If you’re looking for the best dog travel crates, you’re in the right spot!
Whether you’re headed down the street or across the globe, these travel crates can help you get your pup from point A to point B in style, safety, and comfort.
You don’t want just any old item when it comes to toting your most precious cargo. And we’re here to help!
Below, we considered factors like price, safety standards, your dog’s comfort, ease of transport, and more.
So let’s take a look at the 5 best dog travel crates in greater detail saving you time and money.
In a hurry? Here are the top 3 travel crates for dogs our experts chose:
Our top picks
Best Dog Travel Crates
Before we fill you in on how to choose the best travel crate and what to watch out for, we present you the top 5 travel crates for dogs in the UK:
Firstly, this crate meets the IATA requirements for transportation, so you can purchase with confidence.
While many carriers don’t come with the proper screws for airline travel, this one does. For ease of transport, this carrier is lightweight yet durable.
There is a large metal door on the front and the addition of two smaller windows on the sides. This allows for plenty of ventilation as well as good visibility for you and your dog. This model comes in 7 different sizes to accommodate just about any breed.
Putting this product together is fairly simple and require no tools. Thumb screws are included for easy assembly. There’s also a water bowl included and a single handle at the top for comfortable carry.
When not in use, this box breaks down and the two halves fit inside each other. This helps with space-saving and storage.
For safety, there are 5 lockable hinges that are very sturdy. This helps ensure that your dog absolutely cannot escape no matter how clever he is!
Features
- In accordance with IATA requirements
- Safety screws for travel included
- Includes water bowl
- Metal door
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Wheels are only included with sizes large and above
This is a unique carrier in both construction and design. The Natuvalle Pet Carrier can be worn by a pet parent on their back, front, or at their side.
It’s a soft-sided carrier that’s best for small animals as it is intended to be worn.
For versatility, this carrier is airline approved. So, you can take it with you on all kinds of travel. The ventilation meshes at the front and side make it easy for your pet to see out and receive proper air-flow.
This is one of the most flexible carriers and can easily fit under an airline seat, if needed. For safety, this carrier comes with reflective straps for night travel, an easy walk-through door, and a wooden non-bendable sturdy floor.
To ensure your pup’s comfort, there is velcro bedding included on the floor. This carrier is probably one of the cosiest, and might become a favourite sanctuary for your dog whether you’re traveling or just hanging out at home!
This is a great option if you like the idea of wearing your pet carrier or if you plan on walking for some distance with your pet in-tow.
Features
- Airline approved
- Patented flexible frames
- High ventilation
- Wooden floor
Pros
- Comes airline ready
- High-Quality materials
Cons
- Might need to be turned on side to fit under airplane seat
As the name suggests, this product is designed for pet travel and airline travel in particular. Not only is it IATA compliant, but it’s plenty durable to withstand even the most extensive travel plans.
The Skykennel is easy to assemble and supremely durable. It’s available in 6 sizes to suit all sizes of pups.
At the front, there’s an easy-swing metal door for great accessibility as well as visibility. And on the side, there are two smaller windows so your dog doesn’t feel too cramped or boxed in.
As with many travel crates and airline carriers, this one includes plastic bowls for your dog’s food and water. The single handle makes it easy to transport, and who doesn’t like easy?
Features
- IATA compliant
- Plastic
- Single handle for easy transport
- Travel bowls included
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Travels well
Cons
- Pricey
If you’re looking for a soft-sided travel carrier, this might be the item for you.
It’s airline approved, so you can use it for just about any type of travel. Also, this carrier comes in 2 sizes and 6 colors for some added variety.
The soft, padded carry handle and shoulder strap make this an exceedingly comfortable carrier for both human and dog.
If you’re traveling by car, you can make use of the clever car seat buckles. For added convenience, you’ll find handy pockets throughout this tote.
This carrier unzips at the end for your dog’s easy entrance and includes a removable and washable soft plush mat for the floor. There’s plenty of extra storage space for snacks, collar, leash, and any other extras your canine travel companion might require!
Conveniently, this carrier will fit under most airline seats. Although it’s made of fabric and mesh, the design is durable and intended to stand up to wear.
