Trendy New Bicycle Baskets Replace the Backpack for Pets

by Mary Simpson

Published: April 11th, 2025

trendy new bicycle baskets are the new backpack for pets

(photo credit: Stas Walenga / shutterstock.com)

Not since the formidable Miss Gulch rode away with wee Toto in tow in that classic Wizard of Oz movie, has the bicycle basket enjoyed such a newfound following. For those conscious of the environment, cycling is a great alternative to hopping into a car to run errands while those who love to push the pedals toward a healthier lifestyle, swear by hitting the open road on a two-wheeler. Now, many of these same people are pet owners and when it comes to heading out without the little guy, it doesn’t have to mean leaving him at home.

Today’s bicycle baskets offer a wide range of options that are sturdy, lightweight and perfectly sized to hold any small dog that’s keen to join in on the outdoor adventure. The trick is to find the right basket carrier to suit your needs.

What to look for in a bicycle basket

This is an area where one-size-fits-all couldn’t be further from the truth. When it comes to investing in a mounted basket for your pooch, you need to ensure that it’s designed to hold his weight and size. Purchasing something too compact is not only dangerous for you both but downright uncomfortable for him to travel any distance.
Comfort is key and seeking out a basket option with a solid, flat base is important. Your pet is going to want to sit while taking in the sights and sounds and if the basket base shifts and folds up on him, he’s going to be inclined to want to jump out.
Which leads to safety. You want a basket that not only has a sturdy mounting system that won’t wobble on your bike handles but that also has the ability to secure your pet in place with a leash clip or over-top covering. Distractions such as other dogs, squirrels, or birds can result in him trying to dart. Make sure he can’t.
Construction is important. You want a lightweight option that is not only durable but also weather-resistant to protect your pet from the elements while ventilating to keep him from overheating on those warm summer outings.

What’s so great about this pet bike basket from Donant is that it covers all the bases when it comes to comfort and safety. The interior lining is padded and removable for an always-clean surface and features a leash clip to keep your pet in place. And, not only is this sturdy dog carrier perfect for safely toting pooches (or cats) up to 20 pounds in weight) but a roll-type cover closes up to protect from rain and wind. Front and side mesh panels are ideal for viewing the world from a cozy space while a D-ring and side pockets are perfect for stashing treats, cards, phones and more while out on your amazing adventure.

High-energy pooch? No problem with this detachable bike carrier basket by Urbest. Constructed from super-durable Oxford fabric and using a lightweight aluminum frame, this easy-to-install pet carrier makes settling your little guy (up to 11 pounds) into the roomy carrier pouch, totally stress-free. Soft fabric handles are integrated into the front and back of the waterproof tote-style carrier and that makes it easy to load him up indoors and then transport both unit and pooch out to your bicycle. What you’ll love is that this comfy fabric carrier snaps into place in one easy motion. That’s because the entire bracket mounting system remains attached to your handlebars and features a quick-release button that allows for easy loading and unloading.

What exactly does a unisex bike dog carrier mean? It has nothing to do with the basket and everything to do with the style of bike you ride. Typically, these carriers require a certain style of bike with a deeper distance between handlebars and the front wheel to accommodate the depth of the basket. In other words, they’re not suited to mountain or racer styles of bike. But with this clever little dog basket, the mounting hardware allows you to attach the unit to either the front handlebars or the top tube on a women’s style bike. And, in addition to a cozy, padded carrier complete with a safety clip, you get the metal grid-style basket frame that surrounds the softer liner. Meaning total stability and making this one oh-so-perfect for mini mutts up to 10 pounds.

When your wee passenger is a little nervous about exploring al fresco, why not check out this covered basket carrier for dogs that lets him choose whether he wants to be sitting out in the open or tucked in and viewing the world from behind the mesh hood? This neat little set-up is also perfect for protecting your little buddy from rain or sun once you’ve hit the open road. It folds flat so its easy to pack and take when travelling away from home includes a bike excursion. I love that mesh pockets on both sides of this dog carrier are roomy enough to tuck the essentials – which of course includes treats. Sturdy enough to hold dogs (or cats) up to 16 pounds and with a plush liner and removable mat for easy cleaning, this one is definitely ticking a lot of those boxes.

You will seriously turn heads when you head out with the fur-kid tucked into this gorgeous carnation pink dog carrier basket from Barkbay. And, yes, this durable Oxford cloth transporter is also available in classic blue and titanium grey for pets of the non-female persuasion. From a safety standpoint, not only does it include a clip plus elasticized tether that attaches to your pet’s harness but a drawstring mesh closure to keep him/her safely tucked inside. Side mesh vents are ideal for cross circulation while the wide front panel on this carrier rolls up to not only offer a view from your bike but a little extra breeze as well. It’s the perfect choice for pets up to 15 pounds and pet owners who like to show off their fun sense of style.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and 2 felines who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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