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10 Best Car Pet Carriers 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Sherpa Forma Frame Crash-Tested Travel Pet Carrier - Black, Extra Large

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Sherpa Forma Frame Crash-Tested Travel Pet Carrier - Black, Extra Large

Sherpa

10.0 score

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The Sherpa Forma Frame Crash-Tested Travel Pet Carrier in extra large size is a solid choice for pet owners looking for a reliable travel solution. The carrier is particularly strong in the safety department, having been crash-tested to meet child restraint system standards and equipped with seatbelt-style straps that can be integrated with various car seat tether systems like LATCH and ISOFIX. This ensures your pet's safety during car rides. Size-wise, it’s spacious enough for pets up to 16 pounds, providing ample room for them to move around comfortably. However, it's crucial to select the right size based on your pet’s measurements to avoid any discomfort.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,322
Size
Material
Ventilation

Most important from
6055 reviews

Size
The carrier's measurements align perfectly with airline requirements, ensuring no issues with acceptance.
Material
The Sherpa Forma Frame is a very well-made and constructed pet carrier with quality material and firm seams.
Ventilation
It features heavy-duty zippers and multiple air vents, providing great ventilation for your pet.
Portability
The shoulder strap makes it easier to carry, though it may strain your shoulders and back if you have other carry-ons.
Ease of Cleaning
A detachable, washable padding inside ensures the carrier is easy to clean and maintain.
Comfort
The carrier fits comfortably under airplane seats, making it perfect for air travel.
#2
8.2 score

Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel - Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs - Airline Approved Pet Carrier - Durable Plastic Shell - For Home and Travel - Made in USA - 24 Inches - Pale Aqua and Black

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Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel - Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs - Airline Approved Pet Carrier - Durable Plastic Shell - For Home and Travel - Made in USA - 24 Inches - Pale Aqua and Black

Petmate

8.2 score

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The Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel is a solid choice for small to medium dogs weighing 15-20 pounds, with interior dimensions that allow pets to move around comfortably. Its durable plastic shell offers good protection and is easy to clean thanks to a design that directs fluids away from your pet, which is helpful for puppies or travel. Ventilation is well thought out, with air flow on four sides ensuring your pet stays cool and can see outside.

Rating
8.2
Size
Material
Ventilation

Most important from
8639 reviews

Size
The interior space is perfectly sized for small animals, fitting litter boxes or bowls without crowding and allowing easy access for cleaning without removing the door.
Material
The kennel is very well-built and sturdy, with bolts holding it together instead of flimsy plastic clips, ensuring durability and security.
Ventilation
Pets seem comfortable inside, able to play, eat, and rest peacefully, indicating a well-balanced combination of protection and ventilation.
Security Features
The kennel provides a safe and secure environment, with options to add zip ties for extra security if needed.
Portability
Assembly is quick and straightforward, allowing the carrier to be ready in moments and easily moved from room to room.
Ease of Cleaning
Its smooth plastic surface makes cleaning effortless, which is especially helpful when traveling or caring for young or injured pets.
Comfort
Pets seem comfortable inside, able to play, eat, and rest peacefully, indicating a well-balanced combination of protection and ventilation.
#3
7.6 score

Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel 26", Parisian Blue & Black, for Pets 20-25lbs, Made in USA

Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel 26", Parisian Blue & Black, for Pets 20-25lbs, Made in USA

Petmate

7.6 score

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The Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel in Parisian Blue & Black is a solid choice for pet owners looking for a travel crate designed for dogs weighing between 20 and 25 pounds. Its size (26" L x 18.6" W x 16.5" H) is suitable for medium-sized pets, offering enough room without being too bulky. Made in the USA from sturdy plastic, it promises durability and ease of cleaning—important if your pet has accidents during travel. Ventilation is well thought out, with air flow on all four sides to keep your pet comfortable and reduce anxiety during trips. Security is addressed with a lockable wire door and an easy-open latch that keeps pets safely inside while still being convenient for owners to use. The fold-down handle adds portability, making it easier to carry, although the crate weighs about 5.4 pounds which is average but could feel a bit heavy for some.

Rating
7.6
Security Features
Ease of Cleaning
Portability

Most important from
8639 reviews

Security Features
This kennel is very well-built and sturdy, providing reliable security for pets during transport.
Ease of Cleaning
Assembly is quick and straightforward, making it easy to set up without hassle.
Portability
The design allows for easy transport between rooms, adding to its convenience around the house.
Comfort
The door supports attachment of a water bowl, enhancing pet comfort during confinement.
Size
Its size perfectly accommodates small animals, including kittens, and fits litter boxes inside for easy cleaning without removing the door.

Top 10 Best Car Pet Carriers 2026 in the United States

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Petmate

Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel, Various Sizes, Dark Gray/Black, Made in USA

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#1

Winner

10.0  score
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Sherpa

Sherpa Forma Frame Crash-Tested Travel Pet Carrier - Black, Extra Large

Size: 22.8"L x 15.9"W x 15.9"H
Material: Polyester
Ventilation: Claw-proof mesh windows
Security Features: Locking zippers, seatbelt straps
Portability: Hand or shoulder carry, foldable
Ease of Cleaning: Washable mat, waterproof base

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Chosen by 1322 this week

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Petmate

Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel, Various Sizes, Dark Gray/Black, Made in USA

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#2
8.2  score
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Petmate

Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel - Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs - Airline Approved Pet Carrier - Durable Plastic Shell - For Home and Travel - Made in USA - 24 Inches - Pale Aqua and Black

Size: 24.1"L x 16.7"W x 14.5"H
Material: Plastic
Ventilation: Air flow on four sides
Security Features: Sturdy wire door with latch
Portability: Fold-down handle; weighs 4.5 lbs
Ease of Cleaning: Design directs fluids away
Comfort: Not comfortable; soft pad needed

