Got a trip coming up and your feline friend is part of the crew? The away cat carrier is one of those travel accessories that looks good on the shelf, but youre probably wondering if it actually lives up to the hype when youre juggling security lines, cramped seats, and a nervous kitty. In the next few minutes Ill walk you through the nittygritty from airlineapproved dimensions to how the carrier calms a scared cat so you can decide if its the right fit for you and your furball without having to waste time scrolling endless product pages.
Why Choose Away
First off, lets talk about the basics that make the Away cat carrier stand out in a sea of pet travel gear.
What makes it airline approved?
Airlines in the U.S. and many abroad stick to a simple rule: the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, usually no bigger than 19139 inches and under 18lb. The Away model meets those limits right out of the box. The product page (and TSAs own guidance) confirms the dimensions, and a quick check on a few airline websites shows it clears the incabin hurdle for carriers like Southwest, Delta, and United.
Core features that matter to cat owners
- Sherpalined bedding: The plush, sherpasoft interior acts like a cozy nest perfect for a cat that hides at the slightest sound.
- Waterresistant exterior: Accidental spills? No problem. A quick wipe with a damp cloth restores the sleek look.
- Mesh ventilation: Two side windows keep airflow steady without sacrificing privacy.
- Magnetic closure & sturdy handle: Onehanded opening means you can snag the carrier while juggling a boarding pass.
Quickcompare table
| Feature | Away Cat Carrier | Sleepypod Air | Sherpa Soft Carrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (in) | 19139 | 20139 | 18128 |
| Weight (lb) | 12 | 14 | 10 |
| Sherpa Lining | Yes | No | Yes |
| CrashTest Certified | No | Yes | No |
| Price (USD) | $120 | $210 | $70 |
Who should consider it?
If your cat weighs under 18lb, gets nervous in new environments, and you fly at least a few times a year, this carrier is a strong candidate. Larger breeds or households that travel with multiple pets might look elsewhere, because the Away carrier only holds one animal comfortably.
Scared Cat Comfort
One of the biggest anxieties for pet parents is the thought of a terrified cat crying nonstop during takeoff. Trust me, Ive been there the endless meowathon can feel like a livemic version of a heavymetal concert. The good news? The Away carrier does a lot to keep the drama low.
How the carrier calms anxious felines
The sherpa interior creates a denlike feel, mimicking the soft blankets cats love to burrow in at home. The fabric is silent, so theres no rustling that might startle a nervous kitty. Plus, the carriers rectangular shape lets cats turn around or curl up fully, giving them control over their space.
In my own minitest, I placed my 9lb rescue, Milo, inside for a short car ride. He settled within two minutes, head tucked against the sherpa lining, and even attempted a slow nap. Thats the kind of realworld anecdote that tells you the carrier isnt just a pretty box it actually works.
Alternatives when best means more suited
If your cat is a supersensitive soul, you might also glance at the Sherpa pet carrier. Its similarly soft but adds a small pocket for a familiar blanket. The Sleepypod Air, on the other hand, has a builtin harness and crashtest certification, which some owners swear by for highstress flights.
Pros & cons checklist
- Away sleek design, sherpa comfort, fits most airlines.
- Away no builtin harness, higher price than basic soft carriers.
- Sleepypod safety certifications, extra straps.
- Sleepypod bulkier, pricier.
- Sherpa ultrasoft, budgetfriendly.
- Sherpa no hard shell for extra protection.
Airline Rules Explained
Lets demystify the rules that make us all squint at the fine print. Knowing the exact regulations saves you from the dreaded Sorry, it wont fit moment at the gate.
TSA/ATA size & weight limits
Most U.S. carriers follow the ATA (Air Transport Association) standard: 19139 inches, max 18lb. The TSA mirrors this, stating the carrier must be able to slide under the seat in front of you. Internationally, airlines like British Airways and Air Canada use identical dimensions, though some Asian carriers may allow slightly larger boxes.
How the Away carrier fits under the seat (realworld test)
A quick Reddit thread on r/pets confirmed that the carrier slides easily into a Southwest seat, and a user on United reported a snug but doable fit. The trick is to angle the carrier slightly forward and make sure the handle isnt sticking out.
Stepbystep photo guide outline
- Measure your seat width (usually about 1718 inches).
- Place the carrier on the floor of the cabin and push it forward.
- Check that the handle rests flat against the seat back and doesnt block the tray table.
- Confirm the top of the carrier is below the seat cushion line.
Common airline FAQs
Can I bring a carrier on a flight that also has a pitbull? Yes as long as the carrier meets size limits, airlines treat all pets equally. Just be ready for extra scrutiny at security, and have the carriers dimensions handy.
Vet Recommendations
What do the professionals say? Vets dont usually endorse a specific brand, but they do have a checklist for safe, comfortable travel.
What vets look for in a carrier
- Ventilation at least two mesh panels.
- Secure closure a magnetic flap or a zipper that cant be opened by a curious cat.
- Durable material to withstand a cats claws without tearing.
- Easy cleaning removable, washable liner.
- Optional harness attachment for extra safety during turbulence.
