Embark on a new adventure that you and your cat can board on! Are you longing to take your furbaby onto hikes with you or making a trip to the vet more enjoyable for your kitty? But cat carriers are sometimes heavy on your shoulder and you’re looking for a hands-free experience while your cat is safe in its cabin. For you, we have listed some of the best carrier backpacks! From portable safe havens to mobile display windows, get the best cat carrier backpack now!
How To Choose The Best Cat Carrier Backpack
Some people dreamed to take their kitty with them on a trip. If you’re here, chances are you’re looking for the best cat carrier backpack to accompany your next journey. Before making your first purchase, make sure to read the following pointers to guide you to the one that fits your needs.
Sizing
Traveling isn’t a natural thing for most cats. It requires some training and a strong bond between you and your kitty before making a trip enjoyable for both of you. One thing for sure, your kitty needs a proper shelter that provides not only safety but also comfort they need along the journey. Unlike dogs that often move around in their crates, cats do this less frequently. Most cats love dark and snug spaces to feel protected. For a long trip, make sure the cat travel bag is big enough for them to turn around and has some room to store food and water bowls.
Material and Design
Since the backpack is going to be carried off the ground, it’s important to get the best cat carrier backpack that’s made of durable material. Nylon and polyester are the common material to build a cat carrying backpack due to their lightness and strength. A lightweight backpack will make your shoulders thank you! Also, a solid base is a must as cats hate unbalanced surfaces. Lastly, look for small-item pockets in the bag, it seems trivial but they’re tremendously helpful for keeping things organized while handling your precious living cargo.
Comfort
This applies to both the catlords and their humans! Carrying a live cat on your bag can pose a special challenge since they shift around, especially when they’re nervous. This can put a lot of pressure on your shoulders and back after a day of strolling. Always look for padded shoulder pads and back support on a cat carrier for the best fit. As for the cat in the cabin, a removable mat or cushy pad is generally enough to allow them cozy up.
Do cats prefer hard or soft carriers?
Depends on your cat’s temperament and behavior, many cats are alright with the lighter and more compact soft-sided carriers. However, if your kitty has a history of clawing or escaping, hard carriers are safer both for you and the cat. For cats, fitting is more important than the material of the bag. Snug-fitting carriers are their favorite!
Should you cover the cat carrier?
A lot of dogs are okay without a cover over their dog cages, but cats tolerate weather and people less so it’s better if you carry one just in case. If you’re dealing with an anxious cat, it’s best to provide cover for your cat carrier.
How long can a cat travel in a carrier?
In a comfy crate, most cats are okay in their carriers for up to 8 hours straight, though we highly recommend giving them a short break every 3 hours so they can stretch. If you need to travel for a long time, consult your vet for some advice and aids.
How do I choose a cat carrier?
Most cat carriers provide a measurement chart so you can determine which size is for your cat. The rough estimation is that the carrier has to be at least one and a half times the size of your cat to provide proper room for them to relax.
Petseek Cat Carrier
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Petseek Cat Carrier is the best cat carrier backpack if you’re looking for a starter backpack and test the water. It provides both great ventilation and enough cover to keep your kitty relax and get accustomed to being in a carrier. The form factor is also great for a quick trip to the vet or a short journey by plane. This cat carrier has multiple ways of carrying: backpack and shoulder carry. Both methods should be alright thanks to the padded shoulder straps.
The carrier can accommodate cats up to 17lbs in their spacious compartment. It has mesh ventilation on both sides for breathability. The material encasing this backpack is scratch-resistant and durable for prolonged use under the sun or rain. When not in use, you can change the structure and collapse the bag until flat.
What We Love
A seemingly regular backpack but with a cat in it!
Pros:
- Low-key but stylish design
- Dual carry
- Foldable
- Moderate ventilation
- Durable material
- Airline friendly
Cons:
- Only suitable for small-medium cats
The Fat Cat Backpack
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Just like its name, The Fat Cat Backpack is made to cater to the needs of large cats that love their time outdoor. Even for a 20lbs cat, this backpack still provides enough wiggle room for them to relax. It has a top mesh opening with a durable two-way zipper to keep your pet safe in the main compartment. The flap opens backward so your kitty can sit straight while enjoying the view. But don’t worry, even when it’s closed, your kitty can still enjoy the surrounding through its eye-catchy viewing bubble!
