15 Best Cat Carriers for Long-Distance Travel

Our Top Cat Carrier Picks For Long Distance Travel!

Here is the complete list of cat carrier products we recommend below. All the products listed have been thoroughly vetted and offer excellent options. You can choose any that suits your needs.

We have also prepared a cat carrier buying guide to assist you in selecting the best product for your requirements. Additionally, we have included a FAQ section at the end, where we address some common queries, so make sure to read until the end.

Smiling Paws Pets has the best cat carrier for long-distance travel available. It is a soft-sided pet carrier that can be folded and unfolded in just 30 seconds. The mesh top entry is spacious enough for your pet to enter easily, and there’s a hook to hold it securely in place when rolled back.

The deluxe airline carrier also includes dual zippers with a loop for secure closure. An internal leash is included to prevent your pet from escaping when the carrier is open. The zipped pockets provide an ideal space to store your pet’s items.

If you need to carry additional luggage, you can attach the carrier’s side slip pocket to your luggage handle. This product is sturdy, thanks to its high-quality A-grade metallic clips.

This product is an excellent option for car travel. It serves as a car seat pet carrier designed for cats of all ages, featuring durable locking metal gates and a heavy-duty plastic frame. You can easily secure the carrier to your car’s back seat using headrest straps and seat belt loops. The locking metal gates allow for easy access to your pet from any door.

It’s equipped with mesh side panels for proper ventilation and visibility of your cat. Folding the carrier when it’s not in use is simple, reducing it to a compact size with buckles to secure it in place. A drawstring carry case is also included.

We also have an airline-approved cat carrier that can be used for non-airline travel as well. It is available in black, grey, and blue colors and made of three-layer fabric materials.

Despite its strong construction, the Prodigen Pet Carrier is lightweight, weighing just over 2 pounds. It has mesh windows for ventilation at the top and all sides.

The carrier features a removable fleece travel bed, padded shoulder strap, and storage compartments for treats and other essentials. It is also compatible with seat belts for car travel and has a padded handle for comfortable carrying, even on short walks. However, collapsing it can be slightly challenging due to the added steel ring for extra support.

Nevertheless, following the manufacturer’s instructions simplifies the collapsing process. Additionally, the steel ring can be removed for easier storage.

From PetLuv comes a 25-inch premium cat carrier, ideal for outdoor walks. Weighing 8.8 pounds, this carrier includes a padded top carry handle with adjustable straps, folding flat when not in use for easy storage.

Your pet’s comfort is ensured with a super soft double-padded rest pillow inside. Made from washable polyester material, this pillow is easy to clean. Four access panels and top openings provide quick entry or exit for your pet, while heavy-duty rubber mesh prevents ripping and has locking zippers for security.

Large side pockets allow for convenient storage, while seat belt loops enhance safety during car travel. This product also provides excellent airflow through all-around windows.

Customers love the Vceoa Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for its sturdiness and durability, earning it airline approval, making it suitable for air and car travel. The product weighs around 2.5 pounds with a maximum weight recommendation of 16 pounds. Locking zippers keep your pet secure, and mesh windows provide ventilation.

Features include a removable base insert, cozy fleece pet bed, and sturdy carrying handles with an adjustable shoulder strap that doubles as a seatbelt. A back strap allows easy attachment to luggage. It retains its shape thanks to the steel frames on both sides and folds flat easily.

This 17-inch long pet carrier is ideal for small cats and is available in grey or black. The Peteeza Pet Carrier Bag is designed with anti-scratch breathable mesh, ensuring proper ventilation for a comfortable experience for your pet.

Inside, there’s a removable cozy mat that is simple to wash, along with an inner safety leash to keep your pet secure. The carrier also features high-quality self-lock zippers and a sturdy metal hook, with an adjustable, padded shoulder strap for easy carrying during regular walks.

It folds easily for storage when not in use, weighs just 2.38 pounds, and is machine washable for easy cleaning. Many customers have rated it five stars for travel use.

