13 Best Cat Backpacks For Traveling Cats

Cat Supplies, Cats, Pet product reviews

Last Updated - December 12, 2023

Quick Comparison of Our Recommendations

Best Overall
Petsfit Comfortable Dog Cat Backpack Carrier thumbnail 2
  • Removable cozy mat for easy cleaning
  • 7 fun colors to choose from

4.9/5

Best transparent design
Halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier thumbnail 2
  • Expandable design to grow with your cat
  • Wear-resistant hard shell

4.8/5

best cat bubble backpack
Sherpa Bubble Cat Carrier Backpack thumbnail
  • Side zippers for easy load and close
  • Machine washable liner

4.8/5

best on a budget
Jespet Dog and Cat Carrier Backpack thumbnail
  • Convenient side pockets for treats or a leash
  • Padded shoulder straps and handle

4.8/5

More Picks & Recommendations

Cat backpacks serve many practical purposes and can be a much easier way to travel with your cat. They can make moving or traveling so much easier for cat parents and allow you to bring your fur baby into the outdoors in ways you may not otherwise be able to. With a cat backpack, you can take your cat hiking, camping, or even just for a leisurely walk in the mall. 

To help you shop, we have rounded up the best cat backpacks and cat carriers available on the market today. But before we dive in, let's take a look at what you need to look for when shopping for the best cat backpacks for your travel cat. 

What to Look for in the Best Cat Backpack Carriers

Breathability

Cat backpacks need to have ample or large ventilation holes to ensure your cat stays comfortable. This can be in the form of a mesh window and air holes.

Comfort

Besides ensuring the cat backpack carrier keeps your cat comfortably inside, how the backpack fits on pet owners is a big deal. You will want plenty of support and padding to ensure you don't hurt yourself carrying your cat around. This includes adjustable shoulder straps, waist straps, padded shoulder, and chest straps.

Security

You will need to ensure that your cat backpack is reinforced and provides security, so you don't have to worry about your feline friend falling or jumping out. Safety features to keep your cat secure include a waist strap, buckle, zipper lock, and safety strap.

Additional storage

Having a few additional pockets for cat treats or supplies like a collapsible pet bowl can be a big deal when it comes to the convenience of a cat backpack. 

Size & Cat's Weight

Lastly, you will need to consider the size backpack you need carefully. Carefully measure your cat to get the backpack that will be the most comfortable for her. This is especially important if you have a large cat or an overweight cat.

13 Best Cat Backpacks

Petsfit Comfortable Dog Cat Backpack Carrier

Best Overall

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Petsfit Comfortable Dog Cat Backpack Carrier2

Image source: Amazon

The Petsfit Comfortable Dog/Cat Backpack Carrier is the best cat backpack overall because it hits all the high points while still being at a great price. This backpack provides roomy space for your cat, with a reinforced structure to ensure your cat stays safe. But your cat's comfort is the only thing this backpack was designed for. With padded shoulder straps and chest and waist buckles, this backpack will make carting around your furry friend easier for you. 


Material

Polyester

Size

 12.6"L x 11.4"W x 16.9"H

Max Weight 

22 lbs

What We Like

  • Removable cozy mat for easy cleaning
  • 7 fun colors to choose from
  • Lockable zippers
  • Durable, scratch/chew-resistant cloth

What We Don't Like

  • No additional pockets   
  • No carrier-style handle
  • No shade feature

Halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier

Best Transparent Design

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier_

Image source: Amazon

The Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier is the best option for a backpack that your cat can see through in a transparent, bubble-like design. Unlike the other cat backpacks, it gives you full visibility of your cat. This backpack comes with extension options for bigger or smaller cats. This backpack comes in several colors and configurations, so you can find the perfect fit for you and your cat's preferences. 


Material

Polyester

Size

31.5" L x 12.5" W x 16.5" H

Max Weight 

20 lbs

What We Like

  • Lightweight
  • Wear-resistant hard shell
  • Expandable design to grow with your cat

What We Don't Like

  • May overheat in the summer
  • The opening is a bit small 
  • Not ideal for larger cats 

Sherpa Bubble Cat Carrier Backpack

Best Cat Bubble Backpack 

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Sherpa Bubble Cat Carrier Backpack

Image source: Petco

For the cat backpack with the best bubble design, the Sherpa Bubble Cat Carrier Backpack is your classiest choice. This stylish faux leather cat bubble backpack provides our cat the safety of a ventilated and closed space while allowing it to watch the outside world through a bubble window.