This cat carrying backpack has a great airflow system to allow your cat breathes easily while inside. The material is very durable even for the most notorious escape artists. To ensure the comfort of your kitty, this bag provides a comfort mat you can remove at any time. But this comfort stretches to its human too! The padded shoulder straps and ergonomic back pad make an all-day stroll painless!
What We Love
A robust cat carrier for large cats!
Pros:
- Super durable
- Good airflow
- Claw-resistant material
- Bubble window
- Ergonomic: comfy carry
- Padded shoulder straps
- Mesh pockets
- Airline friendly
Cons:
- Too roomy for small cats and kittens
Pet Gear I-Go2 Roller Backpack
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Pet Gear I-Go2 Roller Backpack is the best cat carrier backpack if you love traveling but hate leaving your furbaby at home. Comes in 3 sizes, this backpack is suitable for medium-sized cats to chunky cats! It’s great for carrying multiple kittens with some extra rooms too! Need to travel by air? This bag got it covered! It has all the room your kitty needs for a trip under the airline seat!
The mesh entrance provides a great viewing angle for your cat and can remain open with a help of a velcro patch. There are a few mesh windows on the side to promote more airflow in the main compartment. If you need to store small items like treats or documents, the pockets on the side are enough to contain them safely. And when you’re tired of carrying it on your shoulders, extend the telescopic handle and roll away!
What We Love
The cat carrier to cater to the needs of a very mobile cat!
Pros:
- Great ventilation
- Built-in wheels
- Small items pocket
- Hard base
- Padded shoulder straps
- Durable material
- Airline friendly
Cons:
- Could use some reinforcement at the seams
Snoozer Roll Around
10
Another backpack slash roll carrier, Snoozer Roll Around is a strong competitor because it’s foldable! This backpack cat carrier weighs a little over half a pound and should be the next item in your pet gear. This mobile cat bed has a strong frame you can rely on to keep your kitten safe while traveling. You can easily carry a 30lbs cat on your back or on its built-in wheels! Though, we don’t recommend you to carry that big of a cat on your back for a long time.
This cat carrier has amazing viewing angles for your cat when you’re taking him for a stroll. The main compartment has a padded wall base to make him comfy all the time. It has a wide entrance that consists of anti-claw mesh and a durable two-way zipper. This bag has built-in wheels so you can roll it around if your back and shoulders are tired.
What We Love
A cat carrying backpack with alternative carry methods.
Pros:
- Multiple ways of carrying
- Durable material
- Great ventilation
- Airline friendly (only for some variants)
- Rollable front-top flap
- Strong base
- Foldable
Cons:
- It’s the heaviest on this list
Lollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack
9
Do you have a social cat that loves a walk to the park or the beach? Then Lollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack is the perfect cat travel bag for her! With a 180-degree viewing angle, your cat can see the world in motion safely inside this mobile enclosure. The airflow of this bag is the best you can get out of a cat carrier thanks to its anti-claw mesh screens on the walls and opening. It helps your kitten to stay cool even in summer!
Fortunately, the mesh walls don’t compromise with the structure of this bag. With a help of extra support frames, this carrier won’t collapse when used. It even allows for alternative side entrances! This carrier also offers comfort for you, the human. It has padded adjustable shoulder straps along with back support for an all-day carry.
What We Love
A mobile enclosure for your furbaby!
Pros:
- Plenty of air circulation
- Small items pockets
- Great visibility
- Dual opening
- Very lightweight
- Scratch-resistant material
- Leash tether
- Airline approved
- Foldable
- Padded shoulder straps
Cons:
- Not suitable for long-distance trip or hiking
ibiyaya Pet Carrier
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ibiyaya Pet Carrier doesn’t play round to be the best cat carrier backpack with its range of carrying options and sturdy build. It’s one of the sturdiest soft-sided cat carriers in the market using a unique mix of plastic and EVA foam to encase the compartment. It may not look like it, but this carrier is collapsible using only one hand! Talking about practicality!
