travel with dog kennels

Best Airline-Approved Dog Kennels for Flying with a Pet in Cargo 2023

Categories Dog Gear , Flying with a Dog , Gear Guide , International Travel with a Dog

Traveling with a pet can be an exciting adventure, as long as you know what to expect and how to choose the perfect airline approved dog kennel for flying. 

If you’re flying with your dog in the cargo hold , this guide provides all the info you need to feel secure that your pup is safe and ready for takeoff and will help you pick out the right crate for your trip.

Quick glance: Top Airline-approved dog kennels for flying

Best overall dog kennel for flying: Petmate Sky Kennel

Best versatile dog kennel for flying: Dakota283 G3

What to Know Before Flying With Your Pet

Rules vary between domestic flights and international flights , so it’s essential to do your homework as far in advance as possible to avoid any miscommunication.

Call the airline Before booking your flight, make sure to call the airline of your choice directly and speak with a representative about their pet policy. You should also double-check their regulations regarding size and weight limitations for both your pet and the kennel they must be in. 

Temperature restrictions Airlines will not allow dogs to travel during certain times of the year because the temperatures are too hot or too cold. If your trip is planned during the summer months, then consider booking a red eye or during other times of the day when the temperatures are coolest.

Research travel times Many airlines will not allow animals to fly long-distance or direct flights out of popular airports due to the possibility of a long layover. Knowing these details beforehand will help ensure that you and your pup have a great experience while flying.

Requirements for Airline-Approved Dog Kennels in Cargo

As stated throughout this article, every airline has different rules when it comes to pets traveling on planes. The rules are generally the same across the various carriers for animals traveling in cargo. You can use the below information as a guide, but check directly with the airline of choice before purchasing a kennel and booking your ticket.

Airlines have strict policies for sizing, which may vary across carriers. In general, all airlines require that dogs must be able to stand up, turn around, sit upright, and lie in a natural position inside the kennel.

Be sure to measure your dog prior to purchasing a kennel if you plan to buy online. You can find the appropriate size with the Guidance for Dimensions of Container at IATA (all major airlines support this standard).

Weight Requirements

Kennels cannot exceed the maximum combined weight (pet + kennel) designated by the airline. For reference, American’s weight limit is 100 pounds, while Alaska’s is 150. Shop around if you have a larger dog.

The kennel must be made from either wood, metal, plastic, or other similar materials. The door must be a metal grated door that fastens shut. Some airlines require it be secured with zip ties to prevent escape. The top and bottom of the carrier must be secured with nuts and bolts.

Carriers must have appropriate ventilation on three sides for domestic travel and four sides for international travel. The material must be durable enough that the dog cannot poke through any gaps of the container. 

Kennels may not have any cracks or other damage to the frame. Some airlines require handles and some do not allow wheels.

Food and Water

Most airlines require that a food and water dish be attached to the inside of the kennel. The staff can provide food and water for your pet, as long as they do not have to open the kennel door. Any food that your pet may eat must be securely attached to the top of the kennel.

Which Are the Best Airline-Approved Dog Kennels for Flying?

The best kennels for flying with a dog will of course meet airline standards. Again, note that each airline has their own requirements and may vary across carriers. Call ahead to verify that the kennel you wish to get meets those specific standards.

The two kennels listed below meet IATA requirements and are intended for travel with a dog in the cargo hold.

Wait, just two kennels?

Yes, there are only two kennels on this list. The reason is because these were the two that met my personal standards for flying with a dog in cargo. Other similar models either felt less durable or were not as versatile. I did a lot of research and these were my two picks. I’ve used both and can honestly say that I would trust them on a flight in the cargo hold with my dog.

Petmate Sky Kennel – Best overall kennel for various breeds and sizes

Petmate is a well-known and trusted brand for air travel with pets. The IATA-approved Petmate Sky Kennel has over 6,000 reviews on Amazon, and is available in six different sizes. This kennel is made from heavy-duty eco-friendly plastic, features plenty of ventilation, and includes two “LIVE ANIMAL” stickers, with options to include food and water dishes that attach to the kennel door.  

Dakota G3 – Best multi-use kennel for flying

I listed the Dakota 283 G3 as one of my top picks for car travel due to its durability and high-quality roto-molded military-grade materials. I believe that it would also make a great kennel for flying in cargo with a dog.

The G3 comes in three different sizes: medium, large, and X-large, as well as a variety of colors.

Dakota also makes the Kennebec Jet Stream , which is specifically designed for air travel, but is discontinued. There are still some places you can find the kennel in stock, so if this is the one for you, get it while you can!

The airline-approved Jet Stream includes nylon airline straps and LIVE ANIMAL stickers is essentially damage resistant. Four handles on the top of the kennel make it easier to lift and maneuver and the door secures with a double latch.

What I like about Dakota Kennels is that you can easily use them for the car and air travel, which means you won’t need two different kennels for flying and driving. This kennel isn’t cheap, but I have full confidence that it will keep a dog safe in the event of an accident.

Note that neither the G3 series or the Jet Stream IATA CR-82 compliant, but the Jet Stream is airline-approved. That doesn’t mean that it cannot go in the cargo hold, it just means that you’ll need to check with the airline prior to travel.

What about a Gunner Kennel?

Why didn’t I include my beloved Gunner Kennel ? It’s not that I wouldn’t trust it on a plane. The reason it didn’t make it on this list is because they are designed specifically for car use, which means they are more snug than home or travel kennels. Spending a long period of time in the kennel could be uncomfortable for a dog.

They’re also quite heavy, which may quickly exceed weight limits for larger dogs on certain airlines.

Saturday 18th of February 2023

Such a great article, thank you for sharing this kind of blog.

Jen Sotolongo

Saturday 25th of February 2023

Glad you enjoyed!

Sarwar Abdullah

Wednesday 25th of January 2023

This carrier is made of durable, water-resistant fabric and has a reinforced steel frame. It's approved by most major airlines and has mesh windows for ventilation.

Friday 15th of October 2021

I have a question regarding the kennel's dimentions. We're planning to take our dog overseas and we have the XXL crate. The problem is that the dimentions are 48x32x35 while the maximum size that Lufthansa allows is 49,2x29,5x33,5. Should we go with it or try to get smaller crate which probably would be just just for our dog. He's a mix breed and I would say a medium size dog but not proportional. We don't know what to do...

Monday 25th of October 2021

Hello! It would really be best to call the airline because they are the ones who make the rules for their specific cargo. They'll be able to help you!

Tuesday 27th of October 2020

None of the dog kennels you rated are safe compared to Gunner Kennels, You should look at the crash videos on Gunner Kennels, I would not even put a cat in any of the kennels you rated and I don’t like cats.

Thanks for recommending Gunner Kennels. I'll take a look at them. Obviously don't want to recommend anything that's unsafe!

Paul Norton

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best airline-approved pet carriers of 2024 + tips from experts.

Find the purr-fect travel carrier for your favorite furry travel companion.

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Courtesy of Sleepypod

Flying with your pet requires its share of homework. Regulations on bringing your pooch or feline aboard an airplane include providing updated paperwork as well as picking a pet carrier that adheres to baggage requirements and size restrictions . (For other things to consider when flying with a pet and advice from animal experts, jump to the tips section .)

If you plan to bring your cat or dog with you on your next flight but aren't sure which pet carrier is best – or allowed – U.S. News is here to help. Start with this list of the top airline-approved pet carriers for your jet-setting four-legged friends.

Best Overall: Henkelion Pet Carrier – Medium

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Runner-up: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier – Medium

Best expandable: petsfit expandable pet carrier – medium, best convertible: natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier – small.

• Best Pet Carrier Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Best Luxury: Away The Pet Carrier

Best compressible: sleepypod air, best for dogs in cargo: sportpet rolling plastic kennel.

• Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate 2-Door Kennel

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

What sets this carrier apart: Designed with airline approval in mind, the medium size of this traveler-favorite carrier accommodates cats or small dogs with its spacious interior. Mesh panels zip open on three sides of the carrier as well as the top, ensuring a well-ventilated bag. The outer material is a lightweight and durable polyester. A removable, machine-washable woolen mat makes the interior comfy for your pet; there's also a safety leash you can use to secure your pet inside.

You can use the connectable loop handles and padded shoulder strap for easy carrying, and this carrier bag folds up when you're ready to store it away. The Henkelion Pet Carrier even comes in several fun colors, such as purple or green.

Travelers appreciate: "I have used the Henkelion soft-sided carrier many times," says Robbie Parker of travel blog Expat in Paradise , who travels with his small dogs. "These are great carriers as they are hardy for travel, collapse for storage, and fit perfectly under the seat for in cabin travel. Also, I like that they have one side that is mesh and the other side is solid with a pocket. You can face solid side toward the aisle so people walking around the plane don't upset your dog." He adds, "Overall, I would recommend it for in-cabin plane travel."

Frequent traveler and luxury travel advisor Ashley Les, founder of Postcards From , also appreciates that the design puts her cats at ease when flying. "I find that with more mesh, cats are exposed to more light and sight – it gets them more anxious," she says, adding: "There are multiple ways to get my cats in the carriers, from the sides or above, as well. I love that you can take out the bottom to wash it separately."

Price: $28.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Sherpa

What sets this carrier apart: Beyond a patented, crash-tested flexible wire frame that keeps your little buddy safe, Sherpa provides a Guaranteed on Board program that offers a refund for your flight and airline pet fee if you're denied boarding because of the small or medium sizes of this carrier. This mesh and polyester bag is an industry standard with good airflow. The front and top entries have locking zippers, and this collapsible carrier also features a removable (and machine-washable) faux-lambskin liner, a rear pocket for storage, and a seat belt safety strap that doubles as a luggage strap.

Travelers appreciate: This Sherpa carrier is renowned for its reliable functionality and amazing value. Recent travelers say the medium carrier fits well under the seat and keeps their pet comfortable in transit.

Price: $70 or less for medium

What sets this carrier apart: This Petsfit carrier's medium size adheres to most airline requirements (as does the small carrier). One of the mesh windows can be unzipped to form an extra compartment, expanding the carrier by 9.4 inches for an extended width of 20.4 inches. This product is a great option if you need a carrier for air travel but still want your pet to enjoy a bit more space to stretch out when not tucked under the airplane seat.

The sturdy solid wire construction ensures the bag won't collapse but is flexible enough to tuck into a small space, though you may need to remove the rods on either side if the carrier is too tall to fit easily underneath. There's a side pocket for storage, double zippers and a water-repellent inner cloth.

Travelers appreciate: "The Petsfit carrier was flexible enough to squeeze under most airplane seats, but still was sturdy enough to hold," says Alexandra Lauren of the travel blog The Bucket List Mermaid , who has used this carrier to fly with her cat. "My kitty could look around the airport with the built-in leash in the carrier. The expandable portion was an added bonus because it allowed for more room for my pet when on long layovers or when I had an empty seat on the airplane." Lauren also recommends Petsfit's expandable backpack-style carrier for a hands-free option.

