We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance,
functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you
are agreeing to our privacy policy
10 Best Car Pet Carriers 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Sherpa Forma Frame Crash-Tested Travel Pet Carrier - Black, Extra Large
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 by1,302
Size
Material
Ventilation
Most important from
6068 reviews
#2
Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Portable and Collapsible, 36 Inch, Tan, L 36" x 24" x 24"
The Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate is a versatile option for pet owners looking to transport their furry friends comfortably and safely. Its dimensions (36 x 24 x 24 inches) make it suitable for large breed dogs up to 70 pounds, like Boxers and German Shepherds. The crate is made from tan polyester fabric, which is lightweight yet durable, and it includes a sturdy frame for added support.
Rating
9.4
Size
Material
Security Features
Most important from
18457 reviews
#3
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 32 Inches, Taupe and Black
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel offers a sturdy and reliable option for medium dogs, meeting the needs of pet owners looking for a car-pet-carrier. The kennel is made of durable plastic that ensures long-term use and easy cleaning. Its size, with dimensions of 32 inches long, 22.5 inches wide, and 24 inches high, is suitable for dogs weighing between 30-50 lbs, providing sufficient space for pets to move around and relax during travel.
Rating
8.5
Size
Material
Ventilation
Most important from
7447 reviews
Top 10 Best Car Pet Carriers 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Sherpa Forma Frame Crash-Tested Travel Pet Carrier - Black, Extra Large
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
Chosen by 1302 this week
Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Portable and Collapsible, 36 Inch, Tan, L 36" x 24" x 24"
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
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 32 Inches, Taupe and Black
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 32 Inches, Taupe and Black
Size: 32x22.5x24 inches
Material: Plastic
Ventilation: Four-sided
Security Features: Lockable
Portability: 12.5 pounds
Ease of Cleaning: Easy cleaning
Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel, Various Sizes, Dark Gray/Black, Made in USA
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
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
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
Related Products
Up to 9% off
Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Cat Pet Travel Carrier, 19.0" L x 12.6" W x 10.0" H, Gray & Blue
Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Cat Pet Travel Carrier, 19.0" L x 12.6" W x 10.0" H, Gray & Blue
Size: 19"L x 12.6"W x 10"H
Material: PP, Iron
Ventilation: vents on sides, top, back
Security Features: steel wire door, screws top and bottom
Portability: weight under 3 pounds
Ease of Cleaning: hard plastic, easy to wipe
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
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
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 19", White
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 19", White
Size: 19 inches
Material: Plastic
Ventilation: holes around crate
Security Features: steel doors, simple squeeze latches
Portability: foldable handle, lightweight (1 lb)
Ease of Cleaning: Hand Wash
Comfort: needs bedding, hard plastic shell
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
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
#10
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 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
Recommended lists
Top rated
Pet Sling Carriers
How do we rank products for you?
Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.
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.