The Best Actually-Comfortable Pet Carriers For Travel

I selected this top-loading cat carrier after researching (way too many options) for the best carrier I could find for an affordable price.

It’s exceeded my expectations with thoughtful details that I appreciate more and more the longer I’ve owned it.

The three zippered openings are quite handy: I use the top opening to place my cat, Bee, inside when we use it for travel. I also swear by keeping the front or side door open at home so she can use it for regular lounging.

Its fleece bed is a nice, comfy touch; so much so that I often find Bee loafing inside the carrier while we’re at home — choosing it over the bed or couch, to boot. The three mesh doors ensure that it’s breathable, and I appreciate that the mesh affords her a little privacy when she’s in the carrier while still allowing her to discreetly look out and survey her surroundings.

It’s impressively escape-proof — no horror stories of a cat running around the inside of my car here. Plus, I appreciate being able to alternate between the shoulder strap when I need to keep my hands free and the two regular straps when I’d prefer to carry her by hand. I also love its practical side pocket where I stash treats and relevant papers!

From brand Petisfam, this model is best suited for small to medium-sized cats and smaller dog breeds, but it also comes in a version for larger cats.

I own the grey — I gravitated towards its neutral vibe — but it comes in a bunch of other colors I’m now eying (ha), including an understated-cool black with green detailing and a won’t-find-else-where magenta purple.

Promising review: “My cat HATES carriers. He LOVED this one. He seems very comfortable and the top loading feature makes it so much easier to put him in the carrier. The straps are sturdy. The color is very handsome for a male animal. He’s a large cat, 15lbs and he fits comfortablely inside.” — Number One Shopper