Price:  $56.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Natuvalle

What sets this carrier apart: For travelers seeking versatility, this Natuvalle cat or dog carrier can be used like a backpack, shoulder bag, tote with carrying handles or even – if worn on your front – a baby carrier. This convertible choice can also be used as a car seat crate with built-in seat belt loops, and you have the option of using it either in the upright or side position. Other features include zipper locks, mesh panels, reinforced stitching, two walk-through doors and a photo ID tag. The carrier is foldable and has reflective stripes for night travel. While there are medium and large size options, the extra-small and small sizes are your best bet when it comes to fitting under an airplane seat.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the versatility of this bag; some travelers say the carrier fits best under the seat when on its side, as the upright position can be too tall.

Price:  $119.90 or less for small

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Best Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Courtesy of PetAmi

What sets this carrier apart: Go hands-free with this PetAmi backpack-style carrier. A sturdy frame maintains its shape while you traipse through airport terminals, with chest and waist buckles for extra support. Four-sided access makes loading easy, and a rollaway mesh top means your furry friend can stick their head out the top when you're not in the air. The safety strap and buckle are designed to thwart even great escape artists, and a sherpa-lined bed entices fur babies to relax. The backpack carrier color options include red and purple.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the easy carrying this style provides, though they advise that you'll need to store this bag on its side in the plane cabin, and it won't fit on every airline.

Price: $39.99 or less

Courtesy of Away

What sets this carrier apart: It's a splurge, but this cat and dog carrier is made by Away, a popular luggage brand known for its sleek design and functionality. The same applies to this nylon and leather tote, which comes in black or a coast blue. The water-resistant lining is paired with sherpa bedding and exterior pockets that can hold a phone, keys or waste bags. If you already have an Away suitcase, this carrier will fit seamlessly over the handle with its trolley sleeve.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners who travel with this bag like that it's roomy, saying their pets seem comfortable inside. This carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds but is a bit on the larger side of an airline-approved carry-on, so be sure to research your airline's policies before taking it aboard.

Price: $225 or less

What sets this carrier apart: The Sleepypod Air is designed to compress to fit under the seat during takeoff and landing; when the seat belt sign is off, your pet can enjoy slightly more room (but be aware that it doesn't hold its reduced size in a freestanding position, only when tucked into a small space). This unique carrier employs sturdy luggage-grade ballistic nylon for its base, with a panel of mesh running along the front, top and back. A removable privacy panel can be slid over part of the mesh. Available in multiple colors, this crash-tested model also has a seat belt strap, a trolley sleeve and a comfortable shoulder strap for carrying it.

Travelers appreciate: Users like the carrier's many features and say it's a good option especially for larger cats traveling by air, but some pet owners felt there was not enough airflow (especially with the privacy panel) for longer flights.

Price: $199.99 or less

What sets this carrier apart: Any furry friends larger than about 20 pounds will likely have to travel in the cargo hold if they're not a service animal. You'll want a very sturdy dog crate for the journey that meets every regulation, and SportPet's kennel passes the test for many travelers. This carrier meets International Air Transport Association guidelines with two snap-on water dishes and four stickers that indicate a live animal is inside; a "floor gutter" contains messes for easy cleanup. The durable plastic frame is connected with metal nuts and bolts and features airline-required tie holes for bungees.

This travel crate comes in six sizes, from small up to XXX-large, so be sure to determine the right size for your pet. A cushioned bed is not included and costs extra. For more information on pets traveling in cargo, consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the sturdy construction and the compliance with airline regulations, but the traveler-favorite feature is the removable wheels, which are included with the carrier (except with size small).

Price: Ranges by size from $76 to $385

Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate Two-Door Kennel

Courtesy of Petmate

What sets this carrier apart: This option made of hard plastic and steel wire is tough enough to protect your cargo-contained cat, according to recent travelers. (Keep in mind that airlines do not recommend hard-sided carriers for in-cabin travel, and this kennel is too large to fit under airline seats.) The two front and top doors assist with entering and exiting, and color options like hot pink or blue will make this kennel easy to spot. The carrier comes in small (24-inch) and extra-small (19-inch) sizes, so choose accordingly based on the measurements of your cat. As with most hard-sided crates, you will have to purchase a plush bed separately.

Travelers appreciate: "I haven't traveled by air with this carrier, but I've owned it for years and really appreciate how sturdy it is," says Catriona Kendall, associate editor of travel at U.S. News. "The assembly of the carrier is straightforward, and my cats feel safe enough to hang out in it at home."

Price: $66.99 or less for 24-inch

How to choose the best pet carrier

There are a few major points to consider when choosing a carrier that will serve as your pet's safe space during a flight:

Size: Selecting the right carrier size for your pet is essential not only for your pets' comfort but also for their safety, according to Sara Hogan, hospital manager at Clarendon Animal Care in Virginia. "Please ensure the measurements for your carrier meet a standard that allows for your pet to comfortably turn around AND lay down," she says. But be aware that if the carrier is too large for your furry friend, they could end up injured in transit. The best way to determine the right size is to take measurements of your pet; to be as precise as possible, use the IATA's formula .

Keep in mind that only carriers able to fit under the seat in front of you are allowed in the plane cabin – a space that will vary by airline. Consult the next section on airline policies for more information.

Airflow: Don't underestimate the importance of adequate airflow. "Carriers and crates really need to have proper ventilation for short or long-term travel," Hogan says. "There IS a difference between taking your pet down the street to a friend's house or the vet and taking your pet on a trip with any sort of additional time involved."

Stability: Check the quality of all the zippers and materials − you want this to be an escape-proof carrier, and any malfunction can put your pet at risk. "If something has previously broken or fallen off the carrier or crate look to replace the piece or the entire crate/carrier," Hogan advises.

Soft-sided vs. hard-sided: If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, most airlines highly recommend a soft-sided carrier, which gives the most flexibility. Airlines are often slightly more lenient with the dimensions for soft-sided carriers in the cabin as long as they are able to fit underneath the seat without blocking the aisle of the airplane. Another bonus: Soft pet carriers often come with removable fleece bedding for extra comfort.

Note: Crates and carriers destined for the cargo hold of the plane must be hard-sided. Find more details on carrier specifications for the cargo hold in the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Airline pet carrier dimensions

Each airline sets its own specifications and safety rules for pets in the plane cabin with you, so be sure to check with your intended airline for dimension limits, breed restrictions and other guidelines. Be aware, too, that most major airlines based in the U.S. do not offer an option to transport animals in cargo.

Use the links below to find more information on the specific pet policies for the following U.S.-based airlines. Each airline's size limit for soft-sided pet carriers in the cabin is also listed, with dimensions given in length by width by height.

• Alaska Airlines : 17 x 11 x 9.5 inches
• Allegiant Air : 19 x 16 x 9 inches
• American Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Delta Air Lines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Frontier Airlines : 18 x 14 x 8 inches
• Hawaiian Airlines : 16 x 10 x 9.5 inches
• JetBlue : 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches
• Southwest Airlines : 18.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches
• Spirit Airlines : 18 x 14 x 9 inches
• Sun Country Airlines : 16 x 10 x 8 inches
• United Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches

How to prepare to fly with a pet

Help your pet acclimate.

When preparing to travel with your furry companion, planning ahead is key, especially if your pet isn't used to being confined in a crate or carrier. "I recommend buying the carrier as far in advance of travel as possible to allow your dog to become comfortable relaxing in the carrier in a familiar home environment before traveling," says Amanda Farah, CPDT-KA, national training and behavior coordinator for Best Friends Animal Society.

Some pets are sensitive to loud noises, so one way to prepare them for the journey is by playing recordings of sounds they might encounter in transit, Farah says. "I'd say a good general rule is that because so much of what they encounter during air travel will be new and potentially stressful, you should familiarize them to many factors as possible in the weeks or even months leading up to travel."

Book your travel far in advance

Keep in mind that airlines limit the number of pets allowed on a flight, so book early and try to secure a direct flight to cut down on travel time.

Familiarize yourself with your departure airport

Before you set off on your journey, familiarize yourself with the airport you're departing from – such as where to find a pet relief area – and how to go through security with a pet in tow. For example, you must never place your pet on the security conveyor belt (only the empty carrier goes through the X-ray tunnel).

Research your destination

This is a crucial step. Some countries will not allow pets in at all, while other destinations (such as Hawaii) may have strict rules about rabies vaccines or require all animals to travel in cargo. Christine Barton, a veterinarian with The Vets , recommends checking the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website to learn about requirements for health certificates, vaccines and more.

Other considerations will depend on what type of vacation you're planning; if it involves hiking or camping with your dog, Barton suggests checking the expected weather, making a small emergency kit for you and your pet, and considering a GPS tracker for remote areas. Wherever you're headed, locate the closest emergency animal hospital just in case and make sure to book pet-friendly accommodations .

Consult your vet

Once you've done your research, your veterinarian can help ensure your pet has everything you both need to travel, such as microchipping, required or recommended vaccines (and proof of them), testing, and health records, Barton says. A vet can also address any health concerns. "Doctors can discuss risks, precautions, and things to monitor while traveling," Barton explains, adding that you should make sure your pet is up to date on needed preventive medications, such as treatment for fleas or heartworm.

If your furry friend struggles with anxiety, your vet can prescribe them a medication to make the journey less stressful for both of you. "Talk to your veterinarian before administering any sort of medication to your pet, but definitely consider it for future travel," Hogan says.

Frequently Asked Questions

A carrier being "airline-approved" typically means it adheres to the airline's size requirements, is leakproof, provides adequate airflow and keeps your pet securely inside.

You can find a pet carrier on wheels, such as the  Snoozer 4-in-1 Roll Around Pet Carrier  or the  SportPet Rolling Plastic Kennel , but keep in mind that most wheeled pet carriers are too large to fit under the seat on most airlines, even with detachable wheels. Wheeled options can make your furry friend easier for you to transport, but they also tend to make for a bumpy ride for your pet, so consider carefully whether a carrier on wheels is right for your cat or dog, especially if they're easily frightened.

Most major airlines in the U.S. do not allow pets to travel in cargo; some, like American Airlines, only offer this service for active military or diplomatic personnel. Of the major U.S. airlines, only Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines currently accept animals in the cargo hold, so keep that in mind if you have a medium or large dog – or if your intended destination does not welcome in-cabin pets.

Most animals who fly in the cargo hold are fine, but there's still a risk of your pet being killed, injured or lost, according to the Humane Society of the United States. The most common dangers are excessively hot or cold temperatures, poorly ventilated crates, and rough handling. Be sure to follow all IATA guidelines for cargo crates to ensure your pet's safety. Before you book a flight, you may also want to research the airline's history with companion animals in the cargo hold.

The kennel you choose for cargo travel must allow your pet enough room to stand, sit upright, turn around while standing and lie in a natural position, according to the IATA. Carriers must made of rigid materials and include a solid roof, a leakproof base, a door with well-maintained hardware, working handles and ventilation on all four sides. Labels that say "Live Animal" and "This Way Up" are also required by the IATA.

