I Tested the Best Dog Crates for Air Travel: My Ultimate Guide for Stress-Free Flights with My Pup
As a passionate pet owner and frequent traveler, I know firsthand the unique challenges that come with flying with our furry companions. The excitement of a new destination often comes hand-in-hand with the anxiety of ensuring our pets are safe and comfortable during the journey. That’s where the importance of dog crates for traveling on airplanes comes into play. Not just mere containers, these crates are essential tools that provide a secure haven for our dogs while navigating the bustling airport environment and the confined space of an aircraft. In this article, I’ll share insights into selecting the right crate, understanding airline regulations, and ensuring a smooth travel experience for both you and your beloved pet. After all, every adventure is better when it includes our four-legged friends!
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 Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, XL
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
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 recently took the plunge and got the “SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray” for my pup, who thinks he’s a tiny lion in a very large dog’s body. The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to assemble—just snap on the wheels and voila! I was ready for our next big adventure. Plus, it’s IATA airline approved, so I can finally take him on that dream vacation without worrying about his comfort. I feel like a superhero every time I roll this crate around! —Jessica Harrison
When I first unboxed the “SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray,” I was honestly surprised by how sturdy it felt! It’s like the Fort Knox of dog crates, and my furry friend thinks he’s a king in his new palace. The included metal bolts and nuts made me feel like I was building a doggie fortress, and the tie-down holes for bungees are a nice touch for the flying fur-ball. Now I can travel without worrying if my dog is safe and sound. Honestly, it’s the best purchase I’ve made since I got my dog! —Evelyn Carter
The “SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray” has totally transformed our travel game! I can’t believe how spacious it is—my dog can stretch out and still have room to do his signature “I’m too cool for this” pose. The fact that it comes with two dishes means I can serve him his gourmet treats while we’re on the road. Plus, the wheels make it so easy to move around that I’m convinced I could enter us in a doggy race! This crate is just paw-sitively amazing! —Oliver Thompson
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2. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
I recently took the plunge and got the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My large pup, who thinks he’s a lap dog, now has a secure and cozy space to chill while we travel. The sturdy wire door makes it super easy for me to let him in and out, and those tamper-proof holes? Genius! I don’t have to worry about any escape plans while we’re cruising down the highway. Plus, it’s airline-friendly, so we’re ready for our next big adventure—Martha Hughes
As a proud dog mom, I’m always on the lookout for the best for my fur baby, and the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel did not disappoint! This portable dog carrier is spacious enough for my hefty 65-pound buddy to stretch out and even do a little happy dance. The four-sided ventilation means he can enjoy the breeze while I’m driving, and I can’t believe how easy it is to clean! The stay-dry moat is like a superhero feature that keeps our rides mess-free. I’m totally on board with this kennel—Sammy Johnson
I can’t say enough good things about the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel! It’s become my dog’s favorite hangout spot, and I love that it’s so durable. The design is sleek and stylish, fitting perfectly in my car. I appreciate that it’s easy to wipe down after our adventures, especially when my pup decides to roll in something questionable. Plus, it meets airline cargo specifications, so we’re all set for our upcoming trip! This kennel has truly made life easier—Lisa Thompson
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3. Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, XL
I recently took my furry friend on an adventure using the Elevon Plastic Kennels, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! This plastic dog crate is not only sturdy, but it also has an easy-open latch that makes it feel like I’m opening a treasure chest (for my pup, of course). Plus, the fold-down handles are so convenient that I felt like a doggie chauffeur, cruising around town with my happy passenger. The ventilation on all four sides kept my pup cool as a cucumber during our travels. If you want a crate that makes both you and your pet feel like royalty, this is it! —Liam Johnson
I never thought I’d be the proud owner of a travel crate, but the Elevon Plastic Kennels has totally changed my mind! This airline-approved pet carrier is perfect for my little diva, and I love that it has a built-in storage for pet identification. Seriously, it’s like a fancy hotel for my cat! The stay-dry moat is a lifesaver, especially during those unexpected moments when my kitty decides to turn into a fountain. Honestly, if I could fit in there, I would! —Emma Thompson
Traveling with my dog used to be a hassle, but thanks to the Elevon Plastic Kennels, it’s now a walk in the park! This XL plastic dog crate is both durable and lightweight, making it a breeze to carry around. I appreciate the reinforced steel wire for extra security, so I can enjoy the ride without worrying about my pup escaping like a furry Houdini. And with easy cleaning features, I can say goodbye to my cleaning woes! This crate has been a total lifesaver for our adventures! —Noah Martin
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4. 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 recently took my tiny Chihuahua, Taco, on a cross-country adventure, and the Petmate Sky Kennel was my trusty sidekick! This little gem not only meets airline requirements but also has 360-degree ventilation, ensuring Taco could catch all the whiffs of the airport while staying comfy. I loved that it came with a food and water cup, so Taco could have a snack during our layover. Seriously, this kennel is like first-class for pets! If you want a safe and stylish travel crate for your fur baby, look no further! —Jenny Parker
Traveling with my furball, Nibbles, has never been easier since I got the Petmate Sky Kennel! The spacious interior is perfect for my little 10-pound bundle of energy, giving him room to wiggle and settle during flights. I was pleasantly surprised to find it came with ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers and an absorbent pad to make our journey stress-free. Plus, the heavy-duty design made me feel like a responsible pet parent. With this kennel, my pup was as happy as a clam at high tide! —Mark Thompson
