Dog backpack carriers prove invaluable in all kinds of situations. Whether you’re heading to the mountains for an epic day of hiking or visiting a friend on the other side of town, a good carrier can make easy work of keeping your pet safe and cozy on the way to your next destination. The question is — which carrier is best for you and your dog?
We rounded up the hottest models for small-to-medium dogs to help you find the carrier backpack of your dreams. Further down, we cover key considerations to weigh before making your purchase, including size, safety features, padding, and versatility. Without further ado, here are the most popular backpack carriers for dogs in 2024:
The Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack offers a classic squared-off design with four wide mesh panels that you can open or close to regulate airflow. We love that the two front panels open individually, allowing dogs to look out whether they’re standing or lying down. Pair that with a connected safety tether, padded straps and backing, and additional chest and waist belts, and you’ve got a comfortable carrier backpack that’s perfect for running errands around town.
The KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Pet Travel Carrier earns the distinction of “most versatile” carrier because it can be carried not one, but three different ways. Depending on your activity, you can hold it by the telescoping handle, strap handle, or backpack straps, and select between one of two different size options depending on the size of your dog. It’s quite similar to a carry-on suitcase when it’s on wheels, which makes it a great option for long-distance and air travel, but it’s equally handy as a backpack for smaller commutes.
With a maximum weight limit of 16 pounds, the JESPET GOOPAWS Pet Soft Backpack Carrier makes for a comfortable carrier for tiny dogs (ideally 10 pounds or less). It’s built with quality materials including scratch-resistant fabric, mesh panels, and a fleece-lined inner pad, and it’s roomy enough to be used as a traditional travel crate when used horizontally. Use the pockets on either side to store treats, toys, and poop bags when you’re on the go, and fold it flat for convenient storage once you get back home.
Intended for dogs weighing 15 pounds or less, the Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack features both backpack straps and carry handles so it can be used as a backpack and a travel crate. We’re fans of the color options (red and blue) and design, which make it feel a little more stylish than your average dog carrier, and the water-resistant coating that makes it a natural choice for outdoor adventures. Travel with the compartment open, partially open, or closed depending on your needs, and rest easy knowing your dog is safely attached with the help of an internal tether.
The unique design of the K9 Sports Sack PLUS 2 allows dogs to drape their front legs over their owner piggyback-style. Padded straps and backing make for a comfortable wear no matter what you’re doing, whether you’re hiking a trail or cycling through the neighborhood.
The design is definitely cute, but it can be somewhat uncomfortable for dogs who don’t normally like to wear clothes or sit upright. Luckily, the inside is surprisingly spacious, with many customers noting that their dogs seem perfectly content whenever they’re snuggled up inside this carrier.
Mr. Peanut’s sleek Aspen series backpack carrier is equipped with everything you need for long-distance trips with your dog. Adjustable shoulder straps with padding make the experience pretty comfortable for the wearer. Mesh flaps along the sides, front, and top of the backpack ensure your pup stays cool the whole time they’re inside. Clean-up is easy thanks to the removable fleece pad that rests along the floor of the bag, and roomy side pockets give you plenty of room to pack all your dog’s most beloved travel goodies.
👉 This carrier is billed as “airline approved” because it complies with most major airline standards, but it’s always best to play it safe by confirming with your airline provider before you get to the airport.
Owners who want to keep an eye on their dog at all times will love this fanny pack-style offering from YUDODO. You sling the bag over your shoulder, and your dog rests comfortably between your chest and stomach. Their body is contained inside the well-ventilated mesh carrier while their head pokes out — which is great for helping you soothe an anxious pup with reassuring pets along your journey. Some users report that the single shoulder strap causes them to feel their dog’s weight a lot more than a traditional backpack, but considering the fact that it’s only meant for tiny dogs, it shouldn’t be too much of a strain on you.
The Kurgo G-Train has the look of a classic hiking backpack, and it allows your dog to sit backward so they’re comfortable no matter what kind of trail you’re on. The designers put padding on the straps, back, hips, and sternum for unsurpassed comfort and stability, as well as a waterproof, dirt-resistant bottom for durability in all types of weather. Air flows easily through mesh on both sides of this high-quality backpack, and through a roll-up mesh window on the front, which you can lower to let your dog’s head poke through when conditions allow.
It may be a little pricier than other options on this list, but if you’re someone who loves exploring the great outdoors with your dog at your side, it’s hard to find a better option than this.
