10 Best Car Pet Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel is designed for dogs up to 90 pounds, offering a spacious size of 40" long, 27" wide, and 30" high, making it suitable for large breeds that need room to move comfortably during travel. It's made from a blend of materials that provide decent durability while keeping the kennel lightweight at about 19.5 pounds, which helps with portability. Ventilation is well thought out with side vents on three sides, allowing good airflow to keep your pet cool and comfortable. The kennel features an easy-open latch that can be operated with one hand, which is handy when managing pets on the go. It also meets most airline cargo requirements, so it's a practical choice if you plan air travel.

Cleaning is manageable as the materials are standard for pet crates. While it is portable, its size and shape might be a bit bulky for some car trunks or small spaces, so measuring your vehicle beforehand is wise. Comfort-wise, the kennel relies on size and ventilation, but you may want to add your own bedding to make it cozier for your pet.

This kennel is a suitable option for large dogs needing a sturdy, airline-approved carrier with good airflow and ease of use, though adding extra bedding may enhance your pet’s comfort.

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.

The kennel is airline-friendly, complying with most airline cargo specifications, which is a significant advantage for frequent travelers. It features four-sided ventilation which allows your pet to stay comfortable and visible throughout the journey, enhancing their travel experience. Additionally, the kennel has lockable features to ensure your pet's security during transit. The stay-dry moat is a thoughtful design that keeps your pet dry by directing fluids away, making it ideal for housebreaking puppies or keeping pets dry in general.

However, the kennel's weight of 12.5 pounds might not be the most portable option for all users, especially when dealing with larger dogs. Also, while the plastic material is durable, it might not provide the same comfort level as fabric or padded carriers. In summary, this product is a solid choice for those prioritizing durability, security, and ease of cleaning, but it may not be the best option if lightweight portability and maximum comfort are critical concerns.

The Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Pet Carrier is designed for cats or medium-sized dogs weighing roughly 12 to 20 pounds. Its hard plastic shell with steel wire doors offers solid protection, making it a sturdy choice for travel. The two-door design, including a top-loading option, provides easy access to your pet, which is helpful for both placing and removing them safely. Ventilation is well thought out with plenty of openings on the sides, top, and back, ensuring your pet gets enough fresh air during trips. The spring-loaded latches allow quick, one-handed door operation, adding convenience when you have your hands full.

At about 4.5 pounds, the carrier is relatively lightweight and has a top handle for portability, but it does not have wheels or a shoulder strap, which might limit ease of carrying on longer journeys. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the hard plastic material that can be wiped down easily. Comfort-wise, the carrier size (around 23x15x13 inches) should suit pets that fit within these dimensions well, but measuring your pet before purchasing is important since space is limited and it doesn’t come with any padding inside.

Security is solid due to the screws connecting the top and bottom and sturdy steel doors, which should keep your pet safely contained. This carrier is ideal for pet owners looking for a durable, well-ventilated, and easy-to-clean hard case for short to medium-length travel, especially those with pets that fit specific size limits and prefer a carrier that's easy to access from multiple angles.