Is it possible to travel with a cat? Really fuck! We are proof that it is possible and Yoda makes our adventures around the world more rewarding.
But we’ve definitely found that having the right cat travel gear can make all the difference when it comes to helping furry explorers feel safe and comfortable.
In fact, it is one of the most important tips we give when asked how to get a cat into the habit of traveling.
So we decided to create a file Cat travel gear list For new adventurous cats, I recommend all the items you’ll need to fly, drive, or hike your way around the world with your furry friend by your side.
These items can help train your cat to travel like a pro and make your life as a pet parent 100 times easier.
Cat Travel Gear List
Every cat travel kit should include:
- Transporter
- Travel Dishes (and Food)
- water carrier (and fresh water)
- bed
- Cat travel litter box/tray
- cat backpack with window
- leash and harness
- Travel friendly games
- first aid bag
- Basic Documents
We’ll share our personal favorites for these below, covering all the best travel gear for cats, plus some important tips along the way. To prepare you and your feline friend a calm and enjoyable journey!
But first – how do we choose our travel favorites? Paul, Yoda, and I have certain standards that we would like to adhere to:
- the cat – We choose products made specifically for cats, with their well-being in mind. We choose items aimed at their safety and happiness, allowing them to satisfy their natural desires in healthy ways.
- Environmentally friendly – We always try to find the most sustainable options, with the health of the earth in mind. While no one is ever perfect, our choices can make a difference – so we reflect that in our suggestions.
- can be reached – We all love spoiling our pets, but this can mean something different to each of us. So we have included a range of options at various prices, to include all cat lovers in our community.
1. cat carriers
While you might not think you need a carrier if you’re heading in an RV, even when you’re not traveling by plane, a cat carrier can come in handy. You never know when you might need to see the vet, or need to contain your cat for some other reason.
This is why I love the ultra-strong and lightweight options. Bonus points if it folds too!
Our multi-level favorite is Peanut’s Airline approved soft-sided pet carrier. It’s great for pet parents looking to get good value for money, a foldable and expandable option, and is airline approved!
If you want more carrier and mobile options, check out our website A guide to the best cat carriers.
My other main tip? If you’re traveling very light, a cat backpack can double as a carrierโฆ Check out our cat backpack recommendations below.

2. Travel dishes
For travel dishes, you want something that’s light, easy to pack, and sturdy enough to keep up with your adventures!
If you are hiking or out on the road, the best way to go is with a collapsible bowl. I love the SLSON Simple Collapse Pot, again because it’s really lightweight, durable (so it lasts) and easy to clean. Plus it has a handy clip, so if you want easy access or can’t squeeze it anywhere, you’re covered!
If you’re into an RV or RV, you may want a durable solution that’s still travel-friendly. That’s why I recommend a light, non-slip bowl. This option is from alley Gorgeous because its low brim is filament friendly, and made from durable, sustainable bamboo. The sturdy rubber pads secure the bowl from the bottom as well.
Read our tips for cat wild rides ๐
For an extra dash of travel safety, I sometimes add a non-slip mat too – for those rocky rides! this is bohemian pet food mat He is a winner on all fronts. It’s made of recyclable materials, is waterproof and super cute (bingo!).
3. Water carrier
It is always important to have fresh water when traveling, especially on long trips. So a good pet water bottle is at the top of my list of cat car travel accessories.
I love this pet water bottleBecause it has a large capacity and easy carrying options. This means that you will get the most out of each refill without weighing you down.
Most importantly, it is BPA free, the parts can be separated easily for cleaning and is also recyclable.
Although it is designed for dogs, I also love Kong Stainless steel options – especially for hot climates. It’s a little bulkier, but it keeps the water cold for a very long time, which can really help your furry kitty on a hot day! The clip means you can attach it to your belt for hiking, too.
Note – It is always a good idea to confirm the level of cleanliness and hygiene in your drinking water before filling the bottle.
4. Bedding
Traveling for a long day leads to a lot of nap time in the future. Comfortable, non-bulky and supportive bedding is key to helping your cat feel comfortable, wherever she is.
This is manually Fleece pet bed It is a great choice for campers and RVs because it is small, lightweight and washable. But it’s also strong enough to provide support and soft enough to provide plenty of comfort for your cat.
If you need something a little more adventure friendly, this is pet travel blanket Roll into a tight ball. Another plus is that it’s water-resistant on one side, should you need it!

