Does the thought of hitting the road with your furry best friend fill you with excitement, but the idea of keeping them safe and comfortable during the journey feel like a puzzle? You’re not alone! Choosing the right dog crate for travel can be a real headache. There are so many types, sizes, and features to consider, and you want to make sure your pup has a secure and happy space, no matter where your adventures take you.
The wrong crate can lead to a stressed dog, a difficult trip, and even safety concerns. But don’t worry! This post is here to guide you through the maze of dog travel crates. We’ll break down what really matters, what to look for, and how to find the perfect fit for your canine companion.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident and ready to choose a crate that makes travel a breeze for both you and your dog. Get ready to discover how to make every journey a tail-wagging success!
Our Top 5 Dog Crates For Travel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Crates For Travel Detailed Reviews
1. Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel
Rating: 8.9/10
The Love’s Cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed is a versatile pop-up kennel designed for your furry friends. It works great as an indoor or outdoor crate, a portable car seat kennel, and even doubles as a cozy cat bed. This grey kennel is perfect for keeping your pet safe and comfortable wherever you go.
What We Like:
- Generous size (36.6″L x 21.2″W x 21.2″H) suitable for pets up to 40 lbs.
- Excellent ventilation with mesh panels on the front and sides keeps your pet cool.
- Easy to set up and take down, folding flat for convenient storage and travel.
- Seatbelt straps securely fix the kennel in your car, making travel safe and stress-free.
- Durable construction with high-grade thick mesh and 600 D polyester oxford fabric.
- It offers a cozy space for pets to rest, whether you’re at home or on an adventure.
- The manufacturer offers a risk-free purchase with a lifetime refund or replacement guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- Hand wash only for cleaning; no machine washing or harsh chemicals allowed.
- It is lightweight and not as sturdy as a metal kennel, so it’s best used with supervision for very energetic pets.
This portable kennel offers a practical and comfortable solution for pet owners on the move. Its ease of use and safety features make it a great choice for everyday adventures.
2. Amazon Basics Dog Crate
Rating: 8.8/10
The Amazon Basics Dog Crate is a great option for pet owners who travel with their furry friends. This XL dog kennel offers a safe and comfortable space for your dog, whether you’re on a road trip or just heading to the vet. Its soft-sided design and sturdy frame make it a reliable choice for keeping your dog secure.
What We Like:
- It’s made of tough tan polyester fabric.
- The steel frame is light but strong.
- It pops open in just a few seconds.
- No tools are needed to set it up.
- It folds flat for easy carrying and storing.
- There are two doors – one on top and one in the front.
- This makes getting your dog in and out super easy.
- The zippers close securely.
- Straps hold the doors open when you want them out of the way.
What Could Be Improved:
- While lightweight, the soft sides might not be the best choice for dogs who chew a lot.
- The XL size is great, but it might be a bit bulky for very small cars.
This dog crate is a fantastic, budget-friendly solution for pet travel. It makes keeping your dog safe and happy on the go simple and convenient.
3. Nottia Dog Crate
Rating: 9.2/10
Planning your next adventure with your furry friend? The Nottia Dog Crate is a game-changer for travel and everyday use, offering a secure and comfortable space for your large dog. This soft travel crate is designed to make your life easier, whether you’re heading out of town or just need a safe spot at home.
What We Like:
- Ultra-portable: It folds flat in just 60 seconds and weighs only 5.2 lbs, making it super easy to toss into your car or RV for road trips, camping, or hotel stays.
- Built tough: The chew-proof mesh windows and reinforced steel-frame corners, along with bite-resistant Oxford fabric, mean this crate can handle even energetic pups.
- Great airflow: Double-layer mesh panels keep your dog cool and comfortable, while the orthopedic pad helps reduce travel anxiety.
- Secure and escape-proof: Triple-door access with double zippers, plus an anti-tip base, ensures your dog stays safely inside.
- Easy to set up and clean: You can assemble it in minutes without any tools. Cleaning is a breeze with a simple wipe-down.
- Peace of mind: It comes with 24/7 support and a 3-year warranty, plus a 30-day refund policy, so you can try it risk-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size limitations: While ideal for dogs up to 70 lbs, very large breeds might find the 36″ length a bit snug for extended stays.
- Softness might not suit extreme chewers: While durable, a determined and destructive chewer might eventually find a way through the mesh.
The Nottia Dog Crate is a fantastic option for pet parents who travel frequently or need a reliable portable kennel. Its combination of portability, durability, and thoughtful features makes it a top pick for happy travels with your dog.
4. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs
Rating: 8.7/10
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a sturdy and reliable option for pet owners with large dogs. This 36-inch kennel, in a stylish taupe and black, offers comfort and security for your furry friend, whether you’re heading to the vet, going on a road trip, or even flying. It’s designed with your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind as top priorities.
What We Like:
- This kennel keeps your pet safe and secure. The wire door is strong and easy to open. It also has special holes for zip ties, which is important for airplane travel.
- It meets most airline rules for pet carriers. The kennel has openings on all four sides. This gives your dog good airflow and lets them see out.
- It’s made for big dogs weighing 50-70 pounds. Your dog will have enough space to turn around and lie down comfortably.
- Cleaning is simple. The plastic is easy to wipe clean. A special moat helps catch liquids, keeping your dog dry. This is great for training puppies.
- Petmate has been making good pet products for a long time. They focus on making pets and their owners happy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for large dogs, some owners might find the internal dimensions a bit snug for very active or extra-large breeds.
- The wire door, while secure, might have some sharp edges that could potentially be a concern for some owners.