The Kaka Mall Pet Carrier is definitely made with comfort in mind – both you and your dog’s!
Features
- Airline approved
- Collapsible
- Mesh
- Includes removable fleece mat
Pros
- Can be fashioned to seatbelt
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Best for only smaller size dogs
With Pet Mate, you can choose from 6 various sizes. The crate is easy to assemble and does not require the use of any tools.
There’s a squeeze latch that’s simple for you but secure for your dog. In addition to the ventilation and viability of the large front door, there are vents all along the side walls.
This is a sturdy, heavy-duty carrier that’s great for both at-home training and travel. Also, there are tie-down strap holes along the perimeter in case you need to do zip-tie installation.
For your pet’s comfort and for easy cleaning, there’s an interior mat that’s easily removed.
For secure car travel, you can use the seatbelt loop notch included with this product. Further, there’s a built-in compartment cover to store puppy snacks, toys or other travel items.
This kennel comes with clear instructions and is a breeze to put together. When dismantled, the crate halves fit inside one another to make it half the size.
Features
- Durable construction
- Easy-open squeeze latch
- 6 different sizes
- Vents on side walls
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- No tools required
Cons
- Not airline ready – you must purchase metal screws to replace the plastic
What To Consider Before Purchase
Now that you’ve got a pretty good idea of what these crates have to offer, you might be wondering how to decide which one is best.
There are a few more things to consider before narrowing down your selection.
Below, we take a look at what to consider before you buy and how to choose the best travel crate for your precious pup.
Advantages Of A Travel Crate
The advantages of a travel crate are many. In fact, it’s just about impossible to travel well with your dog unless you’ve got a good crate.
Depending on the type of travel, you might want a crate that fits like a backpack, can be slung over the shoulder, or one that comes with wheels.
A good travel crate keeps your dog safe, contained, comfortable, and calm as you move from one destination to the next. It also gives him a space of his own where he feels protected, included and seen.
What To Avoid
You definitely want to avoid going too cheap on a travel crate. A lower price might mean less durable materials, compromised safety, or a broken carry-handle that renders the crate completely useless.
Spending a little more is definitely worth the investment. It gives you the peace of mind you need to confidently travel with your canine.
And a high-quality crate keeps your dog safe, healthy, and happy in a time that might otherwise be slightly stressful.
Airline Travel
Your needs – and your dog’s needs – will be different depending on the type of travel.
Airlines have many strict and specific regulations that are important to follow carefully. You definitely don’t want to get all the way to the airport only to discover your crate isn’t in compliance.
Policies can vary from airline to airline, so be sure to check with your specific flight. Airlines have some interesting rules.
For example, all screws must be metal and not plastic. Also, there are certain sizes that are permitted while others are too big.
Be sure and check the specific requirements for your airline and look for “airline-ready” or approved crates. The IATA gives very specific guidelines on their website.
Car Travel
If you’re traveling by car, you have a bit more flexibility. You might want a crate that fits well in your back seat, attaches to a seatbelt, and offers plenty of visibility so your pup can look out and you can look in.
Safety is always a concern while travelling, so you want a crate that’s durable and sturdy while still being lightweight and easy to transport.
If you’re not sure what type of crate to choose check out our article to the best crates in the UK.
How To Choose The Best Travel Crate For Dogs
The best dog travel crates are durable, sturdy, well-ventilated, and comfortable. If intended for use on an airline, they meet all the measurement and material standards set forth by the airline.
A good carrier is also lightweight, easy to transport and quick to break down or stow away. The best models should last a long time and see you, and your pup, through many happy travels.
What To Consider?
Size
Size is the one of the most important factors, for many reasons. If you’re embarking on airline travel, you’ll need to check that your carrier meets all the proper size restrictions.
Size is also important for the comfort and well-being of your pup, regardless of the manner of travel.
There should be enough room for your pup to comfortably stand up and turn around.
At the same time, a crate that’s too large may make your dog feel like he has enough space to relieve himself without soiling his bed.
Ventilation
In any good carrier, you’ll see some type of ventilation. Some crates simply have holes cut out in the side while other have slats or mesh windows.
Mesh is not always good for puppies or dogs prone to chewing, but it may be the preferred ventilation if you have a mature dog with no destructive tendencies.