The Farexon Cat Carrier Backpack is perfect for those who prefer a carrier backpack. This waterproof, breathable, and portable backpack provides an expandable space for your pet, ensuring proper air circulation with four mesh windows and a safety buckle to prevent escapes.

The double buckle zippers with a lock ensure security, while the inside features a two-sided removable and washable pad. For added comfort, the bag includes a widened padded shoulder strap and an adjustable length. The multifunctional pocket allows storage of various items, while the collapsible bowl makes hydration and feeding convenient.

For those who need extra space, the Silvton Expandable Pet Carrier offers expansion on all four sides, making it suitable for cats that require more room. Built with three layers of high-quality fabric, this sturdy carrier can hold pets up to 14 lbs, fitting cats with a height of 11 inches or less.

The padded shoulder straps and carrying handles enhance comfort during transport. Besides traveling, it can also be used as an indoor pet kennel, featuring a double-sided inner pad suitable for different seasons, plus a non-slip bottom protector for stability.

The Aivituvin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier is popular among pet owners, functioning equally well as a cat carrier. It’s ideal for medium-sized cats, available in rosy or green. This carrier supports a maximum weight of 17 lbs and features a firm board base along with foam cushioning and a washable fleece pad.

It includes a pocket for treats, toys, and other essentials, with anti-scratch mesh for ventilation. The padded shoulder strap allows comfortable carrying, and the adjustable straps ensure a secure fit. It can be attached to luggage or secured to a car seat beneath an airplane seat. Most components of the carrier are removable for quick cleaning, and its lightweight design makes for easy portability.

The Pet Fit For Life Large Carrier is a high-quality product featuring solid construction, crafted from premium nylon and steel. Despite weighing only 4 pounds, its generous size offers ample space for your cat to feel comfortable.

The interior is spacious enough for your pet to move freely, and it includes an ultra-soft velour pad doubling as a bed. With two window screens and a door with nylon cloth flaps, it provides sufficient ventilation while Velcro fasteners offer flexibility and integrated loops ensure stability during travel.

This extra-large cat carrier is designed to function as a double pet carrier, although collapsible, it features a robust metal frame, ensuring durability. Available in grey or blue, this spacious carrier can hold two cats securely, with locking zippers to prevent escapes and an inside clip for added security.

Taking into account the high-quality oxford fabric utilized in its construction, this carrier is resistant to wear and tear. The anti-scratch mesh ensures adequate airflow while keeping your pet visible. It can be secured using seat belts during car travel and features an adjustable shoulder strap or hand carry handle.

For those in search of hard-sided carriers, the AmazonBasics Two-Door Travel Carrier is among the best available options. Though simple in its features, it remains a popular choice among users. It comes in two sizes: small and medium, accommodating weights from 11 lbs to 20 lbs.

This carrier features a convenient two-door design, allowing pets to enter through either the top or front door with a spring-loaded latch. Built from durable plastic with a steel-wired front door, it ensures optimal safety and ventilation. Weighing 4.55 pounds, it may not be the lightest option, but it offers security for stubborn pets.

If you have multiple cats, the 39-inch PawHut Portable Soft-Sided Cat Carrier offers dual compartments with two zippered netting doors for better management. Built with water-resistant polyester fabric, the interior includes a hammock and soft cushion for maximum comfort.

Four doors are integrated with built-in Velcro for easy rolling, while mesh windows ensure proper ventilation. Its unique foldable design also makes it easy to transport, complete with an additional storage bag.

Moving on to another option, the Midwest Travel Pet Carrier is known for its durability and vibrant color options. However, it is best suited for smaller cats. Made from plastic for safety, it features multiple ventilation points, including a steel-wire door.

While this carrier does not fold, it can be disassembled for storage. The carrier can be assembled in four simple steps, as outlined by clear instructions provided by the manufacturer. Weighing just 3.1 pounds, it’s lightweight for a hard-sided option.