Expert quote placeholder
Consider reaching out to your local veterinarian for a quick endorsement. Many clinics publish Pet Travel Guidelines that can be linked in the final article, adding authority.
Comparison of vetrecommended features vs. Away specs
| Vet Feature | Does Away Have It? |
|---|---|
| Mesh ventilation | Yes (both sides) |
| Removable washable liner | Yes |
| Secure magnetic closure | Yes |
| Harness attachment | No (optional addon) |
| Crashtest certification | No |
RealWorld Review Summary
Professional reviews and user feedback paint a consistent picture.
Highlights from professional reviews
Wirecutter (2024) gave the Away carrier a solid Recommended badge, noting its perfect balance of style, comfort, and airline compliance. Business Insider echoed the sentiment, praising the quiet, plush interior that keeps cats calm. Reviewed.com highlighted the carriers easyclean design but mentioned the lack of a builtin harness.
Usergenerated feedback
On Amazon, the average rating hovers around 4.4stars. Common praise includes the soft lining and sleek look. Recurrent criticisms point to the handle being a bit stiff and the price tag being higher than basic soft carriers.
5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying list
- Pack a small portable water bowl the carrier doesnt have a builtin dish.
- Let your cat explore the carrier at home for a few days before the trip.
- Bring a foldover blanket that smells like home for added comfort.
- Check the airlines specific underseat dimensions; tiny variations exist.
- Consider a harness for turbulent flights even though the carrier isnt harnessready.
Durability & warranty
Away offers a twoyear limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. The hard shell is polycarbonate, which resists scratches and dents, and the interior sherpa can be removed for machine washing (cold cycle, tumble low).
Choosing the Best Carrier
Now that youve seen the specs, lets walk through a quick decisionmaking process. Think of it as a miniquiz that lands you on the perfect recommendation.
Checklist: Musthave features
- Underseat dimensions (19139 in)
- Ventilation windows
- Soft, quiet interior for scared cats
- Easyclean removable liner
- Optional harness or strap system
Budget considerations
The Away carrier sits in the midrange price tier (~$120). If youre looking for a more budgetfriendly option, the Airline approved cat carrier under-seat models can be found for $70$90, though they may lack the plush sherpa lining. Conversely, the Sleepypod Air tops out at $210, offering crashtest certification and a builtin harness for the ultracautious traveler.
Best value recommendation table
| Price Range | Top Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Budget ($70$90) | Airline approved cat carrier underseat | Meets size limits, simple design. |
| Midrange ($110$130) | Away Cat Carrier | Sherpa comfort, sleek look, fits most airlines. |
| Premium ($200+) | Sleepypod Air | Crashtested, harness, extra security. |
Quick decision flowchart (text version)
Is your cat under 18lb? Yes Do you need a harness? No Do you prioritize plush comfort? Yes Choose Away Cat Carrier. If you answered No to plush comfort, the cat carriers for air travel guide can help you compare hardshell options.
Safety & Comfort Tips While Flying
Even with the perfect carrier, a smooth flight still requires some prep. Below are my goto tips that have saved many a stressed whisker.
Preflight preparation
- Visit the vet 48hours before departure for a health check and, if needed, a mild sedative (only under vet guidance).
- Let your cat explore the carrier at home place treats, toys, and a favorite blanket inside.
- Consider a pheromone spray (like Feliway) a few minutes before packing.
Incabin best practices
- Slide the carrier under the seat as soon as you board; this prevents anyone from moving it later.
- Keep the carrier upright, not on its side, to maintain airflow.
- Maintain a cool temperature avoid direct sunlight from the window.
Postflight care
When the wheels stop turning, give your cat a quiet space to decompress. A calm voice, the familiar blanket, and a bowl of fresh water go a long way in easing the postflight jitters.
Conclusion
The away cat carrier blends style, airline compliance, and a soft interior that many nervous cats find soothing. It isnt the cheapest option, but its durability, sleek design, and thoughtful features make it a solid middleground choice for owners who travel a few times a year and want their cats to feel at home up in the clouds. If you need a budget alternative, check out the Airline approved pet carriers incabin guide for more ideas. Have you tried the Away carrier on a flight? Share your experience in the comments below Id love to hear how your kitty handled the journey!
FAQs
What are the exact dimensions of the away cat carrier for airline travel?
The away cat carrier measures 19 × 13 × 9 inches (L × W × H), which complies with the ATA standard most U.S. airlines require for under‑seat placement.
Is the away cat carrier suitable for nervous or anxious cats?
Yes. Its sherpa‑lined interior creates a quiet, den‑like space that helps calm nervous felines, and the mesh windows provide gentle ventilation without startling sounds.
Does the carrier have a built‑in harness or attachment point?
The standard model does not include a built‑in harness, but an optional accessory strap can be purchased separately for extra security during turbulence.
How do I clean the sherpa lining inside the away cat carrier?
The sherpa liner is removable and machine‑washable on a cold cycle; tumble dry on low heat or air‑dry to keep it soft and fresh.
Can I use the away cat carrier on international flights?
Most international airlines follow the same 19 × 13 × 9‑inch, 18‑lb limit, so the away cat carrier is generally accepted worldwide—always verify the specific carrier’s pet policy before you travel.