Overall, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a solid choice for safely transporting your large dog. It provides essential features for travel and everyday use.
5. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs
Rating: 8.6/10
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel in Taupe and Black is a 32-inch, durable plastic carrier designed for medium dogs. It’s perfect for both home use and travel, especially for air journeys.
What We Like:
- This kennel is made in the USA and is very secure. It has a strong wire door that’s easy to open. It also has special holes so you can add zip ties for extra safety during flights.
- It meets most airline rules for pet carriers in cargo. Your dog will be comfortable because it has vents on all four sides for good airflow and visibility.
- The kennel is built for dogs weighing up to 10 lbs. It gives them enough space to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Cleaning is a breeze! The plastic shell wipes clean easily. Plus, a special moat catches liquids, keeping your pet dry. This makes it great for potty training puppies or for messy travel days.
- Petmate has been making quality pet products for over 60 years, focusing on making pets and their owners happier.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description states it’s for “medium dogs” but then specifies it’s for dogs weighing up to 10 lbs, which is typically a small dog size. This could be confusing for buyers with larger medium dogs.
- While airline-friendly, it’s important for owners to double-check specific airline size and weight restrictions, as these can vary.
Overall, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel offers a secure and comfortable travel solution for small dogs. Its easy-to-clean design and airline compliance make it a practical choice for pet owners on the go.
Choosing the Best Dog Crate for Your Travels
Taking your furry friend on an adventure? A good travel dog crate is essential. It keeps your dog safe and comfortable wherever you go. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a travel crate, keep these important things in mind:
- Safety and Security: The crate must be strong. It should have secure latches. This stops your dog from getting out.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is vital. Look for crates with plenty of mesh windows or openings. This keeps your dog cool.
- Size and Fit: Your dog needs space. They should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog first!
- Portability: Travel crates should be easy to carry. Many are lightweight and fold flat. Some even have wheels.
- Durability: A sturdy crate lasts longer. It can handle bumps and wiggles during travel.
- Ease of Cleaning: Accidents happen. Choose a crate with a removable, washable tray.
Important Materials
The materials used affect the crate’s quality and how well it works.
- Plastic: Many travel crates use hard plastic. This is good for keeping dogs secure and is easy to clean. It’s also lightweight.
- Metal Wire: Wire crates offer great ventilation. They are strong and let your dog see out. However, they can be heavier.
- Fabric: Soft-sided crates are very light. They are great for older dogs or those who don’t chew much. They offer comfort.
- Nylon and Mesh: These are common in fabric crates. They provide ventilation and are often water-resistant.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a travel crate better, while others make it worse.
What Makes a Crate Better:
- Sturdy Construction: Well-built crates feel solid. They don’t wobble or bend easily.
- Secure Latches and Zippers: These should work smoothly. They must latch firmly.
- Good Ventilation: Lots of openings mean fresh air. This is very important for your dog’s health.
- Comfortable Interior: A smooth interior without sharp edges is best.
- Easy Assembly and Disassembly: You want to set it up and take it down quickly.
What Makes a Crate Worse:
- Flimsy Materials: Thin plastic or weak fabric won’t last.
- Poorly Made Latches: Latches that pop open are a safety risk.
- Lack of Ventilation: Overheating is dangerous for dogs.
- Sharp Edges: These can hurt your dog.
- Difficult to Clean: A crate that’s hard to clean becomes unhygienic.
User Experience and Use Cases
How people use travel crates shows their real-world value.
- Car Travel: Many crates fit securely in car trunks or on seats. They prevent your dog from moving around too much. This makes driving safer for everyone.
- Air Travel: Some crates meet airline requirements. They protect your dog during flights. Always check with your airline first.
- Hotel Stays: A crate provides a familiar space for your dog in a new place. It helps them feel safe and less anxious.
- Outdoor Activities: For camping or visiting parks, a crate can be a safe den for your dog.
- Training: Crates help with house training. They can also be used for teaching dogs to relax.
A good travel crate makes trips enjoyable and safe for your dog. Think about your dog’s needs and your travel plans when you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size crate do I need for my dog?
A: Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside. Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of their head.
Q: Are plastic crates good for travel?
A: Yes, plastic crates are often lightweight and easy to clean. They offer good security for most dogs during travel.
Q: Can my dog travel on a plane in a soft-sided crate?
A: It depends on the airline. Many airlines require hard-sided crates for flights. Always check the airline’s specific rules before booking.
Q: How do I make sure my dog is comfortable in the crate?
A: Introduce the crate slowly. Put familiar bedding or toys inside. Give treats and praise when your dog goes in.
Q: What if my dog chews through the crate?
A: For strong chewers, a sturdy wire or heavy-duty plastic crate is usually best. You might need to supervise them more closely.
Q: How do I clean a travel crate?
A: Most plastic crates have removable trays that can be washed with soap and water. Fabric crates can often be wiped down or have removable covers for washing.
Q: Are travel crates safe for puppies?
A: Yes, travel crates are excellent for puppies for house training and safety. Make sure the crate is the right size so they don’t use a corner as a potty area.
Q: Can I leave my dog in a travel crate all day?
A: No, dogs need exercise and potty breaks. Limit the time your dog spends in the crate, especially when traveling.
Q: What if my dog is scared of the crate?
A: Start slowly. Leave the door open and let your dog explore. Feed them meals near or inside the crate. Never force them inside.
Q: Should I buy a crate that is too big?
A: No, a crate that is too big doesn’t serve its purpose for training or safety. You can use dividers to make a larger crate smaller for a growing puppy.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!