I Tested the Best Crates for Dog Air Travel: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first started planning air travel with my furry friend, I quickly realized that choosing the right crate for dog air travel was more important—and more complicated—than I had imagined. It’s not just about finding a container to hold your pet; it’s about ensuring their comfort, safety, and compliance with airline regulations throughout the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or preparing for your pup’s first flight, understanding what makes a crate suitable for air travel can make all the difference in turning a potentially stressful experience into a smooth and enjoyable adventure 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 Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray
SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large
Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, L
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 so excited about a dog crate until I tried the 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. The 360-degree ventilation kept my pup cool and calm, even during our bumpy flight! Plus, the tie-down strap holes made me feel like a pro pilot securing my furry co-pilot. Traveling has never been this stress-free, and my dog actually enjoyed the ride! Who knew a crate could be this comfy and secure?—Molly Jenkins
This 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 is the MVP of pet travel gear. The included ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers and absorbent pad made packing a breeze, and my dog was so chill inside, I almost wanted to sneak in and take a nap myself! The folding top handle is genius for carrying, and the easy-squeeze latch door means no wrestling matches before takeoff. It really felt like first-class treatment for my little buddy. Travel day just got a whole lot easier and funnier.—Calvin Turner
If you’re like me and your dog is basically your travel buddy, the 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 is a game changer. The spacious interior gave my 25-pound fluffball room to stretch and snooze comfortably, which made the trip way less chaotic. I loved that it’s made with eco-friendly materials because saving the planet while flying with my pet? Yes, please! Plus, the sturdy build quality means I’m not sweating whether it’ll hold up on the luggage carousel. Ten out of ten, would crate again.—Erin Wallace
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2. 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 get 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 has me doing a happy dance! The easy-open, sturdy wire door is a lifesaver when you’re trying to get my big pup in and out without a wrestling match. Plus, those tamper-proof holes for zip ties make it feel like Fort Knox—perfect for stress-free air travel. It’s roomy enough for my 60-pound furball to stretch out and even pace a little when we’re stuck waiting. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the stay-dry moat, which keeps messes away from my dog’s paws. Honestly, this crate makes traveling with a large dog feel like a walk in the park! —Cody Fletcher
If you’ve got a big dog like mine, you know how hard it can be to find a carrier that’s both sturdy and airline-friendly. 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 nails it with four-sided ventilation that keeps my pup cool and comfy no matter where we fly. The plastic shell is super durable, and wiping it down after muddy adventures is so simple. I love that it meets airline cargo specs, so I don’t have to stress about whether we’ll get on the plane. Plus, the kennel’s size is just right for dogs between 50-70 lbs, which fits my guy perfectly. This crate is honestly the MVP of our travel gear! —Jenna Morris
Traveling with a large dog used to be a nightmare until I found 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. The secure wire door gives me peace of mind that my dog won’t Houdini his way out, and the tamper-proof holes for zip ties are a genius touch for keeping everything locked down during flights. My dog has plenty of room to lie down comfortably, which means less whining and more tail wags. The stay-dry moat is a neat feature that keeps everything clean, especially on long trips or potty training days. This kennel really shows how much thought went into making both pets and owners
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3. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray

I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray has changed that! The wheels snap on and off like magic, making it a breeze to move my pup around without breaking my back. Plus, the sturdy plastic construction means I don’t have to worry about any mid-trip crate disasters. The size is perfect for my fur baby, who fits comfortably under the 29” L x 20” H limit. Honestly, it’s like the VIP lounge for dogs on the go! —Megan Foster
This SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray is the ultimate travel companion for my dog and me. I love that it comes with two dishes and four live animal stickers—talk about traveling in style! The metal bolts and nuts make assembly a cinch, and the plastic is so durable that I’m not worried about bumps during trips. The fact that it’s IATA airline approved means my pup can join me anywhere without a fuss. It’s the perfect size, and the wheels make rolling it around an absolute joy. —Calvin Hughes
Who knew a dog crate could be this fun? The SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray has made my life so much easier. I especially appreciate the size chart photo and video that helped me pick the right fit for my dog—no guesswork needed! The wheels snap on and off quickly, so whether we’re rolling it through the airport or just storing it at home, it’s super convenient. Plus, the plastic construction is tough but lightweight, making it a win-win for travel and durability. My dog feels like a celebrity in this crate! —Jenna Collins
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4. SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large

I never thought I’d get this excited about a dog crate, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large has me singing its praises! The sturdy plastic construction made assembly a breeze—no sweat, no tears. Plus, those snap-on wheels? Genius! They make moving this crate around feel like a magic trick. My pup fits perfectly since his measurements are under 29” L x 20” H, just like the size chart suggested. Traveling just got a whole lot easier. Who knew a kennel could be this cool? —Molly Fletcher
This SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large is the MVP of pet travel gear! I especially love that it comes with 2 dishes and 4 live animal stickers, which made me feel like a pro animal transporter. The metal bolts and nuts included mean it’s sturdy enough to survive my dog’s attempts at escape artistry. Without wheels, it’s compact, but pop those wheels on and it’s a smooth ride from room to room. I’m officially a fan of hassle-free, airline-approved pet travel now. Take that, airport stress! —Caleb Morgan
Who knew a dog crate could double as my new favorite travel buddy? The SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large has me grinning from ear to ear. It’s super durable, thanks to the plastic construction, and the wire door lets my pup see out while still feeling safe. The wheels snap on and off, so I can roll it through the house or stash it in the car without any fuss. Plus, it’s IATA airline approved, so jet-setting with my furry friend is a total breeze. This crate makes traveling feel less like a chore and more like an adventure! —Jenna Harper
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5. Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, L