A water dish must be securely affixed to the inside of the carrier, with open access for your pet to drink and for someone to refill it from the outside without opening the crate. A food container can either be inside the carrier if it's sealed or attached to the outside.

A pet carrier usually counts as either a personal item or a carry-on. Depending on the airline policy, you may be able to bring either a personal item or a carry-on bag (not both) in addition to your carrier. Check your airline's carry-on luggage allowance and pet policy to see what you can bring.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old to travel, but airlines may impose their own age restrictions on top of that. On Delta, for example, companion animals must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic flights. United Airlines says your pet should be at least 4 months old for international travel to comply with rabies vaccine requirements.

Your furry friend will incur certain fees for flying, but the cost will vary by airline. American Airlines, as an example, charges a $125 service fee for a carry-on pet, while Allegiant's fee is $50. Cargo fees may depend on trip details: Hawaiian Airlines charges $60 in fees for domestic flights and $225 for flights between Hawaii and North America, while the cargo fee on Alaska Airlines is $100. Service animals typically fly at no charge as long as they meet the airline's requirements.

It depends on your pet, according to Hogan. "If they're quite anxious you may want to offer food with a bit more advanced time prior to the flight to avoid vomiting in the carrier or on themselves, however, not too much time where they'll be hungry throughout the travel day," she advises. "Water is important to offer as often as possible in any setting. Access to using the bathroom more than once prior to travel is also advised so as not to miss an opportunity for output!"

Conveniently, some airports may have pet relief areas your dog can use either before or after you go through security, but that's something you'll have to research beforehand.

No. Unless your pet is a service animal of a certain size, airlines typically require pets in the cabin to be secured in their carrier and stowed under the seat in front of you.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Catriona Kendall is a frequent traveler and longtime cat owner who knows the importance of a sturdy and secure pet carrier. Her cats haven't managed to damage or escape from the Henkelion and Petmate carriers she's owned for years (despite their best efforts). She also recommends this pop-up Pet Fit for Life carrier for road trips. Kendall compiled this list of airline-compliant carriers using her experience as a pet owner, advice from animal experts and extensive research.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces
• The Top Luggage Trackers
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?

The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Fun things to do in arkansas.

Ben Luthi and Justine Harrington June 3, 2024

Top Things to Do in Florida

Gwen Pratesi May 31, 2024

The Best Travel Neck Pillows

Timothy J. Forster and Amanda Norcross May 30, 2024

Road Trip Essentials

Alissa Grisler and Amanda Norcross May 29, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Santa Barbara

John Rodwan and Suzanne Mason May 29, 2024

The Best Underseat Luggage

Rachael Hood May 28, 2024

Top Pride Parades and Celebrations

Suzanne Mason May 28, 2024

The Best Miami Boat Tours

Gwen Pratesi May 28, 2024

The Best Travel Purses

Rachael Hood May 24, 2024

The Best Beach Games

Gwen Pratesi May 24, 2024

Can't wait?

JUST LAUNCHED: 1-1 Virtual Sessions with Certified Trainers

Personalize it: Engraved Bowls with Your Pup's Name

Trending Products

Traveling With Dogs: A Travel Kennel Buyer's Guide

We’re betting you’re a lot like us and you want to take your dog everywhere with you. It’s understandable considering our pets are much more than a dog - they are our fur kids and our most loved furry companions. Who wouldn’t want to go traveling with dogs? In this post, we’ll explore some tips for traveling with your furbaby, and important factors to consider when choosing a travel kennel.

Choosing a Travel Dog Kennel 101

We get it. The selections can feel overwhelming when looking for a travel kennel. From debating between wire, plastic and soft lined kennels to how big it should be, there’s a lot to take into consideration when travel kennel shopping. With that said, below are just a few factors you should keep in mind.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Travel Kennel

• Crash tested dog crates
• Independently tested to safety standards
• Free of harmful heavy metals/BPA/phthalates
• Your crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably
• Not all travel scenarios will allow for large crates. For example, some airlines have specific guidelines when it comes to crate sizes for air travel. Depending on your pet’s size, a smaller passenger travel carrier may be more appropriate in these cases.
• Material: Your travel kennel should offer ventilation, privacy, and multiple access points. It’s also a good idea to choose materials that are, let’s just say accident-friendly. If your pup has a potty mishap, you’ll want it to be easy to clean up. Finally, the material shouldn’t be too heavy or bulky. While it’s critical to keep your pet secure, you also don’t want that security to come at the expense of being too heavy for you to handle.
• How you will use it: We already briefly alluded to this when we mentioned that some airlines have kennel size and weight restrictions when flying with a dog.

However, you also want to keep in mind the dog cases for SUV use may be different from dog kennels for trucks or a dog crate for a car. If you are using an SUV, you may be able to put down seats to accommodate a larger crate with a larger dog for example. In a car that might prove more difficult. In other words, the best portable dog crate will be dependent on your unique needs as well as the size of your pup.

It’s also important to note that like humans, few pups want to be stuck in a small confined space for long periods of time. Whatever your travel plans are, make sure you include plenty of time for potty breaks as well as stretching your legs and theirs.

Tips for Traveling with Dogs

When it comes to traveling with dogs, preparation is key. Whether you're heading out for a weekend camping trip or embarking on a cross-country road trip, you'll want to make sure your furry friend is comfortable and safe throughout the journey. Here are some tips to consider before hitting the road:

Flying with a dog

The first thing we’ll tell you about how to travel with a dog on a plane is that your experience will depend on the size of your pup. Here’s the unfortunate truth - not all dogs are lap dogs and as such not all dogs can actually ride with you in the cabin. To make matters worse, if they are forced to ride in the cargo hold, there is no guarantee they will survive the flight. As recently as April 2023, PetFlight.com reported three deaths and one pet loss in airline pet travel.

So what does this mean for you if you plan on flying with a dog? First, do your research on the airline you’re flying with and find out their policies on in cabin dogs. While it is generally more expensive to bring your pup in the cabin, the peace of mind of seeing them throughout the flight is worth it!

Before the flight, make sure your dog is well-exercised and has gone potty. You may also want to limit their food and water intake before the flight to avoid any accidents or discomfort.

During the flight, keep an eye on your pup through the mesh opening of your pet travel carrier . If they seem anxious or uncomfortable, try talking to them softly or providing some calming treats. And remember - never sedate your pet without consulting with a veterinarian first as this can have serious health consequences during air travel.

Traveling with dogs in cars

Invest in a crate for the car. We’ll share again that when you’re looking for a dog carrier for a car or any other mode of transportation, it’s best to choose a travel kennel that will allow them to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down.

How can I calm my dog down in the car?

We get this question a lot, and the answer may vary depending on your dog’s temperament. However, for most dogs the key to keeping them calm for a car ride is to keep them happy and comfortable. This means using bedding they already love, giving them treats, adding plenty of walks to the trip to prevent restlessness, and talking with them throughout the drive in a comforting voice.

It’s also incredibly helpful if you get them used to their travel kennel ahead of time. Let them smell it, play in it, and possibly even sleep in it so they aren’t afraid of it. And, as much as possible, keep the door to it open while they are getting used to it so they won’t see it as a restrictive device.

It’s also worth noting that the Enventur inflatable travel kennel is designed to create a calming, den-like environment, by minimizing overstimulation from light and sound. It's quiet and cozy, which dogs like. The travel kennel features air-cushioned side walls and floor as well - this will help keep your pet extra cozy and comfortable en route to wherever you are headed.

Check out our post on crate training for more tips and ideas to get your pup used to a dog crate.

To close this guide out, here are some of the frequently asked questions we see related to building a travel kennel.

What is the best car carrier for an anxious dog?

The best car carriers for anxious dogs are those that provide a sense of security and comfort. We highly recommend our Enventur inflatable travel kennel because it features the safety you demand from a hard-sided kennel, but it’s made with lightweight materials that feel comfortable for your dog.

What is the best car carrier for smaller dogs?

If you’ll be traveling with a smaller dog, the Enventur inflatable travel kennel does come in a small size that is appropriate for small dogs up to 30 pounds such as French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Dachshunds, etc… However, an alternative that may make more sense to use for things like airplane travel is the Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier . It’s easy to clean, and still made with a safety-first approach, but it’s also airline-friendly meaning it meets the requirements airlines have for carry-on pets.

How do you calm a stressed dog when traveling?

Dogs can easily become stressed during travel, but fortunately, there are several effective ways to calm a stressed dog when traveling.

First, you might want to try playing soothing music or calming scents in the car or crate. This can help relax your dog by simulating a peaceful environment. Secondly, make sure they are comfortable in their travel kennel or crate by adding familiar bedding and toys. Lastly, take frequent breaks during long drives to allow your dog to stretch their legs and relieve themselves.

How long can a dog stay in a travel crate?

The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the crate, the dog's age and health condition, and the mode of transportation.

For air travel, airlines have regulations on how long dogs can stay in their crates. Typically, dogs cannot be in their kennels for more than four to six hours during domestic flights and up to 17 hours for international flights. However, this varies depending on airline policies and route.

On road trips or traveling via train, dogs can remain in their crates for longer periods as owners can make stops along the way to allow them to stretch their legs and relieve themselves.

The truth is there’s no set number of hours, but most experts agree that 10-12 hours can be safe for a dog. You will just want to keep an eye out for signs of discomfort and/or stress from your dog.

Whatever method of travel you choose, it's important to ensure that the crate is well-ventilated with enough space for your pup to move around comfortably.

How long can a dog hold its pee?

The average healthy adult dog can hold their bladder for up to 10 hours, but this can vary based on several factors such as age, size, and health condition. Puppies and senior dogs may have a harder time holding their bladder for extended periods of time. We recommended you give your dog frequent potty breaks when traveling to avoid accidents in their travel kennel.

Click here to learn about the Enventur Travel Kennel and pre-order yours today !

You might also like

Crate training tips, stories and inspiration

Dog Car Anxiety: How To Relieve Dog Stress

11 Tips for Flying with a Pet

In your diggs.

Share your photos with #DiggsPet and tag us @DiggsPet on IG and TikTok.

Join the pack for 10% off + special offers

Save on your first order and receive curated recommendations for pups and the people that love them. New products, promotions, stories and more.

*Indicates required fields

When you use links on our website, we may earn a fee.

Best Dog Crates for Car Travel of 2024

Taking your pup on a road trip can be a fun experience but only if you have one of the safest dog crates for car travel. Even if you’re not traveling cross-country, a crash-tested carrier is one of the most important purchases to keep them safe for long-haul car trips and even a quick jaunt to the vet.

We selected crates and carriers that are crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit that evaluates the safety of pet travel products. To aid in our selection, we also enlisted the guidance of a dog trainer who helped inform us about the importance of pet safety when traveling in a vehicle. Our list of the best dog crates for car travel has something to make every dog’s next road trip a success.

