How To Travel With a Cat: Car, Plane, Train
Wondering how to travel with a cat?
The short answer: It's a good idea to keep them comfy in a good carrier!
This way, they can ride in a car, plane, or train!
Just plan ahead, bring their favorite items, and make sure they feel safe.
We’ll show you how to make traveling with your cat super easy and stress-free!
Table of Contents
Road Tripping with Your Cat: The Purr-fect Journey
Car Travel Training
Cats and change mix about as well as cats and water – not great!
But with some sneaky preparation, you can transform your homebody into a highway hero:
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Start small:
Take your cat on short drives around the block before trying a cross-country trip.
For cat parents, that first car ride might sound like you've kidnapped a tiny opera singer.
Don't worry though, most cats chill out after a few practice runs.
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Carrier = VIP lounge:
Weeks before your long trip, leave it open at home with their favorite blanket inside.
Sprinkle treats around it like you're creating a kitty treasure hunt.
The goal: your cat to waltz into their carrier on travel day instead of clinging to the ceiling.
Finding the Purrfect Ride (AKA The Right Carrier)
Your cat's carrier is basically their traveling apartment, so choose wisely:
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Size is KING:
Look for a spacious pad that gives your cat enough room to stand up, turn around, and strike dramatic poses.
Bigger cats need bigger digs – your Maine Coon doesn't want studio apartment vibes!
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Safe and secure:
A loose cat at a rest stop?
A big NOPE.
Secure locks are a must!
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Buckle Up:
Always strap that carrier in with a seat belt!
The floor might seem stable, but one quick brake could send your kitty on a rollercoaster ride.
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No Free-Roaming:
Please, please keep your cat IN their carrier while driving.
A loose cat in a moving car is like a furry missile with claws.
They might decide your brake pedal looks like a fantastic place to nap.
Keeping the Peace on the Road
Want a (relatively) drama-free road trip?
Try these road-tested tactics:
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Temp Check:
Keep it cool but not cold – around 70°F is the sweet spot for most cats.
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Soothing sounds:
Create a spa-like atmosphere with soft classical music or nature sounds.
No heavy metal for Mittens, please – unless that's what they jam to at home!
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Chat with cat:
Talk to your cat in your most ridiculous baby voice.
They love hearing your reassuring chatter, even if they pretend to be totally above it all.
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Rest and stretch:
For long distance trips, a good option is to schedule pit stops every 2-3 hours.
A collapsible litter box in the trunk works wonders for bathroom breaks.
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Offer H2O:
Always offer water during stops, though many cats go on water strikes during travel.
That's totally normal – they're just exercising their feline right to be difficult.
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Cleanup Kit:
Pack plenty of cleanup supplies for when things go sideways (or all over your backseat).
Even the most dignified cat might have an accident when their routine gets scrambled.
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Keep Trying:
Don’t worry if your cat snubs their food while traveling—it’s normal!
Keep offering their favorites—they’ll eat like royalty once you arrive.
When Your Cat Feels Car Sick
About 1 in 5 cats get the kitty equivalent of car sickness.
Watch for these SOS signals:
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Excessive yowling (beyond their normal complaints)
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Drooling like they've seen a ghost
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The dreaded vomit warning signs
Your vet can prescribe anti-nausea meds that work wonders for kitty motion sickness.
Don't be a hero – get the meds before your upholstery pays the price!
Taking to the Skies with Your Feline Co-Pilot
For cross-country moves or international adventures, air travel makes more sense.
📢Disclaimer:📢
The info below is up to date as of writing, but airlines and train companies love to change their rules!
Always check with them directly before booking to make sure your cat’s travel plans go smoothly.
Pre-Flight Checklist
Airlines have wildly different pet policies, so do your homework:
Some welcome cats in the cabin (paws up!), while others banish them to the cargo hold (thumbs down).
Always, ALWAYS aim for cabin travel if possible.
