh panels on five sides
Security: Locking zippers, buckle attaches to collar
Comfort: Expandable sections, mesh for airflow
Portability: Lightweight, easy to carry
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Airline approved, fits under seat

Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels 19x13x9 Inches Southwest Allegiant Airlines Approved, Soft-Sided Carrier for Small Dog Under 12 lbs and Large Cat Under 15 lbs(Black)

Size: 19 x 13 x 9 inches, expandable top
Material: Polyester, Metal
Ventilation: Mesh panels on five sides
Security: Metal frame, leash, zipper snap locks
Comfort: Mesh panels for airflow, visibility
Portability: Wheels, lightweight (7.4 pounds)
Compliance with Airline Regulations: Meets Southwest, Allegiant under-seat size
How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,360
Size
Material
Ventilation

Most important from
50320 reviews

Size
The carrier is very roomy with a soft, removable pad inside, making it easy to clean.
Material
Despite being used for over five years, the carrier still looks and functions like new, showcasing its durability.
Ventilation
The carrier is sturdy yet lightweight, with excellent ventilation to keep pets calm and comfortable.
Comfort
The carrier is very roomy with a soft, removable pad inside, making it easy to clean.
Portability
The durable handles and adjustable shoulder strap make it easy to carry through busy airports.
Compliance with Airline Regulations
It's perfect for travel, fitting well under airline seats and complying with TSA regulations.

The Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier is a versatile and practical option for pet owners who need a reliable carrier for small to medium pets up to 15 lbs. It's airline-approved, meaning you can take your pet with you on flights without worrying about compliance with TSA regulations. The carrier's dimensions are 15 x 9 x 9 inches, making it suitable for smaller pets. It's crafted from durable polyester fabric, which is both lightweight and sturdy. The four-side mesh design ensures excellent ventilation, keeping your pet comfortable and allowing you to keep an eye on them during travel.

The carrier is equipped with two connecting loop handles, providing balanced carrying options, and can be secured with seat belts or luggage straps for added safety. It also features an adjustable shoulder strap for hands-free convenience. One of the standout features is its foldable design, making it easy to store when not in use. However, it's important to note that while the carrier supports pets up to 15 lbs, you should also consider the dimensions and physical size of your pet to ensure a good fit.

The carrier is machine washable, which makes cleaning a breeze. Weighing just under 2 pounds, it's a highly portable option. The padded shoulder strap and handles add to the comfort for the person carrying the pet. Despite these strengths, the carrier may not be suitable for larger pets or those who prefer a more rigid structure.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,360
Size
Material
Ventilation

Most important from
50320 reviews

Size
The carrier is very roomy with a soft, removable pad inside, making it easy to clean.
Material
Despite being used for over five years, the carrier still looks and functions like new, showcasing its durability.
Ventilation
The carrier is sturdy yet lightweight, with excellent ventilation to keep pets calm and comfortable.
Comfort
The carrier is very roomy with a soft, removable pad inside, making it easy to clean.
Portability
The durable handles and adjustable shoulder strap make it easy to carry through busy airports.
Compliance with Airline Regulations
It's perfect for travel, fitting well under airline seats and complying with TSA regulations.
#2

Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey

Rating
10.0
Material
Ventilation
Comfort

Most important from
50320 reviews

Material
Even after five years of use, the carrier still looks and functions like new, highlighting its durability.
Ventilation
Sturdy yet lightweight, with thoughtful design and plenty of ventilation, keeping pets calm and cozy.
Comfort
The carrier is roomy and has a soft, removable pad inside, making it comfortable and easy to clean.
Portability
Durable handles and an adjustable shoulder strap make it easy to carry through busy airports.
Compliance with Airline Regulations
Perfect for coast-to-coast flights with no issues on airlines, and it's easy to carry and super sturdy.

The Henkelion Cat and Dog Carrier is a solid choice for pet owners looking for a travel-friendly solution for small to medium pets, weighing up to 15 lbs. One of its standout features is its airline-approved design, which makes it suitable for flying with your furry friend. The carrier is made from durable and lightweight polyester, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of travel while remaining easy to carry.

Ventilation is well considered, thanks to the four-sided mesh panels that allow airflow, giving pets a comfortable travel experience and letting you keep an eye on them. The adjustable shoulder strap and dual seat belt or luggage strap connections enhance safety and ease of handling, making it more convenient to transport.

Portability is another strong point, as the carrier is foldable and comes with padded straps for comfortable carrying. It's also machine washable, which makes it easy to maintain. However, potential buyers should be mindful of the size; while it accommodates pets up to 15 lbs, careful attention should be given to your pet's length and height when selecting the right fit.