The sturdiness of this carrier makes it our top pick for cyclists, as well as anyone else who wants to make sure their dog stays safe and secure when they’re on the move. Designed with comfort and durability in mind, the Muttmover Luxe Backpack features wide, adjustable padded shoulder straps and a hard bottom that allows it to stand on its own wherever you set it down.
It’s also got plenty of extra pockets for your phone, wallet, water, and pet essentials, and it even comes with its own collapsible water dish so you don’t have to buy one separately. Adjust or remove the sternum and waist straps as needed to firmly secure the bag, and you’re off!
At $160, Manhattan Portage’s Sirius Traveler Dog Backpack is easily the most expensive offering on this list. On the other hand, the high price tag comes with top-notch features that every dog owner will love. A cushioned base and roomy interior give your dog plenty of room to move around while you’re on the move, while an interior clip attaches to their collar or harness for added safety.
Padding along the back provides even weight distribution for the wearer, while adjustable shoulder and sternum straps help you attain the perfect fit for all kinds of activities. It’s not the most aesthetically pleasing bag on this list, but it’s as sturdy and strong as carriers come.
Comfort is just as important for you as it is for your furry friend, especially if you plan to go on hikes several miles long or more. Here are a few things to consider before you make a purchase:
Some of the backpacks for larger dogs (20+ lbs) we’ve seen have pretty thin shoulder pads. Even if the backpack does have thicker shoulder pads, it might not be enough for your specific dog or trip. That’s not a big problem though — shoulder strap cushions are a dime a dozen.
If you plan on using your carrier for a strenuous outdoor activity like hiking or biking, we recommend looking for a carrier equipped with additional chest straps to make sure your pet stays firmly strapped to you at all times.
You’ll probably want to carry a few supplies while you travel. Consider the size of your water bottles (👉 check out our favorite doggie bottles), treats, and anything else you’d want to bring along when selecting the best carrier backpack for your needs.
Extra storage goes a long way when flying with your dog. The longer the flight, the more food, treats, and sanitary wipes you’ll need to bring. You can also ease your dog’s anxieties around flying by packing their carrier with stimulating toys and chews.
This is especially important if you have several dogs. Some doggie backpacks can be worn on the front or back, while others convert into a stroller to make transportation easier once your back starts to get tired.
Some backpacks have hard, crate-like structures, while others are softer, and more similar to traditional backpacks. Solid carriers with proper padding tend to be safe and more comfortable for dogs and distribute weight more evenly across the wearer’s back.
Before you order a carrier, it’s essential to measure your dog. It sounds obvious, but when you read the reviews, it’s clear that a lot of people forget to do this. Looking at the review pictures is a great way to find examples of dogs around the same size as yours.
Your dog should have enough room to comfortably stand up, turn around, sit down, and shift their weight in their backpack carrier. It’s good to consider the weight limit for the carrier, too, but dimensions like back length and height will give you a much better indication of the fit. Two dogs can weigh the same amount but still differ in size.
Nothing beats a new adventure with your dog, but remember: safety always comes first. Having the right equipment on hand can give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy new experiences without stressing over your pup’s health. That’s where a good backpack carrier can make a world of difference.
There are multiple carrier types available to accommodate different activities and body types. Many carriers resemble backpacks, but you can also opt for a travel kennel (similar to a duffle bag); a sling carrier, which goes over the shoulder; or a carrier on wheels to avoid putting extra weight on your back.
Most dog carriers are safe for small and medium-sized dogs, but keeping them inside for long intervals may put unnecessary pressure on their spine and internal organs. That’s why it’s important to give your dog lots of walking and stretching breaks whenever you’re transporting them in a backpack carrier.
The safe time limit your dog can stay in a backpack carrier ultimately depends on the local climate and the activity you’re doing. The hotter the climate or more intense the activity, the less time they should spend inside their carrier. As a general rule, you should only keep your dog inside a backpack carrier for 30 to 45 minutes at a time.
Yes. As long as it’s being used correctly and appropriately sized, a backpack carrier can be a convenient, safe way to bring your dog along on trips, hikes, and other short-term adventures. For added safety, it’s important to make sure the backpack carrier allows for sufficient airflow to keep your dog cool and well-ventilated. Owners planning long-term trips should also let their dog get used to a new carrier before traveling to minimize stress and anxiety.
