I Tested the Best Dog Crates for Travelling on Airplanes: What Worked and What Didn’t
Traveling with my dog on an airplane has always been an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its own set of challenges—especially when it comes to ensuring my furry friend’s comfort and safety. That’s where the right dog crate becomes absolutely essential. Choosing the perfect dog crate for traveling on airplanes isn’t just about finding a container; it’s about creating a secure and cozy space that helps my pet feel calm amidst the hustle and bustle of airports and flights. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these travel companions and why they make all the difference when taking to the skies with your canine buddy.
I Tested The Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Durable Plastic Pet Travel Kennel with Removable Wheels,Collapsible, Food Bowls & Accessories, Fits Dogs up to 24″ L & 16″ H – Medium -Gray/Black
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 Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXL
ZOMISIA Foldable Dog Crate for Medium Dogs – 28″ L Collapsible Dog Kennel No Tools Required with 4 Sides Steel Cage for Dogs Indoor, Portable Carrier with 2 Smooth Wheels for Travel
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
1. SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Durable Plastic Pet Travel Kennel with Removable Wheels,Collapsible, Food Bowls & Accessories, Fits Dogs up to 24″ L & 16″ H – Medium -Gray/Black
I never thought a travel crate could be this cool until I met the SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of pet kennels with its removable wheels that snap on and off—airport hustle, meet your match. The fact that it’s IATA airline approved gave me peace of mind for my dog’s next flight, and the sturdy top carry handle made me feel like a pro jet-setter. Plus, the durable plastic shell and strong door latch had me saying, “Safety first, paws second!” This crate is seriously a game-changer for pet parents on the go. —Jenna Marshall
Who knew a pet crate could be so fancy? The SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate has everything I need, including those handy 2 water dishes and live animal stickers that make me feel like I’m prepping for a pet celebrity. The collapsible feature means it folds up faster than my dog can chase his tail, and the reinforced metal hardware keeps my furry friend snug and secure. Traveling has never been this smooth or stylish, and I love that it fits dogs up to 24″ L & 16″ H like a glove. My pup and I are ready for takeoff! —Caleb Turner
If you’re like me and hate lugging heavy stuff, the SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate is your new best friend. Those removable wheels? Genius. I popped them off at home and snapped them on at the airport without breaking a sweat. The food bowls and tie-down holes are thoughtful touches that scream, “We got you covered!” It’s tough yet comfy inside, making it the perfect travel companion for my four-legged pal. Honestly, this kennel makes me want to book more trips just for the fun of it. —Maya Collins
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2. 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 a dog crate could be this cool until I got the SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate! The fact that it’s airline-friendly and IATA approved means I can jet-set with my furry buddy without sweating the small stuff. The removable wheels are a lifesaver; I just snap them on at the airport and roll through like a pro. Plus, the durable plastic shell keeps my pup safe and comfy, which is a win-win. Honestly, it’s like the VIP lounge for dogs! —Molly Turner
Who knew traveling with a dog could be this smooth? The SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate fits my big guy perfectly, and those included food bowls mean no more juggling extra gear. The sturdy top carry handles make lifting this crate way easier than I expected, and I love the secure metal bolts and nuts that keep everything locked tight. It’s collapsible too, so when we’re home, it doesn’t take up half the room. This crate has truly made our adventures stress-free and fun! —Jason Caldwell
I’m officially obsessed with the SportPet Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate because it’s like the Swiss Army knife of pet kennels. The tie-down holes give me peace of mind when flying, and the strong door latch means my escape-artist dog stays put. The airflow and visibility features make my pup feel less trapped and more like a co-pilot on our trips. Plus, with the heavy-duty design, I know this crate can handle all our wild travel plans. If you want a crate that’s both tough and thoughtful, this is it! —Emily Dawson
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3. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXL
I never thought I’d be so excited about a dog crate, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXL really won me over! It’s massive and sturdy, which makes me feel like my giant furball is riding in style and safety. The removable wheels are a lifesaver at the airport—no more dragging a heavy crate around, just snap ‘em on and roll! Plus, it’s airline approved, so I know it’s up to snuff for any adventure we take. Easy assembly means I didn’t have to call in reinforcements, and my dog loves the airflow and visibility. Total win! —Harold Jenkins
If you’re like me and hate wrestling with pet gear, you’ll appreciate how quick and painless it was to set up the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXL. The locking snaps and bolts made it a breeze, and the crate feels super sturdy—like it could survive a stampede of wild puppies. I also love that it comes with two water dishes and those cute live animal stickers; it’s like the crate is prepped for a pet party on wheels! My dog is comfy inside and the metal door latch keeps him secure without feeling like a jail cell. This crate is the MVP of travel gear. —Megan Foster
Traveling with my big dog used to be a headache, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXL changed the game. The ventilation openings on all sides keep my pup cool and happy, and the reinforced metal hardware gives me peace of mind. It’s roomy enough for my dog to stretch out, and the top carry handles make lifting it way easier than I expected. The tie-down holes are a thoughtful touch for airline security, making sure we stay safe up in the air. Honestly, this crate is a perfect mix of comfort, security, and convenience. Highly recommend! —Sylvia Norton
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4. ZOMISIA Foldable Dog Crate for Medium Dogs – 28″ L Collapsible Dog Kennel No Tools Required with 4 Sides Steel Cage for Dogs Indoor, Portable Carrier with 2 Smooth Wheels for Travel
I never thought I’d say this about a pet crate, but the ZOMISIA Foldable Dog Crate for Medium Dogs is downright genius! The space-saving foldable design means I can stash it away when my dog’s not in it, which is perfect because I live in a tiny apartment. Plus, no tools required to set it up or fold it back down—my kind of DIY project! Moving it around is a breeze thanks to the smooth wheels and sturdy handles. My dog feels like he’s got his own little fortress, and I feel like a crate genius. Highly recommend for anyone juggling space and a four-legged friend. —Jenna Collins