Table of Contents

• Best Dog Crates for Car Travel
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Gunner G1 Kennel  »

Crash-tested and certified by CPS

Double-walled

Available in four sizes

Proven to protect pets in serious accidents

Tie-down straps sold separately

Not chew-proof

When traveling with your pet, keeping them safe in the car is the biggest priority. While there are plenty of travel crates on the market, the most effective are crash-tested and certified by CPS. This nonprofit evaluates the safety claims of pet travel products. Passing crash tests is no small feat, and only a handful of products receive the CPS’s seal of approval. One of those products is the Gunner G1 Kennel.

Available in four sizes – though the large size hasn’t been tested and certified by CPS – for puppies to large breeds, the Gunner G1 Kennel has a double-walled design to keep pets safe in an accident. Its double walls also have the added benefit of providing temperature regulation, keeping your pup cool even in hot weather. The crate has built-in pins for tie-down straps to secure the crate in a vehicle, although customers must purchase the straps separately.

Crash-test certification is an excellent feature and something pet parents should prioritize when searching for a travel crate. However, it does come at a cost. The Gunner G1 Kennel is on the higher end of travel crates and one of the most expensive options. Aside from its cost, some users take issue with the crate’s weight, which ranges from 27 pounds for the small kennel to 72 pounds for the large kennel. Sturdiness and durability are important in a travel crate, so we don’t necessarily consider this to be a con. However, a heavy crate can be an inconvenience.

Sleepypod Atom  »

More affordable option

Features top and side entries

Available in six colors

Not as much ventilation

Only suitable for pets up to 12 pounds

A budget dog crate for car travel is hard to come by, especially if you’re looking for a crash-tested and certified model, but the Sleepypod Atom is one of the safest options that doesn’t cost a few hundred dollars. This carrier features comfortable bedding for your pet to relax in, is suitable for the back seat of a car, and fits under the seats of most airplanes. The Atom also sports top and side entry points to make getting in and out a breeze for your pet. Plus, like all Sleepypod carriers, the Atom is available in various colors.

A downside of this crate is that it isn’t suitable for larger pets. With a weight limit of 12 pounds, only toy breeds can take advantage of this carrier. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a great car restraint for larger pets with a smaller budget. Sleepypod also makes one of the best car seat belts to keep large dogs safe and comfortable in a vehicle.

Sleepypod Mini  »

Suitable for puppies and kittens up to 7 pounds

Doubles as a bed

Can fit under airplane seat

Available in nine colors

Some users had sizing issues

Zipper that connects cover to bed can be flimsy

The correct size of travel crate is essential for keeping your pet safe during transit, says Nicole Ellis, a professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert for rover.com. When traveling, a dog should touch three of the four walls of the crate or carrier to minimize the chance of movement during a collision. Getting a tiny crate that fits a puppy properly can be challenging, but the Sleepypod Mini is ideal for pint-sized pups with a weight capacity of 7 pounds. Beyond being crash-tested and certified by the CPS, this carrier can be used with cats and allows you to carry your furry friend with you on an airplane. (However, always check individual airline recommendations before flying with your pet.)

Regardless of how you’re traveling, this carrier will keep your pet cozy, comfortable, and safe. The included bed can be used as your pup’s primary sleeping place when not jet-setting around the world, which may help acclimate your puppy to being contained in a small carrier during travel times.

While the Sleepypod Mini suits most teacup pups, some users struggled to get the correct fit, as Sleepypod also makes the Mobile Pet Bed, a medium-sized equivalent of the Mini. We recommend measuring before purchasing to ensure you get the right fit for your four-legged friend.

Away The Pet Carrier  »

Compact but safe for smaller pups

Clip to secure your pet within carrier

Airline-approved

Removable bedding

Only suitable for pets up to 18 pounds

Not as soft as some soft-sided carriers

Small breeds can be easier to travel with because they don’t take up as much space, but the travel is only simple if you have the right gear. The Pet Carrier by luggage brand Away is the ideal soft-sided crate for transporting small dogs in a car. Its features include top and side entry points for your animal, removable bedding for comfort, a retractable mesh privacy screen, and a collar clip to keep your pup from springing out of the carrier when opened. It also has a firm bottom, which stops the carrier from folding during transit – a feature Ellis says is important to prevent your dog from sliding around in the crate.

Car travel is a breeze with this carrier: Just secure it to your vehicle’s back seat via a belt around the headrest. Traveling by air with your pet? This carrier can sit snugly on top of your luggage , securing to the handle of any Away suitcase via a trolley sleeve. (For travelers who do take their pups on planes, note that while the material is soft, some users found it wasn't flexible enough to fit under every airline seat.) The downside of this carrier is that it’s only suitable for small breeds weighing less than 18 pounds, so medium and large pets are out of luck.

Lucky Duck Lucky Kennel  »

Suitable for pets up to 110 pounds (large size)

Drainage holes for easy cleanup

Lightweight

Bed pad sold separately

Finding a dog crate for car travel that suits big breeds can be tough, but Lucky Duck makes one of our favorite kennels ideal for medium to large dogs. With a capacity to hold pups as big as 110 pounds, the large version of the Lucky Kennel can keep up with large dogs without weighing you down. Unlike most crash-tested travel crates, this kennel is lightweight at only 45 pounds, making it much more accessible to lift in and out of a vehicle. Another nice feature is its drainage and ventilation holes. The drainage holes are excellent to have in the event of a potty accident, as any liquid in the kennel is directed to the drainage holes via the slightly pitched floor of the crate .

The drain holes are a nice plus, but they make it difficult to place a bed within the crate. As such, Lucky Dog offers its own bed to fit inside – a nice-to-have feature to ensure your pup’s comfort during travel. However, if you want to purchase the bed pad for your dog, you’ll have to do so separately. Lucky Dog also requires the separate purchase of ratchet straps – a type of restraint that keeps the crate tied down to a vehicle – instead of providing them with the kennel. Remember this when purchasing this crate because Lucky Dog kennels are only crash-tested and certified by the CPS in combination with these tie-down straps.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier  »

Smaller footprint than most carriers

Folds flat for easy storage

Made from recycled materials

Only fits pets up to 20 pounds

Some users found shoulder strap held up poorly

The best dog carriers for small cars won’t take up too much space in the back seat of a vehicle, and the Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier fits the bill. At just 11 inches long, this soft-sided carrier can easily fit within the back seat of any small car. It’s also less than 1 foot high, easily letting you see over the top of the carrier. However, the small footprint won’t squeeze your pet.

The Cabana Pet Carrier is more than 20 inches wide, which makes it easily able to hold pups up to 20 pounds. Another handy space-saving element of this carrier is its ability to fold completely flat so that when your pet isn’t in the vehicle with you, the back seat can be reclaimed for passengers or cargo.

While this crash-tested and certified carrier is a safe, space-saving option for small cars, a few users found it wasn’t the best option as a shoulder bag, as the shoulder strap broke for some buyers.

Cabela's GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel  »

Tie-down strap kit and safety bar included

Nonslip rubber feet

Only one size

No included crate pad

When using a crash-tested crate in a large vehicle such as an SUV, it’s important to tie it down using straps or bolts to ensure the kennel doesn’t shift during transit. However, most crate manufacturers don’t include these tie-down straps with the purchase of a kennel, and these can often pack on an additional hundred dollars to an already expensive purchase. The Cabela’s GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel is an excellent option for those who want the tie-down straps included to keep their pup safe in the back seat or trunk of an extra-large vehicle. The included tie-down strap kit can secure this crash-tested crate to most large cars, and the rubber feet offer additional nonslip reinforcement for more stability.

The kennel allows users to choose on which side they want the door to open – a handy feature to ensure ease of use. The downside of this crate is that it’s only available in one size, leaving few options for dogs between a medium and large size. It also comes as is, meaning no crate pad or bedding is included for your pup.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best dog crate for car travel is a weighty decision, and you should always keep your pet’s safety top of mind. The good news is there are many excellent crates and carriers available that are crash-tested and certified, providing your pup with a safe and comfortable place during a road trip.

Our best overall pick is the Gunner G1 Kennel, which has some of the best features we’ve seen on a travel crate. Its double-walled design reinforces the kennel's safety while keeping your dog cool on hot days. It also has one of the most diverse size ranges available for crash-tested crates, making it suitable for small pups and large breeds alike.

Things To Consider When Buying Dog Crates for Car Travel

Safety Certifications: The best dog crates for car travel are crash-tested by the CPS. The pet industry has few regulations for travel products, and some brands may make unjustified safety claims. Even with products certified by the CPS, remember that certifications vary, and a product may not be approved for use with dogs weighing more than a certain amount or without additions such as tie-down straps.

Size and Weight Capacity: Choosing the correct size kennel is vital for keeping your dog safe during travel, whether traveling with your pet in a car or on a plane. There’s no one-size-fits-all crate, so remember to measure your pet and follow the measurement and weight guidelines provided by the manufacturer to achieve a good fit.

Ellis says that while we might have an instinct to buy a bigger crate to give our pups more space to lounge, it’s important to hold off on this impulse. “[O]ur dogs should be snug. So when thinking of a [crash-tested crate], our dog should really be touching three of the four walls [when they] lay down,” she says. Ellis also encourages pet parents to avoid extra space within a crate because that’s where the dog will move during a collision.

Material: Each dog kennel is constructed differently, but there are some materials to look for when considering dog crates for travel. Ellis likes soft-sided carriers with a firm bottom that ensures a pet stays stable during transport. She also says that ballistic nylon – a material that’s resistant to water and chew damage – is great.

Hard crates tend to be made of materials like rubber or rotomolded walls. Rotomolding is a type of plastic construction, and its benefits include being durable and thick enough to withstand excessive force, such as the type that would be exerted in a car accident.

While crash-tested crates vary in material, Ellis notes that one material pet parents should avoid is wire, specifically in wire-style crates. These crates are acceptable for at-home use but not for travel. Ellis says a wire crate may break into small pieces and impale your pet in the event of a collision.

Vehicle Compatibility: Most crash-tested crates suitable for car travel can be used in any vehicle. However, measure the back seat of your car to ensure that the crate will fit. Some crates intended for larger dogs may not fit in the back seat as easily as smaller soft-sided carriers. These crates may instead be used in the trunk of a vehicle, although they usually require tie-down straps to keep them in place. Ellis says it’s important to check your specific vehicle’s attachment points if you opt for a crate that requires latching in that way.

It’s also vital to remember that while a crate may sit in a vehicle's back seat, trunk, or bed, it should never be placed in the front seat. Ellis says regardless of what crate or carrier your pup is in, your dog can still be injured by an airbag if traveling in the front seat of a car.

How We Chose the Best Dog Dog Crates for Car Travel

At U.S News 360 Reviews, our editors and contributing writers evaluate products based on research, expert guidance, and our own experience as professional product reviewers. Our contributing writer consulted the CPS’s list of crash-tested and certified dog crates and carriers to find the best options for dogs big and small. We also consulted Nicole Ellis , a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with rover.com to understand how to keep pets safe during car travel.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Sophia Carlisle , the author of this piece, has covered pet products for Business Insider as a fellow and, prior to that, fostered dogs and cats for years. She has tested dozens of dog products with her rescue pit mix Lyla, including harnesses, food, and leashes. For U.S. News 360 Reviews, Sophia has covered some of the best products for pups, such as the best dog harnesses and slow feeder dog bowls .

