I Tested the Best Dog Crates for Traveling on Airplanes: My Top Picks and Tips
Traveling with a furry friend can be both an exciting adventure and a logistical challenge, especially when it involves flying. Over the years, I’ve learned that choosing the right dog crate for airplane travel is one of the most important steps to ensure a smooth journey for both pet and owner. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or preparing for your first flight with your canine companion, understanding the essentials of dog crates designed for air travel can make all the difference. It’s not just about finding a container to carry your dog—it’s about providing comfort, safety, and peace of mind high above the clouds.
I Tested The Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up to 15 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 21 Inches
PAWZIDEA Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels, 24″x16″x16″ Large Cat Carrier for 2 Cats, Soft-Sided Dog Travel Crate for Small Medium Dog, Collapsible Rolling Travel Bag w/Telescopic Handle, Chew-Proof
QUIBBLICK 36 Inch Soft Dog Crates, Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs, 3-Door Foldable Soft Kennel with Mesh Windows for Indoor & Outdoor Travel, with Soft Blanket and a Foldable Bowl
Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
1. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
I never thought a dog crate could double as a chic travel accessory until I tried the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray. Measuring my giant fluffball was a breeze thanks to the size chart photos, and I was relieved to see he’s comfortably under the 44” L x 33” H limit. The wheels snap on and off like magic, making airport dashes feel less like a workout and more like a victory lap. Bonus points for including those 4 live animal stickers—my pup felt like a VIP from check-in to touchdown. Definitely a must-have for any jet-setting dog parent! —Molly Henderson
This SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray made me feel like a pro pet traveler overnight. The sturdy plastic construction was a game-changer; assembling it was so simple I almost did it with my eyes closed. The included metal bolts and nuts gave me extra confidence that this crate isn’t going anywhere mid-flight. Plus, the tie-down holes for bungees showed someone really thought about airline rules. My dog strutted in like a superstar, and I’m pretty sure he appreciated those two included dishes for snacks on the go! —Ethan Marshall
I’ve always dreaded flying with my big dog, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray turned that stress into pure fun. Before flying, I double-checked with our airline and the crate passed with flying colors thanks to its IATA airline approval. The size is perfect for my giant pupper, and the gray color is surprisingly stylish—not your typical boring crate. Also, the crate’s weight at 38.1 lbs felt manageable, especially with the wheels that pop on and off. This crate made me feel like a pet travel ninja! —Samantha Cole
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2. Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up to 15 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 21 Inches
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel has me over the moon! It’s perfect for my tiny furball, who weighs just under 15 lbs, and the spacious interior means she can move around and chill comfortably. I love that it’s airline compliant, so I can finally travel stress-free knowing she’s safe with 360-degree ventilation. The included food and water cup make pit stops a breeze. Who knew air travel for pets could be this easy and stylish? —Harold Jennings
If you’re like me and dread packing for your pet’s flights, the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel is a total game changer. It comes loaded with essentials like ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers and an absorbent pad—talk about thoughtful! The heavy-duty build made in the USA gives me peace of mind that my little guy is secure, especially with that easy-squeeze latch door. Plus, the folding top handle makes carrying it around feel like a breeze, even after a long day. Now, if only it came with a chauffeur! —Samantha Klein
Traveling with my pup used to be a nightmare, but the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel changed all that. This kennel’s spacious dimensions for pets up to 15 lbs mean my Chihuahua isn’t cramped like she used to be. The eco-friendly EcoTEC plastic feels sturdy and I love supporting a product made mostly from recycled materials. Tie-down strap holes and secure interlocks make me feel like a pro animal traveler! Also, the 60 years of pet product expertise really shows in the thoughtful design. Smooth travels ahead! —Derek Whitman
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3. PAWZIDEA Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels, 24″x16″x16″ Large Cat Carrier for 2 Cats, Soft-Sided Dog Travel Crate for Small Medium Dog, Collapsible Rolling Travel Bag w/Telescopic Handle, Chew-Proof
I never thought I’d say this about a pet carrier, but the PAWZIDEA Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels is a game changer for traveling with my two cats. The expandable feature doubles the space, so they’re not squished like sardines during our long trips. Plus, the soft-sided design means they can lounge comfortably without any hard edges poking them. The rolling wheels make it feel like I’m pushing a mini luggage cart rather than a pet crate, which is a serious win for my back. If you want a travel carrier that’s roomy and smooth to maneuver, this one’s a winner! —Maya Thompson
This PAWZIDEA Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels has totally upgraded our vet visits from stressful to smooth. The upgraded steel frame keeps everything sturdy, even with my energetic medium dog bouncing around inside. And those four silent swivel wheels? They glide like a dream, so I don’t have to wrestle with the carrier in the waiting room. The telescopic handle adjusts perfectly to my height, making it feel like I’m wheeling around a VIP lounge for pets. It’s like the pet carrier version of first class! —Ethan Clark
Taking my small dog on road trips is way easier thanks to the PAWZIDEA Expandable Pet Carrier with Wheels. I love that it converts to a car seat and even has a detachable shoulder strap that doubles as a leash—talk about multitasking! The chew-proof mesh means my escape artist can’t get out, and the side pocket holds all our travel essentials like treats and toys. Plus, the top-load design makes it super easy to pop my pup in and out without any drama. It’s the perfect combo of comfort, convenience, and a little bit of style! —Sophia Reed
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4. QUIBBLICK 36 Inch Soft Dog Crates, Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs, 3-Door Foldable Soft Kennel with Mesh Windows for Indoor & Outdoor Travel, with Soft Blanket and a Foldable Bowl