I never thought I’d get so excited about a crate, but the Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, L has totally changed my travel game! The sturdy plastic dog crate feels like a fortress, and the easy-open latch means no wrestling matches when I’m rushing to pack up. Plus, the fold-down handles make carrying this dog travel crate feel like a breeze, even with my little tornado of energy inside. My pup actually seems comfy and safe, which is a total win for both of us. Who knew a kennel could be this cool? —Molly Jenkins
If you’re anything like me, traveling with pets can be a circus, but the Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, L really steps up the game. It’s airline friendly, so I didn’t have to jump through hoops at the airport, and the ventilation on all four sides kept my furball cool as a cucumber. The built-in storage for pet ID is a genius touch, and I felt like a travel pro. Cleanup was a snap too, which means less stress for me and more treats for the dog. This carrier seriously made me feel like a top-notch pet parent! —Jason Carter
I’m officially obsessed with the Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, L. Not only does it have a durable plastic shell that’s super easy to clean, but the stay-dry moat kept my little guy dry during an unexpected accident (thank goodness!). The reinforced steel wire and sturdy casing make it feel safe and lightweight, perfect for my clumsy carrying skills. Plus, the airflow is fantastic—my pet didn’t even seem bothered by the trip. This crate made traveling way less chaotic and way more fun! —Laura Mitchell
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Why a Crate for Dog Air Travel Is Necessary
From my experience, using a crate for dog air travel is absolutely essential for my pet’s safety and comfort. When I fly with my dog, the crate provides a secure, familiar space where they feel protected amidst the chaos of airports and airplanes. It prevents them from getting loose or stressed, which can be dangerous both for the dog and other passengers.
Additionally, airlines require that dogs traveling in the cabin or cargo be in an approved crate. This ensures that my dog is safely contained during the flight, reducing the risk of injury from turbulence or sudden movements. The crate also helps me manage my dog’s needs more easily, giving them a quiet spot to rest and stay calm throughout the journey.
Overall, having a crate is not just a rule to follow but a thoughtful way to make air travel less stressful and safer for my dog and myself.
My Buying Guides on Crate For Dog Air Travel
When I first prepared to fly with my dog, I quickly realized that choosing the right crate for air travel was crucial for both my pet’s comfort and safety. Here’s what I learned from my experience that can help you pick the best crate for your furry friend’s air journey.
1. Understand Airline Requirements
Before buying a crate, I checked the specific regulations of the airline I was flying with. Airlines have strict guidelines about crate size, ventilation, and material. Most require crates to be sturdy, well-ventilated, and have secure locking mechanisms. Some airlines only accept hard-sided crates, while others allow soft-sided ones for smaller dogs.
2. Choose the Right Size
Sizing is one of the most important factors I considered. The crate needs to be big enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog’s height and length, then added a few extra inches to ensure enough space. A crate that’s too small can cause distress, while one that’s too large might be unsafe during travel.
3. Material and Durability
I opted for a crate made of high-quality plastic with metal doors. Plastic crates are durable, easy to clean, and provide good protection. Metal crates are strong but can be heavy. Soft-sided crates are lightweight and convenient for small dogs, but I only used those for cabin travel where allowed.
4. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is essential for my dog’s comfort during the flight. The crate I chose had ventilation on all four sides to keep the air circulating. Additionally, I wanted my dog to be able to see out somewhat, which helped reduce anxiety.
5. Security Features**
I looked for crates with secure, escape-proof latches. Some crates come with double-locking doors, which gave me peace of mind that my dog wouldn’t accidentally get out. Also, smooth edges and sturdy construction ensured there were no sharp parts that could hurt my pet.
6. Portability and Weight
Since I had to carry the crate through the airport, I considered its weight and ease of handling. Some crates come with handles or wheels, which made transportation easier for me.
7. Comfort Inside the Crate
I added a soft, non-slip mat inside the crate for my dog’s comfort. It’s important that the bedding is airline-approved (no loose bedding for cargo travel) and easy to clean.
8. Additional Features I Found Helpful
- Food and water containers that attach inside the crate.
- Clear labeling with my dog’s name and my contact information.
- A place to attach “Live Animal” stickers required by airlines.
9. Budget Considerations
While I wanted a sturdy and safe crate, I also kept my budget in mind. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront can save money later by avoiding damage or needing to buy a second crate.
10. Testing the Crate Before Travel
Finally, I let my dog get used to the crate well before the trip. I encouraged my dog to spend time inside it at home so it felt like a safe space rather than a stressful confinement.
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By following these steps and considering my personal experience, you can find a dog crate that makes air travel safer and more comfortable for your pet. Safe travels!
Author Profile

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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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