The most important safety feature of a dog crate for car travel is that it’s crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). Other safety features to watch for include crates and carriers with tie-down straps. Some crates for large dogs are only certified by the CPS with tie-down straps, which help to keep a large crate stable during transit.

Regardless of which CPS-certified crate you choose, Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer, says it’s always essential to restrain your pet in a vehicle. Even the most well-trained dog can cause a distraction, leap out of an open window, or become a projectile in the event of an accident, so keeping them secure during travel is necessary.

If a crate or carrier passes crash safety standards set by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), it receives a rating between 1 Star and 5 Star. The very best dog crates for car travel receive a 5 Star safety rating.

If a brand or product claims to be certified by the CPS, check directly on the website to ensure it has passed crash testing. Some products have undergone crash testing but have failed or had their certification revoked. If a crate or carrier isn’t crash-test certified by the CPS, it’s unsafe to use with your pet for car travel.

Finding the correct size crate for your dog can be tricky, so take careful measurements of your pup and compare them with the weight and length measurements provided by the brand. Ellis, a pet lifestyle expert with rover.com, says that dogs should fit snugly inside their crates, so avoid opting for a larger size than your dog needs.

Compatibility with your vehicle is also important to consider when selecting the best travel crate for your pup. Ellis says it’s best to place the crate in the trunk or back seat of the car. Ensure you check whether or not the crate requires tie-down straps and if those straps can be attached to the latch points in your vehicle.

About Our Team

Sophia Carlisle

Contributor

Kayla Randolph

Associate Editor

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Be a smarter pet parent

Next time, skip the web. Get health tips and wellness advice for your pet straight to your inbox.

• savvy shopping

The 7 best dog crates and kennels for dogs

Whether you’re traveling, crate training a new puppy, or shopping for a new kennel, we’ve reviewed the 7 best dog crates and kennels to withstand the wear and tear of your dog.

— Medically reviewed by Dr. Erica Irish

Everything we create is factually accurate and biased toward science → meet our team of experts

Updated December 16, 2022

The best crates and kennels for dogs

• Diggs Revol Dog Crate : Best for small dogs
• Midwest Homes iCrate : Best for medium dogs and large dogs
• Impact Stationary Dog Crate : Best for high-quality
• Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Travel Kennel : Best plastic kennel
• Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Travel Kennel : Best soft and portable crate
• Petmate Sky Kennel : Best for air travel
• MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages Dog Crate : Best for affordability

Best dog crates and kennels reviews

Best for small dogs, diggs revol collapsible dog crate.

What we love: Our favorite dog crate for small dogs is hands down the Diggs Revol Dog Crate . Besides the fact that this crate is designed with baby industry standards in mind to keep your dog safe, it’s perfect for small dogs and puppies alike. The crate comes with a puppy divider so that it can easily grow with your pup. Plus, its removable tray makes it super easy to clean.

What customers say: Reviewers love the crate’s sturdy and easy-to-assemble design, with many saying that the heftier price tag is totally worth it. But beware this isn’t ideal for travel, as Amazon reviewers mention the portable design and wheels are difficult to use.

Crate sizes: Diggs Revol Dog Crates come in two sizes, small and medium.

Best for medium dogs and large dogs

Midwest homes for pets dog crate.

What we love: A bestseller on Amazon, the Midwest Homes iCrate is our favorite metal dog crate for medium dogs and large dogs. The crate’s all-in-one features include roller feet, safety bolt, divider, and plastic tray for everyday use. Plus, the design collapses for easy storage.

What customers say: Most Amazon reviewers love how roomy and spacious the crate is to give their pet plenty of space at home. This is a real winner with a 4.7-star rating from German shepherd to Great Dane and Rottweiler dog owners as a medium or large dog crate.

Crate sizes: Midwest Homes iCrates come in seven different sizes, from tiny to super large options.

Best for high-quality

Impact stationary dog crate.

What we love: The Impact Stationary Dog Crate is made in the U.S. and designed almost entirely of recycled materials. Each crate is military-grade, meaning it’s extra durable and engineered from the same aluminum materials that hold military equipment. And if you’re the proud parent of multiple pets, you can save space by stacking the same-sized dog crates thanks to its stackable corner design feature.

What customers say: Despite having less than a thousand reviews, 89 percent of reviewers gave this dog crate a 5-star rating. Customers seem beyond happy with this crate, noting its quality and durable design, which lends itself to stay steady and in shape even with the toughest of dogs.

Crate sizes: The Impact Stationary Dog Crate is best for large pets, coming in 9 different sizes.

Best plastic kennel

Petmate aspen pet porter travel kennel.

What we love: The Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Travel Kennel  is perfect for pet parents on-the-go thanks to the pet carrier’s sturdy and heavy-duty plastic shell. The pet carrier is equipped for traveling via car or plane with increased durability in place in the form of metal screws to keep your dog fully secure. Added ventilation on the sides provides your pup with increased airflow and visibility.

What customers say: Many reviewers love how sturdy and durable the crate is, with one even noting the plastic shell easily withstood the wear and tear of her dog. Also, the various color options add major style points according to Amazon reviewers.

Crate sizes: The Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Travel Kennel is a great fit for dogs ranging from 10 pounds to 125 pounds, featuring seven different crate sizes.

Best soft and portable crate

Amazon basics portable folding soft kennel.

What we love: The Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Kennel is not only light, making it portable and versatile, it’s also compact and perfect for storing. Designed from polyester and PVC framing, it simply folds out for easy assembling. Featuring a mesh door and windows, your dog will feel light and airy from the nice ventilation.

What customers say: This dog crate has over 6,700 reviews on Amazon with a 4.5-star rating. The reviewers love how lightweight and portable this crate is thanks to its collapsible design.

Crate sizes: The Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Kennel come in five different sizes.

Approved for flying in cargo

Petmate sky kennel pet carrier, top 3 details.

• # of sizes: 6
• Material : Plastic shell, wire doors and vents
• Portability: Hardshell, doesn't collapse

👉 Always check with your individual airline’s crate requirements before traveling with your pet. 

What we love: There’s nothing like peace of mind when traveling, and the Petmate Sky Kennel makes traveling with your pet easy. The crate’s all-in-one design provides security, durability, and ventilation for your dog. Plus, the crate comes with live animal stickers to stick on while traveling.

What customers say: With over 4.5 stars on Amazon and over 4,300 reviews, users are saying this is the closest travel crate to meeting most airline approvals. But be sure to review airline policies beforehand, as some reviewers note that you may need to switch out the plastic bolts for metal on certain airlines.

Crate sizes: Petmate Sky Kennel crates come in six different sizes. Each should meet most airline approvals.

Best for affordability

Midwest homes for pets life stages dog crate.

What we love: One of the most affordable crates on this list, the MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages Dog Crate starts at just $30.99. But while this dog crate is easy on the wallet, it’s still a great value for the price. The double door crate comes with everything your dog needs for a safe space, from two entrances to a sturdy pet tray and a puppy divider to help crate train your pup .

What customers say: According to customers, this is one of the best crates pet parents have owned. Many reviewers note that it checks all the essential boxes from price to set up to storage, and they love the value of the crate for their pets.

Crate sizes: MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages Dog Crates come in six different sizes, each with double doors.

Crate travel requirements to know before you fly

👉 Contact your airline for the most up-to-date information on dog crate requirements. 

Thinking about traveling with your dog? Before setting off on an airplane with your pet, there are certain crate requirements your dog crate needs to meet. These are the travel crate requirements created by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) you’ll need to ensure your crate is airline-approved.

• Size. The crate must be spacious enough that your dog can turn around, stand, sit, and lie down comfortably. If your dog’s ears touch the top of the crate when standing, the crate is too small.
• Ventilation. Airflow is important for your pet when traveling. Airlines recommend having air holes on all four sides of the crate at least halfway on all sides for international flights. On domestic flights, two sides with holes are required.
• Metal nuts and bolts. In case of turbulence, metal nuts and bolts ensure durability and safety for your pet. Some airlines allow metal bolts with plastic caps, however, always confirm with your airline first.
• Food and water bowls. To keep your pet well-fed and hydrated throughout the flight, airlines require a food and water dish to be attached to the crate’s door.
• Crate lining. In case of an accident mid-flight, which can happen even if your dog is potty trained , the crate lining offers both a cushion and absorption for your pet.
• Single metal door. Most airlines require a single metal door to prevent your dog from potentially pulling the door in and collapsing it. Also, the door needs to be zip-tied to keep it shut throughout the flight.
• Paperwork and documents. Just like a lost bag, accidents can happen. To ensure your dog is safe, keep your vital contact information, flight information, and dog’s information on top of the crate. You’ll want to make sure your dog is wearing their ID, too. Also, include extra food with any health information, and a feeding schedule.
• Stickers. Airlines require all travel crates have a live animal sticker attached. While this is usually provided by airlines, it’s always good to be prepared.

👉 To get ready for air travel, learn everything you need to know in our guide about how to fly with your dog .

Learn how to channel your dog’s natural behaviors into positive actions with these expert tips.

If your pup has an active sniffer, scent training might be a good way to give them the mental and physical stimulation they need.

Mental stimulation is just as necessary for dogs as physical exercise. Here’s everything you need to know.

Place training is a helpful tool to give your dog downtime and a safe place to relax.

• Travel Planning Center
• Ticket Changes & Refunds
• Airline Partners
• Check-in & Security
• Delta Sky Club®
• Airport Maps & Locations
• Flight Deals
• Flight Schedules
• Destinations
• Onboard Experience
• Delta Cruises
• Delta Vacations
• Delta Car Rentals
• Delta Stays
• Onboard Wi-Fi
• Delta Trip Protection
• How to Earn Miles
• How to Use Miles
• Buy or Transfer Miles
• Travel with Miles
• SkyMiles Partners & Offers
• SkyMiles Award Deals
• SkyMiles Credit Cards
• SkyMiles Airline Partners
• SkyMiles Program Overview​
• How to Get Medallion Status​
• Benefits at Each Tier
• News & Updates
• Help Center
• Travel Planning FAQs
• Certificates & eCredits
• Accessible Travel Services
• Child & Infant Travel
• Special Circumstances
• SkyMiles Help

Pet Travel on Delta

Embark on a journey with your favorite furry companion. Depending on their size, some pets can travel as your carry-on. Note:  Failure to comply with all pet policies and keep your pet in the kennel at all times while in the airport and onboard the aircraft may result in losing the ability to travel with your pet on future flights. Need to travel with your service animal? Explore our guidelines and requirements for trained service animals .

