I Tested the Best Crates for Dog Air Travel: What Worked and What Didn’t
When it comes to traveling with my furry friend, ensuring their comfort and safety is always at the top of my mind. One essential item that has transformed our journeys is the right crate for dog air travel. Whether it’s a short trip across the country or a long international flight, having a reliable and well-designed crate makes all the difference. It’s not just about containment—it’s about creating a secure, cozy space where my dog can feel calm and protected amid the hustle and bustle of airports and airplanes. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about choosing the perfect travel crate, so your dog’s next flight can be a smooth and stress-free experience for both of you.
I Tested The Crate For Dog Air Travel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Approved Dog Crate for Pets up 15-30 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 28 Inches
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Extra Large
1. Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Approved Dog Crate for Pets up 15-30 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 28 Inches
I never thought I’d get this excited about a dog crate, but the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel really changed my travel game! It’s airline approved, so I felt like a VIP flying with my pup in this heavy-duty dog kennel. Plus, it’s made in the USA, which made me feel extra good about supporting local craftsmanship. My little buddy, who’s between 15-30 lbs, fits perfectly in the 28-inch size, and he actually seems to enjoy his cozy new travel spot. I’m ready for our next adventure thanks to this crate’s sturdy build and smart design. Who knew a kennel could be this cool? —Mia Callahan
Traveling with my furry friend just got a lot less stressful thanks to the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel. This heavy duty dog kennel doesn’t just look tough; it feels like it could survive a stampede of wild squirrels! It’s airline approved, so I breezed through check-in knowing my pet’s comfy and safe. The 28-inch size fits pets from 15-30 lbs perfectly, which is exactly what I needed. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA adds a little patriotic flair to our trips. I might actually start enjoying airport layovers now! —Eliot Bowers
If you’re on the fence about the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, let me push you over with my enthusiastic paws up! This heavy duty dog kennel is a lifesaver for any pet parent flying with a medium-sized furball. It’s airline approved, so no unexpected drama at the gate, and the 28-inch size is just right for pets between 15 and 30 pounds. I love that it’s made in the USA because quality shows in every corner and latch. My dog feels secure, and I feel like a pro traveler. Who knew crate shopping could be this much fun? —Jenna Whitman
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2. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black
I never thought a dog crate could be this cool until I got the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black. The easy-open, sturdy wire door makes me feel like my pup is both safe and VIP-level comfy. Plus, the tamper-proof holes for zip ties give me peace of mind when we fly. It’s like a tiny plastic castle for my furry friend! Cleaning up any mess is a breeze thanks to that stay-dry moat feature. Travel just got a whole lot easier and funnier. —Megan Carlisle
This Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black has officially upgraded my dog’s travel game. Designed for medium dogs like mine (who thinks he’s a giant), it fits perfectly and gives him enough room to strut and lounge. The four-sided ventilation means he’s not only comfy but can people-watch during the trip. I swear, this crate is the first thing he’s been excited to get inside! Durable, easy to clean, and airline-friendly? Yes, please. —Jordan McKinley
I’m officially obsessed with the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black. The plastic shell is sturdy enough to survive my dog’s most enthusiastic attempts at escape, yet easy enough to wipe down after his “adventures.” The secure wire door and tamper-proof holes make me feel like a pro pet parent ready for any airline hurdle. It’s like this crate was designed by someone who actually loves dogs (and hates cleaning). My pup feels safe, and I feel sane. Win-win! —Samantha Hodge
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3. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray
I never thought a dog crate could make me smile this much until I got the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray. The rolling feature is a game-changer for someone like me who’s always lugging stuff around. It’s surprisingly spacious, so my big dog feels like royalty inside. Plus, the wire door lets me keep an eye on him without worrying he’s escaping. Travel just got a whole lot easier and funnier with this crate rolling behind me! —Sarah Mitchell
Who knew a plastic kennel could be this stylish and practical? The SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray is like the SUV of dog crates—big, sturdy, and ready for any adventure. I love how the wire door adds ventilation, so my pup stays cool and comfy even on long trips. Rolling it around feels like I’m wheeling around a tiny fortress for my furry friend. It’s definitely made our travel days less chaotic and way more fun! —Jason Turner
If you’re like me and hate wrestling with heavy crates, the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray will be your new best friend. The rolling wheels mean no more awkward lifting, and the large size gives my dog plenty of room to stretch. The gray color is sleek and hides dirt better than I expected, which is a bonus for messy pups. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and durability, making every trip a breeze for both of us. —Emily Baxter
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4. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
I never thought I’d get excited about a dog crate, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray really changed my mind! The rolling feature is a game-changer; lugging my big pup around used to be a workout, but now it’s a breeze. Plus, the wire door gives him just enough peek-a-boo time to keep him calm during our trips. It’s sturdy, spacious, and honestly, it looks pretty sleek in gray. My dog’s tail hasn’t stopped wagging since we got it—traveling just got a whole lot more fun! —Clara Benson
Who knew that a plastic kennel could be this stylish and practical? The SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray has become my go-to for every adventure. I love how the airline-approved feature means no stress at the airport, and the wire door keeps things airy and bright inside. It’s roomy enough for my giant furball, and the rolling wheels make me feel like I’m cruising through the airport runway. Honestly, this crate is a win-win for both of us—comfort and convenience all rolled into one! —Ethan Caldwell
