You might not know the difference between an IATA-approved and a soft travel dog crate yet, but you definitely know when something is off with a dog carrier. Your pup gets antsy, keeps fidgeting, and won’t stop whining.
Here at The Nomad Paws, we’re all about taking our furry friends with us wherever we roam. The key to making that a reality is having a top-notch travel dog crate. It needs to be both dependable and trustworthy, ready for all our adventures.
In this guide, we’re going to check out a bunch of travel crates for dogs and find the perfect one for your pup.
Our Top Choice: 2PET Foldable Dog Crate
Versatile, easy to clean, this dog carrier is perfect for indoor, outdoor, training, and travel purposes. And it weighs only 6.54 pounds! Read all details here.
We actually tried out over 20 dog crates to find the absolute best ones. We looked at different styles like wireframes, soft-sided foldable models, and many more.
And, remember, if you are looking for a travel crate to bring your pup on some outdoors adventures – don’t forget to learn how to keep your dog cool while camping!
Some Key Points to Start
- Make sure your pets stay safe and comfortable while traveling.
- When choosing a dog travel carrier, think about how durable, comfortable, and easy to carry the crates are.
- Go for lightweight crates that have been crash-tested so you can use them in various situations.
- Select crate sizes based on what your dog needs; roomy ones for larger dogs and cozy ones for smaller dogs.
- Make sure the crates have good ventilation, visibility, and are easy to store for hassle-free travel.
The Research
At Nomad Paws, we did a lot of research to find the best travel dog crates for both small and large dogs.
We checked out things like durability, comfort, and portability to make pet travel easier for you and your pup.
After thorough testing, we identified the top options to meet various needs and preferences.
1. Why Trust The Nomad Paws
At The Nomad Paws, we love pets and travel. We do a lot of research to find the best accessories for pets on the go. When it comes to crates, we put in extra effort to find the best dog crates for car travel.
We know how important it is to have a crate that keeps your dog safe and happy. That’s why we talk to vets, dog trainers, and other experts.
This ensures our reviews are unbiased and backed by professionals. We want to protect your dog and help you enjoy your time together.
As independent reviewers, we are proud to give you honest and reliable information about the products we test. Your pets are family, and we want to help you make smart decisions for them.
These crates are great if your plan to bring your dog in a travel trailer and, it goes without saying, are probably the most important of all dog travel essentials you will ever need.
Trust The Nomad Paws to help you choose the perfect dog travel carrier for your car, SUV, or even for cabin travel on a plane.
2. Who Is This Guide For
If you’re a dog owner who’s always on the move with your furry friend, whether by car or plane, you’ll find our review of travel dog crates super helpful. Here’s who can benefit from what we have to say:
- The best dog crates for travel: Our review is specifically for dog owners who are constantly on the go and want the most convenient and safe options for their pets while traveling.
- For crate-trained dogs and those still in training: It doesn’t matter if your dog is already used to being in a crate or if you’re still working on crate training, our recommendations cover both situations. We’ll help you finding a dog crate for every stage.
- Versatile options for different uses: We also consider various use cases beyond just traveling. Purchasing a dog crate is an an extra expense, so we look at crates that can double as comfy beds in hotel rooms or that are tough enough for outdoor adventures. Our review makes sure that dog owners get crates that serve multiple purposes and offer flexibility wherever they go.
If you’re planning a quick road trip or a longer adventure, let our review be your guide. We’ve got the best options for dog crates, guaranteed to keep your pet comfortable and safe while on the move.
3. How We Picked and Tested Travel Dog Crates
After doing a lot of research and talking to experts, we’ve picked out a bunch of dog crates that are perfect for travel.
Our main goal was to make sure your furry friends stay safe, so we wanted to find a crate for your dog that meets or even go beyond the industry standards.
We even put them through crash tests to make sure they’re super secure. And of course, we made sure they’re tough enough to withstand all the bumps and jolts of travel while keeping your pets cozy and comfy. This way, you know you’ll be safe when you take your dog in your car or bring it with you in a travel trailer.
