Flying with your furry friend? These are the best airline-friendly dog carriers
Whether you’re getting away for the weekend or traveling on vacation, if your furry friend is by your side, chances are, you’ll need a proper dog carrier.
While most airlines are willing to accommodate pets onboard, Fido will need a comfortable carrier that meets the requirements for travel. Each airline sets its own size restrictions, but luckily, Chewy has an entire section dedicated to airline-friendly pet carriers. From rolling carriers to tote bags, the site has a plethora of top-rated airline-approved dog carriers to make traveling with your best friend a breeze.
Best versatile carrier
Sherpa has partnered with major airlines including Delta, United and Southwest in their Guaranteed on Board program to ensure you and your pup don’t get denied boarding due to the carrier. Available in three sizes, it features top and side entry with locking zippers, large mesh panels, a seatbelt strap and padded shoulder strap.
This versatile carrier even gets the stamp of approval from cat owners, too. “Sherpa makes the best cat carriers. Easy access top and side. Easy to keep clean. Extremely sturdy. And the best price I’ve found on a Sherpa cat carrier of this size. And my cats love it too!” wrote a happy customer.
Shop it: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier, $33 to $50, chewy.com
Best expandable carrier
If your pup needs a little extra space to relax on those long haul flights, this expandable carrier is a must. The roomy bag has a plush interior and two compartments that open up so Fido can lounge comfortably.
One 5-star reviewer wrote, “My Chi Mix weighs in at 10 pounds. This carrier was perfect because it's expandable which is great for layovers, etc. It fits under the airline seats with no issue. I'd recommend this to anyone. It's sturdy and will provide many trips for my pup.”
Shop it: Petsfit Double Sided Expandable Dog & Cat Carrier, $46 to $50, chewy.com
Best backpack carrier
For pups on the smaller side (up to 15 pounds), this backpack is an easy way to travel. The mesh windows offer great visibility and ventilation and the cushioned shoulder straps and chest and waist straps add a level of comfort. It also has self-locking zippers and a built-in clip inside for added security.
“I have 2 chihuahuas that fly regularly with me and I have been looking for a new carrier. This is perfect! Comfortable for me to wear and plenty of room for them. It’s nice to have both hands free,” explained one fan of this carrier.
Shop it: Petsfit Comfort Backpack Dog Carrier, $50, chewy.com
Best multi-tasking carrier
Whether Fido is a bonafide traveler or just plain spoiled, consider this 4-in-1 carrier. The convertible design goes from rolling carrier to a backpack to a pet car seat and even a bed when those flight delays arise.
“I have a large miniature schnauzer. I travel with her often. This carrier in the medium size works great under the airline seats. It rolls great thru the airport and my dog feels secure, “ wrote one reviewer who calls it this the “best pet carrier ever.”
Shop it: Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around 4-in-1 Travel Dog & Cat Carrier, $120 to $130, chewy.com
Best tote bag carrier
From road trips to shopping trips, bring your furry friend along in this stylish tote, complete with top and side mesh windows and a cozy fleece liner. The airline-friendly bag makes it easy.
“My Chihuahua loves to get in her purse. The one she's had for 10 years finally wore out and we replaced it with this one. She loves it! Fits under the airline seat so all Good! Definitely recommend!” explained a 5-star reviewer.
Another added, “My 5.5-lb Morkie loves this tote. It is perfect size with lots of room. It can easily accommodate a larger dog. I would highly recommend this tote and the price is right. It is very well made.”
Shop it: Pet Gear Tote Bag Pet Carrier, $29, chewy.com
The editors at Yahoo Lifestyle are committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. At times, we may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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