Does the thought of traveling with your furry best friend fill you with excitement, or does the worry about their safety and comfort in transit keep you up at night? For many pet owners, packing for a trip means more than just suitcases; it involves finding the perfect, secure haven for their dog. Choosing the right travel crate feels like a major puzzle. You worry about airline regulations, whether the crate is strong enough, and if your dog will actually feel safe inside it rather than stressed out. It’s a big decision that impacts both your peace of mind and your dog’s well-being on the road or in the air.
Navigating the world of travel crates can be confusing. You need something sturdy, properly ventilated, and sized just right—not too big, not too small. This guide cuts through the noise. We break down the must-have features, explain the different types available, and offer clear tips so you can select a crate that makes travel smooth and secure. Get ready to ditch the guesswork and find the ideal travel home for your companion.
Top Dog Crates For Travel Recommendations
- Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling, includes a Small dog crate made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight yet sturdy frame
- Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage;2 doors (top and front) for easy loading and unloading
- Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way; mesh windows and front door provide ventilation on all 4 sides
- Recommended for medium sized breeds such as Blue Heelers and Golden Retrievers (50 lbs)
- Product dimensions: 29.92"L x 21.3"W x 21.3''H (LxWxH)
- Foldable Design for Easy Transport: This soft dog crate features a foldable function, allowing for effortless unfolding and folding. Equipped with a convenient handle, it is easy to store and transport. Whether using it at home or while traveling, it saves valuable space and provides a comfortable living environment for your pet.
- Stable Structure and High-quality Materials: Made with high-strength iron pipes and high-quality 600D Oxford fabric, this collapsible dog crate is both lightweight and sturdy. The Oxford fabric is long-lasting, tear-tough, and convenient to clean, ensuring the crate's long-term durability.
- Good Ventilation: The dog crate includes three breathable mesh windows that provide ample airflow, keeping your pet comfortable inside. The mesh design allows you to easily observe your pet's condition, enhancing their sense of security and comfort. Additionally, you can unzip the door to roll up the mesh, allowing your dog to come and go freely.
- Detail-Oriented Design: Built-in safety leash secures your pet's collar, keeping them securely in the crate. The soft plush pad inside provides a comfortable relaxation space. The soft dog crate also features an external storage pocket for placing toys or treats during outings.
- Multiple Size Options: Available in three sizes to accommodate different breeds, from small to large dogs. Before purchasing, please measure your dog’s standing length, width, and height and refer to the size chart in the images to ensure you choose the correct size.
- Quick Setup & Collapse: Assemble this portable dog crate in just 30 seconds—no tools needed. Easily fold it for storage in your car or at home, making it perfect for travel or indoor use, and always ready for your dog's comfort
- Well-Ventilated & Comfortable: With 4 mesh doors, this travel dog crate lets your pet enjoy fresh air. The thick fleece pad provides a comfy spot to rest, at home or on the go
- Built Tough, Travels Safe: Made of a robust steel frame and scratch- and tear-resistant Oxford fabric, the soft dog crate is designed for durability. Safety zippers ensure pets can't open it from the inside, and reflective strips add extra safety
- Easy Cleaning, Handy Storage: Water-resistant Oxford fabric wipes clean easily. The fleece pad is removable for cleaning (inner padding not washable). A pocket keeps essentials within reach
- Pick the Right Size: This 36" x 25" x 25" dog kennel fits large dogs up to 78 lb. Measure your pet in advance for the ideal size
- Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling
- Includes an XL dog crate made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight yet sturdy steel frame
- Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage
- 2 doors (top and front) for easy loading and unloading
- Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way
- Space-Saving Foldable Design: This collapsible dog crate features a innovative foldable design, allowing it to be stored flat when not in use. Perfect for small apartments or homes with limited space, it ensures easy storage without sacrificing functionality.
- Easy Mobility with Wheels & Handles: Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles on both sides, this pet crate offers effortless mobility. Move your dog cage around the house or during travel with minimal effort. Ideal for repositioning in your living room, patio, or vehicle.