We also made sure these crates are easy to carry around.
The right dog crate should be lightweight and a breeze to put together, so you can take your pet on adventures without any trouble.
We made sure they have good ventilation and visibility too because we know how important those are for your pet’s well-being and to keep them relaxed during travel.
Bringing the dog in the car can make pets a bit anxious. We know that, and we kept that in mind, too.
To make sure these crates will keep your pup safe, we tested them in real-life situations to understand how they would do in the event of an accident. We took them for car rides, simulated flights, and exposed them to different conditions.
We even asked people who actually used these crates for their dogs to give us feedback. By watching how the dogs reacted and how comfortable they were, we could be sure that these crates really put your pet’s well-being first.
Lastly, we looked at how easy each crate is to use. We considered things like setting them up, ease of use, taking them apart, and keeping them clean. We did a really thorough review of each option, so you can make a smart choice for your pet’s travel needs.
Best Overall Pick: 2PET Foldable Dog Crate
Best For: Pet owners seeking a versatile, durable, and lightweight crate, perfect for indoor, outdoor, training, and travel.
The 2PET Foldable Dog Crate is an excellent choice for pet owners needing a versatile and durable travel solution.
This crate is built with strong steel tubing and water-resistant Oxford 600D fabric, making it ideal for indoor, outdoor, training, and travel purposes.
The crate features mesh panel windows for great ventilation. It also comes with a waterproof mat and a reversible, washable cushion pad to keep your pet comfy.
Cleaning is very easy since everything is easy to remove, especially if there are any spills from dog bowls.
Weighing only 6.54 pounds, this travel dog carrier is lightweight. It’s simple to set up and fold down, making it easy to transport. When not in use, you can easily store it in a cupboard.
The crate has handles and detachable tie-down straps for your shoulders, making it convenient to carry your pet on the go. While some users have requested more size options for extra comfort, most people appreciate the quality, roominess, and security this crate offers.
Need more info to make up your mind? Check out my full review of the 2Pet Foldable Dog Crate, where I examine all the pros and cons of this product.
Pros
Cons
- Strong steel tube design for durability and portability.
- Washable soft fabric cover made of water-resistant Oxford 600D fabric.
- Excellent ventilation with mesh panel windows.
- Limited size options may not suit all pets.
- Concerns about durability with aggressive animals.
The Runner-Up: Petsfit
Best For: Pet owners looking for a travel dog crate that’s tough, versatile, and a breeze to put together, perfect for any situation.
Petsfit’s travel dog crate is an excellent choice for pet owners who want a durable travel carrier that’s easy to take on the go.
The adjustable fabric cover and sturdy stainless steel construction make it a reliable option and one of the best car dog travel carriers money can buy.
The crate is made with 600D Oxford cloth and stainless steel pipes, ensuring its durability. Plus, the spiral head design makes it easy to adjust and protect your dog in all situations.
This crate has three-sided mesh doors for ventilation and lockable zippers on the front and one side. It also has a spacious pocket for storage.
If you’re looking for something to bring your pup to the beach or a grassy area, this crate is suitable for various settings.
Petsfit offers different sizes, ranging from 26 inches for small pets to 39.5 inches for larger breeds.
Those who have used this dog crate to travel love the quality and sturdiness of this crate. It’s also incredibly easy to assemble, taking just 5 minutes.
While some people have expressed concerns about the durability of the mesh, this crate is still portable, lightweight, and perfect for travel or indoor/outdoor use.
Pros
Cons
- Made from 600D Oxford cloth and sturdy stainless steel pipes for durability.
- Adjustable fabric cover design with spiral head for easy adjustment.
- Three-sided mesh doors for ventilation and lockable zippers for security.
- Concerns about mesh durability.
- Mixed reviews on zipper strength.
- May not be suitable for dogs prone to chewing or escaping.
