11 Best Cat Bubble Backpacks 2021 [Fly To the Moon!]

a cat in a bubble backpack and text that says the best cat bubble backpacks

Love taking your cat out but ​​don’t like the single ​strap carriers? Who can blame you? With every step you take it bangs against your side and digs into your shoulder.

This is the ​why backpack cat carriers were created. ​They are really versatile and ​far easier on us humans. ​My favorite backpacks have a bubble built right in​ to provide a ​view for your cat and ​them look like an astronaut!

​Every cat owner ​should have one! ​It ​will get ​you and your cat out ​more than any other method! Let’s take a look at the best cat bubble backpacks.

The Best Cat bubble backpacks quick guide

Key Highlight

Backpack

Best Overall

Great for Large Cats

Easiest In & Out

Messenger Style

Best Hard Backed

Great Rolling Pack

Awesome for Air Travel

Innovative Design

​Fully Transparent Back

Best Top Bubble

Most Fashionable

Collapsible Model

Additional Information


Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Carrier for Cats

a blue texsens cat backpack carrier with multiple vents and mesh panels

Texsens is ​the most well known brand of bubble backpacks on the market today and probably the most trusted as well. They’ve they been one of the pioneers in developing this type of carrier so that’s no surprise.

​Texsens ​has been producing high quality backpacks for both cats and dogs now for several years. This gives them an edge ​because they have a bunch of experience and feedback to build their products off of.

Key features worth noting on this bag:

  • You've got the sweet looking space capsule window built right in (you can interchange with a vent)
  • There is a ton of ventilation on this bag, 14 vents in total when you include the 3 in the window
  • ​The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable to easily find the right fit for you
  • Built in security leash connection for an added layer of safety for your cat
  • ​You can open top or either side making it easy to get your cat inside.
  • It comes with a built in soft washable pad so you can easily remove it between trips

​You can also check out my full video review below or read the full written review by clicking the button below.


The Fat Cat Backpack for Large Cats

a large backpack for cats with a mid placed window

The Fat Cat is an excellent bag specifically designed for larger cats. It is difficult to tell from the picture, but it actually has quite a bit of extra space inside it compared to other cat backpacks.

The company that designed it has said it is rated to hold cats up to 19 pounds, that's quite a hefty cat to stick inside a backpack, but I honestly believe they'd fit given my experience!

Key features worth noting on this bag:

  • Provides plenty of space for large cats, rated to hold up to a 19 pound cat
  • There are a couple of mesh pockets built into the side to easily carry treats etc.
  • There's tons of ventilation built right in to keep your kitty cool even on hot days
  • The window is placed lower in the bag ​making it easier for your kitty to look out
  • The entire top of the bag unzips making it easy to load your cat in or let them out
  • Great for short trips or long adventures, I've taken Beast out on a 15 mile bike ride in it

Petforu Space Capsule Faux Leather Cat Backpack

the petforu backpack cat carrier, faux leather with a dozen vents and 2 mesh panels and a bubble window

Petforu comes to the market with what is ​one of the nicest looking and most versatile faux leather cat backpacks on the market. ​It of course still comes with the amazing astronaut ​bubble window to let your cat get a great view out.

​This model has a ​ton of ventilation slots built into it so your feline friend stays ​has plenty of fresh air to breathe, but it also ensures that it stays nice and cool inside the backpack even if it is a little toasty outside!

Let's look at a few other major features worth noting:

  • Provides plenty of space for large cats, rated to hold up to a 19 pound cat
  • Loading your cat into it is easy with access from the top or from either side
  • Designed so you can wear the backpack on the front or back for comfort
  • High placed window so your cat can see out while sitting up
  • Rubber feet on the bottom keep it from sliding around on smooth surfaces
  • Great for cats up to the 11-12 pound range, 13 or 14 will start to get cramped
  • The dimensions of this backpack are: 12.6 wide by  10.25 inches deep by 16.54 inches tall
  • Comes with a comfy liner that is removable for easy cleaning

U-pet Innovative Messenger Style Bubble Carrier

a messenger style brown cat carrier with a bubble window

You’ll notice an obvious difference in the design of this bag right away, it isn’t your typical two shoulder strap backpack! ​If you want to be extra trendy with a capsule bag and ​give your cat ​plenty of space to lay down you can go for this messenger style bag.

This bag does of course include the coveted astronaut bubble that makes these kinds of carriers so darn cool! But let's look at other key features worth considering:​

  • Awesome messenger style bag that will ensure you and your cat travel in style
  • The bubble can be switched out for an included mesh cover if you have limited space
  • ​Features a built in safety latch to hook your cat's leash and harness to
  • ​It has a ​built in pad (removable) ​on the ​bottom ​to make sure your kitty rides in comfort
  • ​The dimensions of this model are 15.4″L x 7.1″W x 10.6″H, great for smaller cats (10 lb or less)

​While this is a really cool and trendy looking bag, do be sure you do some measuring first to ensure your cat will have sufficient room to move around inside of it. That or ensure your cat loves to lay down while bounding along on a walk with you!

