Airline approved pet carrier
Essential for pet owners planning to fly, this carrier meets specific airline requirements for in-cabin or cargo travel.
Pets
Pet carriers & crates
6 kinds worth knowing, 11 picks, and what to check before you buy.
Most people shopping here have a pet that travels: a cat going to the vet, a dog heading to the cottage, or a small dog that flies with them over the holidays. The gifts that get used fit the pet and the trip. A crate that is too big or too small usually ends up in the basement. Think about how the pet actually travels before you pick a style. Someone who flies needs an airline approved pet carrier sized to their airline's rules. Someone who drives or visits family may do better with a collapsible pet carrier that packs flat between trips. When the pet's size or the owner's travel habits are unclear, a gift note saying it can be exchanged is a good idea.
Kind 1 of 6
Carriers for flying in the cabin
This is a carrier sized to fit under an airplane seat, so a cat or small dog can fly in the cabin with its owner. It suits someone who flies home for the holidays or travels often with a small pet. Before buying, look up the under-seat size limits for the airline they fly most, since each airline sets its own. Check the pet's weight and length against the carrier's listed interior size, and look for mesh panels, a shoulder strap and a zipper the owner can work with one hand.
Kind 2 of 6
Crates for pets flying as cargo
An airline crate is a rigid kennel for larger pets that travel in the hold instead of the cabin. It suits dog owners who are moving, relocating across the country or flying with a pet too big for a seat. Airlines have specific rules for these crates, so check the carrier's cargo requirements before buying. Look at door hardware, ventilation on several sides, a solid floor and how the two halves fasten together. Measure the dog standing and lying down so the crate fits the airline's sizing guide.
RuffLand Intermediate
A 21 lb one-piece travel kennel whose interior fit, vehicle footprint and door layout all need checking.
Kind 3 of 6
Hard-shell carriers for everyday trips
Hard-sided carriers are moulded plastic or composite shells with a wire or plastic door. They wipe clean easily and keep their shape, so they suit cat owners making vet trips and people who travel by car with a small dog. Many open from the top as well as the front, which makes it easier to get a reluctant cat in and out. Before buying, check the interior size against the pet, how the handle attaches and whether the carrier can be belted into a car seat.
Durable hard-sided pet crate
A robust crate provides a secure and safe environment for pets during car travel or as a designated resting spot at home.
Kind 4 of 6
Crates and carriers that fold flat
Collapsible carriers and crates fold down when not in use. That makes them a good gift for someone in a small apartment, or someone who takes the dog to the cottage, to a relative's house or on road trips. Fabric versions are light and pack into a trunk. Folding hard crates are sturdier and suit dogs that stay in a crate at home too. Check how many steps it takes to set up and fold, the folded size, and whether the pet is a chewer or scratcher who could damage fabric.
Collapsible portable fabric pet crate
An excellent choice for temporary containment at home or during visits, offering a lightweight and easily storable solution.
Kind 5 of 6
Crates and carriers for getting around
This group covers the other ways people move pets around: wire crates for the car or a visit away from home, backpacks that leave both hands free, rolling carriers for airports and long walks, and baskets that mount on a bicycle. Match the style to the trip. A backpack suits a small pet on city outings, while a wire crate suits a larger dog in a vehicle. Check weight limits, how well it ventilates and whether it fits the car, bike or person who will use it.
Secure heavy duty wire crate
Ideal for crate training puppies, providing a secure den for dogs at home, or for robust temporary containment.
Hands-free pet backpack carrier
Perfect for adventurers and hikers, this carrier allows owners to comfortably carry small pets while keeping their hands free.
Rolling pet carrier with wheels
This convenient carrier makes transporting heavier or larger small pets effortless, reducing strain on the owner.
Bicycle mounted pet basket
Allows pet owners to safely bring their small companion along for bike rides, providing a secure and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Kind 6 of 6
Soft bags that fit under the seat
Soft-sided carriers are fabric bags with mesh windows and a padded base. They are popular for cabin travel because they can squish a little to fit under a seat. They suit people who fly with a cat or very small dog and want something light to carry through the airport. Check the airline's size limits, look for a base panel that stays rigid, and see whether the bag has a trolley sleeve for rolling luggage. Pets that claw at fabric may do better in a hard shell.
Soft-sided pet carrier bag
This comfortable carrier is ideal for small pets accompanying their owner on short trips or vet visits, offering a cozy and secure space.
How to choose pet carriers & crates as a gift
- Find out the pet's weight, length and height before shopping, since size matters more than style in this category.
- Ask how the owner usually travels, whether by plane, car, bike or on foot, and pick the type made for that trip.
- For flyers, look up the size rules of the airline they use most rather than going by a general label.
- Picture where it will live between trips; folding designs work well in small homes and apartments.
- Choose something easy to clean, with removable pads or wipeable surfaces, because carriers get messy during travel.
Usually safe to skip
- Carriers sized by guesswork often end up too small or too roomy, so skip buying one when the pet's measurements are unknown.
- Fabric carriers for a cat or dog that scratches or chews tend to get damaged fast and go unused.
- Big wire crates are a poor surprise for someone short on space who never asked for one.
Questions people ask about pet carriers & crates
- How do I know what size pet carrier to buy?
- Measure the pet from nose to base of tail and from floor to top of the head while it stands. Compare those numbers to the carrier's interior size, not the outside size. For cabin flights, the airline's under-seat limits also apply.
- Is a soft or hard pet carrier better for flying?
- For flying in the cabin, soft carriers are usually easier to fit under the seat and lighter to carry. For flying as cargo, airlines generally ask for a rigid crate. Check the specific airline's rules before choosing.
- What is a good carrier gift for someone who drives with their dog?
- A collapsible crate or a sturdy wire or hard-sided crate that fits their vehicle works well. Measure the cargo area or back seat first, and think about how often the crate will be set up and taken down.
Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.
Everything else
All pet carriers & crates picks
Showing 1–11 of 11
K&H Thermo Mod Shelter
A researched pet-household upgrade with clear fit, setup and exact-model checks.