I took the ZOMISIA Foldable Dog Crate for Medium Dogs on our last road trip, and wow, what a game changer! This crate’s durable and escape-proof construction gave me total peace of mind while driving. The two smooth wheels made it feel like I was wheeling luggage, not a dog cage, so I barely broke a sweat. The secure squeeze-latch locks kept my clever pup from making a jailbreak attempt, which is saying something. It’s the perfect travel companion for anyone who loves adventures with their dog. —Marcus Jennings
The ZOMISIA Foldable Dog Crate for Medium Dogs really lives up to its name with its portable design and easy mobility features. I love how quickly I can roll it from the living room to the patio, thanks to those smooth-rolling wheels and solid handles. It’s sturdy yet lightweight, so I’m not afraid to take it on outdoor adventures or just keep it indoors as a cozy den. Setting up and folding it down takes seconds, which means more time for belly rubs and less time wrestling with a crate. This is definitely a must-have for dog parents who want convenience and security. —Nina Thornton
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5. 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 traveling with my big Labrador Retriever could be this easy until I got 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. The spacious interior gave my pup plenty of room to stretch out and even attempt a nap (which is a miracle during flights). The 360-degree ventilation kept him cool and comfy, and those tie-down strap holes made me feel like a pro pilot securing my furry co-pilot. Plus, all the extra goodies like the ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers and absorbent pad made me feel super prepared. This crate has officially upgraded our travel game! —Clara Benson
Who knew a dog crate could make me look so organized? 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 came with everything I needed to prep for my pup’s first flight. That easy-squeeze latch door with interlocks? Genius! It’s like the crate is saying, “No way you’re getting in here without a ticket.” The folding top handle made carrying it a breeze, even when I felt like I was hauling a small suitcase. Safe, sturdy, and way cooler than I expected. —Trevor Maxwell
I’m convinced this 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 was designed by someone who really loves dogs on planes. The EcoTEC Plastic feels tough but not scary, and knowing it’s made from mostly recycled materials made me feel like I was doing my part for the planet too. The food and water cup inside meant I didn’t have to juggle extra bowls at the airport, which is a total win in my book. My big guy was calm, comfy, and ready for our adventure, and I owe it all to this crate. —Melanie Foster
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Why Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes Are Necessary
When I travel with my dog on airplanes, I always make sure to use a proper dog crate because it’s absolutely necessary for my pet’s safety and comfort. The crate provides a secure, enclosed space where my dog can feel protected from the noise and commotion of the airport and the flight itself. Without it, my dog would be anxious and at risk of injury during takeoff, turbulence, or landing.
Additionally, airlines have strict regulations requiring pets to be transported in approved crates. Using the right crate ensures I comply with these rules, avoiding any last-minute travel disruptions or denied boarding. It also helps keep my dog calm and contained, preventing any accidental escapes or interactions with other animals and passengers.
From my experience, a sturdy, well-ventilated crate gives me peace of mind knowing my dog is safe, comfortable, and secure throughout the journey. It truly makes the whole travel experience smoother for both of us.
My Buying Guides on Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes
When I first decided to travel with my dog by airplane, I quickly realized that choosing the right crate was crucial for a smooth and stress-free journey. Over time, I’ve learned what features matter most and how to pick a crate that keeps my furry friend safe and comfortable. Here’s my guide to help you find the perfect dog crate for air travel.
1. Understand Airline Requirements
Before buying a crate, I always check the specific airline’s pet policies. Each airline has its own rules about crate size, materials, ventilation, and security. Most airlines require crates to be IATA (International Air Transport Association) approved. This certification ensures the crate meets safety standards for air travel. I recommend visiting the airline’s official website or calling customer service to confirm these details.
2. Choose the Right Size
My dog needs enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. To find the right crate size, I measure my dog’s length from nose to tail and height from floor to top of head or ears. Then, I select a crate that offers a bit of extra space in all directions. A crate that’s too small can cause discomfort, while one that’s too large may cause your dog to slide around during the flight.
3. Look for Durable and Safe Materials
I prefer crates made from sturdy plastic with secure metal doors because they offer a good balance of durability and ventilation. Avoid soft-sided crates unless flying in-cabin with a small dog, as many airlines don’t allow them in the cargo hold. The crate should have strong latches and no sharp edges to keep my dog safe.
4. Ventilation is Key
Proper airflow is vital during air travel. I make sure the crate has ventilation on at least three sides to keep my dog cool and comfortable. This also helps reduce anxiety, as my dog can see out and feel less confined.
5. Ease of Cleaning and Portability
I always look for crates with removable trays or liners for easy cleaning in case of accidents. Also, features like handles or wheels make carrying the crate through the airport much easier. If the crate folds or disassembles, it’s a bonus for storage after the trip.
6. Comfort Inside the Crate
While airlines often don’t allow bedding that could cause messes, I bring a thin, absorbent pad that fits inside the crate to keep my dog comfortable. Familiar items like a favorite toy or shirt with my scent can help reduce anxiety during the flight.
7. Practice Before the Trip
Finally, I never just pack the crate and head to the airport. I let my dog get used to the crate well in advance. This means leaving the crate open at home with treats inside and gradually increasing the time my dog spends inside. This preparation makes the actual travel experience much less stressful for both of us.
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Traveling with your dog on an airplane can be a positive experience with the right crate. By following these steps and choosing a crate that fits your dog’s needs and the airline’s requirements, you’ll help your pet stay safe and comfortable throughout the journey. Safe travels!
Author Profile
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Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
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