A backpack carrier keeps your hands free, which helps on a walk to the vet, a train ride, a hike, or a trip through an airport. It also keeps your cat close to your body, and some cats feel calmer there than in a carrier swinging from your hand.
Backpack carriers are not right for every cat. They are snug, usually top out around 15 to 26 pounds, and a cat that hates being enclosed may hate this too. Below are 5 options worth considering, with honest notes on each. If you want to compare other types, start with our complete guide to the best cat carriers.
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1. PetAmi Backpack Carrier: Best Overall
Price Range: Under $50
The PetAmi has a 4.6 out of 5 rating from more than 8,300 ratings and a structured, no-collapse frame, so the bag keeps its shape instead of sagging onto your cat. It measures about 12.5 by 10.2 by 16.3 inches, is listed for pets up to 18 lbs, and has entry points on both sides. Reinforced zippers and an interior safety strap with a buckle clip help keep your cat from escaping. It also has a thick sherpa-lined bed, padded shoulder straps with chest and waist buckles, a reflective strap, side pockets, and a collapsible bowl. It folds flat for storage.
What we like
- Structured frame that does not collapse
- Two side entries and an interior safety strap
- Thick sherpa-lined bed and padded straps with chest and waist buckles
- Strong rating from a large number of reviews
Watch out for
- The 18 lb limit may not suit larger cats
- Fairly snug, so measure your cat before ordering
- Airlines differ, so confirm your airline’s current rules before flying
Best for: Average-sized cats and owners who want a sturdy, well-reviewed backpack at a low price.
2. Texsens Innovative Traveler Pet Backpack: Best Budget Pick
Price Range: Under $50
The Texsens is the most reviewed backpack on the list, with a 4.6 out of 5 rating from more than 12,500 ratings and over 3,000 bought in the past month. It measures about 12.6 by 11.4 by 16.5 inches and is listed for cats up to 18 lbs. The listing asks that your pet sit within 14.5 inches of overall height and 12 inches of width. It has mesh on three sides for airflow and visibility, chest buckles to take weight off the shoulder straps, and a removable mat. Several versions, including expandable and upgraded ones, cost a little more.
What we like
- Low price, and the most reviews of any pick
- Mesh on three sides for airflow
- Chest buckles to reduce shoulder strain
- Removable, washable mat
Watch out for
- An 18 lb limit, and your cat must fit within the stated height and width
- Fabric and zippers are basic at this price
- Check which version you are buying, since upgraded versions cost more
Best for: Owners who want an affordable, well-reviewed backpack for a medium-sized cat.
3. LOLLIMEOW Large Pet Carrier Backpack: Best for Large Cats
Price Range: $50 to $100
If your cat is on the big side, the LOLLIMEOW is the roomiest backpack here, at about 15 by 11.4 by 17.7 inches. The listing says it suits large cats up to 26 lbs, which is high for a bag this size, so check the size and your cat’s measurements carefully. It has a removable clear bubble window, a top skylight with an attached safety leash, ventilation holes plus mesh on three sides, and a two-sided cushion mat. It has a 4.5 out of 5 rating from more than 1,600 ratings.
What we like
- Roomiest backpack on the list
- Bubble window your cat can look out of, and a removable window
- Top skylight with an attached safety leash
- Good ventilation
Watch out for
- The 26 lb limit seems high for the size, so measure your cat and check reviews from owners of large cats
- A heavy cat plus a bag is a lot to carry on your back
- Priced above the budget options
Best for: Large cats that need more room than a standard backpack allows.
4. PETKIT Cat Backpack Carrier With Fan and Light: Best Feature-Packed Pick
Price Range: $50 to $100
The PETKIT adds a few features that most backpacks do not have. It has a built-in fan with an adjustable knob and a built-in lamp, though both need a power bank, which is not included. A tinted window is meant to reduce bright light and stimulation for sensitive cats, and the back plate is designed to take pressure off your shoulders. The bag weighs about 3.5 lbs, measures 13 by 8 by 18 inches, and is suggested for pets under 17 lbs. The design is detachable and washable. It has a 4.5 out of 5 rating from nearly 4,500 ratings.