Call the airline directly and ask these critical questions:
- "Can my cat sit with me in the cabin?" (The only acceptable answer is "yes!")
Pro Tip: Here are some carriers that allow cats in the cabin (yay!). But make sure to call them and read their policies (just in case!)
- Delta
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
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"What are the exact carrier measurements allowed?" (Down to the last inch!)
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"What paperwork does my kitty need?" (Usually a health certificate)
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"How much will this furry adventure cost me?" (Typically $100-125 each way)
Most United States airlines need:
- A health certificate from your vet (usually within 10 days of travel)
- Proof your cat isn't harboring rabies
- ID tag and microchip (in case your little Houdini attempts an escape)
The Perfect Flying Cat Carrier
For friendly skies, your cat's carrier must:
- Fit under the seat in front of you (usually around 17"x11"x9")
- Be completely leak-proof (airplane carpet stains are forever!)
- Have plenty of mesh sides for your cat to judge everyone boarding
- Give enough wiggle room for basic movement
Soft carriers typically work best for cabin travel.
Look for one with a shoulder strap AND a luggage sleeve – your future self will thank you when you're sprinting between gates.
Line the bottom of the carrier with a pee pad and pack extras.
Most cats won't need them, but if they do, you'll be grateful you planned ahead!
Airport Adventures
Security checkpoints can be particularly dramatic for both of you.
Here's your survival guide:
Helpful Tips (click the arrows to expand)
Arrive extra early
Everything takes twice as long when traveling with a cat.
Lock and secure the carrier
Keep your cat securely zipped in their carrier throughout the airport – except at security when they'll need to come out briefly. If your kitty had leash training, this would definitely come in handy!
Ask for assistance
Request a private screening room if your cat has travel anxiety. TSA agents are usually super accommodating when they see the panic in both your eyes.
Get your documents ready
Have all your cat's paperwork easily accessible in a dedicated folder. Nothing says stress like frantically digging through bags with one hand while clutching a squirmy cat with the other.
Be calm
Try to project zen vibes yourself – cats are emotional sponges. If you're freaking out, your cat will upgrade their stress levels to match yours.
During Your Flight
If your cat is traveling in the cabin with you:
- Tuck their carrier fully under the seat during takeoff and landing
- Resist the urge to free them mid-flight, no matter how pitiful their meows!
- Whisper sweet nothings to them to let them know you haven't abandoned them
- Some flight attendants might let you peek at your cat during smooth cruising (but follow their rules!)
If your cat must travel in cargo (though really try to avoid this!):
- Ask a flight attendant to confirm your cat was loaded
- Choose flights with moderate temperatures at both departure and destination
- Write your contact information on everything, plus tape a photo of your cat to the carrier
- Consider flights that load pets last and unload them first
Related: How Much Does It Cost to Spay a Dog (Or Cat)
All Aboard! Train Travel with Your Cat
Trains offer a happy medium between car and plane options.
The gentle rocking motion can actually be soothing for some cats, and the journey tends to be less stressful than flying.
Before Boarding the Train
- Research train pet policies thoroughly.
- Amtrak, for example, allows cats on trips under 7 hours.
- Many European trains even roll out the red carpet for feline passengers.
Important questions to ask:
- "Are cats welcome on this specific route?" (Not all routes allow pets)
- "Do I need a special ticket for my cat?"
- "Where will my furry passenger need to be during the journey?"
- "Is there a limit on how long we can travel together?"
Here's a quick guide for traveling cat owners:
Cat-Friendly Trains (click the arrows to expand)
1. Amtrak
- Cats must be in an approved pet carrier (max size: 19" x 14" x 10.5")
- Combined weight limit: 20 lbs (pet + carrier)
- Fee: Typically $29–$39, varies by route
- Restrictions: NOT ALLOWED in business class, first class, or sleeping cars
- Reservations required (only 5 pets allowed per train)
2. Brightline (Florida)
- Small cats in carriers are allowed in SMART and PREMIUM classes.