Material

High quality lined faux leather and plastic

Size

53” W x 15” D x 62” H

Max Weight 

n/a

What We Like

  • Machine washable liner
  • Side zippers for easy load and close
  • Padded straps
  • Locking zippers

What We Don't Like

  • It may be difficult to assemble
  • Not ideal for large size cats
  • Not for long-distance travel

Jespet Dog and Cat Carrier Backpack

Best On a Budget

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Jespet Dog and Cat Carrier Backpack2

Image source: Chewy

For a cat backpack on a budget, the Jesper Dog and Cat Carrier Backpack is the best choice. This affordable backpack doesn't cut corners on quality and is made of durable polyester with large mesh windows, doors, and panels for sufficient ventilation. This backpack carrier provides ample space for your cat to stand up and turn around so they can be comfy while traveling, hiking, or camping.


Material

Polyester, Synthetic Fabric

Size

17 x 13 x 12 Inches

Max Weight 

N/A

What We Like

  • Padded shoulder straps and handle
  • Convenient side pockets for treats or a leash
  • Good for all cat sizes
  • Safety leash inside

What We Don't Like

  • No additional handles for carrying
  • Mesh is not suitable for destructive cats

Petpod Comfortable Backpack with Built-in Fan

Best With Built-In Fan

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Petpod Comfortable Backpack with Built-in Fan

Image source: Chewy

The Petpod Comfortable Backpack with Built-in Fan is the best choice for the pet parent who wants a backpack that has a fan that supplies fresh air to their cat while in the carrier. This backpack carrier features a quiet fan and a tinted window to give your cat a sense of safety and security while still enjoying the scenery and staying cool.


Item weight

4.5 pounds

Size

12.5 x 12.2 x 18 inches

Max Weight 

n/a

What We Like

  • Shock-resistant design
  • The wide inside base for increased space
  • A tinted window for privacy
  • Lightweight

What We Don't Like

  • Battery not included

Gen7Pets Geometric Roller with Smart-level Dog and Cat Carrier Backpack

Best Roller Carrier Backpack

overall 

4.6/5

Price

$$$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Gen7Pets Geometric Roller with Smart-level Dog and Cat Carrier Backpack

Image source: Amazon

For the convince of a rolling carrier, the Gen7Pets Geometric Roller with Smart Level Cat Carrier Backpack is a winner. This roller carrier is big enough for any cat to comfortably travel in and can double as a backpack for all your traveling needs. This is a well-ventilated carrier with a seatbelt strap for additional pet safety. 


Material

Mesh, Polyester, Synthetic Fabric

Size

11.5 x 18.5 x 19 inches

Max Weight 

20 lbs

What We Like

  • Side pockets for additional storage
  • Meets most airline regulations
  • Smart-Comfort Pad

What We Don't Like

  • It may be a bit small for very large cats

Petsfit Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier

Best With Expandable Design

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Petsfit Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier_

Image source: Amazon

Expandable-design cat backpacks allow for a multi-function carrier. These carriers are great backpacks and then can be expanded to function more like kennels once you get where you're going. They also allow for your backpack to grow with your kitten. The Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier by Petsfit is a highly rated expandable backpack that is well ventilated and durably made for cats and kittens to travel safely. 


Item weight

4.2 Pounds

Size

16.5 x 11 x 15.5 inches

Max Weight 

25 lbs

What We Like

  • Self-locking zippers
  • Side pocket for additional items
  • Full visibility for cat
  • Ergonomic design and wide straps for comfortable carrying
  • Shock absorbent

What We Don't Like

  • Internal leash too long
  • Not chew resistant
  • Inside mat too small

Petsfit Comfortable Dog and Cat Backpack Carrier

Best For Large Cats

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Petsfit Comfortable Dog and Cat Backpack Carrier

Image source: Amazon

It can be hard to find cat backpacks that are large enough for big cats and still comfortable for their owners to wear. Petsfit Comfortable Dog and Cat Backpack Carrier is the best fat cat backpack as it can carry pets up to 22lbs and with reinforced and padded straps for ideal comfort for both you and your cat. A waist and chest buckle provide additional support for pet parents carting around hearty-sized cats.


