Does the thought of traveling with your furry best friend fill you with excitement and a little bit of worry? You want amazing adventures together, but the safety and comfort of your dog on the road or in the air are top priorities. Finding the perfect travel crate can feel like a puzzle. You see so many types, sizes, and materials. Will it be strong enough? Will my dog feel safe inside? These questions often create stress when planning your next trip.
Choosing the wrong crate means potential discomfort for your dog or even safety risks. That is why knowing the right features to look for is so important. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down everything you need to know about dog travel crates. You will learn what makes a crate secure, comfortable, and travel-ready for any journey you plan.
Keep reading to discover our expert tips and top recommendations. By the end, you will confidently choose the best travel home for your dog. Let’s make your next trip a smooth and happy one!
Top Dog Travel Crate 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)
- Medium 4-door folding pet travel kennel with soft sides for cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small animals
- Top door for sunlight and breathability, front and side doors with zipper lock clips for added security; Included straps to roll up and secure fabric doors when leaving the portable dog crate open
- Carrying handle and padded shoulder strap for easily transporting when pet kennel is folded; includes removable fleece pet bed pad
- Convenient pop-up pet crate design can be set up and folded down in seconds with no tools required
- Product Dimensions: 30 x 21 x 21 inches (LxWxH). Water-resistant base
- 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
- 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
- SAFE & SECURE DOG CAGE: This durable dog cage features reinforced steel pipes, rounded corners, and dual latches on both front & side doors, to keep your pet secure during dog training or quiet time.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION FOR EVERYDAY USE: Made with rust-resistant wire and reinforced edges, this dog cage offers long-term durability while remaining lightweight enough to carry on the move
- DUAL-DOOR DESIGN FOR EASY ACCESS: Front and side doors with secure dual latches make it easy to load, unload, and interact with your pet while ensuring safety inside the dog kennel.
- TRAVEL-READY & COLLAPSIBLE: Whether used as dog crate furniture at home or as a pet carrier for travel, the collapsible dog crate transitions easily for indoor use, camping trips, or vet visits
- LEAKPROOF & EASY TO CLEAN: Equipped with a durable, removable ABS tray that contains messes, resists stains and odors, and makes cleaning your indoor dog kennel quick and stress-free.
- Enhanced Security & Stability Upgrades: Our collapsible dog crate is made with welded heavy-duty steel bars and dual-locking doors to keep even the strongest escape artists safely contained. The durable mesh material is not only scratch-resistant but also provides a wide view and great breathability.
- Travel-Friendly Pet Crate: Need to store or travel? This portable dog kennel collapses for easy storage in car trunks, closets, or RVs. Perfect for camping, road trips, or moving houses—sets up in seconds with no tools! Perfect for dog owners with outdoor & indoor lifestyles.
- Easy-Clean & Safety Design: Enjoy the comfort of premium memory foam with the convenience of machine-washable care - no special cleaning required. An interior leash attachment clips to your pup' s collar to keep them secure inside this travel dog crate.
- Portable & Durable Pet Kennel: The EHEYCIGA soft dog crate Lightweight steel frame with rugged durability. Features auto-lock water bottle holder, storage pouch and safety reflectors. Perfect for home use and travel adventures.
- Multi-Functional Foldable Dog Crate: Our dog kennel offers a portable pet housing solution with 4 adjustable sizes to accommodate various breeds. Features tool-free assembly for instant setup and flattened storage capability. This space-saving pet cage delivers both comfort and travel convenience.
- Space-saving Design: Garnpet collapsible dog crate is designed to save space when not in use, making it an ideal choice for pet owners who are looking for a pet crate that can be easily stored away.
- Portable and lightweight: Our soft dog crate is made with lightweight materials and comes with convenient handles, making it easy to carry with you on the go. Whether you’re traveling with your pet or simply need to move the crate from one room to another, Garnpet collapsible soft dog cage is the perfect solution.
- Stable Structure: The foldable crate is made with a sturdy steel frame and high-quality waterproof Oxford fabric, ensuring that your pet is safe and secure while inside. The mesh windows allow for ventilation, while the zippered door makes it easy to access your pet.
- Easy to clean: The fabric on this soft side dog kennel is waterproof and easy to clean, which is ideal for pet owners who want a low-maintenance solution. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge, and it will be as good as new.
- Versatile: This dog crate can be used for a variety of purposes, from crate training your puppy to providing a safe and cozy space for your pet to rest. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and the collapsible design means you can take it with you wherever you go.
- Soft-sided carrier in Black with top and front openings; for pets up to 70lb and under 32 x 21 inches (LxH), like a Beagle or Bulldog
- Durable polyester and PVC material with sturdy zipper closures for secure containment
- Top handle and shoulder strap for easy carrying; folds flat for compact storage
- Multiple screened panels for ventilation and visibility; machine-washable soft fleece pad for comfort; handy pockets on top and sides for storing treats, toys, and more
- Note: Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably while in the crate. Measure from nose to base of tail when standing, and from top of head to floor. Add 4 inches to those measurements to confirm optimal crate height and length.
