5 Best Dog Crates for Car Travel: Buyer's Guide

Does the thought of a road trip with your furry best friend fill you with excitement, or does a knot of worry tighten in your stomach? Many dog owners face the same dilemma. Traveling safely with pets can feel like a puzzle. You want your dog to be comfortable, but you also need peace of mind knowing they are secure during the drive.

Choosing the right dog crate for car travel is tough. Should it be plastic, metal, or fabric? How big should it be? These decisions impact your dog’s safety and your own driving focus. A poor choice can lead to a stressed pup or, worse, an unsafe situation on the road. It’s a common pain point for responsible pet owners everywhere.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore what truly matters when picking a car crate. By the end, you will know exactly what features to look for to ensure happy, secure travels for both you and your canine companion. Ready to turn stressful drives into smooth adventures? Let’s dive into finding the perfect travel solution!

Top Dog Crate For Car Travel Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat, Travel Safety Carrier for Pets, Dog Travel Car Seat, Soft-Sided Covered Cat Carrier, Washable Pad, Multiple Entrances, Mesh Windows - Medium 24 X 19 X 17in

SAFE DOG CAR SEAT: Dog and cat carrier provides a fully enclosed, comfortable, and secure location for your cat or dog to ride; it features mesh windows on each side and a full mesh front to allow your pet to view out
SAFETY FIRST: Soft sided travel carrier buckles securely into your car using your car's seat belt, and for added stability the top strap adjusts tightly around headrest, ensuring the pet seat stays securely in place
5 EASY ACCESS DOORS: The left and right sides of the enclosure feature a large zippered door and a smaller zippered door, making access a breeze; and the zippered front door makes it easy to insert food and water without your pet escaping
WASHABLE: The bottom of the Travel Safety Carrier is lined with a removable, machine washable comfort pad for easy clean up of those occasional pet travel accidents
FOLDS FLAT FOR EASY STORAGE: Cat and dog carrier folds flat for space-saving storage in your trunk when your pet is not along for the ride

Bestseller No. 2

Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30" x 21" x 21"), Tan

Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling, includes a Small dog crate made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight yet sturdy frame
Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage;2 doors (top and front) for easy loading and unloading
Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way; mesh windows and front door provide ventilation on all 4 sides
Recommended for medium sized breeds such as Blue Heelers and Golden Retrievers (50 lbs)
Product dimensions: 29.92"L x 21.3"W x 21.3''H (LxWxH)

Bestseller No. 3

Amazon Basics 4-Doors Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Kennel for cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Grey, M 30" x 21" x 21"

Medium 4-door folding pet travel kennel with soft sides for cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small animals
Top door for sunlight and breathability, front and side doors with zipper lock clips for added security; Included straps to roll up and secure fabric doors when leaving the portable dog crate open
Carrying handle and padded shoulder strap for easily transporting when pet kennel is folded; includes removable fleece pet bed pad
Convenient pop-up pet crate design can be set up and folded down in seconds with no tools required
Product Dimensions: 30 x 21 x 21 inches (LxWxH). Water-resistant base

SaleBestseller No. 4

PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate - Safe Travel Containment with Heavy Duty Aluminum Frame, Mesh Windows, Convenient Storage Pockets & Secure Seat Belt Access - Road Trip Crate

Safe Travel Containment: The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate installs securely into the backseat with seatbelt straps and a headrest loop to keep your pet safely contained during car rides
Foldable & Travel Friendly: This lightweight carrier with leather handles folds flat for space-saving easy storage, perfect for road trips and compact cars
Comfort & Convenience: Soft-sided dog crate with mesh windows, a waterproof fleece pad, dual side doors, and convenient storage pockets offers cozy seating and easy access
Global Mission, Local Care: With U.S. roots and worldwide reach, PetSafe delivers vet- and trainer-recommended solutions and exceptional customer support to create fields of joy for pets
25 Years of Trust: Since 1998, PetSafe has created safe, innovative, and trusted products that bring joy, enhance pet lives, and support the lifelong bond between pets and their families

Bestseller No. 5

ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs - Portable Dog Travel Crate Soft Sided with Breathable Mesh Windows, Foldable Dog Kennel for Indoor and Outdoor, Grey

Foldable Design for Easy Transport: This soft dog crate features a foldable function, allowing for effortless unfolding and folding. Equipped with a convenient handle, it is easy to store and transport. Whether using it at home or while traveling, it saves valuable space and provides a comfortable living environment for your pet.
Stable Structure and High-quality Materials: Made with high-strength iron pipes and high-quality 600D Oxford fabric, this collapsible dog crate is both lightweight and sturdy. The Oxford fabric is long-lasting, tear-tough, and convenient to clean, ensuring the crate's long-term durability.
Good Ventilation: The dog crate includes three breathable mesh windows that provide ample airflow, keeping your pet comfortable inside. The mesh design allows you to easily observe your pet's condition, enhancing their sense of security and comfort. Additionally, you can unzip the door to roll up the mesh, allowing your dog to come and go freely.
Detail-Oriented Design: Built-in safety leash secures your pet's collar, keeping them securely in the crate. The soft plush pad inside provides a comfortable relaxation space. The soft dog crate also features an external storage pocket for placing toys or treats during outings.
Multiple Size Options: Available in three sizes to accommodate different breeds, from small to large dogs. Before purchasing, please measure your dog’s standing length, width, and height and refer to the size chart in the images to ensure you choose the correct size.

