These affordable cat carrier backpacks make traveling with your pet a positive experience for everyone. They're super cute, too!
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more.
5 Best Cat Carrier Backpacks for Hands-Free Adventuring with Your Feline
Updated Jan. 24, 2024
A cat carrier backpack is a relatively new concept compared to traditional box crates that have been around for decades. The innovative design makes it more convenient to travel with pets, whether you’re flying or embarking on a road trip. The best part is, they generally cause less stress and anxiety than hard shell carriers. And just like car hammocks make traveling easier with dogs, they’re also more comfortable for both you and your kitty. Most have adjustable straps and removable bedding inside that’s machine washable.
Cat backpack carriers are easy to find at most retailers that sell pet supplies like Amazon, Target and Chewy, but it can be difficult to narrow down your search. So, we curated a list of the best easy-to-carry cat carriers on the market. Happy travels!
1
/
5
via merchant
Best overall cat carrier backpack
PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
Making the switch from a plastic carrier to a cat backpack is a decision you and your furry friend will both benefit from. They’re more comfortable for you to carry and make travel less stressful for them as well. The PetAmi Deluxe Backpack is our favorite pick because it has three large entrances, a removable bed and storage pockets. Each bag also comes with an adorable name tag and a collapsible dish that’s perfect for serving food and water on the go.
There are nearly 6,000 five-star Amazon reviews that agree. One happy shopper, Amanda, says: “I moved across the U.S. and brought my cat in this backpack. We went to 13 states, hiked, ate at outdoor restaurants, and stayed in hotels with this thing…He’s a very long cat and he fits in it pretty comfortably.”
Pros
- Three entrances for easy access
- Storage pockets
- Comes with name tag and collapsible dish
- Removable bed for easy cleaning
- Waist and chest buckles for a more comfortable fit
- Budget-friendly
Cons
-
Interior is not scratch-resistant
2
/
5
via merchant
Best bubble cat backpack
Lollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack
If you have a confident cat you love showing off to the world, you should add a cat carrier backpack with a bubble window to your shopping list. These carriers enable adventurous cats to see their environment while staying safe and secure on the go. The Lollimeow pet carrier backpack expands and offers large ventilation holes to ensure plenty of airflow.
It also includes a removable pad and a soft, flannel blanket for added comfort, both of which are machine-washable for easy cleaning. If your cat prefers to enjoy the great outdoors from the comfort of home, check out one of these entertaining cat window perches, instead.
Pros
- See-through bubble window
- Expandable
- Large ventilation holes
- Removable bed and flannel blanket
- Side pockets
- Two entrances
Cons
-
Not for skittish cats
3
/
5
via merchant
Most enclosed cat carrier backpack
Boots & Barkley Backpack Cat Carrier
Not all cats are happy travelers, and some may experience more anxiety than others. If your feline is not adapting well, you should consider using a more enclosed backpack to calm their nerves. The Boots and Barkley carrier provides a sense of security while still offering a small bubble window for visibility, plus mesh panels for ventilation. It features a large front entrance and a smaller side entrance primarily used for giving treats, toys and providing comfort to your pet while they are inside.
“I didn’t want to do a traditional hard plastic carrier. This a great alternative and a comforting carrier for my kitten,” writes happy customer AnnaJ. “She loves going for walks in this bag and is never scared of going inside. The carrier has plenty of ventilation and light to go in.”
Pros
- Enclosed design for anxious cats
- Unzips fully flat
- Two entrances
- Small bubble window
- Lots of padding
Cons
-
Not ideal for large cats
4
/
5
via merchant
Best expandable cat backpack carrier
Pecute Cat Carrier Backpack
No matter what type of cat backpack carrier you choose, you should make additional stops every couple of hours to allow your kitty to stretch their legs, use the bathroom and drink water. While you can include a few of their favorite toys in the bag, there is limited space for them to play. However, investing in an expandable carrier like the Pecute backpack solves this issue.
It features a large expandable mesh area that doubles the size of the carrier, and also provides an additional entrance. This expandable feature is particularly beneficial for cats on long road trips. You can utilize the extra room for a food and water dish, a designated play area or a cozy spot for napping.
Pros
- Mesh expansion doubles the size of the carrier
- Three entrances
- Suitable for large cats
- Breathable
Cons
-
May seem bulky to some people
5
/
5
via merchant
Best multi-use cat carrier
Kopeks Deluxe Backpack Cat Carrier
A multi-use cat carrier backpack offers a smart solution for anyone traveling with a bonded pair or a cat weighing more than 10 pounds. It allows you to carry them on your back or roll them on the ground when you need a break. The The Kopeks Deluxe carrier, in particular, has received approval from most airlines. However, it is still advisable to check and confirm all the necessary information before flying with your cat.
The interior is adorned in a soft fleece fabric to maximize comfort for your pet, while mesh panels provide ample ventilation. Two large side pockets make it convenient to pack essential items, keeping everything they need in one place. Use the compartments to store treats, medication, leashes and other important travel accessories.
Pros
- Backpack and rolling bag in one
- Lots of ventilation
- Large side pockets
- Retractable handle
- Ideal for heavy pets up to 18 pounds
Cons
-
No removable bedding
What to consider when buying a cat carrier backpack
Before selecting the best cat carrier backpack for you and your feline, there are several factors to consider. It’s best to know how much your cat weighs and how long they’ll be inside the carrier. This will help determine what size backpack you need and whether or not you’d be better off getting one with expandable siding that allows your cat to move around. If you struggle to get your cat inside of a carrier, you’ll also want a backpack that has multiple openings.
Evaluation criteria
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
FAQ
Are cat backpacks safe?
As long as you follow the correct weight restrictions and clean it regularly, cat backpack carriers are very safe. They might even be safer than traditional hard shell carriers since they can be buckled into a car, and they typically provide more ventilation. Not to mention they offer a less stressful experience for your pet.
Do cats prefer backpacks to carriers?
Every cat is different, so it will depend on their temperament and environment. Cat backpacks usually offer a more comfortable and inviting space, which can be more appealing to cats. Nervous felines might prefer carriers that are more enclosed.
Can you use a cat backpack as a carrier?
Yes, cat backpacks are a type of carrier that can be used for short trips to the vet or longer travel excursions to pet-friendly hotels. Some people find them easier to travel with than traditional carriers.
Craving more paw-some content? Get hilarious videos, heartwarming stories and editor-vetted product recommendations for every type of pet delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for The Scoop.
Originally Published: June 02, 2023
