Traveling with your dog can be stressful—especially if you don't have what you need to make them feel safe and comfortable throughout your journey.
Whether you're traveling by air, land, or sea, you'll likely need to invest in a crate or carrier to transport your pup. And when it comes to airline travel in particular, it can be difficult to know which products are approved. Different airlines have different policies, so it's important to check with yours beforehand so you don't run into any trouble once you're ready to board.
The best airline-approved dog carriers are comfortable for your pet, aligned with airline regulations, and easy for you to transport. Here are our top picks for your jet-setting four-legged friend.
Overall best airline-approved dog carrier
Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier$149
Sizes: Small: Up to 15lbs, Large: Up to 25lbs
Dog Carrier Features: This dog travel carrier is our #1 pick due to its durability, practicality, and innovative 3-in-1 design. Need more convincing? It was People Magazine's Best Pet Carrier of 2022 and has hundreds of 5-star reviews. Plus, it comes with a bonus leash!
Other top airline-approved dog carriers
Wild One Travel Carrier$125
Sizes: Up to 16lbs
Dog Carrier Features: This airline-compliant carrier is breathable and folds out into a comfortable bed. It also has convenient strap configurations for carrying over your shoulder, in your hands, or over your suitcase.
Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier$275
Sizes: Up to 25lbs
Dog Carrier Features: If you and your dog like to travel in luxury, this is the carrier for you. It's foldable when not in use, has 360 degree ventilation and a memory foam mattress, and easily attaches to your suitcase.
Pet Magasin Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Carrier$49
Size: Up to 15 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: This airline-approved carrier comes in three bright and stylish colors: blue, orange, and pink. Constructed to be lightweight and easily transportable, pet parents can tote their furry friend around using the padded shoulder strap and handle.
Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier$134
Size: Small: Up to 8 lbs, Medium: Up to 16 lbs, Large: Up to 22 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: This high quality airline-approved dog carrier gives pet parents everything they need at an affordable price. Lined with faux, washable lambskin, Fido will be comfortable no matter how long the journey. The spring wire frame makes it easy to fit under snug seats, too.
Bergan Voyager Dog Carrier$71
Size: Small: Up to 10 lbs, Medium/Large: Up to 22 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: With plenty of pockets for toys, treats, and trinkets—oh, and a poop bag holder—this carrier is nothing short of amazing. An added seat belt loop and a washable fleece liner mean its equal parts posh and practical.
EliteField Soft-Sided Dog Carrier$55
Size: Up to 18 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: It's waterproof, lightweight, and easy to clean. This airline-approved dog carrier comes with a seat belt loop for safety and a strap so you can attach it to your luggage on the go. Plus, you can choose from six stylish colors.
Sherpa Expandable Dog Carrier$90
Size: Up to 16 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: With ample storage space for all your dog's accessories, a cozy base liner, and a breathable mesh construction, this carrier has it all. And for times when your fur baby needs a little more room, pet parents can easily expand the side walls.
Kurgo Explorer Dog Carrier$99
Size: Up to 20 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: This sporty airline-approved carrier spoils pet parents with two carrying options, an exterior carabiner for easy car travel, and an interior tether to keep their dog safe. Your pup will love the comfortable, removable liner and breathable construction.
Katziela Voyager Backpack Dog Carrier$75
Size: Up to 13 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: If you're looking for a 2-in-1 situation, look no further. Transport your pup on your back using the convenient backpack straps, then comfortably slide them under the seat when it's time to fly. This part backpack, part carrier is the paw-fect airline-approved solution.
Etna Happy Camper Dog Carrier$69
Size: Up to 20 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: If you're looking for something just plain cute, opt for this airline-approved camper carrier. Zipper doors on the front and back make for easy access, and the washable material means cleaning is a breeze. Plus, the retro look is oh-so adorable.
Jespet Soft-Sided Dog Carrier$36
Size: Up to 15 lbs
Dog Carrier Features: With two access points, a safety hook, and a removable, comfortable pad, your paw-tner will be safe and cozy in this durable carrier. Choose from five fashionable colors: Grey, black, pink, purple, and blue.
Need help preparing for travel?
The Vet Pros at Pawp are here to help 24/7. Whether you have a question about your pet's travel anxiety or feeding schedule, we can point you in the right direction.
Plus, check out our dog travel packing list for more tips on how to make your journey go as smooth as paw-sible!