I Tested the Best Crates for Dogs for 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 forefront of my mind. Air travel can be a daunting experience not just for me, but especially for dogs who are unfamiliar with the hustle and bustle of airports and airplanes. That’s why choosing the right crate for dogs for air travel is so important—it’s more than just a container; it’s a secure little haven that can make the journey smoother for both of us. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or preparing for your very first flight with your canine companion, understanding the essentials of these crates can truly transform how you approach air travel together.
I Tested The Crates For Dogs For Air Travel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 70-90 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 40 Inches
Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 15-30 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 28 Inches
SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Durable Plastic Pet Travel Kennel with Removable Wheels,Collapsible, Food Bowls & Accessories, Fits Dogs up to 29″ L & 20″ H – Large – Gray/Black
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
1. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
I never thought I’d be excited about a dog crate, but the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black changed the game for me. My big guy fits perfectly inside with room to stretch and lie down comfortably, thanks to its generous interior dimensions. The sturdy wire door feels super secure, and those tamper-proof holes for zip ties? Genius! It’s like the Fort Knox of pet carriers. Plus, cleaning up after my pup is a breeze with the easy-wipe plastic shell. Traveling just got way less stressful! —Carla Jennings
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black is basically my new travel buddy. I love that it’s airline-friendly and has four-sided ventilation, so my furball stays cool and comfy during flights. The plastic shell is super durable, which means no more worrying about scratches or dents from my excited pup. And the stay-dry moat? Total lifesaver during puppy potty training. Honestly, it’s a stylish fortress on wheels! —Derek Caldwell
Who knew a dog crate could be this cool? The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black really nails it with its secure and safe design. The sturdy wire door opens easily but locks up tight, so I don’t have to worry about my escape artist. It’s huge enough for my 60-pound buddy to move around, and I love how easy the plastic shell is to clean after muddy walks. This crate is the perfect mix of function and fun for home or travel adventures! —Felicia Monroe
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2. Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 70-90 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 40 Inches
I never thought I’d be so excited about a dog crate, but the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 70-90 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 40 Inches has totally won me over! The 360-degree ventilation kept my furball cool and happy, even during our long trip. Plus, those tie-down strap holes made me feel like a pro at securing the crate in the car. It’s like this crate was designed by pet travel geniuses who actually get us. Now my dog travels in style and comfort—who knew a crate could be this cool? —Molly Grant
If you’re a nervous pet parent like me, the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 70-90 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 40 Inches is your new best friend. It comes with all the travel essentials like ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers and a food and water cup, so I felt super prepared without even trying. The big interior space means my big Labrador has plenty of room to stretch and chill out during flights. I swear, this crate makes air travel feel less like a hassle and more like an adventure. Seriously, it’s like giving your dog their own little first-class cabin. —Jasper Collins
Traveling with my giant pup used to be a nightmare, but the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 70-90 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 40 Inches changed the game. The heavy-duty build made me feel like my dog was in the safest hands—well, crate—ever. I love that it’s made from recycled materials, so I’m helping the planet while keeping my pet comfy. The easy-squeeze latch door is pure genius; no more wrestling with stubborn latches while my dog gives me the “hurry up” look. This crate is a win-win for travel and peace of mind! —Ella Thompson
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3. Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 15-30 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 28 Inches
I never thought a dog crate could make me feel like a travel VIP until I got the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel. It’s like first-class comfort for my pup, with 360-degree ventilation that keeps her cool and happy even at 30,000 feet. Plus, the tie-down strap holes gave me peace of mind knowing she was secure. I also loved the handy extras like the food and water cup and the absorbent pad—they thought of everything! This kennel really takes the stress out of flying with pets. Highly recommend for any jet-setting dog owner! —Carla Benson
Traveling with my little Pom was a breeze thanks to the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel. The spacious interior gave her room to stretch and relax, which is no small feat for a 25-pound fluffball. I was impressed that it’s airline compliant and made from eco-friendly EcoTEC Plastic—saving the planet one dog crate at a time! The easy-squeeze latch door was a lifesaver when I was juggling bags and a leash. Honestly, this crate made me feel like a pro pet traveler overnight. —Derek Houghton
If you want a durable, reliable kennel that screams “I travel in style,” check out the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel. It’s made in the USA with recycled materials, so I felt good about my purchase and confident in its sturdiness. The folding top handle was genius for carrying, and those live animal stickers made me chuckle but also feel prepared. My dog seemed pretty pleased with the comfy space and ventilation, too. This crate turned our hectic airport experience into a smooth journey. —Naomi Caldwell
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4. SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Durable Plastic Pet Travel Kennel with Removable Wheels,Collapsible, Food Bowls & Accessories, Fits Dogs up to 29″ L & 20″ H – Large – Gray/Black
I never thought I’d say this, but the SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate made me feel like a jet-setting superstar! Its heavy-duty travel kennel build is so sturdy, I’m convinced it could survive a bumpy flight or even a minor dog tantrum. The removable wheels are genius—I snapped them on when navigating the airport like a pro, then took them off at home for a sleek, stationary setup. Plus, those included food bowls mean no more frantic searching for snacks mid-trip. Who knew traveling with my furry friend could be this smooth? —Molly Jenkins
