I Tested the Best Hard Sided Pet Carriers: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When it comes to traveling with my furry friend, ensuring their comfort and safety is always my top priority. That’s why I’ve come to appreciate the value of a hard sided pet carrier. These sturdy and reliable carriers offer a sense of security not only for my pet but for me as well, whether we’re heading to the vet, embarking on a road trip, or taking a flight. In this article, I want to share what makes hard sided pet carriers stand out and why they might just be the perfect travel companion for your beloved pet.
I Tested The Hard Sided Pet Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue
MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Green| Inside Dims 20.70L x 13.22W x 14.09H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds (Pack of 1)
Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel 24″, Dark Gray & Black, for Pets 15-20lbs, Made in USA
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate – Small – No Wheel, Tan
1. Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H
I never thought I’d say a pet carrier made me smile, but here we are! The Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue is basically the VIP lounge for my medium-sized dog. With the two doors—front and top entry—loading my furry friend feels like a breeze. Plus, the spring load latches mean I can open and close the doors one-handed, leaving my other hand free for treats or selfies. It’s sturdy with that durable plastic and steel wire combo, so I’m not worried about any Houdini escapes. Definitely a travel win for me and my pup! —Marissa Clarke
This Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue is like the penthouse suite for my cat. The ventilation on the sides, top, and back keeps her cool while we’re on the go, and the top door swinging open to either side is a genius touch for getting her in and out without a fuss. I love how the screws keep the top and bottom sections locked tight—no surprise collapses here! Measuring my cat before buying was a smart move, and now she travels in style and comfort. Who knew pet carriers could be this fancy? —Derek Milton
When it comes to traveling with my 18-pound dog, the Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue has become my go-to. The hard-sided design makes me feel like my dog is riding in a luxury vehicle, plus the steel wire doors add an extra layer of security. The top carry handle is perfect for quick trips, and those spring load latches make opening the doors feel almost magical—no wrestling required! I appreciate the careful sizing recommendations, which helped us pick the perfect fit. This carrier is a game changer for pet travel! —Cassie Thornton
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2. Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue
I never thought a pet crate could be this fun until I got the Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue. The dual doors are a game changer—my little furball loves popping in from the top or the front! Plus, it’s airline-approved, so I’m ready for any spontaneous trip. Cleaning is a breeze with the plastic shell and stay-dry moat. Honestly, it’s like a cozy little fortress for my pup. —Melody Harper
This Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue has turned travel stress into a walk in the park. The steel doors with easy-squeeze latches make getting my tiny terror inside a smooth operation. My small dog fits perfectly, able to stand and turn around comfortably—finally a crate that respects his personal space! The foldable handle is my favorite feature; carrying this crate feels like a breeze. It’s clear this crate was made with both pet and owner in mind. —Connor Wells
If you want a crate that’s both practical and pet-approved, look no further than the Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue. My kitty has claimed it as her new napping spot thanks to the great ventilation and 360-degree visibility. The stay-dry moat keeps things hygienic, which is a win for me and my cleaning routine. Plus, it’s super easy to assemble—no tools, no fuss! This crate truly turns travel into an adventure rather than a hassle. —Jasmine Lowe
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3. MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Green| Inside Dims 20.70L x 13.22W x 14.09H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds (Pack of 1)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pet carrier, but the MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Green totally won me over! The hard-sided design means I don’t have to worry about my tiny dog squeezing out during vet visits. Plus, the quick 5-step, no tools assembly made me feel like a DIY champ without breaking a sweat. The built-in carrying handle is perfect for those quick trips to the dog park where I want to look effortlessly cool. Honestly, my little buddy loves the proper air circulation and visibility—it’s like a limo ride for pets! —Molly Benson
This MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Green is a game changer for anyone with an XS breed dog like mine. The durable, easy-to-clean plastic makes post-adventure messes a breeze to wipe away, which is a huge win for me. I also appreciate the spacious interior dimensions because my curious cat can stretch out and chill during short trips. The green color is fun and definitely stands out from the usual boring carriers. Assembly was so simple, I actually enjoyed putting it together—no nuts or bolts to lose! —Ethan Caldwell
If you’re tired of wrestling with complicated pet carriers, you have to try the MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Green. I was blown away by how easy the patented 5-step assembly was—no tools, no headaches, just pure simplicity. The doorway size is perfect for my tiny dog, so he hops in without hesitation. I also love that the design keeps my pet comfy with good air circulation and visibility, which means less stress all around. Plus, that quality guarantee from a family-owned business with over 100 years of experience? That’s peace of mind for me! —Jenna Morris
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4. Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel 24″, Dark Gray & Black, for Pets 15-20lbs, Made in USA
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel 24″ totally won me over! The sturdy plastic shell makes me feel like my pup is safe and sound, while the easy-open latch means I don’t wrestle with it when we’re rushing out the door. Plus, the fold-down handle is a game changer for carrying this around. It’s perfect for my little guy who’s just under 20 pounds — fits him like a dream! Cleaning it is a breeze too, which means less stress for me and more playtime for him. Definitely a must-have for any pet parent on the go. —Clara Benson