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#3
7.6  score
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Petmate

Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel 26", Parisian Blue & Black, for Pets 20-25lbs, Made in USA

Size: 26" L x 18.6" W x 16.5" H
Material: Blend, Plastic
Ventilation: Air flow on all sides
Security Features: Lockable wire door, easy latch
Portability: Fold-down handle, 5.4 pounds
Ease of Cleaning: Durable plastic, easy clean
Comfort: Stay-dry moat pulls fluids away

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#4
7.6  score
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Petmate

Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel, Various Sizes, Dark Gray/Black, Made in USA

Size: 40"L x 27"W x 30"H
Material: Blend
Ventilation: side vents on three sides
Security Features: easy-open latch
Portability: lightweight, about 19.5 pounds
Ease of Cleaning: standard pet crate materials

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#5
7.6  score
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Kurgo

Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack - Comfortable Travel Bag for Pets Up to 25 lbs - Waterproof Bottom - Multi-Compartment Pack - Dog Hiking Gear - Rugged Adventure Backpack - Navy Blue

Size: 13 x 10 x 21 inches
Material: Polyester
Ventilation: mesh panels
Security Features: padded compartments
Portability: lightweight 4.4 lbs, padded straps
Ease of Cleaning: Hand Wash Only
Comfort: padding and stable base

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#6
7.3  score
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Petmate

Petmate Sky Kennel For Air and Travel Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Smaller Dog Breeds or Pets up to 15 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 21" L

Size: 21 x 16 x 15 inches
Material: EcoTEC plastic
Ventilation: 360-degree ventilation
Security Features: easy-squeeze latch with tie-down holes
Portability: folding top handle
Ease of Cleaning: plastic, wipes down easily

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#7
7.0  score
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Amazon Basics

Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8"L x 15.0"W x 13.0"H

Size: 22.8"L x 15"W x 13"H
Material: PP, Iron
Ventilation: openings on sides, top, back
Security Features: spring latches, screws, steel doors
Portability: 4.5 lbs, top handle, no wheels
Ease of Cleaning: hard plastic, wipes down easily
Comfort: fits pets 23x15x13, no padding

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#8
7.0  score
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GAPZER

GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large Cats, Soft-Sided Cat Carrier for Medium Big Cats and Puppy up to 20lbs, Washable Dog Carrier Privacy Protection for Home Outdoor Travel

Size: 18.5"L x 11.8"W x 11.8"H
Material: Oxford fabric
Ventilation: Mesh design
Portability: 2.2 lbs, adjustable straps, collapsible
Ease of Cleaning: Removable, machine-washable liner
Comfort: Soft lining

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#9
7.0  score
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Sleepypod

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier, Strawberry Red

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#10
7.0  score
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Amazon Basics

Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Portable and Collapsible, 36 Inch, Tan, L 36" x 24" x 24"

Size: 36 x 24 x 24 inches
Material: Polyester
Ventilation: Mesh windows on all sides
Security Features: Secure zippers with fastening straps
Portability: Folds flat, easy to transport
Ease of Cleaning: Simple due to fabric material
Comfort: Ample airflow, crate-trained dogs

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Buying Guide for the Best Car Pet Carriers

Choosing the right car pet carrier is essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of your pet during travel. The right carrier will depend on your pet's size, temperament, and your travel habits. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a car pet carrier, along with explanations to help you make the best choice for your furry friend.
SizeSize is one of the most important factors when choosing a car pet carrier. It should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your pet's length, height, and weight to find the right size. Carriers typically come in small, medium, and large sizes. Small carriers are suitable for pets up to 10 pounds, medium for pets between 10-20 pounds, and large for pets over 20 pounds. Choose a size that allows your pet to move comfortably without being too spacious, which can cause them to slide around during travel.
MaterialThe material of the carrier affects its durability, comfort, and ease of cleaning. Common materials include hard plastic, soft fabric, and metal. Hard plastic carriers are sturdy and provide good protection, making them ideal for long trips. Soft fabric carriers are lightweight and comfortable, suitable for short trips and smaller pets. Metal carriers are very durable but can be heavier. Consider your travel needs and your pet's comfort when choosing the material.
VentilationProper ventilation is crucial to ensure your pet gets enough fresh air during travel. Look for carriers with multiple mesh panels or ventilation holes. This is especially important for long trips or hot weather. Carriers with good ventilation will help keep your pet cool and comfortable. Ensure that the ventilation openings are secure and that your pet cannot escape through them.
Security FeaturesSecurity features are important to keep your pet safe and secure during travel. Look for carriers with strong zippers, locks, and secure fastenings. Some carriers come with seatbelt loops or straps to keep the carrier in place. This is particularly important for active or anxious pets who may try to escape. Ensure that the carrier can be securely fastened in your car to prevent it from moving around.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to carry and transport the carrier. Consider features like handles, shoulder straps, and wheels. If you travel frequently or need to carry the carrier for long distances, these features can make a big difference. Choose a carrier that is easy for you to handle and fits well in your car.
Ease of CleaningA carrier that is easy to clean will make your life much easier, especially if your pet has an accident during travel. Look for carriers with removable and washable liners or pads. Hard plastic carriers are generally easier to clean than fabric ones. Consider how often you will need to clean the carrier and choose one that suits your maintenance preferences.
ComfortYour pet's comfort is paramount during travel. Look for carriers with padded interiors, soft bedding, and enough space for your pet to move around. Some carriers come with additional features like water bottle holders or treat compartments. Consider your pet's specific needs and preferences to ensure they are comfortable during the journey.

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