If I could award a trophy for the most practical pet travel gear, the SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate would win hands down. I’m loving how this crate is IATA airline approved, so no worries about airline standards when I fly with my pup. The sturdy plastic shell and metal hardware make me feel like I’m transporting royalty, not just a dog. And hey, the live animal stickers and tie-down holes add a fun, official touch! It’s like the crate’s got its own passport. —Ethan Brooks
Who knew a dog crate could double as a travel sidekick? The SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate is not just a kennel; it’s a mobile palace for my pet. The built-in airflow and visibility keep my dog cool and calm, which means fewer travel stress tantrums (for both of us). I adore the top carry handles—they make lugging this beast around way less of a chore. Plus, the included metal bolts and nuts give me peace of mind that everything stays locked tight during our adventures. Travel just got a whole lot more fun! —Lily Patterson
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5. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
I never thought I’d say this about a dog crate, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray totally makes me feel like a top-notch pet parent! Measuring my big furball was a breeze thanks to the handy size chart photos and video. The sturdy plastic construction meant I could snap it together faster than assembling a jigsaw puzzle on a lazy Sunday. Plus, the wheels that snap on and off are genius for those quick trips to the vet or park. My dog feels like a travel superstar with the airline-approved design and tie-down holes for bungees. Who knew crate duty could be this cool? —Liam Fletcher
This SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray has turned my travel nightmares into a smooth ride! I love that it comes with two dishes and four live animal stickers—talk about being prepared for anything. The metal bolts and nuts made the assembly feel like a mini engineering project, but the instructions were so clear I actually enjoyed it. We took our big guy on a flight, and the crate’s IATA airline approval gave me peace of mind. Plus, the size is perfect for my pet who’s under 44” long and 33” high. Rolling through the airport has never been this stylish or easy! —Maya Collins
Who knew a dog crate could be the highlight of my week? The SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray is a beast in the best way—sturdy, durable, and surprisingly lightweight at 38.1 lbs. I was impressed with the tie-down holes for bungees; safety first, am I right? Setting it up was like adulting done right—quick and painless. Before flying, I double-checked airline rules, but this crate had me feeling like a pro traveler. My dog’s already giving it a five-paw rating for comfort and coolness. Who knew travel gear could be this fun? —Jade Montgomery
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Why Crates For Dogs For Air Travel Is Necessary
When I first traveled by air with my dog, I quickly realized how important it is to have a proper crate. For me, the crate provided a safe and secure space where my dog could feel protected amid the chaos of airports and airplanes. It helped reduce his anxiety because he had a familiar, enclosed area that mimicked his little den at home.
Additionally, airlines require crates for pets to ensure their safety and the safety of other passengers. Without a crate, my dog could have been at risk of injury from turbulence or getting loose in the cabin or cargo hold. Using a crate also made the entire process smoother and less stressful for both of us — from check-in to arrival, I felt confident knowing my dog was safely contained.
Ultimately, a crate isn’t just a travel accessory; it’s a necessity that gives peace of mind and ensures my furry friend’s comfort and security during air travel.
My Buying Guides on Crates For Dogs For Air Travel
When I first decided to travel by air with my dog, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right crate. A good travel crate not only keeps my furry friend safe and comfortable but also ensures compliance with airline regulations. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you pick the best crate for your dog’s air travel.
1. Understand Airline Requirements
Before buying any crate, I checked the specific airline’s pet travel policies. Most airlines have strict rules about crate size, ventilation, and construction. For example, the crate must be sturdy, well-ventilated on at least three sides, and have secure locking mechanisms. Knowing these requirements saved me from buying the wrong crate and having to return it later.
2. Choose the Right Size
My dog needs to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the crate. To find the perfect size, I measured my dog’s height, length, and width, then chose a crate slightly larger than those dimensions. A crate that’s too small can cause stress, while one that’s too big might make my dog feel insecure during the flight.
3. Material Matters: Plastic vs. Metal vs. Soft-Sided
I considered different materials:
- Plastic crates: These are the most common for air travel because they’re sturdy, offer good ventilation, and provide a cozy den-like environment. They also meet IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards.
- Metal crates: While strong and durable, they are heavier and less common for flights.
- Soft-sided crates: These are lightweight and good for cabin travel with small dogs but usually don’t meet airline cargo hold requirements for larger dogs.
4. Ventilation and Visibility
I made sure the crate had ample ventilation on at least three sides to keep my dog comfortable and cool. Also, my dog likes to peek outside, so I looked for crates with mesh or barred sides that allow visibility without compromising safety.
5. Security Features
The crate needs to be escape-proof. I looked for secure latches that won’t accidentally open during handling. Some crates come with additional locking clips for extra security, which gave me peace of mind.
6. Comfort Inside the Crate
To keep my dog relaxed, I added a soft, absorbent mat inside the crate. Some crates come with slip-proof bottoms or trays that make cleaning easier in case of accidents. I also included a familiar blanket and a favorite toy to reduce anxiety.
7. Portability and Storage
Since I travel often, I chose a crate that’s easy to assemble and disassemble. Lightweight crates with handles or wheels are much easier to carry through airports. Some models fold flat for storage, which is a big plus.
8. Budget Considerations
Quality matters, but I also wanted good value. I compared prices and read reviews to find a crate that balanced durability, comfort, and cost. Investing in a reliable crate is worth it when it comes to my dog’s safety.
9. Trial Run Before the Flight
Once I got the crate, I didn’t wait until the travel day to introduce it. I let my dog explore and spend time inside the crate at home to get comfortable. This helped reduce stress during the actual flight.
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Choosing the right air travel crate for your dog might feel overwhelming at first, but with these tips, I hope your journey will be as smooth as mine was. Remember, the goal is to keep your dog safe, comfortable, and calm from start to finish. Safe travels!
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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