This cat carrier has a large top opening that can be rolled to give your kitty some viewing angle. Right below it, a zip pocket is useful to accommodate small items like treats or toys. The mesh screens are claw-resistant and act as a ventilator to keep the mobile house breathable. The best part about this cat carrying backpack is its carry versatility. It comes with a telescopic handle and wheels as a roll-around or you can mount it to a stroller for an evening stroll to the park!
What We Love
The fancy cat carrier for a fancy cat!
Pros:
- Versatile carry and placement
- Dual entry
- Super sturdy
- Collapsible
- Hard base
Cons:
- No padded backstraps
Kurgo Backpack for Small Pets
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Kurgo Backpack for Small Pets is the best cat carrier backpack for an adventurous cat. Hiking is one of the most accessible sports that combines bodily activity and nature. It’s also an activity when some cats enjoy the most. But it’s hard to find the right carrier to provide them safety and comfort while their human walk on the trails. This lightweight cat carrier has a tether for your cat’s leash as its first security feature.
This backpack has a solid armorsole base that not only provides a solid perch for your cat but is also waterproof so it’s easy to clean up the mud and dirt after a whole fun trekking. It also has great ventilation and a top opening with a rollable mesh flap where your cat’s head can stick out from. There are multiple pockets you can use to store your cat’s necessities. Want a cat travel backpack that’s comfy both for the cat and the human? This bag is the answer!
What We Love
The travel bag for a cat who loves adventure!
Pros:
- TSA friendly
- Super comfy carry and handle
- Top head opening
- Fair ventilation
- Super durable material
- Mesh pockets
- Small-item pockets
- Laptop sleeve
- Leash tether
Cons:
- Not suitable for large cats as it can get too cramped
Peanut’s Backpack Pet Carrier
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The company that makes this carrier is well-known by pet owners around the world. They are famous for building well-made pet gear that hits the balance between practicality and style. Mr. Peanut’s Backpack Pet Carrier is no exception. If you love to travel with pets either by plane, car, or other means of travel; but loathes carrying awkward-looking cat carriers out there, this is the best cat carrier backpack for you.
The sturdy but lightweight backpack is perfect for traveling with cats up to 15lbs. It has great ventilation using the Teslin mesh that’s durable and claw-resistant and eyelet holes. It has 2 openings at the top and on the main body that’s secured by self-locking zippers. You will find a leash tether inside, along with Sherpa padding and a removable pet bed. When not used, this soft-sided cat carrier can be folded for easy storage. Have some peace of mind on each purchase because the company spends a portion of their profit on a pet welfare organization!
What We Love
A lightweight but durable cat travel bag
Pros:
- Dual entry
- Highly durable
- Great ventilation
- Water bottle holder
- Rollable top flap
- Padded shoulder straps
- Anti-claw mesh
- Removable fleece pad
- Small-item pockets
- Self-locking zipper
- Air travel friendly
Cons:
- The water bottle holder juts out of the bag that it might be annoying for some
Petsfit Comfort Cat Carrier
5
Petsfit Comfort Cat Carrier is a cat travel bag with maximized comfort. It has some of the cushiest shoulder straps in the market that work wonders with the added sternum and waist support. The backpack also has a back pad to give you extra ergonomic support! It gives you confidence while traveling with your cats knowing they will be safe and sound.
This mobile pet carrier has great ventilation to keep a healthy airflow in the cabin. It has 2 mesh openings at the top and the front and they’re both rollable with a help of a velcro patch. On the side, you’ll find 2 zipped pockets to store your cat’s necessities such as treats, toys, or documents if you’re traveling by plane.
What We Love
A cat carrier loved both by cats and the owner!
Pros:
- Has structure
- Collapsible
- Comfy carry
- Leash tether
- Great ventilation
- Top entry
- Small-item pockets
- Plastic base
- Air travel friendly
Cons:
- Could use stronger zipper
Your Cat Backpack: The Voyager
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Carrying Your Cat Backpack: The Voyager means you have to be ready for the sudden interest from people who walk by. This eye-catchy pet carrier is the best cat carrier backpack to show off your furry baby because a half portion of this cat travel bag is made of a transparent shell! This shell provides your cat with maximum viewing angle and a full display of your cat from the outside!