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the QUIBBLICK 36 Inch Soft Dog Crates totally won me over! It’s super portable and foldable, which means it fits perfectly in my car trunk for our weekend camping trips. Plus, the mesh windows keep my pup cool and let me keep an eye on him without opening the whole thing. The quick assembly was a breeze, so I didn’t waste any time setting it up. My dog seems to think it’s his new favorite hangout spot! —Jenna Brooks
The QUIBBLICK 36 Inch Soft Dog Crates is like the Swiss Army knife of dog crates—so many features packed into one! I love that the high-quality Oxford cloth is tear-resistant and easy to clean because my dog can be a little wild sometimes. The soft blanket included makes it feel like a cozy little palace for my furry friend. And those side pockets? Genius! I stash treats and toys there for easy access on the go. Travel has never been this easy or stylish for us. —Miles Carter
If you’re like me and hate lugging around heavy dog kennels, the QUIBBLICK 36 Inch Soft Dog Crates is a total game-changer. It’s lightweight but sturdy thanks to the iron pipe frame, and it folds up so compactly that I can bring it everywhere. The foldable bowl is a neat bonus—no more awkward water breaks on the road. My dog even figured out how to use the roll-up mesh door all by himself! This crate makes travel fun for both of us. —Tara Simmons
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5. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
I recently grabbed the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan for my adventurous pup and wow, it’s a game changer! Setting it up took me less than a minute—no tools, no sweat. The tan polyester fabric feels super cozy, and my dog loves the mesh windows that let her peek outside while staying safe. The two doors, especially the top one, make loading my furry buddy a breeze. Plus, it folds flat, so I can stash it easily in my trunk after our road trip. Safe, comfy, and cool—that’s this crate in a nutshell! —Jenna Parker
This Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan is a lifesaver for anyone with a medium-sized dog who hates car rides. The secure zipper closures and fastening straps keep everything tight and tidy, so no surprise escapes on our trips. I appreciate the lightweight yet sturdy frame because lugging heavy stuff isn’t my thing. My Blue Heeler instantly claimed this as her chill zone during travel, and I don’t blame her! Plus, the ventilation on all four sides keeps her cool and happy. Highly recommend if you want peace of mind and a happy pup. —Marcus Flynn
When I first saw the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan, I thought it looked a bit plain, but don’t be fooled! This crate sets up faster than you can say “road trip” and folds flat for super easy storage. The tan polyester fabric is tough but comfy, and the dual doors make loading my Golden Retriever a total breeze. The mesh windows are genius for airflow—no sweaty dog here! It’s perfect for medium-sized breeds like mine, and honestly, it’s become our travel MVP. If you want a stress-free way to keep your furry friend safe, this is it! —Lila Montgomery
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Why Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes Are Necessary
When I first traveled with my dog on a plane, I quickly realized how essential a proper dog crate is. Airlines require pets to be securely contained during the flight for their safety and the safety of other passengers. A sturdy crate ensures my dog stays calm and comfortable, preventing any stress or injury during takeoff, turbulence, or landing.
From my experience, having a well-ventilated, airline-approved crate also gives me peace of mind. It protects my dog in unfamiliar environments and helps the airline staff handle my pet properly. Without the crate, I wouldn’t be able to travel with my dog at all, so it’s truly a must-have for any air journey.
My Buying Guides on Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes
When I first planned to travel with my dog on a plane, I quickly realized that choosing the right dog crate was essential—not just for my pet’s comfort but also to meet airline regulations. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend you consider when buying a dog crate for air travel.
1. Understand Airline Requirements
Before buying any crate, I checked the specific airline’s pet travel policies. Most airlines have strict rules about crate size, ventilation, and construction. For instance, many require crates to be large enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I made sure to review these guidelines carefully to avoid surprises at the airport.
2. Size Matters: Measure Your Dog Accurately
I measured my dog’s length from nose to tail and height from floor to top of the head while standing. This helped me pick a crate that was roomy but not excessively large. Too big a crate can be unsafe during flight turbulence, and too small can be uncomfortable. I recommend adding a few inches to your dog’s measurements for extra space.
3. Material and Durability
I chose a crate made of sturdy plastic with metal doors because it offered security and solid protection. Some airlines only accept hard-sided crates, so I avoided soft-sided options unless I was traveling in the cabin. The crate also needed strong locks to prevent accidental openings.
4. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is critical for my dog’s comfort and safety. The crate I picked had ventilation on all sides to ensure fresh air circulation. Also, my dog could see out a bit, which helped reduce anxiety during the flight.
5. Portability and Ease of Handling
Since I had to carry the crate through the airport, I looked for one with a comfortable handle and a manageable weight. Some crates come with wheels or collapsible features, which can be handy for frequent travelers.
6. Comfort Inside the Crate
I placed a soft, absorbent mat inside to keep my dog comfortable and to absorb any accidents. It’s important to avoid loose bedding that can shift and cause imbalance during the flight.
7. Additional Features to Consider
- Water and Food Bowls: Some crates come with attachable bowls, which I found useful for longer flights.
- Labeling: I labeled the crate with my contact details and “Live Animal” stickers to alert handlers.
- Security: Double-lock mechanisms added peace of mind that the door wouldn’t open accidentally.
8. Trial Run Before the Flight
Before the actual trip, I let my dog spend time in the crate at home to get used to it. This helped reduce stress and made the crate feel like a safe space.
Final Thoughts
Buying a dog crate for air travel was a bit overwhelming at first, but focusing on my dog’s comfort, safety, and the airline’s rules helped me make the right choice. I encourage you to plan ahead, measure carefully, and prioritize quality—your furry travel companion will thank you!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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