Also keep in mind since this is a messenger style bag ​it is a single strap ​on your shoulder.


Giantex Astronaut Cat Carrier Backpack

a teal astronaut carrier with a hard shell from Giantex

Giantex is ​a company that has been at making cat carriers and pet products for quite some time. This ​model is is of course their astronaut’s cat carrier to give your kitty a nice safe view of the outside world while keeping them in a controlled environment.

It features a large space inside with big air holes and mesh to ensure it stays comfortable and breathable for your kitty. A couple of key features worth noting:

  • ​It is made from a combination of high quality oxford cloth and scratch resistant plastic
  • ​This hard shell ​helps it hold form ​​to stay looking nice for an extended time
  • Features a built in safety latch to connect your leash and harness to
  • ​This model is very budget friendly if you're looking for a good price point
  • The dimensions ​15.7" ​tall 11.8" wide x 11" ​deep, good for cats up to about 15 lbs
  • ​Opens up from end to end giving you lots of room to get your cat into it
  • ​Two solid zippers that run on the same line make this mimic a true backpack

Pettom Large Breathable Bubble Carrier w/ Rolling Attachment

a rolling cat carrier by Pettom with a space capsule window

This is a relatively novel idea in the bubble carrier space in that Pettom has essentially designed a carrier that is primarily a backpack, but it can also be attached to an associated roller.

This means if you’ve got an extra long distance to travel or perhaps a nice smooth bit of road or sidewalk and you just want a break you can drop the backpack right into the roller and keep going.

On top of this you’ll notice a lot of other great features that this carrier includes

  • The ability to use it as a backpack or as a rolling bag depending on need
  • Numerous ​vents and two ​mesh panels ​excellent air flow and comfort for your kitty
  • Easy to load your cat in from both the front and the side
  • There's a built in leash attachment for added safety for your feline friend
  • Equipped with non slip feet to ensure it won't slide around while you load and unload it
  • This carrier ​has a ​larger weight capacity than most coming in at about 22 pounds
  • The dimensions are 12.6″L x 8.7″W x 15.8″H. Add in the wheels the height ​is 36 inches.

​Note: You can buy this model without the wheel attachment and save yourself somewhere in the area of $15.  If you don’t feel you need the wheels it is a nice option to have handy.


Pettom’s Airline Approved Cat Carrier Backpack

a bright pink hard shell carrier by pettom with the space capsule window

This is an excellent option for those of you looking to take your feline friend on a plane and you think a backpack will be easier than a traditional carrier.  Given this carrier has already been vetted by multiple airlines you’ll be off to a great start.​

Key features worth noting on this model are:

  • ​Specifically designed for airline travel and meets most airline carry on requirements
  • Large vents built into the side of the carrier ensure good air flow to keep your cat cool
  • It unzips like a traditional backpack so you've got lots of space to load your cat from all directions
  • There are a huge number of colors to choose from beyond the bright pink in the pictures
  • This model is rated to hold a cat up to 10 pounds
  • Comes with a removable pad built into the bottom for easy cleaning after a trip
  • ​The dimensions for this model are 11.8″ L x 11.0″ W x 17.3″ H

HBuir Innovative Diamond Traveler Pet Carrier Shoulder Backpack

an innovative diamond shaped hard shell backpack cat carrier with a space capsule window

You’ll notice a couple of distinct differences in this carrier right away. First and foremost it is a hard shelled carrier which is far less common. This means that it maintains its space integrity inside much more effectively than canvas or nylon carriers.

​There are several features worth noting on this model:

  • Engineered in the shape of diamond for both looks and to maximize room inside for your cat
  • Fully equipped with a washable pad for the interior of the carrier ​to provide extra comfort for your cat
  • A built in safety latch is available to link up your cat's leash and harness
  • Numerous ventilation holes ensure your cat stays nice and cool even in hot weather
  • The bubble can be changed out for a mesh cover that is also included with purchase
  • This model is rated to hold a cat up to 14 pounds which is a pretty large cat
  • ​The dimensions of this carrier are 13.8″ L x 10.6″ W x 18.1″ H

Texsens Canvas Transparent and Breathable Capsule Portable Pet Backpack

a canvas cat carrier back pack with a large porthole window

You’ll notice a distinct difference between this bag and the other versions that Texsens has on the market, primarily in the overall design structure.

This backpack is designed with the intent that you’d be loading your cat from the top, there is no way to unzip either of the side compartments and let your cat enter the bag this way.