Aside from air flow, proper windows allow your dog to see out, know your whereabouts, and be seen by you.
These things are very important for your dog’s comfort and happiness. Being in strange surroundings or environments can be stressful for your pup. Seeing your smiling face can really help!
Materials
There are a wide variety of styles and materials in the world of dog travel crates. Many are made from durable plastic with some kind of steel bar door.
Others are made mostly of fabric with a collapsible frame for easy folding and added durability.
Regardless of which style you choose, it’s best to look for high-quality materials that are sturdy and durable enough to last you a while.
You also want something that’s easy to clean and store, lightweight enough to carry, and offers plenty of visibility for your dog.
Carry Style
How you’ll transport your carrier is immensely important. While some crates have a single handle at the top, others have a long wearable strap, can be pulled on wheels, or are made to be worn like a backpack.
This is all about personal preference for you as well as practicality.
If you’re purchasing a sturdy plastic crate with a single handle at the top, make sure the crate has a reputation for durability. Without that single little handle, the crate becomes useless during travel.
Safety
Whether your dog is on the go or being crate-trained, safety is of utmost importance. While some dogs are happy to just stay put, others are masters of escape or destined to destroy anything that contains them.
There are many styles of carrier and quite a few options in terms of how they latch, lock, or secure. Look for an item with a great safety reputation and proven safety lock features.
Another safety measure to remember is to always remove your dog’s collar when placing him in the crate. This ensures that his collar doesn’t get snagged or stuck anywhere in the crate.
FAQ
This will depend on what type of travel you’re arranging and the size of your dog.
Generally, crates need to be several inches taller and longer than your dog so he can move around comfortably. You want a crate that’s around 5cm taller and 10cm longer than your dog.
For airline travel, only choose crates that clearly meet airline standards.
If you’re planning airline travel, you want to be sure to abide by airline requirements.
Most pet carriers will specify whether they meet airline standards. Look for this guarantee before buying to avoid purchasing a crate that doesn’t fit the proper dimensions.
The IATA requirements can seem a bit complicated. Luckily, there’s a handy equation you can use to determine if your carrier will work.
A = length of animal from tip of nose to base of tail
B = width across shoulders or widest point
C = width across shoulders
D = height of animal in natural standing position from top of the head or the ear tip to the floor
So, the requirements are:
Length = A+1⁄2 B
Width = Cx2
Height = D
*Snub nosed breeds require 10% larger container
Final Verdict
We like to think of our pups as just another member of the family. But, of course, they need special care and treatment for their canine ways.
A travel crate can help keep your pup safe, in-place, secure, and comfortable during the excitement and activity of travel.
If you’re looking for a smaller pet crate you can comfortably carry, the Natuvalle Pet Carrier Backpack might be the way to go.
But if you’re seeking a heavy-duty, ultra-sturdy hard case crate, the Karlie Transport Box might be more your speed. Whatever your needs, there’s something for you – and Fido – on this list!
Haven’t decided yet? Here is the top 5 in a nutshell:
Our Top Picks
- Plastic transport box for dogs. Roomy, very robust and light box with...
- Upper and lower parts can be stored inside each other. The two halves are...
- Necessary safety screws for travel in train or plane (thumbscrews - no...
- LENGTH AND HEIGHT -GET IT RIGHT: Measure your pet from tip of nose to base...
- AIRLINE APPROVED *MORE SPACIOUS & HIGHER THAN MOST CARRIERS *CHEST STRAPS...
- HIGH QUALITY DURABLE FABRIC *HIGH VENTILATION *WOODEN NON-BENDABLE STURDY...
- Provides safe travel
- Plastic
- Dog carriers/carriers
- Portable Airline approved pet carrier: 48 L x 25 W x 33 H CM; Upgraded pet...
- Safety Pet Travel Carrier: Can be fastened to seat belt. Removable fleece...
- The carrier made of durable, lightweight material and mesh, resistant to...
- Easy-to-assembly
- no tools required
- Ideal for training and traveling
So, which one is your favourite?
Paw-fect job getting ready for a brand new travel with your pup!
If you made up your mind, why not let us know your favourite in the comments section below.
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