Best Dog Carriers & Bags

The Sleepypod Air is an in-cabin carrier from the brand behind the crash-tested Mobile Pet Bed. The ends compress from 22 to 16 inches so it fits under a wider range of airline seats, it buckles in with the car's seat belt, and Sleepypod states it is crash-tested. At about $200 it is a premium buy; check your airline's under-seat size and pet weight limit first.

The Sherpa Original Deluxe has been the default airline carrier for over two decades because it solves the one problem that matters most: fitting under the seat without a gate-check argument. The spring wire frame compresses on top so you can demonstrate compliance to any gate agent, and the Guaranteed on Board program means most airlines have pre-approved it. If you fly with a small dog, buy this and stop worrying.

PetAmi's carrier backpack is the best for active outdoor use. The bubble window lets your pet see out (and strangers to look in, which they love), the ventilation is excellent, and the ergonomic straps make it comfortable for multi-hour hikes. Best for cats and small dogs under 20 lbs.

For quick errands with a tiny dog, the PetAmi sling is the most practical carrier on the market — your hands stay free, your dog stays secure, and setup takes about three seconds. The adjustable safety clip is a smart addition that cheaper slings skip, preventing the heart-stopping moment when a curious Chihuahua decides to launch. At $23, it's an impulse buy that earns daily use.