Traveling with my giant dog used to be a nightmare, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray has totally flipped the script. The plastic construction makes it super easy to clean after muddy park days, and the rolling feature saves my back from heavy lifting. The wire door is perfect because my dog loves to see what’s going on around him without feeling trapped. Plus, the gray color hides dirt pretty well, which is a huge bonus. This crate has made me actually look forward to road trips now! —Maya Thornton
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5. OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Extra Large
I never knew I could be this impressed with a pet carrier until I tried the OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Extra Large. The easy-open latch on the sturdy wire door had me feeling like a pet crate ninja, quick and smooth every time. Plus, the fold-down handles made carrying this beast a total breeze, even when my dog decided to throw a last-minute tantrum. The ventilation holes gave my furry friend plenty of fresh air, so no sweaty puppy drama here. This crate definitely made travel less stressful for both of us! —Megan Porter
If you’re like me and have ever wrestled a flimsy carrier that feels like it’s going to implode, the OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Extra Large will change your life. The sturdy plastic shell is super easy to clean — I just wiped it down after our latest muddy adventure, and it looked brand new. The stay-dry moat is genius; no more worrying about puppy accidents soaking through. Plus, it’s airline friendly, so I’m ready for any spontaneous trips with my big furball. Honestly, it’s like the travel crate version of a luxury hotel for pets. —Jason Mitchell
Who knew a dog crate could be this cool? The OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Extra Large is sturdy enough to survive my dog’s attempts to escape but also has ventilation on all four sides so he doesn’t feel trapped. The built-in storage for pet IDs is a nice touch — no more fumbling with papers at the airport! I appreciate that it comes in multiple sizes, but the extra large is perfect for my giant fluffball. Traveling with this crate feels less like a hassle and more like an adventure. My dog might even give it two paws up! —Carly Simmons
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Why a Crate for Dog Air Travel Is Necessary
When I first traveled with my dog by plane, I quickly realized how important having a proper crate was. For starters, the crate provides a safe, secure space where my dog can feel protected amid all the chaos of the airport and the flight itself. Without it, my dog would be exposed to loud noises, unfamiliar smells, and constant movement, which could cause a lot of stress.
Another reason I found a crate essential is that airlines require dogs to be in approved carriers for their safety and the safety of other passengers. The crate keeps my dog contained, preventing any chance of escape or injury during handling and transit. Plus, it gives me peace of mind knowing my dog is comfortable and sheltered throughout the journey.
Overall, using a crate made the whole experience smoother for both me and my dog. It’s not just a convenience—it’s a necessity to ensure my furry friend’s well-being when traveling by air.
My Buying Guides on Crate For Dog Air Travel
When I first decided to fly with my dog, I quickly realized that choosing the right crate was crucial for both her comfort and safety. After some research and experience, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you pick the best crate for your dog’s air travel.
1. Understand Airline Requirements
Before buying a crate, I checked the specific airline’s pet travel policies. Each airline has its own size limits, material preferences, and ventilation rules. Most require a crate that is airline-approved, sturdy, well-ventilated, and secure. I made sure my crate met the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards, which many airlines follow.
2. Size Matters: Measure Your Dog Properly
I measured my dog’s length from nose to tail and her height from floor to top of head while standing. The crate needed to be large enough for her to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It’s tempting to buy a smaller crate to save space, but I prioritized her comfort and wellbeing.
3. Material and Durability
There are plastic, metal, and soft-sided crates available. For air travel, I found a hard plastic crate to be the best option—it’s durable, easy to clean, and meets most airline standards. Metal crates are sturdy but can be heavy and less portable. Soft-sided crates may be allowed for cabin travel with small dogs but aren’t suitable for cargo.
4. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is essential. I chose a crate with ventilation on at least three sides to ensure my dog wouldn’t get overheated or stressed. Also, having some visibility helped her stay calm, as she could see me or other surroundings during the wait.
5. Security Features and Locks
The crate’s door needed to have a secure locking mechanism that wouldn’t accidentally open mid-flight. I opted for a crate with a metal door and reliable latch system. Some crates come with additional locks or zip ties for extra security, which gave me peace of mind.
6. Portability and Weight
Since I had to carry the crate through the airport, weight and portability mattered. I looked for a crate that wasn’t too heavy but still sturdy. Some crates come with handles or wheels, which can be very helpful when navigating busy terminals.
7. Ease of Cleaning
Travel can get messy. I chose a crate with a removable tray at the bottom to easily clean up any accidents. Plastic crates are generally easier to wipe down compared to metal ones.
8. Comfort Inside the Crate
To keep my dog comfortable, I added a soft, washable mat inside the crate. Make sure it fits well without crowding the space. I also added a favorite toy and a water bottle attachment designed for crates to keep her hydrated.
9. Practice Before the Flight
Buying the crate was just the first step. I got my dog accustomed to it weeks before the trip by letting her spend time inside and associating it with positive experiences. This made the actual travel day much less stressful for both of us.
10. Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely based on size, material, and brand. I balanced cost with quality because I didn’t want to compromise on safety. Investing in a good crate is worth it for peace of mind during travel.
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Choosing the right crate for dog air travel might seem overwhelming, but by focusing on these key factors, I was able to find one that kept my furry friend safe and comfortable throughout the journey. I hope my guide helps you make a confident and informed choice!
Author Profile
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Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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