MASKEYON Expandable Carrier Review: The Airline Carrier Worth Buying
The MASKEYON Expandable Carrier fits under airline seats, gives your pet extra room when expanded, and has thoughtful features like safety tethers and ventilation. After three flights, it's held up well and made flying with my dog significantly less stressful. For small pets under 15 lbs, it's my top recommendation.
Skip to our picksFlying with a pet is already stressful. The last thing you need is a carrier that doesn't fit, falls apart, or makes your pet miserable.
I researched carriers obsessively before my first flight with my Maltese mix. The MASKEYON kept coming up as a top pick. Three flights later, I can confirm—it earned that reputation.
What Is the MASKEYON Expandable Carrier?
The MASKEYON is a soft-sided pet carrier designed for airline cabin use. Its standout feature is the expandable sides—zip them open and your pet gets significantly more room. Zip them closed, and it fits under standard airline seats.
Key features:
- Expandable design (collapses for under-seat, expands for extra room)
- Airline approved dimensions (17.5" x 11" x 11" collapsed)
- Multiple mesh ventilation panels
- Top and side openings for easy pet access
- Built-in safety tether
- Fleece pad included
- Shoulder strap and carrying handles
MASKEYON Expandable Soft-Sided Airline Carrier
Check price on Amazon3 Flights: What I Learned
Flight 1: Delta, Boeing 737
My biggest fear was the carrier not fitting. It did—with room to spare under the seat in front of me. The soft sides compress slightly, which actually helps. Once we were at altitude, I unzipped one side to give my dog more room.
Flight 2: United, Airbus A320
Different plane, same result. Fit under the seat without issue. The ventilation mesh kept air flowing, and my dog could see out without being too exposed.
Flight 3: Southwest, Boeing 737 MAX
Southwest seats have notoriously tight under-seat space. The carrier still fit—just barely. The soft sides made the difference.
What My Dog Thought
My Maltese is 9 pounds and fits comfortably with room to move. When expanded, she can stand, turn around, and lie in different positions. When collapsed for under-seat, she has to lie down but doesn't seem distressed.
Features she (and I) appreciate:
- The fleece pad is actually comfortable (she uses it at home too)
- Mesh on all sides means good visibility and airflow
- The safety tether clips to her harness—essential if someone opens the carrier unexpectedly
- Top opening makes it easy to comfort her during the flight
Who Should Buy This?
- Anyone flying with a small pet (under 15 lbs typically)
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Durable hard-sided kennel with ventilation slots for car travel and vet visits.
- Pet owners who want expandable space options
- People who travel frequently with pets
- Those tired of rigid carriers that barely fit
It's not for large pets—this is strictly for small dogs and cats. Check weight limits and measure your pet before buying.
The Honest Pros and Cons
Pros
- Actually fits under airline seats
- Expandable sides give extra room when possible
- Well-ventilated—pet stays comfortable
- Built-in safety tether is a great feature
- Durable construction (3 flights, no wear)
Cons
- Only works for small pets
- Expanded mode is too big for under-seat use
- Shoulder strap could be more padded
- Price is mid-range (not budget)
Tips for Flying Success
- Practice at home—let your pet get used to the carrier before travel day
- Always use the safety tether
- Bring extra pads in case of accidents
- Keep the carrier under the seat in front of you (required by most airlines)
- Expand the sides during layovers for extra comfort
Pro tip: Check your specific airline's pet carrier dimensions before you book. They vary, and MASKEYON fits most but not necessarily all.
The Bottom Line
The MASKEYON Expandable Carrier does exactly what it should: fits under airline seats, keeps your pet comfortable, and survives the chaos of travel. The expandable feature is genuinely useful—not a gimmick.
My verdict: Best airline carrier I've used for my small dog. Three flights without issues, good ventilation, smart safety features, and durable enough to last.
If you're flying with a small pet and want something reliable, this is the one I recommend.
🏆✅ Our Recommendation: MASKEYON Expandable Soft-Sided Airline Carrier
Expandable soft carrier with extra room when you need it and airline-friendly dimensions.