SaleBestseller No. 6

EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate 36 Inches, Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs, Soft Foldable Pet Kennel with 4-Door Mesh Windows Indoor & Outdoor, Grey

Enhanced Security & Stability Upgrades: Our collapsible dog crate is made with welded heavy-duty steel bars and dual-locking doors to keep even the strongest escape artists safely contained. The durable mesh material is not only scratch-resistant but also provides a wide view and great breathability.
Travel-Friendly Pet Crate: Need to store or travel? This portable dog kennel collapses for easy storage in car trunks, closets, or RVs. Perfect for camping, road trips, or moving houses—sets up in seconds with no tools! Perfect for dog owners with outdoor & indoor lifestyles.
Easy-Clean & Safety Design: Enjoy the comfort of premium memory foam with the convenience of machine-washable care - no special cleaning required. An interior leash attachment clips to your pup' s collar to keep them secure inside this travel dog crate.
Portable & Durable Pet Kennel: The EHEYCIGA soft dog crate Lightweight steel frame with rugged durability. Features auto-lock water bottle holder, storage pouch and safety reflectors. Perfect for home use and travel adventures.
Multi-Functional Foldable Dog Crate: Our dog kennel offers a portable pet housing solution with 4 adjustable sizes to accommodate various breeds. Features tool-free assembly for instant setup and flattened storage capability. This space-saving pet cage delivers both comfort and travel convenience.

SaleBestseller No. 7

36" Soft Dog Crate for Large Dogs - Portable Travel Kennel with Lockable Zippers, Waterproof Base, Washable Cover, Patented Screw Frame for Adjustable Tension, Indoor & Car Use

𝗥𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝘂𝗯𝗲 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗲 – 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝘀 𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗲, 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 & 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿-𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲 Built with a full-length steel tube frame and signature screw-tightening design, this soft dog crate stays firm without middle folding joints. No collapsing, no wobbling, and no pinched fingers—ideal for medium to large, well-trained dogs.
𝗧𝗪𝗢 𝗪𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗙𝗢𝗟𝗗 – 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗣-𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗬 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗔𝗚𝗘-𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗟𝗬 Fold the entire crate flat in seconds or fully collapse it into a compact bundle. No parts to disconnect. Fits under beds, inside closets, or into SUV trunks—ideal soft crate for car travel, storage, or daily transitions between rooms.
𝗪𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗙 𝗕𝗔𝗦𝗘 + 𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗢𝗩𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥 – 𝗪𝗜𝗣𝗘 𝗖𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗡 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 The washable fabric cover can be removed via zipper and cleaned in minutes. The crate floor features a waterproof lining to protect your surfaces from dirt or small spills. No loose crate pans, no plastic tray replacements needed.
𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 & 𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗜𝗕𝗟𝗘 – 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡𝗘𝗗 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗘𝗗𝗨𝗖𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 Three mesh windows provide airflow and visibility from multiple sides, helping calm dogs feel relaxed indoors or on the road. Roll-up side entrances offer easy access without sharp parts or stressful noise.
𝗣𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗗 𝗧𝗪𝗜𝗦𝗧-𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗞 𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗠𝗘 – 𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗠 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗖𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗡 𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 Unique screw-based frame tightens the fabric to stay taut. Makes the crate look neater, reduces sagging, and improves overall appearance and stability. Tool-free setup in under 30 seconds with one hand.

Bestseller No. 8

PAWZIDEA Portable Small Dog Crate for Car Travel, Enclosed Pet Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs Cats up 33lb, Reversible No-Zip Canopy, Soft-Sided Pet Carrier Basket, Collapsible Dog Kennel, Metal Frame

Car-Ready Portable Small Dog Crate — Easily converts to an enclosed dog car seat and secures safely with a seatbelt! Spacious interior 22.8″L × 14.5″W × 21.6″H —40% taller than standard crates, providing extra headroom so pets can sit upright comfortably during car rides or vet visits. Comfort fits one medium dog or two small pets (cats, puppies, or rabbits) —up to 33 lbs.
Easy-Locking & No-Zip Top-Load Canopy — Dual-lock handle allows quick one-handed top-load access —no more struggling with zippers! The reversible canopy shields pets from harsh sunlight or flips open for a full view, and making it easy to keep an eye on your pets and feeding.
Compact Design for Easy Car Travel — Fits on a single seat, leaving room for passengers, and also works perfectly on the front passenger seat. Securely fasten the crate by threading the seatbelt through its rear-straps for safe, stable travel. A large front mesh door and top-load canopy allow easy feeding and hassle-free pet entry. Includes a side storage pocket (8″L × 6″H) for pet essentials.
Safety First! Escape-Proof Design — Features dual-lock canopy latches, anti-gap canopy panels, a built-in safety tether, and self-locking zippers (work only when lifted straight up) to prevent escapes. Durable, breathable, chew-proof mesh offers 360° airflow and superior visibility, keeping pets calm, cool, and secure. Reflective strips add extra safety for nighttime travel.
Collapsible & Easy to Clean – Dual pull-ring metal frame sets up the crate in seconds, while 2 × 9 mm steel canopy rods provide strong support without collapsing—even when lifted with weight. The solid PVC-board base ensures stable structure, and the removable, double-sided soft cushion is machine-washable and leak-proof to protect your car seats. Folds flat to just 3.5" H for compact, space-saving storage.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Dog Crates for Car Travel

Taking your dog along for a ride is fun. But safety comes first. A good dog crate keeps your pet secure in the car. This guide helps you pick the best one.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop for a car travel crate, look for several important things. These features make travel safer and easier for you and your dog.