5. Travel cat litter
Probably the hardest part of traveling with a cat is toilet time, right? Well, we’ve got you covered! Check out our RV & Camper guides for those recommendations. But for everything in between…
this is Stress-free portable A litter box is like changing the rules of the game. It’s another lightweight and foldable piece too, so you can bring it anywhere and unfold it as needed.
Plus, the waterproof lining facilitates leak-free cleaning and use. Phew!
Disposable boxes may sound like no, but kitty crane The bins are made from recycled paper, which means they are compostable when you’re done using them – it’s really amazing! We also reviewed Nature’s Miracle’s disposable litter box, and loved it! It is very long lasting and uses built in baking soda to keep odors at bay.
Do you really want to keep clutter to a minimum? Read our guide to Best cat litter mats.
6. Cat Backpack
Perfect for sightseeing together, we love a cat backpack with window or opening options so your cat can watch the world go by. Yoda loves it!
We own Mister Peanuts back bag We love it for the following reasons:
- They can carry up to 15 pounds, so large cat breeds can enjoy riding them on your back.
- It has a harness clip, so your cat can go in/out their heads safely.
- It is comfortable to wear, even on long trips and trips.
At around $50-60 (as of 2021), it’s great value for money! We even use it as a carrier in the plane.
Don’t forget that your next option for outdoor exploration is coming next…
We’ve got plenty of other backpack options to fit your style and budget here: 10 Best Cat Backpacks for Adventurous Cats.
and us 12 Do’s and Don’ts in Backpacking With a Cat!
7. Leash and harness
When it comes to travel, we’re always on the lookout for the next best cat litter so Yoda can join our local exploration. We look for seat belts that are secure yet easy to wear, durable, not bulky, and comfortable but Always elegant! ๐
We recently reviewed the Supakit Vegan Cork Cat Harness, because for us it checked all of our boxes. We used it extensively while visiting Guadeloupe and it worked very well
Environmentally friendly materials, a company that gives back to the cat community and products designed specifically for adventurous cats. Plus we loved the way it fit – which allowed Yoda a lot of freedom and comfort.
Supakit also makes handlebars that are strong, durable, comfortable to carry and allow for all kinds of adventures. They even have a great retractable option which is great for allowing your cat more freedom.
For more options, see our guide to 5 best cat harnesses for adventurous cats.

8. Travel friendly gameplay
Keeping your cats entertained is just as important when they’re on the road. Especially if you are indoors for a short or longer period of time.
It’s great to bring it A few of your favorite kitty with youThis can help them feel at home wherever you are. But choose wisely – it is probably best to leave anything heavy behind and only take your small toys.
A recyclable or compostable scratch pad, like this one 3 in 1 scratch padsThey are a great way to keep your fill light on while also allowing your cat to do the all-important claw sharpening!
On your way, you can also use any leftover cardboard food, such as toilet rolls or boxes, to create eco-friendly fort toys or treat dispensers for your feline friend.
9. First aid kit
It always pays to be prepared, and adding to your first aid kit with a few specific supplies for cats is always at the top of my packing list.
Including some pet safe bandages, disinfectant and duct tape is a must.
If you’d rather have a complete custom package for your furry friend, Pet Pocket First Aid Products Comes in a handy clip bag. It’s designed to be easy to transport, but contains enough essentials to help you feel calm and prepared in the event of an accident.
10. Basic documents
Packing’s biggest nightmare? You’re trying to find your passport because the boarding gate is closing – right!?
That’s why we keep everything about Yoda in a secure water proof document holder, so I can keep both my and important Paul’s & Yoda’s information easily accessible and super secure.
Want more details about what documents to pack?
Add-ons
Depending on your chosen location, whether it’s a mountain pass or a city beach break, how you plan to get there, a road trip in an RV or traveling with a pet-friendly airline โ your list of tools may change.
The list above covers all the basics, but for those with specific destinations, activities, or needs in mind, here are the additions you might consider adding to your cat travel kit list:
- pet wipes – Our biodegradable wet wipes can be an eco-friendly option to keep your cat clean and hygienic during their travels.
- Life jacket – Kayaking or boating? Your cat will need a life jacket too!
- cold bag – If you are feeding to preserve the freshness of food, it is best to have a cold bag to keep your meals at a safe temperature. I love these Small washable bags Because it is easy to pack.
- trolley – uber is useful for large cats or domestic breaks. We’ve written a blog about why strollers rock, with a buying guide included too!
- Relaxing music and natural supplements – In our post on 10 Ways to Calm My Cat Down for Travel, we discuss how training and natural aids can help keep your feline friend happier from sedation. Soothing scents like pet-safe lavender oil or CBD drops can help if you have a nervous cat.
And there you have it! Our ultimate guide to essential travel accessories for cats. We hope you find the perfect addition to your packing list, one that will see you through so many amazing adventures together. any questions? Or your travel tips? We love to hear them ๐
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