In-page Links

• Carry-On Pets , Go to footer note
• Booking Your Pet , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Kennel Requirements , Go to footer note
• Checking In With Your Pet , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Pet Fees , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Pet Exceptions , Go to footer note

Military Pet Travel

International pet travel, carry-on pets.

Small dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee that is collected at check-in. The pet must be able to fit in a soft-sided ventilated pet kennel that will go underneath the seat directly in front of you.

Please review the following requirements to ensure a safe and healthy flight with a small pet traveling as a carry-on:

• Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel.
• Your pet must be 16 weeks old if traveling to the U.S. from another country and at least 15 weeks old when traveling to the European Union.
• 1 female cat or dog may travel with her un-weaned litter if the litter is between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. There is no limit on the number of animals in the litter as long as they can fit safely in the kennel.
• 2 pets of the same breed and size between the ages of 8 weeks and 6 months may be allowed to travel in 1 kennel, as long as they are small enough to fit into a single kennel and are compatible. If the pets are allowed to travel in 1 kennel, they will be charged as 1 pet.

Pets in kennels will count as your 1 carry-on item. In addition to the kennel, you are permitted to bring 1 personal item on board the aircraft.

Seating With Your Pet

Customers with carry-on pets may not select seats in the following areas:

• Bulkhead seats
• An emergency exit row
• Seats designated as “no stowage”
• Flat-bed or Delta One seats
• Rows 46-51 on the A330-200 aircraft
• Rows 54-59 on the A330 -300 aircraft
• Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft

Booking Your Pet

Carry-on kennel requirements.

Be sure to check the aircraft dimensions of your flight to ensure your pet’s kennel will fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.

Your pet and kennel must also adhere to the following requirements:

• Your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel with the ability to move around without touching or sticking out from the sides.
• The kennel must fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.
• The soft-sided kennel must be leak-proof and have ventilation openings on 3 sides for domestic travel and 4 sides for international travel.
• The maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by the aircraft dimensions of your flight, as the under-seat space varies by aircraft. Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.
• Your pet must remain inside the kennel with the door secured while in a Delta boarding area, during boarding and deplaning, while in a Delta Sky Club® and while on board the aircraft.

Checking In With Your Pet

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to visit the Special Service Counter to check-in with your pet. At check-in, a Delta agent will ensure your pet and kennel meet the necessary requirements for your trip and collect the required pet fee. Remember to allow extra time at check-in for us to ensure your pet is ready for take-off.

Once you are checked in and have your cabin pet tag, you are ready to go through the security checkpoint where you are required to remove your pet from their kennel.

After the security checkpoint, your pet must remain in their kennel while at the airport, unless they are in a designated relief area.

Delta Sky Club® Pets

Carry-on pet fees.

CAD amount will be charged to exit Canada, while EUR amount will be charged to exit Europe. These fees are established by the contract of carriage in effect at the time of ticket issuance.

Carry-On Pet Exceptions

For any travel to or from the following destinations — with the exception of service animals — pets must travel as cargo and are not permitted in the cabin:

• Pet travel is not allowed for pets originating in Brazil/Colombia
• Pet travel is not allowed on flights to Hawaii
• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Household birds are only permitted on domestic U.S. flights excluding flights to Hawaii, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam. Review based on your destination or connecting flights.

The CDC has an ongoing, temporary suspension that prohibits the entry of dogs, including trained service animals, into the United States from countries that are at high-risk for rabies. During the suspension, options for bringing dogs that have been in a high-risk country for rabies within the past 6 months will depend on where the dogs’ rabies vaccinations were administered, and the number of dogs being imported. Dogs from high-risk countries must appear healthy, be microchipped and at least 6 months of age. For dogs with a travel history in high-risk countries, please review the CDC’s guidance on importation .

• Investor Relations
• Business Travel
• Travel Agents
• Comment/Complaint
• Browser Compatibility
• Accessibility
• Booking Information
• Customer Commitment
• Tarmac Delay Plan
• Sustainability
• Contract of Carriage
• Cookies, Privacy & Security
• Human Trafficking Statement (PDF)

Enable JavaScript

Please enable JavaScript to fully experience this site. How to enable JavaScript

• Special assistance

Carry on or transport your pet

Depending on animal breed and size, they can travel as a carry-on or be transported through American Airlines Cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements.

We only accept checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Fees and restrictions apply.

Fully-trained service dogs may fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet the requirements.

Service animals

Which destinations allow travel with pets?

You can travel with a pet on most flights up to 12 hours or flights to / from select locations:

• Within the 48 contiguous United States
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply when traveling with pets to / from these destinations.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a temporary suspension of dogs (carry-on or checked), including fully trained service dogs, traveling to the United States (U.S.) from a country considered high-risk for dog rabies.

Only service dogs traveling to the U.S. from high-risk countries with an approved CDC Dog Import Permit, or that meet CDC U.S. vaccination and microchip requirements may fly on American. Contact Special Assistance to request travel with a cat or dog in cabin from a high-risk country.

CDC notice of temporary suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Dogs traveling to the U.S. from countries affected by ‘screwworm’ must meet specific requirements from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services (USDA APHIS VS), including fully trained service dogs.

USDA APHIS VS import requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

The Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources does not accept applications to import assistance or service animals of any species other than dogs.

An assistance or service dog which is accredited by an Australian State or Territory Government will also qualify. In most cases these animals are returning to Australia.

Australian requirements for assistance and service dogs Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

You’ll be responsible for fulfilling all entry requirements and must notify the department of the dog’s intended arrival at least 3 working days before export.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a suspension on the import of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies.

Commercial dogs will not be permitted to enter Canada from the identified high-risk countries.

CFIA notice of suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Carry-on pets

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to Jamaica.

Additional restrictions

When traveling with a pet to Trinidad and Tobago (POS), you cannot arrive on a flight before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Continental U.S.

Within the u.s..

Pets traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico must be at least 8 weeks old.

To the U.S.

All dogs (carry-on and checked) traveling to the U.S. must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from Hawaii.

Checked pets

You can travel with your pet to Hawaii as a checked pet if you:

• Only connect via Honolulu (HNL)*
• Follow Hawaii’s quarantine rules

Animal quarantine rules in Hawaii Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

*No pets are accepted on departures out of Honolulu prior to 8 a.m. HT between March 5 and November 1.

You cannot travel with your pet to Hawaii:

• On nonstop flights to Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii or Kauai
• If your pet is pregnant and past 45 days gestation

All pets traveling to Mexico must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Government regulations and vaccinations in Mexico Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

South America

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from:

Transatlantic

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transatlantic trips.

When traveling to the European Union (EU) with a checked pet, you’ll be responsible for completing all entry requirements. Your pet must have a tattoo or implanted microchip that matches the ID number on their vaccination card.

Apart from service animals, you can't travel with a checked pet to the U.K. or Ireland, but you can transport dogs and cats to London (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) with American Airlines Cargo.

Transport your pet with American Airlines Cargo Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Transpacific

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transpacific trips.

Japan exceptions

Although you can travel with a checked pet from Japan to Los Angeles (LAX) or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), pets are not allowed as checked bags to Japan. According to USDA restrictions, animals should be offered water every 12 hours, so for travel with a checked pet to LAX or DFW, you must book a flight 12 hours or less.

If you’re traveling with a checked pet for travel from Japan, you’ll need to:

• Make sure your pet has a microchip and documents required by the country you are traveling to
• Notify the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service at least 7 days prior to departure to arrange an inspection

Japanese animal quarantine service Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

On flights with American you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if:

• You pay the carry-on pet fee
• Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight

You can bring only one additional item on board with your pet:

• A personal item like a purse or small handbag; or
• A carry-on bag that meets requirements and fits in the overhead bin

Carry-on bags

Remember, you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.

Pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply.

To add a carry-on pet to your trip, follow these steps:

• Find your trip on aa.com or the American app
• In the Special Services section, select ‘Add carry-on pets’
• Review and agree to the carry-on pet requirements
• Select the flights that you want your pet to travel on
• Confirm your carry-on pet to complete the changes

Find your trip

At the airport, go to the American ticket counter to pay the fee and ensure your pet and kennel meet the requirements.

We assume no liability for the health or well-being of carry-on pets. These rules are enforced:

• Pets must be small enough to fit comfortably inside the closed / zipped carrier.
• Non-collapsible kennels can’t exceed the under-seat dimensions of any aircraft included in your journey. Please contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.
• Soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended and can be slightly larger but still need to fit under the seat without having to excessively collapse the kennel. They must be secure, padded, made of water-repellant material and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.

Carry-on kennel dimensions

Hard-sided kennel.

• Mainline flights on American: 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 centimeters (length + width + height)
• Regional flights on American Eagle: 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 centimeters (length + width + height)

Soft-sided kennel (recommended)

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 centimeters (length + width + height)

Contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.

Reservations and ticket changes

Flying in First / Business on an A321T?

• Pets must stay in their kennel during your flight and will need to be placed in a dedicated animal friendly compartment at the front of the plane during taxi, take-off, landing and turbulence
• The combined weight of the carrier and your pet can’t exceed 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs., weighed at check-in

We can only accept:

• 7 kennels on American flights, excluding service animals
• 5 kennels on American Eagle flights; 1 in First

Due to the lack of underseat storage space, carry-on pets are not permitted in First or Business on:

As recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), we don’t accept pets that have been sedated or tranquilized. Pets that have been given sedatives or tranquilizers are at a higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes.

If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin, it must travel with American Airlines Cargo. Keep in mind, we only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders, and the pet carrier must meet all kennel guidelines for checked-pets. If you don’t meet these requirements, your pet may not travel. Fees and restrictions apply.

Kennel guidelines for checked pets

We only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to 2 pets may be checked and they must meet the minimum age and health requirements of the destination. Since capacity is limited, we accept checked pets on a first-come basis.

When checking a pet, you need to:

• Contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel
• Check in at the ticket counter with your official orders
• Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight)
• Complete a checklist with an agent
• Provide a health certificate

To ensure the health and safety of your pet, the health certificate you provide must be issued by a vet within:

• 10 days of your travel
• 60 days of your return (travel on the same ticket)
• 10 days of your return (travel on a separate ticket)

All USDA health requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

American PetEmbark™

American Airlines Cargo offers the American PetEmbark™ service for pets that don’t qualify to travel as carry-on or checked pets.