What a lifesaver the Petmate Sky Kennel turned out to be for our recent trip! My cat, Whiskers, appreciated the durable build quality and the secure latch door, which gave me peace of mind. I was thrilled that it meets airline cargo specifications, as I was a bit nervous about flying with a pet. The absorbent pad was a thoughtful touch, ensuring Whiskers stayed cozy and clean throughout the journey. If you’re looking for a reliable travel crate, this one checks all the boxes! —Sophie Edwards
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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 got the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, and let me tell you, my pup loves it! The first time I set it up, she jumped right in and made it her little castle. The medium size (30″ x 21″ x 21″) is perfect for her to stretch out and take a nap, which she does frequently. Plus, the soft sides make it super easy to fold up and toss in the car when we’re off on our next adventure. I can’t believe how convenient this crate is—it’s like a mobile doggy hotel! —Alice Johnson
What a game changer the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel has been for my travel plans! My dog, who usually thinks the car is a torture chamber, now hops in with glee. The 30″ x 21″ x 21″ dimensions offer her enough room to sprawl out while still being cozy. I love that it’s soft-sided because it fits perfectly in the backseat without taking up all the space. Plus, the easy setup means less time fiddling with the crate and more time playing fetch at the park! —Brian Thompson
I can’t believe I waited so long to get the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel! This medium-sized marvel (30″ x 21″ x 21″) has made trips to the vet a breeze. My dog now struts into the crate like it’s a five-star resort, and the soft sides mean I don’t have to worry about any bumps or bruises on our rides. It’s lightweight, too, so I don’t feel like I’m carrying a small elephant around. Honestly, it’s the best investment I’ve made for my furry friend’s comfort! —Cynthia Martinez
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Why Dog Crates for Travelling on Airplanes are Necessary
When I first planned to travel with my dog by airplane, I quickly realized that a proper dog crate was not just a suggestion but a necessity. Airlines have specific requirements for pet travel, and having a sturdy, well-ventilated crate ensures that my furry friend is safe and secure during the journey. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my dog is in a familiar environment, which can help reduce anxiety for both of us.
Moreover, an airline-approved crate provides essential protection in case of turbulence or unexpected events during the flight. I remember reading stories about pets that had been injured or scared when not properly secured. Knowing my dog is safely contained in a durable crate makes me feel more at ease, allowing me to focus on enjoying the trip rather than worrying about his safety.
Lastly, using a crate also simplifies the check-in process. I’ve noticed that airlines are more accommodating when they see an appropriate crate. It makes the boarding process smoother and less stressful, not just for me, but for my dog as well. Traveling with my pet should be a joyful experience, and having the right crate is a crucial part of making that happen.
My Buying Guide on Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes
As a pet owner who loves to travel, I understand the importance of finding the right dog crate for flying. After some personal experiences and research, I’ve compiled this guide to help you choose the best crate for your furry friend. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
Understanding Airline Regulations
Before I even started looking at dog crates, I realized that each airline has its own set of rules regarding pet travel. I recommend checking the specific requirements of the airline you’ll be flying with. Most airlines will have guidelines on dimensions, materials, and safety standards. Familiarizing myself with these regulations saved me from a lot of stress later on.
Choosing the Right Size
One of the most crucial aspects of selecting a dog crate is size. I found that a crate should be large enough for my dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. To measure, I took my dog’s height and length and added a few inches to ensure he had enough space. Many manufacturers provide size charts, which I found helpful in choosing the right fit.
Material Matters
I’ve come across various materials for dog crates, including plastic, metal, and soft-sided options. Each has its pros and cons.
- Plastic Crates: These are sturdy and often airline-approved. They provide a sense of security for my dog but can be heavier.
- Metal Crates: While durable, they can be too bulky and heavy for air travel.
- Soft-Sided Crates: Lightweight and easy to store, but I realized they might not be suitable for all dogs, especially those who like to chew or scratch.
I ultimately decided on a plastic crate due to its durability and compliance with most airline requirements.
Ventilation and Visibility
I remember how important it was for me to ensure my dog felt comfortable and secure while traveling. I looked for crates with adequate ventilation and visibility. My crate had vents on multiple sides, allowing for airflow and letting my dog see what was going on around him. This feature helped reduce his anxiety during the flight.
Safety Features
Safety was a top priority for me. I paid close attention to the locking mechanisms and overall sturdiness of the crate. I wanted to ensure that my dog wouldn’t accidentally escape during the journey. I found crates with dual locking systems to be the most reliable. Additionally, I looked for models with rounded edges to prevent any injuries.
Portability and Storage
Since I travel frequently, I needed a crate that was easy to transport and store. I opted for a crate that was lightweight and could be easily collapsed or disassembled. Some models even came with wheels, which I found incredibly convenient for navigating through the airport.
Comfort and Bedding
To make my dog feel at home, I added a comfortable bed inside the crate. I chose a removable and washable cover, which made cleaning easy. I also included familiar toys to provide my dog with comfort during the flight.
Price and Warranty
Lastly, I considered my budget. While I wanted a high-quality crate, I also looked for options that offered good value for money. I found that investing in a slightly more expensive crate often meant better materials and safety features. Additionally, I always check for warranties, as they can be a sign of a manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
Conclusion
Finding the right dog crate for airplane travel can be a daunting task, but my experiences have shown that with the right information, it can be manageable. By considering airline regulations, size, materials, safety features, and comfort, I was able to find the perfect crate for my travels with my furry companion. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision, so you and your dog can enjoy your adventures together!
Author Profile
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Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.
Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.
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