Best Dog Crate for Car Travel: Petmate Two-Door Pet Kennel
Best For: Pet owners looking for a secure and comfortable pet carrier for car travel with small pets, cats, or dogs up to 15 pounds.
Perfect for small pets and cats, the Petmate Two-Door Pet Kennel is a top choice for pet owners who want a safe and comfy way to transport their furry friends in the car.
Personally, I think it’s a better option than the popular (and more expensive) Gunner Kennel, but I’ll save that comparison for another time.
The Petmate carrier features two doors and a strong steel wire and plastic shell construction, making it a secure and well-ventilated space for your pet.
The sturdy door latches ensure your pet stays put during the journey, giving you peace of mind when you’re on the road and can’t keep an eye on them.
This 5-star rated kennel measures 24 x 16.8 x 14.5 inches, making it ideal for small animals, cats, and dogs weighing up to 15 pounds. The top-loading feature makes it super easy to get your pet inside.
It’s similar to the carriers you might use if your dog ever needs to fly cargo. So, it could be a good idea to use it for training if you foresee a long cargo flight in the future.
Cleaning takes only a few seconds. Its plastic shell is durable and only needs some water and a sponge.
With over 15,000 happy customers and rave reviews, the Petmate Two-Door Pet Kennel is a reliable choice for all your car travel adventures.
Pros
Cons
- Roomy and airy design
- Secure door latches for safety
- Top-loading feature for easy access
- Limited to pets weighing up to 15 pounds (there are other Petmate models for larger dogs)
- Plastic shell makes it a bit harder to store
Best Travel Crate for Large Dogs: Pettycare Collapsible Crate
Best For: Dog owners with big dogs who need a sturdy and easy-to-carry travel crate with handy features.
If you own a big dog and need a sturdy, portable travel crate, you should check out the Pettycare Collapsible Crate.
This crate is super handy with its mesh windows and comfy adjustable shoulder strap. It’s available in different sizes to fit various large dog breeds. Plus, it has chew-proof mesh windows that keep your dog safe and well-ventilated.
One important thing to note is its strong frame tube design. Made from 600D Oxford cloth, this crate is built to last through all your travel adventures.
It also comes with cool extras like side pockets and mesh doors to make your life easier on the go.
The crate is easy to carry around with a handle and an adjustable padded shoulder strap.
Overall, the Pettycare Collapsible Crate is a great mix of durability, convenience, and comfort. It’s perfect for big dog owners who love to travel with their furry friends.
Pros
Cons
- Durable 600D Oxford cloth construction for long-lasting use.
- Adjustable padded shoulder strap for easy transport.
- Mesh windows for ventilation and visibility.
- Some users report challenges with the clips and zippers.
- Concerns about the quality of the mesh windows.
- Limited color options available.
Best Budget Travel Dog Crate: Amazon Basics
If you’re looking to buy a crate for your puppy or adult dog without spending too much, the Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate is a great option.
It’s lightweight and packed with convenient features, making it perfect for road trips or quick outings with your furry friend.
While this crate might not be as high-end as those from Petmate or 2Pet, it’s ideal for on-the-go adventures with your puppy. It’s lightweight, sturdy, and can be easily folded flat for storage.
We talked to people who use this crate regularly, and dog owners love the high-quality materials and construction. It ensures your pet is safe and comfortable wherever you go.
The durable polyester material and secure zipper closures give you peace of mind during travels. Plus, the mesh windows offer great ventilation and visibility for your pet.
Designed for convenience, the Amazon Basics crate features easy-to-clean materials. Just wipe it down when needed to keep it fresh and ready for your next adventure.
Other Alternatives to Consider
Not happy with the dog crates for traveling that we’ve selected for you? Check out these other models, then. I am sure you will find a great one for you!
36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate for Large Dogs
This dog travel crate is made with a strong steel frame and high-quality, waterproof Oxford fabric, this crate ensures your pet’s safety and comfort.