What we like
- Adjustable fan for airflow, and a built-in lamp
- Tinted window for sensitive cats
- Lightweight, with a padded back plate
- Detachable, washable design
Watch out for
- The fan and lamp need a power bank, which is not included
- At about 8 inches wide, it is narrow, so it suits slimmer or smaller cats
- Airlines differ, so the listing says to consult your airline before traveling
Best for: Warm-weather outings, sensitive cats, and owners who like extra features.
5. The Navigator Convertible Pet Carrier Backpack: Best Premium Pick for Hiking
Price Range: $150 to $200
The Navigator is the most expensive pick and is built for outdoor days. The listing describes a fully ventilated, scratch-resistant mesh, a side door and a top window for easy access, side pockets for water bottles and supplies, and a water reservoir pocket for hiking. Two adjustable clips inside are meant to keep cats secure. It has a 4.6 out of 5 rating from about 230 ratings, and it comes in earth and gray. The listing does not give a size or a weight limit, so check both before you buy.
What we like
- Fully ventilated mesh with a side door and a top window
- Pockets for water and supplies, including a water reservoir pocket
- Interior clips to help keep your cat secure
- Strong rating
Watch out for
- The most expensive pick, at about $160
- The listing details do not give a size or weight limit
- Fewer ratings than the others
Best for: Hikers and outdoor travelers who want a premium backpack.
How to Choose a Cat Backpack Carrier
Check the size and weight limit. Measure your cat from the neck to the base of the tail, and from the floor to the top of the shoulder. Your cat should be able to sit and lie down comfortably. Our guide on how to choose the right cat carrier size covers it in more detail, and our guide to cat carriers for large cats helps if your cat is big.
Look for a structured frame. A bag that holds its shape keeps weight off your cat. Soft, collapsing bags can sag onto your pet.
Check ventilation and visibility. Mesh panels let air in and let your cat see out. Some cats prefer less light, so a tinted or covered window can help.
Look for safety features. Locking or reinforced zippers, an interior safety strap or clip, and two-way entry make loading easier and safer.
Think about carrying comfort. Padded straps, chest and waist buckles, and a back plate spread the weight. A heavy cat in a backpack adds up on a long walk.
Consider your trip. Backpacks suit walks, short transit trips, and hikes. For long car trips and heavy cats, a sturdier carrier may be better. See our guides to hard-sided cat carriers and soft-sided cat carriers. For flights, airlines vary, so check your airline’s rules and see our guide to airline-friendly cat carriers.
Get your cat used to it. Leave the backpack out at home with a blanket and treats, and take short trips first. If your cat resists, see our guide on how to get your cat into a carrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backpack carriers safe for cats? They can be, if the size fits, the frame holds its shape, the zippers lock, and your cat has airflow. Watch your cat closely, never leave a backpack in a hot car, and stop if your cat seems distressed.
What size cat fits in a backpack carrier? Most list a limit of about 15 to 26 lbs, but the interior size matters as much as the weight. Check that your cat can sit and lie down.
Can I take a cat backpack on a plane? Some are made to fit under airline seats, but rules differ by airline and route. Check your airline’s current carrier size and weight rules before you buy or fly.
Will my cat like a backpack? Some cats do and some do not. Introduce it slowly, and start with short trips. If your cat is very anxious, talk to your vet about options.
How do I clean a cat backpack carrier? Many have a removable, washable mat or liner, and the shell can be wiped with a damp cloth. Follow the care instructions for your bag.
Final Thoughts
For most cats, the PetAmi is the best all-around pick, thanks to its sturdy frame and strong reviews. If you want to spend as little as possible, the Texsens is the best-reviewed budget option. For a bigger cat, the LOLLIMEOW has the most room, and the PETKIT adds a fan and a tinted window for sensitive cats. For hikers, the Navigator is the premium choice.
Looking for more? Browse our complete guide to the best cat carriers, or see our reviews of cat carriers for large cats, soft-sided cat carriers, and hard-sided cat carriers.
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