- Fee: Free for carriers under the seat; $39 for larger carriers in a seat.
- Larger pets (outside carriers) are only allowed in PREMIUM class.
3. Some Local & Regional Trains
- Metra (Chicago area) – Small pets in carriers are allowed during non-peak hours.
- MBTA (Boston area) – Cats in carriers are allowed, but conductors have discretion.
- NJ Transit (New Jersey/New York) & Caltrain (California Bay Area)– Cats in secure carriers are allowed.
- SEPTA (Philadelphia area) – Small pets in carriers are allowed on regional rail.
Trains That Do NOT Allow Cats
🚫 Most long-distance & high-speed rail services in the U.S. (e.g., Acela Express) do not allow cats.
🚫 Subways & metros (like NYC Subway, DC Metro) generally allow pets only in carriers.
Note: Always, always ask for the updated policy of your train of choice.
Training Your Cat for Train Travel
Trains make unique sounds and movements that can scare cats.
Try these prep steps:
- Let your cat hang out in their carrier daily in the weeks before travel
- Take short car rides to get them used to motion
- Create a positive association with travel using their favorite treats
- Place something with your scent (like a well-worn t-shirt) in their carrier
During the Train Journey
Seasoned cat travelers recommend:
- Keeping your cat tucked in their carrier throughout the trip
- Requesting a window seat away from high-traffic areas
- Bringing a compact travel litter box for longer journeys
- Offering water in a spill-proof bowl
- Packing familiar items from home to create a comfort bubble in their carrier
Related: The Ultimate Guide To Travelling With Your Dog
Top Tips for Seamless Trips
The Ultimate Cat Travel Packing List
Checklist (click the arrow to expand)
- Cat carrier with their favorite blanket (their scent = security blanket)
- Collapsible food and water bowls (silicone ones fold flat – magical!)
- Enough food for your trip, plus extra (because delays happen!)
- Bottled water (sudden water changes can cause tummy troubles)
- Travel litter box (those disposable ones are the best choice)
- Small bag of their usual litter (now is NOT the time to try that fancy new brand)
- 1-2 favorite toys (the quiet ones, please – your fellow travelers will appreciate it)
- Their cat bed if space allows (another piece of home)
- A cooling pad (if you're traveling by car and want the windows down)
- Basic first aid supplies (ask your vet for recommendations)
- Pee pads and paper towels (hope for the best, prepare for the worst!)
- High-value treats to reward brave behavior
- Grooming brush (stressed cats shed like they're being paid by the hair)
- Calming spray or pheromones (the secret weapon for anxious kitties)
- Any medications your cat takes, plus clear notes on their schedule
Are Those Cat Backpacks Good?
Those bubble-windowed or mesh backpacks you've seen on Instagram can be awesome for the right cat!
They let your adventure kitty see the world while staying secured to your body.
They're especially great for:
- Brief outdoor explorations during travel breaks
- Quick vet visits
- Getting your cat used to the sights and sounds of the outside world
- Giving curious cats fresh air without the risk of escape
When choosing a cat backpack, make sure it:
- Has excellent ventilation (multiple openings)
- Won't turn into a kitty sauna on warm days
- Gives your cat room to move around comfortably
- Has escape-proof zippers that curious paws can't defeat
- Distribute weight evenly across your shoulders
For long journeys, a traditional carrier remains the better choice.
Still, a backpack makes a fun addition for adventurous felines!
Turning Your Homebody Cat into a Travel Buddy
Cats are creatures of habit that thrive in predictable environments.
Here's how to ease them into the travel lifestyle:
- Schedule a vet check-up before any big adventure
- Make sure all vaccinations are up-to-date (many hotels require this!)
- Get proper health certificates if crossing state lines or international borders
- Start carrier training well before your trip (not the night before!)