Item weight

3.18 Pounds

Size

 13 x 11 x 17 inches

Max Weight 

22 lbs

What We Like

  • Removable cozy mat
  • Lockable zippers
  • Safety belt
  • Durably made to last

What We Don't Like

  • Not tear or chew resistant
  • No additional pockets

Halinfer Store Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier

Best For Smaller Cats

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Halinfer Store Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier_

Image source: Amazon

The Expandable Cat Backpack Carrier is the answer for pet parents wanting a cat carrier that doubles as a tent. Perfect for travel and camping, this backpack has a clear bubble front and an expandable back for an easy transition from backpack to tent. It comes in several colors and with multiple expansion options. 

Material

Polyester

Size

27.5" L x 12.5" W x 16.5" H

Max Weight 

12 lbs

What We Like

  • Breathable capsule
  • Roomy
  • Lightweight and wear-resistant
  • Two carrying options

What We Don't Like

  • Some customers complain of the backpack having a strong chemical smell
  • Not ideal for large pets

COVONO Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack

Best Airline Approved Cat Carrier Backpack

overall 

4.9/5

Price

$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Fun For Cat

COVONO Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack_

Image source: Amazon

The Conovo Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack is the best airline-approved cat backpack featuring an expandable design, ideal ventilation and visibility, and a comfortable fit for you and your cat. This backpack is firmly reinforced to prevent the backpack from collapsing while traveling and a safety rope to prevent your cat from escaping. 


Material

Acrylic

Size

13.6"L x 10.2"W x 14.8"H

Max Weight

18 lbs

What We Like

  • Expandable design for more space
  • Multiple windows and venting holes
  • Waist and chest straps for better stability and comfort

What We Don't Like

  • Sits low on the back
  • Fragile zippers


Ibiyaya Two-Tier Pet Backpack 

Best For Two Cats

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$$$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Ibiyaya Two-Tier Pet Backpack_

Image source: Bloomingdales

The double-decker Ibiyaya Two-Tier Pet Backpack is perfect for cat owners with two cats. It sports two separate zippered compartments that can allow for traveling with two small-sized cats. With a high-quality sternum strap, padded adjustable hip belt, and padded and anatomically shaped shoulder straps, this big backpack can be carried comfortably. This backpack can be modified to hold one big backpack for one large cat or as a pet car booster seat with seatbelt loops. 


Material

Cross weave fabric, sternum strap

Size

15 x 11.4 x 22.05 inches

Max Weight

Upper 13.2 lbs

Lower 13.2 lbs

What We Like

  • Washable
  • Lightweight for size
  • Lots of support
  • Convenient side pockets

What We Don't Like

  • Not ideal for multiple large cats

Ibiyaya 5 in 1 EVA Pet Carrier/Stroller 

Best 5-in-1

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$$$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Ibiyaya 5 in 1 EVA Pet Carrier Stroller

Image source: Amazon

For a backpack that is a one-stop shop for all your cat raving needs, the Ibiyaya 5 in 1 EVA Pet Carrier/Stroller is an impressive choice. This carrier can function as a stroller, a rolling carrier, a backpack, a car seat, and a shoulder carrier. It comes in multiple bright colors so you can match your cat's personality. 


Size

12 x 13.3 x 20 Inches

Item weight

4 lbs

Max Weight

11 lbs

What We Like

  • Big windows and easy-access doors
  • Easy to assemble or disassemble
  • Flat storage
  • Adjustable padded shoulder strap
  • One-hand fold mechanism

What We Don't Like

  • More pricey
  • Not ideal for big cats

Mr. Peanuts Aspen Series Airline Approved Backpack Pet Carrier 

Best For Hiking

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$$$

Sturdiness

Comfort

Safety

Mr. Peanut's Aspen Series Airline Approved Backpack Pet Carrier

Image source: Amazon

Hiking cat backpacks have to be particularly sturdy and comfortable for both you and your cat, so that rough terrain doesn't stop you from having adventures. The Mr. Peanuts Aspen Series Airline Approved Backpack Pet Carrier is a great choice for hiking because it meets all those requirements and has additional pocket space for cat supplies, a water bottle, snacks, and other accessories. Additionally, this backpack is waterproof to keep your cat safe and comfy from ad drizzle or the spray of a waterfall.


Size

18" L x 14" W x 9" H

Item weight

2.9 lbs

Max Weight

N/A

What We Like

  • Breathable mesh design
  • Fleece travel bed
  • Folds to less than 3" for storage

What We Don't Like

  • Not ideal for bigger cat breeds
  • It may not hold up well with destructive pets

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About the Author

Doctor of veterinary medicine with extensive experience in animal welfare with a strong interest in feline medicine and plans to pursue ABVP-Feline specialty board certification. A key member of many local veterinary associations and avid reader of animal related science journals and studies.