​A couple of additional key items worth noting on this model:

  • Made of canvas to support adventures in all types of different conditions, holds up way better than faux leather in any wet or humid conditions
  • Equipped with two side pockets to store any necessities during your cat adventures
  • Amazing ventilation to ensure that your cat stays nice and cool no matter how warm it is outside
  • The measurements of this bag are 11.81″ L x 9.44″ W x 14.17″H
  • It is rated for cats up to 10 pounds and should hold them comfortably
  • The shoulder straps are designed with long trips in mind, they are well padded and comfortable
  • ​Designed specifically to load your cat in from the top instead of from the sides

Texsens Topside Bubble Backpack Cats

a canvas cat carrier with the astronaut window on the top instead of the back

Another variation on the Texsens backpacks above, this one instead moves the bubble to the top of the carrier as opposed to back side of the carrier. While clearly a preference option, this will provide a heck of a lot better view up and out as opposed to toward the back of the carrier. No surprise I suppose!

This model is also made of canvas specifically to encourage air flow for your feline friend while you’re out and about on your adventures. Your cat will stay nice and cool while going for a ride in this backpack.

​A couple of additional features worth noting on this model:

  • ​Top side bubble ensures a completely unique experience for your cat, even among bubble bags
  • ​The shoulder straps that are designed for extra comfort with thicker padding
  • Numerous mesh panels and holes provide excellent air flow for long trips
  • Extra padding built into the back of the bag ensures it is comfortable on your back too
  • The dimensions of this carrier are 12.6″ W x 9.8″ D x 15″ H
  • ​It will hold a cat up to 13 pounds without any issue
  • ​Comes with an interchangeable mesh panel you can switch the bubble out for

Keedo Transparent ​Cat ​Carrier Travel ​Backpack

a backpack cat carrier that is totally transparent on the back side

​If you're looking for a something a little bit beyond your typical space capsule backpack you can spring for the Keedo Pet Transparent Carrier. This one has a completely transparent back side so your cat can see everywhere the entire time.

There are of course benefits and drawbacks to the exposure. If your cat is super outgoing and loves new things then this is a great option and you'll get tons of compliments on your kitty!

A few additional things worth noting:

  • Super cool transparent design covering the entire back, your cat can see everything
  • Comes in 3 different colors: teal, red and yellow
  • ​A total of 9 built in holes for air flow and 2 mesh ​sections to maximize cat comfort
  • Has a built in safety loop to lock your cat's leash and harness to
  • Rated to hold cats that are up to a total of 13 pounds
  • ​The dimensions of this bag are 11.4” L x 10.6” W x 16.1” H

Lemonda Portable Travel Space Capsule Pet Carrier Backpack

a light pink space capsule cat carrier backpack

Lemonda brings to the market another excellent looking space capsule type carrier with all the bells and whistles that will make you love it.

This backpack is designed with extra padding on the straps so you can take your cat for long walks or hikes and it is specifically engineered to allow you to wear it either on the front or the back!

  • Has a super sleek design housed in acrylic and canvas to maintain shape and space for your cat
  • Comes in numerous colors (click the link below for a full list currently available)
  • ​A significant number of ​air holes will ensure you've got great air flow even on warm days
  • ​It is rated by the manufacturer to easily hold a cat up to 16 pounds
  • There's a comfortable velvet pad included for the interior to keep your cat extra comfortable
  • The interior pad is easy to remove and you can hand or machine wash it to keep the bag clean
  • The dimensions of this bag are 12.6 “L x 11.5 “W x 16.5 “H
  • ​The bubble is super easy to change out for the mesh cover that is included

PetLoft Foldable Bubble Carrier

a gym bag style cat packpack with a port hole window

Right, it isn’t a backpack. I know, I know! But it is still an excellent carrier and I wanted to include it because of the key unique feature. This carrier is so easy to break down and fold into a really small space.

Most of the backpack carriers I have indicated so far don’t really have a way to collapse. This means they take up a lot of space when they aren’t in use. This model can fold down to only a few inches tall. Great for storage!

