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.
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
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 revolutionary 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
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
- 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.
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