The Essential Dog Travel Crate Buying Guide
Taking your dog on a trip? A good travel crate keeps your furry friend safe and comfortable. Choosing the right one needs a little thought. This guide helps you pick the best travel kennel for your adventures.
Key Features to Look For
A great travel crate offers safety and convenience. Think about these important features:
- Ventilation: Your dog needs fresh air. Look for crates with plenty of vents or mesh windows on multiple sides. Good airflow keeps your dog cool.
- Secure Latching System: The door must lock tightly. You do not want your dog accidentally opening the crate during a car ride or flight. Look for double-bolt locks or strong, easy-to-use mechanisms.
- Portability and Weight: If you travel often, a lightweight crate is a lifesaver. Some crates fold flat easily, making storage simple.
- Size and Space: Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog before you buy!
Important Materials for Durability and Safety
The material of the crate directly affects its safety and how long it lasts.
Plastic Crates (Kennels)
These are often the top choice for air travel and car safety. High-quality, heavy-duty plastic resists cracking. They are usually easy to clean. Make sure the plastic is strong, not flimsy.
Wire Crates
Wire crates offer excellent ventilation. They are good for car trips or temporary housing. However, wires can sometimes bend under heavy impact. Look for thick, powder-coated metal wires.
Soft-Sided Crates
These are the most portable option. They use strong fabric like canvas or nylon over a flexible frame. They are perfect for short car rides or keeping in a hotel room. Always check that the fabric resists tearing and that the zippers are heavy-duty.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Crate Quality
Not all crates are made equal. Quality matters for long-term use and safety.
Quality Boosters:
- Airline Approval: If you fly, look for crates marked as “Airline Approved.” These meet strict size and material standards set by carriers.
- Sturdy Hardware: Metal bolts and strong hinges always improve quality over plastic clips.
- Leak-Proof Bottom: A removable, durable plastic tray at the bottom makes cleaning up accidents much easier.
Quality Reducers:
- Sharp Edges: Inspect all plastic seams and metal corners. Sharp spots can injure your dog.
- Thin Walls: Very thin plastic walls can break easily if bumped hard.
- Flimsy Zippers: On soft crates, cheap zippers often break or get stuck, compromising security.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the crate changes what you should buy.
Car Travel
For car trips, you need stability. Hard-sided crates often secure better using seatbelts. Soft crates are good if you need to fold them up quickly when empty. Always place the crate so it does not slide during sudden stops.
Air Travel
Air travel demands the toughest carriers. Only use hard-sided crates meeting IATA (International Air Transport Association) guidelines. These crates must have metal hardware connecting the top and bottom halves securely. Your dog must fit comfortably inside for potentially long waits.
Home and Temporary Housing
If you just need a safe den at home or at a relative’s house, a wire or collapsible soft crate works well. These offer great flexibility when you are not actively driving or flying.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Travel Crates
Q: How do I choose the correct size crate?
A: Measure your dog. They need enough room to stand tall, turn around fully, and lie down in a natural resting position. Bigger is usually safer than too small, but too big might not be secure in a car.
Q: Are soft-sided crates safe for car rides?
A: Yes, many are very safe for cars, especially if they have straps to secure them to the seat. However, hard crates offer superior crush protection in serious accidents.
Q: What does “Airline Approved” mean?
A: It means the crate meets specific rules for size, ventilation, and construction so the airline will allow your dog to travel in the cargo hold safely.
Q: Do I need to buy a special mat for the crate?
A: Yes, a non-slip mat or bed makes the crate much more comfortable for your dog, especially on hard plastic floors.
Q: How do I get my dog used to the crate before a trip?
A: Introduce the crate slowly at home. Leave the door open. Feed your dog treats or meals inside. Make it a positive, safe space before you try traveling.
Q: Can I use a regular wire crate for flying?
A: Usually no. Airlines require solid walls (usually plastic) with metal bolts connecting the top and bottom for air travel safety.
Q: How often should I clean the travel crate?
A: Clean the bottom tray daily if your dog has accidents. Give the whole crate a deep clean every few trips using pet-safe cleaners.
Q: What if my dog chews through the crate?
A: If your dog is a known chewer, avoid soft-sided crates entirely. Choose heavy-duty plastic or metal crates meant for strong dogs.
Q: Should the crate be metal or plastic for maximum durability?
A: Heavy-duty plastic is often the best balance for durability, light weight, and airline compliance. Metal is very strong but can be heavy.
Q: Are crates mandatory in cars?
A: While not always legally required everywhere, using a crate or safety harness is highly recommended. Crates prevent driver distraction and protect pets during sudden stops.