The mesh windows provide excellent ventilation, and the waterproof fabric makes cleaning a breeze.
EHEYCIGA Collapsible Soft Dog Crate for Medium Dogs
The mesh material is breathable and scratch-resistant, ensuring your dog stays comfortable. Plus, it has locking zippers and a safety leash for added security.
The crate is made with a sturdy steel frame and waterproof fabric, making it easy to clean and maintain.
It even has reflective strips for increased visibility at night, which is super handy for travel.
This crate is a great choice for medium-sized dogs and pet owners who frequently travel or need a portable, comfortable crate for indoor and outdoor use.
Collapsible Travel Dog Crate for Small Dogs
You’ll love the hassle-free design of this 24-inch Lesure collapsible travel dog crate. It’s perfect for small dogs who join you on outdoor adventures and indoor lounging.
Weighing only 6.98 pounds, it’s made of durable, breathable nylon and has some great safety features.
Setting up and cleaning this crate is super easy, making it perfect for travel, office visits, vet trips, and more.
K&H Pet Products Travel Safety Carrier for Medium Dogs
It’s made of durable polyester and comes in a cool gray and black design.
The carrier is spacious, measuring 24 x 19 x 17 inches, so your furry friend will have plenty of room.
It even has mesh windows for airflow and to let your pet see what’s happening outside. And don’t worry about accidents – the cozy pad inside is washable.
What makes this carrier really stand out is its safety features. The straps wrap around your car’s headrest and seat belt, keeping the carrier secure and in place.
With exits on both sides and the front, you can easily reach your pet whenever you need to.
Beatrice Home Fashions Portable Pop Up Pet Travel Kennel
Made from polyester, this kennel measures 32.5L x 19.5W x 19.5H inches and weighs only 1.15 pounds, so it’s really lightweight and easy to carry around.
Setting it up is a breeze – just pop it open and you’re good to go. And when you’re done, it folds flat into a compact 11-inch round shape, so storing it is a piece of cake.
Plus, it even comes with a handy storage pouch!
Loves Cabin 36in
Big dog owners will love the Loves Cabin 36in Portable Dog Bed/Kennel. It’s super spacious and can hold pets up to 65 lbs for comfy travels.
It measures 36.6L x 21.2W x 21.2H inches and is made of lightweight, strong polyester. Plus, it has mesh ventilation to keep things breezy.
This crate is perfect for indoor and outdoor activities, keeping your pet safe during car rides and adventures.
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel
Dog owners with medium to large breeds weighing 30-50 lbs will love the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 32.
It’s a sturdy plastic travel crate that’s perfect for worry-free pet transport, even on airplanes.
You’ll appreciate the easy-open latch, fold-down handle, and tool-free assembly that make this kennel a breeze to use.
This kennel is designed with ventilation on all sides to keep your furry friend comfortable, and the stay-dry moat helps contain any accidents during travel. It’s also made from certified recycled materials, so it’s eco-friendly.
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed
This crate is built to last, with strong steel tubing and water-resistant fabric, keeping your dog safe and comfy. It measures 36’L x 24’W x 28’H, giving your pup plenty of space.
The three mesh doors make it easy to get inside and provide lots of fresh air and sunlight.
The removable, washable fleece bed adds an extra layer of snuggliness.
How to Choose a Dog Travel Crate
If you are buying a dog travel crate for the first time, it’s important you check out a few key things.
Durability and materials are crucial. You want something that lasts.
Next, look at ventilation and comfort features. These can make a big difference in use.
Also, consider how easy it is to set up. No one likes a complicated setup.
Finally, think about portability and storage options. It’s helpful if you can move and store it easily.
In the next chapters of this guide, I am going to cover each of these points to show you exactly what to look for in a good dog travel crate.
Size and Weight
Your dog’s size and the crate’s weight are the two first key factors that should drive your choice.