The backpack is comprised of a strong polycarbonate shell that’s sewn onto a high-density nylon fabric body. It has large holes and mesh screens to promote airflow for your cat. On the sides, you’ll find zipped closures as alternative access. Don’t worry, your kitty will be comfy while parading her beauty because the cozy removable mat will take care of her!
What We Love
The mobile display for your social cat!
Pros:
- Extra-wide viewing angle
- Great ventilation
- Dual entry
- Durable and claw-resistant material
- Leash tether
- Removable mat
- Air-travel friendly
Cons:
- Not very suitable for anxious cats
PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack
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PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack is one of the best crates for traveling on an airplane ever existed. It’s no surprise that this product could be the best cat carrier backpack that fits your needs. We love that this backpack is so light but highly durable, has a great structure, and provides plenty of airflow for your cat. We found almost no flaw in their design apart from their limited size options.
This backpack is so good on your back and shoulders. It has one of the best ergonomically designed back supports for long-distance travel. The mesh screens are claw-friendly so you won’t have trouble unlatching your kitty’s claws because of their mischief. The wide top and front opening are secured by durable zippers to keep your cat from jumping out of the bag. This backpack is most suitable for medium-sized cats who love a comfortable ride outdoor.
What We Love
The best carrier for traveling cats!
Pros:
- Multiple entries
- 600D Polyester
- Great structure and ergonomic build
- Sherpa lining bed provided
- Collapsible bowl bonus
- Great ventilation
- Mesh slip-in pocket
- Leash tether
- Super comfy carry straps
- Air travel friendly
Cons:
- Size runs small
Petkit Pet Backpack
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A trip with Petkit Pet Backpack is never a boring one! We couldn’t decide which one we love more: the hip retro-inspired design or the comfort and functionality. From the outside, this cat travel bag has an appearance of a spaceship cabin of which the pilot is your cat. Inside, a kitty-naut is enthralled by the view of people walking by this trendy cat bag. But the interior has even better features that are worth noting!
Using the best material available, this cat carrying backpack consists of durable fabric, some mesh portions, and a hard casing with a viewing bubble. If you look at one of the sides, you’ll notice that it has a control panel for the wellbeing of your kitty-naut. This panel controls the electric fan and lighting inside the cabin to give the best comfort possible for her. That’s right, an electric fan and lighting! These cool features can only operate when connected to a portable charger.
What We Love
A cutting-edge bag that will turn heads!
Pros:
- Cool retro design
- Great ventilation
- Sturdy structure
- Lightweight for its form factor
- Built-in electric fan
- Built-in lighting
- Claw friendly mesh
- Padded shoulder straps
- Hidden pocket
- Air travel friendly
Cons:
- Powerbank sold separately
Petsfit Large Expandable Backpack
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We grant the best cat carrier backpack award to Petsfit Large Expandable Backpack that passes our assessment in flying colors. How could we not fall for this cat carrier? It’s lightweight, it’s airline-friendly, has great airflow, and most importantly: it’s expandable! This cat carrier has the feature of a premium class product that’s thoughtfully designed with the pet-lovers in mind. No matter how far and how long your travel is, your cat will be at peace for the whole journey in this mobile home.
It’s made with the best material that’s not only durable but also lightweight enough even though it can expand up to twice its compact size. It provides plenty of airflows that your kitty needs with its anti-claw mesh. The top entry can be rolled so your cat can stick out her head and see the surroundings. While on the move, the washable mat keeps your kitty comfy and cozy. But the comfort also extends to you, the carrier, thanks to the padded back support and shoulder pads!
What We Love
An expandable home far away from home for all kinds of trips!
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Excellent airflow
- Great structure
- Leash tether
- Small items pocket
- Rollable top entry
- Padded shoulder straps
- Washable furry mat
- Air travel and carseat-friendly
- Anti-claw mesh
Cons:
- It may be too warm for some cats on hot days