Best Dog Crates for Travel 2026

Why You Need a Travel Crate for Your Dog

Traveling with a dog isn't as simple as putting them in the backseat. For safety, legal requirements, and your dog's comfort, a proper travel crate is essential. Unrestrained dogs can be injured in accidents, distract drivers, and are even illegal in some states and countries.

Two things changed in 2026 that affect how you should buy a travel crate. First, crash-testing has gone mainstream: Gunner's G1 and a few new competitors now publish real collision data, and if your dog rides in the car daily, a tested crate is worth the premium over a basic wire model. Second, the CDC's dog import rules, updated in 2024 and still in force, tightened requirements for dogs entering the US — so if you travel internationally, check the paperwork before booking anything. For most families the practical advice is simpler: measure your dog twice, then size up. Crates are sized for a dog to stand, turn around, and lie flat, and owners routinely underestimate. The AKC recommends exactly that sizing rule, and it's the difference between a crate your dog loves and one they fight. On the road, a seat cover and a crash-tested harness round out a safe setup.

Source: American Kennel Club (AKC): The AKC advises that airline-approved dog crates for travel must meet specific size requirements—the dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably—and should be labeled with the owner's contact information and the dog's name.

Benefits of Travel Crates

• Safety: Protects your dog in case of accident
• Legal compliance: Required for flying and some countries
• Comfort: Provides a familiar, secure space
• Hotel stays: Many hotels require dogs to be crated

Types of Travel Crates

dog crates travel

1. Soft-Sided Carriers

Best for: Small dogs under 20 lbs, car travel, short trips

Lightweight and easy to carry, but less protection in accidents.

2. Hard-Sided Plastic Crates

Best for: Airline travel, larger dogs, protection

Most airlines require IATA-compliant hard crates for checked pets.

3. Wire Crates

Best for: Car travel, hotel stays

Good ventilation and visibility, but not airline approved.

4. Impact-Resistant Crates

Best for: Anxious dogs, escape artists, maximum protection

Rotational-molded plastic, virtually indestructible.

Top 5 Dog Crates for Travel

1. Petmate Sky Kennel - Best for Air Travel

Airline-approved and IATA compliant. Available in multiple sizes, the Sky Kennel is one of the most accepted crates by airlines worldwide.

Pros:

• Airline approved (check specific airline requirements)
• Secure door latch
• Ventilation on all four sides
• Available in sizes for dogs up to 90+ lbs

Price: -150 depending on size

2. Diggs Revol Dog Crate - Premium Choice

A impressive wire crate with plastic base that collapses for easy storage. Not airline approved but excellent for car travel and hotels.

3. Gunner Kennels G1 Intermediate - Most Durable

Roto-molded, impact-resistant crate rated for crashes. Used by working dogs, police K9s, and safety-conscious owners.

Pros:

• Crash-tested
• Nearly indestructible
• Double-walled construction

Cons:

• Heavy (30+ lbs)
• Expensive (+)

4. AmazonBasics Two-Door Metal Crate - Best Value

Simple, affordable wire crate perfect for car travel and hotel stays. Not airline approved but great for road trips.

5. Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier - Best Soft-Sided

Airlines-approved soft carrier for small dogs (under 22 lbs). Fits under most airline seats for in-cabin travel.

How to Choose the Right Size

dog crates travel

Measure your dog:

• Length: Tip of nose to base of tail
• Height: Floor to top of head when standing
• Width: Widest point (usually shoulders)

Choose a crate where your dog can:

• Stand up without touching the top
• Turn around comfortably
• Lie down in a natural position

Airline Requirements

For flying with your dog:

• Most airlines require hard-sided crates for checked pets
• In-cabin pets need soft carriers that fit under the seat
• Crates must have food/water dishes attached
• Must display LIVE ANIMAL stickers
• Check specific airline size restrictions

Car Travel Safety Tips

dog crates travel

• Secure the crate with seatbelt or cargo straps
• Never put crates in the front seat (airbag danger)
• Take breaks every 2-3 hours
• Never leave your dog in a hot car
• Bring familiar blankets for comfort

Conclusion

For air travel, the Petmate Sky Kennel is widely accepted and reasonably priced. For car travel, the Diggs Revol offers convenience and style. For maximum safety, invest in a Gunner Kennel. Always measure your dog and check airline requirements before purchasing.

Related reading: Dog Crates, Dog Carriers 2026: Safe Travel Solutions for Dogs, Wet Dog Food vs Dry Dog Food: Which Is Actually Better?, Dog Snuffle Mats & Foraging Enrichment Toys, Dog DNA Test Kits, Dog Remote Training Collars & eCollars, Dog Waterproof Boots & Paw Protection, No-Pull Dog Harnesses, Dog Poop Bags & Eco-Friendly Waste Solutions and Dog Raincoats & Waterproof Gear.

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