Measure your pet to ensure they have ample space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Choose a crate that fits their size without being too spacious, which could lead to injuries during travel.
Also, consider the weight of the crate itself. A lightweight yet durable option makes transportation easier, whether you’re carrying it by hand or loading it into a vehicle.
Many travel crates feature sturdy steel frames and high-quality fabric, striking a balance between portability and safety.
Look for crates that are collapsible or foldable. This feature saves space and makes storage or packing for trips more convenient.
While lightweight materials are desirable, the crate’s construction should never compromise your pet’s well-being.
Prioritize crates with proper ventilation and secure access points to keep your dog comfortable and safe throughout the journey.
Durability and Materials
Next, let’s talk about durability and materials. You want a crate that will last. Look for materials like steel frames, sturdy Oxford cloth, and reinforced stitching. These elements ensure the crate can handle the rigors of travel while keeping your pet secure and comfortable.
Consider features like scratch-resistant mesh, strong zippers, and waterproof fabric. These will protect against wear and tear.
Easy-to-clean materials, such as machine-washable fabrics, are also essential for maintaining hygiene during trips.
Ventilation and Comfort
Ventilation and comfort are essential when choosing a travel crate. Make sure the crate provides adequate airflow to prevent overheating and discomfort during travel.
Look for crates with mesh windows or doors that offer ventilation while keeping your pet secure inside.
Proper ventilation helps regulate temperature and reduces anxiety by allowing pets to see their surroundings and breathe easily. Opt for travel crates made from breathable materials designed with airflow in mind.
Regardless of the material, do not forget that it is not ok to leave a dog in a hot car and you should always keep an eye on your furry friend to make sure they are well.
Ease of Setup
Consider the ease of setup. This can make a significant difference in your overall travel experience with your pet. Prioritize crates that are user-friendly and require minimal effort to assemble.
Look for options with clear instructions and intuitive designs that allow for quick setup without the need for tools or complicated processes.
Collapsible or pop-up crates are excellent choices as they can be easily unfolded and put into place within minutes, saving you valuable time and energy.
Portability and Storage
Portability and storage are also important. Collapsible or foldable designs save space when not in use, making them perfect for storage in vehicles or homes with limited space.
Look for convenient carrying handles or straps that make transportation easy. Consider how compact the crate is when folded down to ensure it fits comfortably in your vehicle or storage area.
Some travel crates even come with carrying bags or cases, providing added portability and protection during transport.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing the best travel dog crate is essential for your pet’s safety and comfort.
Whether you go for the 2PET Foldable Dog Crate, Petsfit Crate, Petmate Two-Door Pet Kennel, Pettycare Collapsible Crate, or Amazon Basics, each option offers unique features to meet your needs.
Investing in a quality travel crate will guarantee peace of mind for you and your beloved pet on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Measure My Dog to Find the Right Crate Size?
Let’s measure your dog from nose to tail and shoulder to ground. Add a few inches for comfort. Consider their weight too. This guarantees we choose a crate that’s sized just right for your pup.
Are Soft-Sided or Hard-Sided Crates Better for Air Travel?
For air travel, we recommend hard-sided crates. They’re sturdier and provide better protection during turbulence or rough handling. Soft-sided crates can collapse or tear. Always check with your airline for their specific crate requirements.
Can I Use a Travel Crate for My Cat as Well?
Yes, you can use a travel crate for your cat. Make sure it’s the right size, has good ventilation, and a secure latch. Line it with a soft pad or blanket for comfort during trips.
How Do I Train My Dog to Be Comfortable in a Crate?
We recommend introducing the crate gradually, making it a positive space with treats and toys. Let your dog explore it at their own pace, and slowly increase time spent inside with the door closed.
Are There Any Airline-Approved Travel Crates for Large Dog Breeds?
We’ve found airline-approved crates for big dogs that are spacious, well-ventilated, and built tough. They’ll keep your furry travel companion safe and cozy, whether you’re flying across the country or around the world.