Rating
10.0
Material
Ventilation
Comfort

Most important from
50320 reviews

Material
Even after five years of use, the carrier still looks and functions like new, highlighting its durability.
Ventilation
Sturdy yet lightweight, with thoughtful design and plenty of ventilation, keeping pets calm and cozy.
Comfort
The carrier is roomy and has a soft, removable pad inside, making it comfortable and easy to clean.
Portability
Durable handles and an adjustable shoulder strap make it easy to carry through busy airports.
Compliance with Airline Regulations
Perfect for coast-to-coast flights with no issues on airlines, and it's easy to carry and super sturdy.
#3

Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel Single-Door Travel Pet Carrier with Metal Wire Ventilation, 23.6"L x 15.7"W x 13.0"H, Beige

Rating
9.8
Size
Material
Security

Most important from
61770 reviews

Size
Roomy enough to accommodate a 12-pound cat comfortably, making it suitable for small pets.
Material
The carrier is well-made, with a sturdy design that ensures durability even with its plastic construction.
Security
The metal door and secure locking mechanisms offer peace of mind that pets will not escape during transit.
Portability
The carrier is stable yet not too heavy, making it easy to handle and perfect for travel.

The Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel is a practical choice for pet owners needing a secure, airline-approved carrier for small dogs or cats. Measuring 23.6 x 15.7 x 13 inches, it falls within the size limits set by most airlines, making it a solid option for traveling with your furry friend. The hard-sided design, crafted from durable molded plastic, ensures that it can withstand the rigors of travel while providing a safe environment for your pet.

One of its key strengths is the ventilation provided by the metal wire door and side panels, which help to keep your pet comfortable during transit. The locking door mechanism adds an extra layer of security, giving you peace of mind that your pet won't escape. The top handle enhances portability, making it easy to carry through busy airports or onto planes.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While its hard shell offers strength, it may not be as comfortable for pets who prefer a softer, cozier environment. This carrier is not designed with extra padding, which could be an issue for longer journeys, especially for anxious pets. Additionally, while the single door design is straightforward, pets that are more energetic might find it challenging to enter or exit the carrier without some assistance.

Rating
9.8
Size
Material
Security

Most important from
61770 reviews

Size
Roomy enough to accommodate a 12-pound cat comfortably, making it suitable for small pets.
Material
The carrier is well-made, with a sturdy design that ensures durability even with its plastic construction.
Security
The metal door and secure locking mechanisms offer peace of mind that pets will not escape during transit.
Portability
The carrier is stable yet not too heavy, making it easy to handle and perfect for travel.

Buying Guide for the Best Airline Approved Dog Carriers

Choosing the right airline-approved dog carrier is crucial for ensuring your pet's comfort and safety during travel. It's important to consider various factors such as size, material, ventilation, and additional features to make sure the carrier meets both your needs and the airline's requirements. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
SizeSize is one of the most important factors when choosing an airline-approved dog carrier. The carrier should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Airlines have specific size requirements for carriers, especially for in-cabin travel. Measure your dog’s length, height, and weight to ensure the carrier fits within the airline's guidelines. For smaller dogs, a compact carrier that fits under the seat is ideal, while larger dogs may require a sturdier, more spacious carrier that goes in the cargo hold.
MaterialThe material of the carrier affects its durability, comfort, and ease of cleaning. Common materials include hard plastic, soft fabric, and metal. Hard plastic carriers are sturdy and provide more protection, making them suitable for cargo travel. Soft fabric carriers are lightweight and often more comfortable for in-cabin travel. Metal carriers are less common but offer high durability. Choose a material that suits your travel needs and your dog's comfort.
VentilationProper ventilation is essential to ensure your dog gets enough fresh air during the flight. Look for carriers with multiple mesh panels or ventilation holes. This is especially important for long flights or if your dog tends to get anxious. Carriers with good ventilation will help keep your dog calm and comfortable. Ensure that the ventilation openings are secure and cannot be easily chewed through or damaged by your pet.
SecuritySecurity features are crucial to prevent your dog from escaping or getting injured. Look for carriers with strong zippers, locks, and secure fastenings. Some carriers come with additional safety features like seatbelt loops or tethering straps to keep the carrier in place during travel. Ensure that the carrier is escape-proof and that your dog cannot open it from the inside. This is particularly important for nervous or energetic dogs.
ComfortYour dog's comfort is paramount during travel. Look for carriers with padded interiors, soft bedding, and enough space for your dog to move around. Some carriers come with removable and washable pads, which are convenient for maintaining cleanliness. Consider carriers with additional features like pockets for storing treats, toys, or travel documents. A comfortable carrier will help reduce your dog's stress and make the journey more pleasant for both of you.
PortabilityPortability is important for ease of transport. Look for carriers with handles, shoulder straps, or wheels for easy maneuvering through the airport. Lightweight carriers are easier to carry, especially if you have other luggage. Consider how you will be transporting the carrier and choose one that fits your needs. For example, a wheeled carrier might be more convenient for larger dogs or longer distances.
Compliance with Airline RegulationsEach airline has its own set of regulations for pet carriers, so it's important to check these before making a purchase. Ensure that the carrier meets the size, material, and ventilation requirements of the airline you will be flying with. Some airlines have specific guidelines for in-cabin and cargo travel, so make sure the carrier is compliant with these rules. Checking the airline's pet policy in advance will help you avoid any last-minute issues at the airport.

FAQ