Lastly, the Mancro Cat Carrier is a soft-sided model that offers three double-zippered entrance options to load your pet conveniently while allowing proper ventilation. It includes a removable, washable furry pad for added comfort and features a belt for easy attachment to a luggage bag.

The removable shoulder strap also provides flexibility for carrying. The carrier includes protective bottom features and boasts large-sized pockets for storage of essential items. It is easy to fold for storage after use and weighs only 3.6 pounds.

Cat Carrier Buying Guide

There are several key factors to consider to ensure you purchase the best carrier for your needs. Let’s explore the different types of cat carriers available.

Types of Cat Carriers

Here are the most common types of cat carriers, each with its pros and cons.

Cardboard Carriers

Cardboard carriers are simple and suitable for use at home as safe resting spots for your cat. However, they are not designed for long-term use, and they don’t offer sufficient support for regular travel. For long-distance travel, cardboard carriers are not recommended.

Soft-sided Carriers

These carriers are typically made from polyester, nylon, or microfiber. Their primary advantage is that they are much lighter than hard-sided options. Soft-sided carriers are more flexible, making them easier to store in small spaces. However, they may be less secure than rigid carriers and are not suitable for cats prone to chewing or clawing.

Hard-sided Cat Carriers

Hard carriers are favored for their durability and ease of use. They protect your cat from external elements, providing a safe space during travel. Many hard-sided carriers lack cushioning, hence adding a blanket or pet bed can enhance comfort during long trips.

Rolling Carriers

Rolling carriers provide the benefit of portability for long trips. However, they can easily tip over and may frighten some cats with their motion, making them less suitable for nervous pets.

Cat Strollers and Backpacks

Strollers and backpacks are fun alternatives for transporting your pet. Yet, they might cause stress in some cats. Ultimately, a stroller may offer less protection compared to a hard carrier, while a backpack may place your cat in an awkward position.

Factors To Consider When Buying A Cat Carrier

Choosing the right cat carrier for long trips is vital. Consider the following essential points:

Size

Investing in a carrier of appropriate size will save you money as your pet grows. Choose a carrier large enough to allow your cat to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably. For long-distance travel, ensure it’s big enough for food, water, and potentially a bed and litter box if necessary.

Closures

Look for carriers with effective closure mechanisms. Carriers with two opening options are generally the most convenient. For stubborn cats, opt for carriers that have secure closures to prevent escapes.

Handles

When selecting a carrier, ensure it has durable, ergonomic handles or straps. Since carriers can become heavy with your pet inside, having a robust handle will help prevent accidents during transportation.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Choose a carrier that’s easy to clean, especially for long-distance trips when accidents may occur. Many carriers are machine washable, making maintenance simpler.

Cost

The price of cat carriers varies significantly from economical models priced around $20 to luxurious leather variants costing upwards of $3,000. While affordability is crucial, prioritize quality to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during travel.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Carriers

Below are some frequently asked questions regarding cat carriers for long-distance travel.

What Do Vets Recommend For Cat Carriers?

A: According to Battersea, the recommended pet carriers are those made from sturdy plastic, as they tend to be the safest and most comfortable. They also offer lightweight durability and easy maintenance compared to metal or cardboard options.

Is A Cat Carrier Necessary?

A: Owning a cat carrier is essential for any cat owner, providing a secure means of transportation whether for short or long distances. It is a common practice to use a carrier when taking your pet to the vet.

How Long Should A Cat Be In A Carrier?

A: While some owners leave their cats in carriers for up to 10 hours, it’s important to assess your cat’s individual needs. Up to eight hours is generally acceptable, but some may require breaks every 2-3 hours for comfort.

Can A Cat Stay In A Carrier Overnight?

A: Cat carriers can serve as substitutes for crates or cages. If provided ample daytime breaks, it’s generally safe for your cat to sleep in its carrier overnight, as long as you ensure access to a litter box.