- Durable & Escape-Proof Construction: Made from reinforced hard plastic and strong metal wire, this heavy-duty dog crate ensures maximum security. The robust design prevents escapes and provides a safe, den-like environment for your dog. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing for modern homes.
- Secure & User-Friendly Lock Mechanism: Features squeeze-latch locks on the door for quick and secure closure. These locks are easy for owners to operate but prevent clever dogs from opening them. Set up and fold down the crate in seconds with no tools required.
- Multi-Scenario Use & Travel Ready: Designed for versatile use - whether as a cozy indoor dog house, a travel crate for road trips, or a temporary containment space outdoors. The medium-size crate fits comfortably in most mid-to-large SUV trunks, making it perfect for adventures and daily use alike.
- Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or medium size dog weighing 12 - 20 pounds
- Durable plastic construction with steel wire doors; screws keep the top and bottom sections securely connected
- Spring load latches ensure easy one-handed door opening and closing; top door swings open to the left or right and includes a top carry handle
- Plenty of air ventilation on the sides, top, and back of the carrier
- Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
- 【Large Capacity & Portable】Portable small dog crate: 24*17*17inch, perfect for large cat, two cats or small dogs(e.g., Malteese, Boston Terrier, Mini Schnauzer, etc.). Hold pets up to 12-30 pounds (More Space, More Freedom, More Love!). The soft dog crate sets up and folds down effortlessly in seconds—no tools needed—making it ideal for storage and travel.
- 【Sturdy & Anti-collision protection】Made with strong & lightweight steel frame, rugged 600D Oxford cloth, and hex mesh fabric. There are anti-collision protection pads on the four corners to protect the pet cage from wearing and tearing, as well as protect home decoration and car interiors.
- 【360°Ventilation & Multi-Door Access】Four-sided mesh panels ensure excellent airflow and a clear view for your pet, while three secure doors allow freedom to enter and exit. Ideal for road trips or vet visits—especially in SUVs or midsize vehicles. Please note: this puppy crate is not designed for compact cars or airline travel.
- 【Comfortable & Thoughtful Add-Ons】The soft collapsible dog crate for travel is equipped with a soft mat for extra comfort, which is removable & washable. What's more, you'll find a cozy blanket and a foldable travel bowl. These extras help keep your pet comfortable and content during adventures near and far.
- 【Secure & User-Friendly Features】 A adjustable leash attached to your pup’s collar and lockable zippers on the door can keep the pet secure inside. The top handle offers easy carrying, and side pockets store toys or treats. Not recommended for persistent chewers or escape-prone pets—mesh and zipper may be damaged by determined scratching or biting.
- Sturdy Plastic Dog Crate: Securely and safely protect your pet and your home with this small dog crate that features an easy-open latch to secure the sturdy wire door, and durable fold-down handle making carrying this dog travel crate a breeze
- Suitable for Pets 20-25 lbs: Pet Kennel exterior dimensions - 26" L x 18.6" W x 16.5" H; Interior dimensions - 23.8" L x 17" W x 15.5" H. Product weight – 5 lbs. If in doubt, buy a size up. Available in four colors. No tools required for assembly
- Airline Friendly Dog Carrier: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications. This travel dog crate also has ventilation on 4 sides. Includes built in storage for additional pet identification
- Easy to Keep Clean: Sturdy plastic shell on this dog carrier is easy to clean, with stay-dry moat that surrounds the interior to pulls fluids away from your pet in case of wet accidents, making it a great puppy carrier or kennel trainer for housebreaking
- For Pets and Pet Parents: Petmate provides everyday essentials for pet parents, dogs, cats and other pets such as: litter box accessories, pet toys, cat cages, dog cages, gravity water/food bowls, dog cages, pet beds, puppy crates, cat carriers and more!
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Crates for Travel
Taking your furry friend along for adventures requires the right gear. A good travel dog crate keeps your dog safe and comfortable, whether you are driving across town or flying across the country. This guide will help you pick the perfect travel companion for your pup.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at these important features. They make a big difference in safety and ease of use.
- Ventilation: Your dog needs fresh air! Look for crates with plenty of wire mesh or large ventilation holes on multiple sides. Good airflow keeps your dog cool and calm.