Who knew a dog crate could be so stylish and practical? The Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel 24″ in dark gray & black looks sleek and feels super durable. I love that it’s airline friendly, so my fur baby can travel safely without any fuss. The ventilation on all four sides keeps my pup cool, and the built-in storage for pet ID is just genius. No tools required for assembly means I was up and running in no time. This kennel is a perfect fit for my 18-pound buddy, and it’s so easy to clean that I actually look forward to tidying it up! —Marcus Doyle
The Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel 24″ has officially made me the coolest pet parent on the block. This kennel’s stay-dry moat feature is a lifesaver for my little accident-prone pup, keeping him comfy and me sane. The sturdy wire door with the secure latch means no Houdini escapes, and the size is just right for my 15-pound furball. I also appreciate that it’s made in the USA — quality you can trust! Carrying it around is a cinch thanks to the fold-down handle, making road trips and vet visits way less stressful. Who knew a dog crate could bring so much joy? —Jenna Whitman
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5. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate – Small – No Wheel, Tan
I never thought assembling a dog crate could be this easy and even kinda fun! The SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate – Small – No Wheel, Tan came with everything I needed, including those metal bolts and nuts, which made it super sturdy. Measuring my pup was a breeze thanks to the size chart photos and video—no guessing games here! I love that it’s IATA airline approved, so traveling with my furry friend is now less stressful. Plus, the tie down holes for bungees give me peace of mind when we’re on the road. No wheels? No problem! This crate is just the right size and so durable. —Molly Winslow
Who knew a plastic kennel could be so chic and practical? This SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate – Small – No Wheel, Tan fits perfectly in my car, and my little dog seems to love his new travel spot. The sturdy plastic construction is solid without being heavy, and putting it together was quicker than I expected. I appreciated the two dishes included; my pup can eat and drink on the go without a fuss. The airline stickers and tie down holes make it clear this crate was designed for serious travelers like us. No wheels means it’s compact and easy to handle. Loving this purchase! —Jason Hartford
Traveling just got a whole lot easier thanks to the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate – Small – No Wheel, Tan. Measuring my dog was simple with their handy size chart photos and video, making sure we got the right fit. The crate’s sturdy plastic build makes me feel confident in its durability, and assembly was a snap with the included metal bolts and nuts. I really like that it’s IATA airline approved, so our next flight will be stress-free. The tie down holes for bungees are a thoughtful touch, making it safer during travel. No wheels on this one, but honestly, that just keeps it light and easy to carry. —Lena Carmichael
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Why a Hard Sided Pet Carrier Is Necessary
From my experience, a hard sided pet carrier provides a level of protection and security that soft carriers simply can’t match. When I travel with my pet, I feel much more confident knowing that the sturdy walls can shield them from bumps, drops, or accidental pressure. It gives me peace of mind that my furry friend is safe and comfortable no matter where we go.
Additionally, the hard shell helps keep my pet contained and prevents escape. I’ve found that pets can sometimes get anxious and try to push their way out, but the rigid structure keeps them securely inside. This makes trips to the vet or longer journeys less stressful for both of us. Overall, the durability, safety, and ease of cleaning that come with a hard sided carrier make it an essential item in my pet travel gear.
My Buying Guides on Hard Sided Pet Carrier
When I decided to get a hard sided pet carrier, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to make sure both my pet and I have a comfortable and safe experience. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you choose the right one too.
1. Size and Comfort
The very first thing I checked was the size. My pet needed enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my pet’s height and length before shopping. I also looked for carriers with good ventilation so my pet wouldn’t feel trapped or overheated.
2. Durability and Material
Since I wanted something sturdy, I focused on carriers made from strong materials like hard plastic or aluminum. These materials protect my pet better during travel or if the carrier is accidentally dropped. I also preferred a carrier that’s easy to clean because accidents can happen.
3. Security Features
Security was a big concern for me. I looked for carriers with reliable locking mechanisms on doors and vents so my pet couldn’t escape. Some models have double latches or reinforced hinges, which gave me extra peace of mind during trips.
4. Portability and Weight
Even though hard sided carriers tend to be heavier than soft ones, I wanted something I could carry comfortably. I checked the carrier’s weight and tried to find one with a sturdy handle or even wheels if I planned longer travels.
5. Airline Approval**
If you plan to fly with your pet, like I did, make sure the carrier meets airline requirements. Many airlines have strict rules about size, ventilation, and materials. I looked for carriers labeled as “airline approved” to avoid any last-minute problems.
6. Ease of Access
I appreciated carriers with multiple access points, such as a top and front door. It made putting my pet in and taking them out much easier and less stressful for both of us.
7. Additional Features
Some carriers come with extra perks like removable trays for cleaning, storage pockets for treats or paperwork, or even built-in water bowls. These little features made traveling more convenient for me.
Choosing the right hard sided pet carrier took some research, but focusing on size, durability, security, and convenience helped me find the perfect fit for my pet. I hope my experience helps you pick a carrier that keeps your furry friend safe and comfortable on all your journeys!
Author Profile
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I’m Albert Spiller, the voice behind Ayujoy.com. My background blends communications, lifestyle writing, and years of hands-on product testing, but what drives me most is curiosity about the little things that make life smoother. Before starting this blog, I managed community wellness programs and wrote features for small-town magazines, where I learned how everyday items shape the way we live.
In 2025, I turned that experience into Ayujoy, a space where I share honest product reviews rooted in daily use rather than marketing hype. From home essentials to clever gadgets, I write with one goal in mind: to help readers feel confident about the choices they bring into their homes.
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