1. Secure Latching System

The door must lock tightly. A weak latch can open, letting your dog roam free.
Look for double latches or strong locking mechanisms.

2. Proper Sizing

Your dog needs room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Measure your dog first. Then, compare those measurements to the crate dimensions. Too small is unsafe; too big might let them slide around too much during stops.

3. Ventilation and Visibility

Good airflow is crucial. Make sure the crate has plenty of mesh or bars.
You should be able to see your dog easily. They should also see you.

4. Crash-Tested Certification (If possible)

Some high-end crates have been tested to ensure they protect pets in an accident. This adds a big layer of safety.

Important Materials Matter

The material of the crate affects its strength, weight, and how easy it is to clean.

Metal Crates (Wire)

These are very strong and offer great visibility. They often fold flat for storage.
Quality matters here. Thicker gauge metal lasts longer and resists bending.

Plastic Crates (Hard-sided)

These offer solid protection from all sides. They are great for blocking wind and rain.
Look for heavy-duty plastic that resists cracking if bumped hard.

Fabric Crates (Soft-sided)

These are the lightest option. They fold up easily, making them perfect for small dogs or very frequent travelers.
Ensure the fabric is tough, like heavy-duty nylon, to prevent chewing or tearing.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all crates are made equally. Pay attention to how the crate is built.

Improving Quality:

Reinforced Corners: Strong corners help the crate keep its shape during bumps or minor accidents.
Easy Cleaning: Removable, washable pads or trays make cleanup simple after messy trips.
Non-Slip Feet: These feet stop the crate from sliding around on your car seats or cargo area.

Reducing Quality:

Flimsy Hardware: Cheap plastic clips or thin metal bars break easily.
Sharp Edges: Rough welds or unfinished plastic can scratch your dog. Quality crates smooth these areas down.
Poor Fit: If the parts don’t line up well when assembling, the crate might wobble or fail under stress.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you plan to use the crate most often. This shapes your best choice.

Short Trips vs. Long Road Trips

For quick vet visits, a simple, easy-to-install plastic carrier works well.
For long road trips, comfort is key. A slightly larger, well-ventilated crate with soft bedding helps prevent restlessness.

Installation and Stability

Check how the crate secures inside your vehicle. Does it use seatbelts, tie-down straps, or just sit on the floor? A crate that moves is a danger.
If you have an SUV, you might want a crate designed specifically to fit snugly against the back seats or in the cargo area.

Remember, acclimating your dog to the crate *before* traveling is very important. Start using it at home so car rides feel normal, not scary.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car Travel Crates

Q: How do I choose the right size crate for my car?

A: Measure the space in your car first—usually the back seat or cargo area. Then, pick a crate that fits that space while still giving your dog enough room inside.

Q: Should I use a soft-sided or hard-sided crate for the car?

A: Hard-sided crates offer better physical protection in a crash. Soft-sided crates are lighter and easier to store when you are not using them.

Q: Can I just put the crate on the car seat?

A: Yes, but you must secure it. Most crates need to be strapped down using the car’s seatbelt or special tether points so they do not slide or tip over.

Q: What if my dog chews through the crate?

A: If your dog is a strong chewer, avoid fabric crates. Choose heavy-duty metal or thick plastic. You must also train your dog to see the crate as a safe den, not something to escape.

Q: Do I need ventilation on all sides?

A: Yes. Good airflow prevents your dog from overheating and reduces anxiety. Crates with mesh on three or four sides are usually best for travel.

Q: Are crates required by law for car travel?

A: Laws change by location. However, most places require pets to be restrained. A crate is one of the safest ways to meet this rule.

Q: How often should I stop on a long trip?

A: Plan to stop every two to three hours. This lets your dog stretch, drink water, and use the bathroom. Never let your dog out of the crate while the car is moving.

Q: What is the difference between a travel crate and a regular crate?

A: Travel crates are often lighter, fold down smaller, or have special features like built-in tie-downs designed for vehicle safety.

Q: Should I leave the water bowl inside the crate?

A: For short drives, maybe not. For long drives, use a spill-proof water bowl that attaches securely to the crate door. Otherwise, water can spill and make your dog uncomfortable.

Q: How do I keep the crate from sliding on leather seats?

A: You can place a non-slip mat or a heavy rubber liner underneath the crate. This grips the leather and keeps the crate steady.

5 Best Dog Crates for Car Travel: Buyer’s Guide