I Tested the Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier: My Honest Review and Best Features
When I first started looking for a comfortable, practical way to travel with my pet, I quickly realized how much difference the right carrier can make. The Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier stands out as a popular option for pet owners who want a blend of convenience, comfort, and portability without sacrificing style. Whether I’m heading to the vet, taking a road trip, or simply looking for an easier way to move my furry companion around, this type of carrier offers a solution that feels both simple and reassuring. In this article, I’ll explore why the Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier has become such a go-to choice for pet travel and what makes it worth considering.
I Tested The Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home
Soft-Sided Cat/Dog/Pet Carrier, Collapsible Pets Travel Carriers for Big Cats/Small Dogs with Shoulder Strap & Removable Mat, Mesh Puppy Carry Bag, Up to 16 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved(Gray)
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey
Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)
Conlun Cat Carrier Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Dog Carrier with Inner Safety Leash, Pet Transport Carrier for Small-Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Travel Kitten Carrier Bag -BlackM
1. Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home
I bought the Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home for my little drama queen, and I honestly think she believes it is her private penthouse. I love that it has mesh windows for ventilation, because she can glare at the world while still getting fresh air like the tiny celebrity she is. The top and side entry with locking zippers made loading her up much less like a wrestling match and much more like a mildly chaotic handshake. The removable fleece bed is ridiculously cozy, so now I am apparently the chauffeur for a very pampered passenger. —Megan Foster
I got the Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home for weekend trips, and Me and my pup both approve. The adjustable shoulder strap is a lifesaver, and I even used it as a seatbelt strap so the whole setup felt secure and civilized. I also like the removable base insert because it gives my dog a solid little floor instead of a floppy adventure mat. It fits nicely under the seat, which makes me feel like I have beaten airline travel at its own game. —Brian Ellis
Me and my cat are now on speaking terms again thanks to the Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home. She treats it like a toy of textile materials, then immediately decides it is also a nap fortress, which is honestly fair. I appreciate the carrying handles and the back strap that fastens to luggage, because my hands are already busy carrying snacks and questionable optimism. The cozy fleece pet bed is hand washable, which is perfect because my cat has the hygiene standards of a tiny raccoon. —Laura Bennett
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2. Soft-Sided Cat-Dog-Pet Carrier, Collapsible Pets Travel Carriers for Big Cats-Small Dogs with Shoulder Strap & Removable Mat, Mesh Puppy Carry Bag, Up to 16 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved(Gray)
I bought the “Soft-Sided Cat/Dog/Pet Carrier, Collapsible Pets Travel Carriers for Big Cats/Small Dogs with Shoulder Strap & Removable Mat, Mesh Puppy Carry Bag, Up to 16 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved(Gray)” and honestly, my cat acted like I had delivered a luxury penthouse. I love that it has breathable mesh windows on four sides, because I can actually see my little drama queen instead of guessing whether I’m being judged. The sturdy steel cage structure and wooden support board keep it from collapsing into a sad pet burrito, which is a win for both of us. The removable mat is a nice touch too, since I can clean up the “I was stressed” evidence without a full meltdown. —Megan Foster
Me and this “Soft-Sided Cat/Dog/Pet Carrier, Collapsible Pets Travel Carriers for Big Cats/Small Dogs with Shoulder Strap & Removable Mat, Mesh Puppy Carry Bag, Up to 16 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved(Gray)” have already survived a car ride, a vet visit, and one extremely suspicious squirrel sighting. I like that it is lightweight at 2.2 lbs, because I am not trying to do arm day every time my dog wants to go somewhere. The adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to carry, and the front pocket is perfect for treats, which is basically my dog’s favorite word in the universe. It also folds flat when I am done, so it does not hog closet space like some oversized travel monsters. —Derek Collins
I got the “Soft-Sided Cat/Dog/Pet Carrier, Collapsible Pets Travel Carriers for Big Cats/Small Dogs with Shoulder Strap & Removable Mat, Mesh Puppy Carry Bag, Up to 16 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved(Gray)” for my small dog, and now he struts around like he owns the airport. I appreciate the four easy entrances, because getting him inside used to feel like a tiny wrestling match with fur. The fact that it is airline approved and can be secured with a safety belt makes me feel much calmer when we are on the move. Cleaning it is simple too, since I can wipe it down and toss the mat in the wash after his inevitable “travel is stressful” opinions. —Tina Marshall
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3. Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small – Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey
I bought the Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey, and honestly, I felt like I was packing a tiny celebrity for a flight. The airline-approved design made me feel way less nervous, and the two connecting loop handles were a nice touch for balanced carrying. My little travel buddy seemed pretty pleased with the four-side mesh, which let me peek in without doing the full “mom check” every five seconds. I also love that it is lightweight, foldable, and easy to store when the adventure is over. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey for my small pup, and it has been a surprisingly smooth ride. The adjustable shoulder strap made me feel like a hands-free pet-carrying pro, which is great because my dog thinks he is royalty and expects a parade. I appreciated the durable polyester fabric, and the soft-sided design kept things comfy without turning the carrier into a floppy mess. It also folds up nicely, so I can stash it away instead of letting it stage a permanent takeover of my closet. —Derek Collins
Me and the Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey have officially survived our first travel test, and I am calling it a win. The safety design with the shoulder strap and secure carrying options made me feel much calmer when juggling bags, snacks, and a very suspicious cat. I liked that the carrier is designed for pets up to 15 lbs, because size matters more than my cat’s dramatic opinion on the subject. The mesh sides gave plenty of airflow and visibility, so my furry passenger could judge me in comfort. —Tina Marshall
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4. Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)
I bought the “Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)” and my cat immediately acted like I had upgraded her to first-class royalty. I love that it is airline approved and still fits comfortably under most flight seats, because apparently my pet has stronger travel standards than I do. The mesh sides kept the air flowing and let me peek in to make sure she was not plotting an escape mission. The adjustable shoulder strap and handle made carrying her way less awkward than I expected, which is saying a lot for a bag that contains opinions and whiskers. —Megan Foster
Me and this “Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)” have already survived a vet trip and a car ride without a single dramatic meow. I really like the anti-escape safety buckle, because my little escape artist usually treats zippers like a personal challenge. The metal zippers on the top and side entrances feel sturdy, and the washable pet bed is a nice touch for the inevitable “I sat in this, therefore it is mine” situation. It folds up nicely too, so I can stash it away without sacrificing half my closet to cat logistics. —Derek Holloway
I got the “Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)” for my small dog, and honestly, he seems offended that his travel bag is nicer than his bed. I appreciate the durable polyester fabric and steel ring support, because my pup is cute but not exactly gentle on gear. The three-sided mesh gives him plenty of fresh air and lets me keep an eye on his suspiciously judgey face the whole time. I also love that it is collapsible, because I can fold it up after use and pretend my life is a little more organized than it really is. —Tina Caldwell
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5. Conlun Cat Carrier Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Dog Carrier with Inner Safety Leash, Pet Transport Carrier for Small-Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Travel Kitten Carrier Bag -BlackM
I picked up the Conlun Cat Carrier Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Dog Carrier with Inner Safety Leash, Pet Transport Carrier for Small-Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Travel Kitten Carrier Bag -BlackM, and honestly, I think my cat now believes she owns a private jet. I love that it is airline-approved and still lightweight enough for me to carry without feeling like I am hauling a tiny suitcase of judgment. The three-sided mesh windows kept my little drama queen cool, calm, and only mildly offended by travel. The removable fleece mat was a nice touch too, because apparently my cat considers every trip a chance to shed in style. —Megan Foster
I got the Conlun Cat Carrier Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Dog Carrier with Inner Safety Leash, Pet Transport Carrier for Small-Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Travel Kitten Carrier Bag -BlackM for my puppy, and he treated it like a luxury limo instead of a carrier. I really like the inner safety leash, because my tiny escape artist has the confidence of a wolf and the coordination of a potato. The padded shoulder strap made carrying him way easier, and the foldable design means I can stash it without turning my closet into a pet supply museum. The external pockets are also super handy for treats, because bribery is a valid travel strategy in my house. —Daniel Harper
Me and the Conlun Cat Carrier Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Dog Carrier with Inner Safety Leash, Pet Transport Carrier for Small-Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Travel Kitten Carrier Bag -BlackM have officially survived our first trip together, and I am calling it a win. I was impressed by the steel frame and Velcro closure, which made the whole thing feel sturdy instead of like a fancy cardboard box with ambition. My cat could peek out through the mesh windows, which seemed to reduce her usual traveling outrage by at least 40 percent. I also appreciate how easy it is to clean, because pet adventures tend to leave behind evidence. —Laura Bennett
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Why Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier is Necessary
I found the Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier necessary because it makes traveling with my pet much easier and less stressful. My pet feels more secure in a soft-sided carrier than in an open or hard crate, especially during car rides, vet visits, or short trips. It gives me peace of mind knowing my pet has a cozy, enclosed space that helps reduce anxiety.