- Take practice trips, starting with 5-minute drives and gradually increasing
- Introduce a harness and leash for safe exploration during breaks.
Some cats take to this like naturals, others act like you've put them in a straight jacket.
- Double-check that your cat has a collar with ID and an updated microchip
Finding Feline-Friendly Accommodations
Not all "pet-friendly" places welcome cats – many are dog-only zones!
Call ahead and ask specifically:
- "Do you ACTUALLY allow cats in your rooms?" (Be direct!)
- "Is there an extra pet fee?" (Budget for this – it can be $10-50 per night)
- "Can I leave my cat in the room while I grab dinner?" (Important info!)
- "Is there a good spot for a litter box?" (Bathrooms usually work well)
La Quinta and Kimpton hotels are known to be particularly cat-friendly, with some even offering special cat amenities.
(Yes, fancy cat beds and treats exist in some hotels!)
When You Reach Your Destination
Help your cat adjust to their temporary home:
- Set up a quiet room with their familiar stuff as their initial landing zone
- Place their litter box, food, and water in logical spots
- Let them explore at their own pace (forcing a scaredy-cat to "check out" the new place will backfire spectacularly)
- Keep windows and doors securely closed (curious cats + open windows = missing cat posters)
- Stick to their normal feeding schedule as much as possible
- Spend extra quality time with them – you're their security blanket!
When to Leave Your Cat with a Pet Sitter Instead
Sometimes, the kindest option is leaving your cat in their kingdom with a reliable sitter or family member.
Consider this if:
- Your cat turns into a stress monster at the mere sight of their carrier
- They have health issues that make travel risky
- Your destination isn't very cat-friendly
- Your trip is too short to justify turning their world upside down
- The weather conditions could be dangerous during travel
A good cat sitter visiting daily gives you peace of mind while your cat lounges in familiar territory, judging your decor choices as usual.
Special Cat Travel Scenarios
Going International with Your Feline Friend
Taking your cat abroad requires serious planning:
- Research requirements for your specific destination – they vary dramatically!
- Many countries need rabies vaccines given at precise times
- Some have waiting periods between vaccination and entry
- Be prepared for possible quarantine in some locations
- Most countries need standardized microchips for identification
- Start gathering paperwork 3-6 months before international travel
Traveling with a Cat Squad
If you're bringing many feline friends:
- Always use individual carriers – even for bonded cats!
- Position carriers so friendly cats can see each other
- Pack separate sets of supplies (cats are notorious resource guardians)
- Ensure your vehicle has space for multiple carriers secured properly
- Verify your accommodations allow multiple pets (many have limits, usually 2 pets only)
Traveling with Kittens or Senior Cats
Your youngest and oldest travelers need extra TLC:
- Kittens should be at least 8-12 weeks old before major travel
- Senior cats often need more frequent breaks and extra comforts
- Pack any special food or medications they need
- Keep your vet's contact info handy, plus emergency vet locations along your route
- Plan shorter travel days to reduce stress on these vulnerable kitties
Related: Cat Depression Signs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Making Travel Actually Fun (For Both of You!)
The first thing to a successful cat travel is making it positive for everyone involved:
- Keep your attitude upbeat (your cat is reading your emotional cues!)
- Chat with your cat throughout the journey in your most ridiculous voice
- Reward calm behavior with their favorite treats
- Follow your cat's pace whenever possible
- Maintain their usual routines as much as you can
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Make their carrier extra comfy with soft bedding and familiar smells
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Let them safely explore during extended rest stops
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Document your adventures! The photos of your cat looking unimpressed at Mount Rushmore will be priceless!
- With patience and consistent positive experiences, many cats become excellent travel companions.
- While most cats learn to tolerate short trips, some exceptional felines actually develop a taste for adventure!
- Remember, your cat isn't just a pet – they're family.
Happy travels and safe adventures with your feline friend!
Do you have any funny travel adventures with your kitty?
Let us know!
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