- Security and Latching: The door must lock securely. A weak latch can mean an escape artist dog, which is dangerous during travel. Sturdy metal bolts or strong locking mechanisms are best.
- Portability: How easy is it to carry? Many travel crates fold flat. Check the weight, especially if you have to carry the crate long distances at the airport.
- Size: This is crucial for safety. Your dog must be able to stand up fully, turn around easily, and lie down naturally inside the crate. Measure your dog before you buy!
2. Important Materials Matter
The material of the crate affects its strength, weight, and how long it lasts.
Hard-Sided Crates
These are usually made from heavy-duty plastic or aluminum. Plastic crates offer excellent protection against bumps and impacts. Aluminum crates are often lighter but very strong. They are the preferred choice for air travel because they offer maximum crush protection.
Soft-Sided Crates
These use strong fabric, like heavy-duty nylon or polyester, often supported by a lightweight metal or fiberglass frame. They fold up very small, making them great for small cars or storage. However, they offer less protection against rough handling.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. Small details show if a crate is built well.
Quality Boosters
- Reinforced Corners: Crates with reinforced corners handle rough transport better.
- Rust-Resistant Hardware: If you travel in wet weather, metal parts that resist rust will last much longer.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Accidents happen. A smooth floor or a removable, washable mat improves the user experience greatly.
Quality Reducers (Things to Avoid)
- Flimsy Zippers: On soft crates, small or weak zippers break easily. Always choose crates with large, heavy-duty zippers.
- Sharp Edges: Run your hand over the plastic or metal edges. Sharp spots can hurt your dog.
- Excessive Weight: A crate that is too heavy reduces its usefulness for frequent travelers.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the crate most often.
Car Travel
If you drive often, a crate that securely straps down is essential. Look for crates with tie-down points. For long car rides, comfort is key; you might want extra room for a favorite blanket or water bowl.
Air Travel
Airlines have very strict rules. For cargo holds, only hard-sided crates that meet IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards are usually accepted. These crates require specific hardware, like metal bolts connecting the top and bottom halves, not just plastic clips.
Small Spaces and Quick Trips
If you only need a crate for vet visits or short stays, a lightweight, collapsible soft crate works perfectly. They take up very little space when folded.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Travel Dog Crates
Q: How do I pick the right size crate for my dog?
A: Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from the floor to the top of the head. The crate length should be about 1.25 times your dog’s length. The height must allow your dog to stand without hunching its back.
Q: Are soft crates safe for all travel?
A: Soft crates are excellent for car rides or staying in hotels. They are generally not approved for checked baggage on airplanes because they do not offer enough impact protection.
Q: Do I need special hardware for flying?
A: Yes. If flying, you usually need metal hardware (bolts and washers) to secure the top and bottom halves of a hard crate together. Plastic clips are often not strong enough for the airline requirements.
Q: How can I make the crate more comfortable for my dog?
A: Place a familiar, non-slip mat or small blanket inside. Never leave chew toys that could break into small pieces, as these might become choking hazards during travel.
Q: How do I clean a travel crate?
A: For hard crates, use warm, soapy water and rinse well. For soft crates, check the label; most removable pads can go in the washing machine. Wipe the exterior fabric clean.
Q: What if my dog panics in a crate?
A: Start crate training at home long before your trip. Keep the crate open and feed your dog treats inside. Slowly introduce short periods of confinement, always keeping the experience positive.
Q: Should I use a crate cover?
A: A cover can help nervous dogs feel secure, much like a den. However, if you use a cover in a hot car, make sure the crate still has excellent airflow on the sides not covered.
Q: Are wire crates good for travel?
A: Traditional wire crates are usually too heavy and bulky for travel. Travel crates often use plastic shells or sturdy fabric frames instead of thin wire.
Q: Can I leave water in the crate during a flight?
A: Yes, but you must use specialized, leak-proof water dishes that attach securely to the crate door. These dishes usually have a spout that sticks inside the crate.
Q: How long should my dog be kept in the crate while traveling?
A: For car travel, stop every few hours to let your dog stretch, potty, and drink water. For air travel, the time should be limited to the flight duration, as dogs should not be left in cargo for extended periods.