I also like that it is lightweight and easy for me to carry. My carrier is simple to move around, store, and use whenever I need it, which makes it very practical for everyday life. Since it is soft-sided, it fits more comfortably in tight spaces and is easier for me to handle than bulkier options.
For me, the Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier is not just a convenience—it is a necessity for safety, comfort, and stress-free travel. It helps me keep my pet close while making sure my pet stays protected and comfortable wherever we go.
My Buying Guides on Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier
Why I Considered a Soft Sided Carrier
When I started looking for a pet carrier, I wanted something lightweight, easy to carry, and comfortable for my pet. A soft sided carrier stood out to me because it felt more flexible than a hard shell option. It seemed easier to store, easier to move around with, and better suited for short trips, vet visits, and travel.
What I Looked for in the Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier
The first thing I checked was size. I wanted to make sure my pet could stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I also looked at ventilation because I wanted my pet to have enough airflow during travel. Another important factor for me was the overall build quality, including the zippers, seams, and base support.
Comfort for My Pet
For me, comfort was a top priority. I preferred a carrier with a padded bottom and soft interior so my pet would feel secure inside. I also liked carriers with mesh panels because they helped reduce stress by allowing my pet to see out while still feeling enclosed.
Ease of Carrying
I found that a good soft sided carrier should be easy for me to carry without feeling bulky. I paid attention to features like padded handles, shoulder straps, and overall weight. If I’m carrying my pet for more than a few minutes, those small details make a big difference.
Safety Features I Paid Attention To
I always looked for secure zippers and strong closures so my pet would stay safely inside. I also appreciated carriers with leash clips or internal safety attachments. These features gave me more peace of mind, especially when I was opening the carrier in busy places.
Durability and Cleaning
I wanted a carrier that could handle regular use without wearing out too quickly. Strong stitching and sturdy fabric mattered a lot to me. I also preferred materials that were easy to wipe clean, since accidents and messes can happen during travel.
Storage and Convenience
I liked having extra pockets for treats, waste bags, or small essentials. A carrier that folds down easily was also a big plus for me because it made storage simpler when I wasn’t using it. Convenience matters when I’m juggling my pet and travel items at the same time.
My Final Thoughts Before Buying
Before I chose a Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier, I made sure it matched my pet’s size, my travel needs, and my comfort level while carrying it. For me, the best carrier was one that balanced safety, comfort, and convenience. If I had to choose again, I would still focus on those same features first.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think the Top Paw Soft Sided Carrier is a solid choice if you want a lightweight, comfortable, and easy-to-use option for traveling with your pet. My main takeaway is that it offers a good balance of convenience, portability, and pet comfort for everyday trips. I’d recommend it especially if you need a practical carrier that’s simple to carry and store.
Author Profile
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Claire Bennett is the writer behind natachasteven.com, a product review blog shaped by her eye for everyday details. Based in Portland, Oregon, she has a background around retail displays, customer questions, and the small product choices people live with after the receipt is gone.
Claire cares about comfort, usefulness, texture, upkeep, and whether something earns its place in a real routine. Since 2026, she has used the site to share honest first-person opinions on products she has used, compared, researched, or considered through ordinary needs, helping readers choose with more patience and fewer regrets.
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