What's worth noting on this option:

  • It also has 3 different entry points for your cat: two on the sides and one top
  • There are a total of 12 ventilation holes for great air flow to keep your cat cool
  • The bubble can be changed out for a mesh cover if you prefer less exposure for your cat
  • There's a comfortable shoulder carrying strap included as well similar to a traditional carrier
  • ​Easily folds down into a really small space for travel purposes

Why Use a Cat Bubble Backpack Carrier Instead of a Traditional Carrier

There are a couple of key reasons people prefer to switch over to a bubble carrier in place of a traditional carrier:

  1. Comfort: The biggest factor I’ve found in making the switch is that bubble carriers are just far easier to get around with than a traditional single strap shoulder carrier. Backpacks were designed for this purpose specifically, and cat backpack carriers are just a heck of a lot easier on your shoulders than that single strap is.
  2. Safety: The bulk of backpack carriers come equipped with additional safety features that traditional carriers don’t have included. While this is largely because they are often designed for Adventure Cats it doesn’t mean those safety features are any less helpful for your typical cat just going on walks.
  3. Cat Happiness: A lot of traditional carriers don’t provide the best view in the world for your cat. They can of course hear a lot through the mesh, but they often can’t see much through it. This is limiting and makes the trip boring! The space bubble lets your cat see everything going on around them and gives them a chance to check out the world.
  4. Style: Let’s be honest, they’re just plain cool looking compared to a typical carrier. And it is way easier for other people to check your feline friend out as you take a walk! What could be better?!?!

If you’re still curious about traditional carriers (I still have one myself) then I would also recommend you read my other article here on the best traditional carriers out there. It should help you make a decision if you’re not sold on a backpack yet.


Getting Your Cat Used To The Carrier

When you bring a new carrier home you’re going to want to take some time getting your cat used to the carrier before immediately loading her right into it and taking her for a walk.

While I understand you just got this really cool carrier and want to show it off and show your cat off I would suggest a gradual approach to use. This will ensure that you don’t scare your cat away from the carrier right away and then have to spend weeks getting he or she acclimated afterward.

So how do you go about it?  Well there are a couple of pretty simple steps you can take to ensure that your cat will end up loving the new carrier:

  • When it first arrives be sure to let your cat explore and sniff it without trying to put her in it
  • If you have any Feliway Spray you might also want to try spraying some of this on and in the carrier
  • Be sure to leave it out in the open and place some treats inside the carrier so your cat associates the carrier with positive things
  • Start out with short walks and don’t make the first trip to somewhere your cat hates (the vet or the groomer)
  • Take your cat on multiple trips a week, but keep them short and end them with treats when you get home
  • Over time work up to longer trips and start feathering in trips to the vet and other places

Leash & Harness Training Your Cat

While it is not a necessity by any stretch of the word, many people that use bubble backpacks also have a desire to leash and harness train their cat to take it on adventures.

This is no surprise, if you want to show your cat the world you’d also want to let them out to actually get a chance to explore it a little bit.

There’s an excellent article available on AdventureCats.org that will tell you all about the best method to harness train your cat, but here’s a quick rundown just to get you started:

  • Introduce the Harness: As with anything else (costumes, collars, etc.) you’ll want to introduce your cat to a harness slowly to ensure they associate positive things with it. This means letting them sniff it, letting their scent get on it, and of course rewarding them with treats when it is nearby. You can also spray some Feliway on it for an added benefit.
  • Slip It On: Put the harness on your cat, but don’t actually tighten it up. This will let her get a feel for it without restricting her movement. Over time tighten the harness and then remove it after short periods of time working up to longer attempts. Again, treats and praise go a long way.
  • Attaching the Leash: Once you’ve got your kitty used to the harness you can attach the leash to it and take her outside. This is where your let your cat do the exploring. Go at her pace and let her figure out what is of interest. As she gets more used to the world outside then you can start encouraging her to follow you and keep pace with where you want to go.

A few other tips:

  • Always pick up your cat and carry them through the threshold of the door when you’re first harness training her. This makes her think that’s the only way to go outside. Otherwise she’s prone to learn the second the door opens she can bolt out.
  • Don’t leave your cat unattended outside, especially with a harness and leash on. This is an easy way for your cat to get stuck and injured.
  • Always ensure any cat that is going outside is microchipped at the least. I also recommend a breakaway collar with tags with your cats essential information.

If You Don’t Trust Me – Trust Anna Akana

Now if you don’t happen to trust me about how awesome these backpacks are then you should definitely take the word of YouTube star Anna Akana. Here’s an awesome video of her showing what happens when she goes out with her cats in her bubble backpack!


Wrapping It Up on Cat Bubble Backpacks

My personal opinion is that cat bubble backpacks are a heck of a lot more versatile than your traditional style carrier. First off, they look a heck of a lot better!

But they also give your cat a much better view of the outside world while still maintaining all of the important safety features that come with a regular carrier.

Another huge benefit is that you’re going to have a heck of a lot more comfort for yourself when you use a backpack style carrier. It is a heck of a lot easier on your shoulders and your back because it distributes the weight a lot more effectively than a single strap.

Do you use a backpack carrier for your cat? Does yours have the cool bubble to give your cat a view of the outside world? If I’ve missed any of the awesome bubble backpacks please send me a link.

This way I can track down those additional options and get them added to the article. Feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email at Craig@StuffCatsWant.com.

StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

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