A pet carrier is one of the most important items you can provide for your pet. Therefore, it’s essential to research the best pet carrier to match your pet’s needs and give you peace of mind. A pet carrier provides protection, comfort, and safety for your pet when traveling long distances or even for daily transport.
When evaluating the best carrier for your pet, it’s advisable to consider the following factors:
- Size
- Design
- Ventilation
- Level of protection
- Ease of use
- Comfort
- Price
Here are reviews of a few pet carriers, to help you make an informed decision and find the best pet carrier for you and your pet
Petmate Two Door Top Load
The Petmate Two Door Top Load crate is designed for cats and small dogs weighing between 10-20 pounds. It comes in two sizes, measuring 19” and 24” and is available in four colors. This carrier is priced around $40.
Pros of Petmate Two Door Top Load
- Features top entry door to access pet as well as insert and remove them
- Meets most airline cargo criteria
- Provides visibility and ventilation
- Durable
- Ergonomic handle
Cons of Petmate Two Door Top Load
- Recommended for short trips
- Does not come with a pad or cushion for the bottom of the carrier
- Some reports of jagged edges around plastic air holes
- Appears better suited as a cat carrier than a dog kennel
Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Pet Travel Kennel
The Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Pet Travel Kennel carrier is designed for cats, small dogs, puppies, and rabbits. The dimensions are 17” in length by 13” in height by 14” in width. This carrier features a hard top and base for sturdiness and soft sides.
Pros of Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Pet Travel Kennel
- Collapsible for convenient storage
- Includes padded mat for comfort
- Mesh door for visibility
- Ventilated sides
- Lightweight
Cons of Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Pet Travel Kennel
- Reports of poor construction
- Reports warn of faulty zippers
- Reports of sides separating from top
OMORC Pet Carrier
The OMORC Pet Carrier is designed for cats and small dogs, with a maximum weight of 15 pounds. When not expanded, the dimensions are 18” in length by 11” in width and 11” in height. When the two mesh sides are expanded, the width becomes 29.8”. This carrier comes in grey and is priced at approximately $40.
Pros of OMORC Pet Carrier
- Expandable soft sides
- Durable
- Features reflective tapes for increased safety at night
- Four openings from four directions
- Mesh cloth for visibility and ventilation
- Includes washable pad for comfort
- Features pocket for storage
- In compliance with airline standards
Cons of OMORC Pet Carrier
- Some reports of latch difficulties
- Zippers do not lock
- Some reports of sturdiness issues
Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier
This Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier is considered the official pet carrier of Delta Airlines, meeting airline requirements for safe pet travel under the seat in front of the passenger. This carrier can also be used for daily transport and long-term travel. The medium-sized carrier measures 18” in length by 11” in width and 10.5” in height with a weight limit of 16 pounds.
Pros of Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier
- Top and side entry options
- Removable and washable liner included for comfort
- Mesh panels for ventilation
- Roll-down flaps for privacy
- Locking zippers
- Side pocket for storage
- Seat belt security strap
Cons of Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier
- Designed for pets to lie down, leaving little room for them to stand
- Some reports of faulty zippers
- Some reports of issues with construction and durability
Coopeter Pet Carrier with Telescopic Walking Handle
The Coopeter Pet Carrier with Telescopic Walking Handle comes with wheels so it can be rolled through airports or for long walks. It can also be hand-carried. It is designed for small to medium pets, including cats and dog breeds such as Pugs, Corgis, and Boston Terriers. It measures 12.2” by 19.7” by 11.8”. This carrier comes in grey and is priced at approximately $70.00.
Pros of Coopeter Pet Carrier with Telescopic Walking Handle
- Easy to carry and store
- Includes removable and washable fleece bed for comfort
- Features detachable platform with four wheels
- Mesh sides allow for ventilation and visibility
- “No-Risk” purchase includes refund if dissatisfied with the product
Cons of Coopeter Pet Carrier with Telescopic Walking Handle
- The company claims that it is approved for airline travel, but customers report that it is not approved by all airlines
- Reports that pull bar is problematic in construction and durability
- Reports of issues with the zipper
PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats, Dogs, and Puppies
The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats, Dogs, and Puppies is designed for pet owners who want to bring their animals for traveling, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It measures 12.5” in length by 10.2” in width by 16.3” in height, comes in a variety of colors, and is priced at approximately $40.
Pros of PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats, Dogs, and Puppies
- Two-way entry for access
- Mesh window for ventilation and visibility
- Sherpa lined bedding for comfort
- Reinforced structure and durable polyester material
- Safety strap and buckle for pet safety
- Back support, waist and chest buckles for pet owners
- Features front pocket for storage
- Includes collapsible pet bowl
- Folds flat for storage
Cons of PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats, Dogs, and Puppies
- Some customers report that the back support needs a better cushion for comfort
- Little room for pet movement inside
- Reports of issues with the zipper
- Reports that screen is easily torn
Choose the right pet carrier for your pet
Choosing a pet carrier is an important decision for your pet’s comfort and your convenience when traveling. When shopping for a carrier, consider whether you intend to use it for short, occasional trips or long-distance traveling.
Carefully assess the carrier’s size and weight compared to the size and weight of your pet.
PetsReport (petsreport.com)
Overall, the priority when purchasing a pet carrier should be safety and security. It’s essential to research these aspects thoroughly. You know your pet best as far as their energy level and temperament. If they are likely to struggle or attempt to escape, then their pet carrier must be durable in construction. Ensure that you have full and proper information regarding a pet carrier before you buy it, and you’ll be able to make traveling with your pet more pleasant and convenient.
Product links in this article lead to Amazon and are not affiliate links.