Ship your pet through American PetEmbark™ Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

When checking in your pet, there are specific requirements for their kennel:

• Large enough for your pet to stand, turn, sit and lie down in a natural position (without touching any side or the top of the container)
• Must not exceed maximum size requirements of the aircraft you're traveling on
• Must not exceed maximum weight (combined pet and kennel) of 100 lbs. / 45 kgs.
• Be made of wood, metal, plastic or similar materials
• Have a door made of welded or cast metal
• Secured at the top and bottom with bolts or screws
• Secured by yourself with release cable ties on all 4 corners (we’ll provide complimentary ties)
• Be rigid and secure enough so the animal cannot escape through gaps or poke any body part through the container
• Be leak and escape proof with a secure fastened door
• Have ventilation on at least 3 sides for domestic U.S. travel and 4 sides for international travel
• Have separate food and watering dishes attached securely inside the kennel
• Have a small bag of food for a 24-hour period attached to the top
• Be clean and have absorbent material (no straw, hay or wood shavings)

If you travel with 2 of your pets in the same kennel, they must be:

• The same species (2 cats or 2 dogs)
• A similar size and weigh less than 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs. each
• Between 8 weeks and 6 months old

Aircraft restrictions and acceptable kennels

Checked pets cannot travel on:

• A321, A321H, A321neo, A321S

Cat restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic cats of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Exotic Shorthair

Cats must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Dog restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all breeds)
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico. If you're traveling into the U.S., your dog's age and vaccine requirements depend on the risk of dog rabies where your trip starts. Dogs arriving from high-risk countries need to be at least 16 weeks old and have their rabies shots before traveling into the U.S.

Check if your trip starts in a high-risk country.

Flights with connections

If you’re traveling on a connecting flight, checked pets will only be able to connect through these cities:

• Charlotte, NC (CLT)
• Chicago O'Hare, IL (ORD)
• Dallas / Fort Worth, TX (DFW)
• Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
• New York Kennedy, NY (JFK)
• New York LaGuardia, NY (LGA)
• Miami, FL (MIA)
• Philadelphia, PA (PHL)
• Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
• Washington Reagan, DC (DCA)

Food and water

Due to Federal Regulations, you’ll need to provide written certification that:

• Your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours (with the specific time noted) before you deliver them to the airplane
• Is securely and visibly attached to the outside of the kennel
• Has your signature with the date and time you signed it

You’ll also need to provide feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period. Unless specified by a vet, you cannot leave instructions saying 'no food or water.'

If you’re flying with American Airlines, you can pay your pet travel fee at the airport or at a travel center with a credit card or paper voucher (where accepted). We don’t accept cash or checks for payment.

We don’t collect pet fees for other operating airlines on your trip (even if it has an American flight number). You’ll need to check in with each airline and pay your fees at check-in. To find out if you're on a partner airline, look for the words, "Operated by" on your ticket.

What's a codeshare?

*Fees shown apply for each destination without a voluntary stopover / connection of 4 hours or more. If your trip includes a voluntary stopover / connection of more than 4 hours, fees apply for each connection segment. All pet fees are non-refundable and apply per kennel, each way. Fees for transporting your pet with American Airlines Cargo may vary depending on the trip details and size of the animal and kennel.

**For tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024, the carry-on pet fee per kennel is $125 and for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024, the fee is $150.

Flights departing Canada

Find out how much you'll pay for pet and other fees on roundtrip and one-way flights departing Canada, displayed in CAD.

Pet and other fees - Canada

Temperature restrictions

We have temperature restrictions to make sure checked pets and pets traveling with American Airlines Cargo aren’t exposed to extreme heat or cold:

• In the animal holding areas
• At terminal facilities
• When moving the animals between terminal and the plane
• On a plane awaiting departure

You cannot travel with a pet if the current or forecasted temperature is above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

Pets not traveling in cabin cannot travel to / through / from Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) May 1 – September 30.

You cannot travel with a pet if the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

We may waive the cold temperature restrictions if you have a written letter from a licensed vet that includes:

• Your name and address
• Your pet’s name
• Your vet’s name and signature
• Your vet’s accreditation date and number
• The temperature your pet is acclimated to

The letter must be dated:

• Within 10 days of the first flight your pet will be on
• Within 30 days of any other trips in the same itinerary

You may need an additional letter for lengthy trips. If the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 degrees C), your pet cannot be checked even with a letter from your vet.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 8 Best Airline-approved Pet Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These high-quality pet carriers allow your furry friend to travel in comfort, safety, and style.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven

If you’re heading out on a trip with your dog or cat, there’s hardly anything more important for your animal’s comfort than picking the right pet carrier. The best airline-approved carrier is one that will check several boxes for you, your pet, and the airline. 

An airline-approved pet carrier is one that is designed to accommodate an animal comfortably, eradicate hassles associated with traveling with your pet, and satisfy the material and sizing requirements for most major airlines. To find the best carriers on the market, we personally tested and scored 13 popular airline-approved pet carriers based on size, quality, comfort, portability, design, ease of cleaning, and overall value.

We also spoke to two experts — Dr. Chyrle Bonk, a veterinarian working with excitedcats.com, and Dr. Paola Cuevas, a veterinarian, MVZ, and behaviorist with petkeen.com — for tips and insight on how you can safely fly with your pet in the cabin or as cargo.

Best Overall

Away the pet carrier.

• Quality 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Design 5 /5

This comfortable, well-designed carrier checks all the boxes on our list and looks great, too. 

It taps out at carrying any more than 18 pounds of pet.

Away’s The Pet Carrier delivers the same sophisticated look, streamlined design, functionality, and quality you’ll find with their luggage products. We particularly liked how the bag’s size makes it easy to carry and slide under the seat in front of us without sacrificing a pet’s comfort. We also appreciated its interior and exterior pockets where we could stash must-grab items for both us and our pet — and the waterproofed side pocket with drainage holes meant for storing collapsible water bowls was a standout touch. 

Other notable features include overall water-resistancy for easy cleanup, a trolley sleeve for easy terminal-side portability, seat belt latches, and breathable mesh side plus a retractable calming screen to give anxious pets a bit of privacy without cutting off airflow. It also comes with a removable sherpa pet bed to keep your pet comfy during travel, and leaves enough room to add their favorite blanket or toy, too. 

Made from durable nylon and stylish black leather, this is the little black dress equivalent of a pet carrier — as long as your furry friend doesn’t weigh more than 18 pounds. If we could change one thing about this bag, it would be that it was available in more than one size. 

The Details: 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches | 4.3 pounds | Up to 18 pound pet size | Nylon and leather

Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best for the Cargo Hold

Gunner g1 kennel intermediate.

It’s the gold standard of hard-sided kennels.

This gold standard doesn’t come cheap.

The Gunner G1 Kennel is a superlative hard-sided kennel with a five-star crash safety rating from the Center for Pet Safety. There have been multiple reported instances where owners have been in severe crashes and said using a Gunner kennel has saved their dog’s life. And we can see why. Worried about the plane hitting rough air? This kennel has double-wall rotomolding for extra impact protection. It’s also got a wider base for stability against tipping, comes with built-in tie-down rods, and features all-weather windows that shield your pet from nasty weather it may face while being loaded and unloaded at the airport.

Pets stay comfortable inside by adding a soft bed, while raised non-slip feet lower temperature transfer from hot or frigid surfaces. The only downside is that the larger sizes may be tough for one person to manage with a dog inside. We tested the large size, which is 72 pounds empty, though this kennel also comes in small, medium, intermediate sizes, too. 

The Details: 24.5 x 18.6 x 19 inches (small), 29.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 inches (medium), 34 x 23 x 28.5 (intermediate), 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 (large) | 27 pounds (small), 38 pounds (medium), 48 pounds (intermediate), 72 pounds (large) | Up to 110 pounds for large pet size | Rotomolded plastic and stainless steel

Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Softside

Love thy beast nylon pet travel carrier.

Love Thy Beast

The 12-inch height makes it ideal for layovers. 

The narrow width may not be comfortable for girthy pets.

We found the Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier to be lightweight yet sturdy, and flexible enough to squeeze under the seat in front of us, even though the carrier pushes the limits when it comes to height. Some airlines may eyeball it at check-in, but this tote-style carrier can also be used during layovers to give your pet more head room. It also comes with a leash tether so you can confidently carry your dog with the zippers down, and it’s possible to slip the bag onto the handle of a suitcase or a seat belt as the back pocket converts to a luggage sleeve when unzipped. 

This bag has a sturdy, removable platform on the bottom that makes for easy spot cleaning, and an extra-large zippered pocket on the front (in addition to that smaller, convertible luggage sleeve pocket on the reverse). The tight-knit mesh sides allow for one-way pet privacy to aid anxious pets as well. We tested this carrier out with an 8-pound dog who fit comfortably inside (as did a slim 12-pound pup), though it’s quite likely a wider-framed pet would find this 8-inch wide carrier too narrow. 

The Details: 17 x 12 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Up to 25 pound pet size | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Anna Mejorada

Best for Cats

Travel cat the transpurrter.

The Spruce Pets / Morgan Ashley Parker

• Size 4.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5

It’s loaded with thoughtful features throughout and can be carried five ways. 

The soft-lined interior quickly becomes covered in cat hair.

The Travel Cat The “Transpurrter” Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier is a sturdy and durable cat carrier with five options for carrying — over-the-shoulder, by side handles, via the trolley sleeve, as a crossbody, or as a backpack. One of our favorite features is the number of access points you have to reach your pet. It opens at both ends and the top, plus one full side panel opens up completely to give your cat more space while waiting at the gate. (We clipped them onto the bungee tether and opened it up so our cat felt less confined.) It also has calming privacy flaps, two stretchy slip pockets, one pocket loaded with several organizational pockets, a slide-out lined basket, and anti-scratch mesh on three sides. We’ve flown several times with this carrier and it still looks brand new, except for the inside, which immediately became covered in cat hair. 

The Details: 19 x 10.5 x 11 inches | 3.4 pounds | Up to 30 pound pet size

Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven

Best Budget Hardside

Petmate aspen pet porter dog kennel.

• Quality 4 /5
• Design 3 /5

It’s a basic but solid crate-style kennel that meets FAA standards.

There aren't any extra pockets or storage features, it’s just the kennel.

This hard-sided kennel is a great value bang-for-your-buck. There are no extra fancy bells and whistles, just your basic heavy-duty plastic kennel that is approved for domestic air travel in the U.S. You get three-sided ventilation, a stainless steel door with squeeze latches to prevent accidental opening during flight, and a spacious interior that will easily fit your animal, food and water bowls, and your pet’s favorite blanket and toy (if allowed). The darker bottom helps activate a dog or cat’s natural burrowing reflex, helping them to relax. The kennel can also be taken down and put together quite easily for storage or transportation. We do wish there were at least some kind of storage area, though, to hold important papers or treats, but overall we can’t complain because this carrier ticked all the necessary boxes to make our pet comfortable and our travel day swift and easy. 

The Details: 28 x 20.5 x 21.5 inches (small), 32 x 22.5 x 24 inches (medium), 36 x 25 x 27 inches (large), 40 x 27 x 30 (extra-large) | 9 pounds (small), 14 pounds (medium), 19 pounds (large), 24 pounds (extra-large) | Up to 30 pounds (small), up to 50 pounds (medium), up to 70 pounds (large), up to 90 pounds (extra-large) pet size | Heavy-duty plastic and metal

Best Expandable

Petsfit expandable pet carrier.

The Spruce Pets / JT Wilde

• Quality 4.5 /5

Fiber rods in the frame can be removed for extra flexibility to fit under the seat in front of you. 

The carry handles would benefit from a bit of padding.

The Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier’s dual expandable, scratch-resistant mesh sides are great for giving your pet extra room while waiting at the gate or during layovers without officially letting them out of the bag. We also hacked this feature while testing, unzipping the sides while our pet was under the seat in front of us, to give our furry passenger a tad more space on both sides. Plus, the carrier is collapsible, and the fiber rods in the top frame can be removed for extra “give” to squeeze under the seat. The bottom of the carrier is lined with a soft material for pet comfort. This bag is lightweight and portable, but our hands hurt after carrying it via the handles after just a short time (we didn’t have the detachable crossbody/shoulder strap with us); padded handles would be a welcomed addition but it’s hard to knock the bonus space with this style.

The Details: 16 x 10 x 9 (small), 17 x 11 x 11 inches (medium), 19 x 12 x 12 inches (large) | 2.1 pounds (small), 2.5 pounds (medium), 3 pounds (large) | Up to 9 pounds (small), up to 13 pounds (medium), up to 18 pounds (large) pet size | Polypropylene

Travel + Leisure / JT Wilde

Best Organization

Jetpaws official pet carrier.

• Comfort 4.5 /5

It takes the guesswork out of wondering if the carrier will fit under the seat. 

This carrier will only comfortably fit small dogs and medium-sized cats.

The JetPaws Official Carrier of JetBlue Airlines carrier is specifically designed to adhere to JetBlue’s strict size rules and fit under all of the airline’s seats. This makes it a shoe-in for complying with almost all other airlines’ size requirements, taking the guesswork and anxiety out of wondering if your carrier will fit. The colors may be a bit of an eyesore, but the bag’s many features are a good balm. This featherlight carrier comes with five pockets for storing necessities (some of the most we’ve seen), and a detachable padded shoulder strap for carrying (though no trolley sleeve). The carrier itself is made from a durable, undisclosed material that is easy to wipe clean. Our pet seemed right at home in this carrier and didn’t even seem to mind that his usual plush padded bed had been replaced with a simple soft lining. As one might expect with a little carrier, it can only accommodate small pets. 

The Details: 16 x 8.5 x 10 inches | 2 pounds

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Caraa Pet Carrier

Caraa 

The smooth material is sleek and stylish on the outside while keeping your pet cozy on the inside.

It can become bulky if you utilize all of the pockets.

This stylish carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds and features huge external pockets for all of their accessories. The large pockets are great for also storing your own items like wallet, phone, water bottle, and even a book, which is perfect for those times in which your pet is your personal item. It's designed like actual luggage — which our editors look for when choosing their favorite pieces . We love that all of the zippers run smoothly and keep items (and pets) secure. While we wish the shoulder strap had a bit more padding, we do love that you can carry the bag in many ways thanks to the adjustable cross-body strap and smaller handle. There's even a luggage sleeve to make your commute to and from airplanes even easier.

The Details: 16.5 x 8 x 10.5 inches | 3.5 pounds | Vegan leather and nylon

Other Airline-approved Pet Carriers We Liked

A few pet carriers we tested didn’t quite make the list for the best airline-approved pet carrier but grabbed enough of our attention and admiration for an honorable recommendation as pet carriers that may work well in other travel situations. 

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier : At 4.5 pounds this is the heaviest (and largest) soft-sided carrier we tested. Since it felt heavy before we even put our dog in, and because its large size seems likely to get flagged at check-in, it didn’t make the list. However, its five-star crash test rating, custom seat belt and buckle clips, pee-pad-friendly design, and a zip-down fourth wall side plus interior tethering clip make it an excellent choice as a pet carrier for the car. 

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier : We found that this bag (which comes in heights of either 8.5 inches or 10 inches) felt a bit too snug for our dog, and the smaller size would be best suited for teacup-sized breeds. However, if your pet is on the tiny side, standout features include four-sided mesh ventilation, an included memory foam travel pad, and a sturdy trolly slip for easy portability atop your carry-on.

Wild One Travel Carrier : This lightweight and smaller-sized bag is loaded with thoughtful travel features, from its dual-sided zippers and calming fold-down side panels to the lie-flat breakdown design that makes it a cinch to spot clean and built-in option to use a strap as a leash. Since we couldn’t zip the 10-inch high bag closed unless our 8-pound dog was laying down, it felt like too much of a squeeze when placed under an airplane seat.

The T+L team tested 14 airline-approved pet carriers in real world traveling situations with our own cats and dogs. After measuring, weighing, and assessing the overall quality of each bag — and making sure our furry travel friends were comfortable with the carriers — we took to the skies to test how well the carrier stacked up when it came to carry comfort, pet comfort, durability, cleaning, overall design, size, and relevant features. 

To see how they functioned, we traveled with our pets on roundtrip domestic and international flights on U.S. major airlines, including JetBlue which has some of the smallest general size restrictions for in-cabin pet carriers. We took notes along the way on how easy it was to get through security, wait at the gate, slide under the seat, and transport through the airport, checking on our pet’s comfort before, during, and after the flight. We also considered how easy it was to access our pet during the flight and the traveling process. Scoring was largely based on pet comfort, portability, features, price, and performance of purpose in order to select the best airline-approved carriers for this roundup.

Travel + Leisure / Kate Rousu

Tips for Buying Airline-approved Pet Carriers  

Choose the best size for your pet.

The best size carrier will depend on your pet’s mobility, weight, and body frame. Remember, in-cabin pets must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in a carrier. Do not try to squeeze your pet into a smaller carrier just to meet an airline’s sizing rules. 

Check the rules for your mode of transportation 

Always check the rules and requirements for pets and pet carriers of your specific airline and general FAA requirements before purchasing a new carrier. Many train companies, such as Amtrak , will also have their own pet carrier policies as well. If riding in the car with your animal, consider crash safety when shopping for a pet carrier. 

Decide if you need soft-sided or hard-sided 

Soft-sided carriers, such as dog backpacks , are a bit more flexible when it comes to fitting into several under-seat spaces, and many airlines allow for larger soft-sided pet carrier dimensions because of this. Pets transported as cargo will have to be inside of a hard-sided carrier for their safety in the hold of the aircraft. Owners traveling with heavier and/or larger in-cabin pets may also want to consider a hard-sided carrier as it provides better support for the animal. 

Look for features that add comfort and ease to a journey 

Remember that your pet’s comfort is paramount, so give extra points to carriers that have comfort features such as breathable mesh, supportive and strong bottoms, several opening/access points, multiple pockets to hold treats, water, and clean-up supplies, or calming blackout panels. Most airlines will also require your carrier to have a waterproofed bottom in case of accidents.

Opening the pet carrier, placing it in your home, and allowing your pet to become comfortable with it or even sleep in it is a good first line way to get them acclimated. Next, try taking your pet on short rides in the car while inside the carrier, going a little bit longer each time (and not just to the vet), and then reward with a treat. You can also line the carrier with their favorite blanket or toy to make it feel more welcoming and familiar. 

Dr. Bonk explains that it's safe for most pets to stay in an in-cabin travel carrier for six to eight hours, as long as the carrier is appropriately sized for your pet. She says dogs traveling in cargo may be able to stay a little longer as long as they are comfortable and/or have access to pee pads, food, and water. Dr. Cuevas suggests it’s best if your pet can have a bathroom break every six hours, something that is only possible if you’re booked on a shorter flight or hire a private pet transport service. 

While there is nothing you are required to pack for in-cabin pets, both vets suggest having food and water (or treats) for the journey, any medication your pet may need, and any necessary paperwork such as vaccination records that may be required for boarding or landing. Lining the carrier with an absorbent pad, tossing in a scent-soaked item (e.g., something familiar that smells like them or you), and adding their favorite toy can help make the journey easier.  

There are several rules that come with bringing your pet on a plane — including specific carrier size and weight rules, pet fees, how many pets can travel on any plane, weather restrictions, and what documentation is needed. It’s always best to check with your specific airline about your specific flight and both departure and arrival destinations.

A few guaranteed rules to remember include that in-cabin pets will count as your carry-on or personal item depending on the airline, that pets are not allowed to be taken out of their carrier at any point during the flight, that carriers must remain under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight (on most airlines), and that pets traveling as cargo cannot be sedated. 

• American Airlines Pet Policy
• United Airlines Pet Policy
• Delta Air Lines Pet Policy
• Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
• JetBlue Airways Pet Policy

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven spoke with two vets to get tips on how to safely and comfortably travel with your pet, in cargo or in the cabin. She also crunched testing insights from our T+L testers and pets, which included Alex and her 15-pound nervous travel cat @hellomisterbo . In researching airline-approved pet carriers, we spoke with Dr. Chyrle Bonk , a veterinarian with excitedcats.com, and Dr. Paola Cuevas , a veterinarian, MVZ, and behaviorist with petkeen.com. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

794 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3248 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to consider with travel dog crates, the 7 best travel dog crates for airlines, the 8 best travel dog crates for cars, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Keep your dog safe and calm with a dedicated doggie travel crate or carrier. Made from strong and durable materials, they are comfortable, secure, and an absolute must-have for dog lovers who never want to leave their furry friends behind.

Not all dog crates are suitable for every size of dog or type of journey. Consider the following before you buy:

There are 2 main types of crates and carriers to choose from, with both styles being better suited to different situations and doggie personalities:

Hard-sided Crates and Carriers — These are an excellent choice for long road trips and can be used as a secure spot for your dog to sleep in when you reach your destination.

Strong and sturdy, they are also an excellent choice for dogs who like to chew, and the molded plastic construction is easy to clean between uses.

Soft-sided Crates and Carriers — These are good for dogs who are used to traveling, and the lightweight design makes them more suitable for use on airplanes and shorter journeys.

As long as you choose the right size to suit your dog, these flexible carriers are easy for you to carry and come with additional features, such as padded shoulder straps and handy storage pockets.

While you may be restricted by airline regulations or the physical size of your cargo area, it is super important that the dog crate or carrier that you choose has enough space for your dog to travel comfortably in.

It should be big enough for your pooch to sit, stand, sleep and turn around in while still being compact enough to keep them feeling safe and secure. As a general rule, the crate or carrier you choose should be no more than 6 inches longer than your dog.

Crates and carriers are usually available in different sizes to suit a wide variety of breeds. Measure your dog from his neck to his rear legs and again from his shoulders to the ground to get a good idea of which size crate or carrier will suit him best.

Most manufacturers will also recommend a maximum weight for their crates and carriers . This is particularly important if you are planning on carrying your dog around in it.

If your dog is between weights or sizes, always choose the crate or carrier that can offer the greatest capacity to ensure that it is strong enough and roomy enough for them to feel comfortable in.

The crate or carrier you choose should be strong and sturdy enough to secure your 4-legged friend in transit without making them feel scared or uncomfortable.

Look for crates and carriers that have strong zippers or clasps on the doors to stop your dog from making an escape, and only ever choose a model that offers mesh sides or ventilation slots to ensure that your dog can breathe easily.

If you are traveling in your vehicle, the crate or carrier should be kept secure using the seat belt or shoulder harness to stop your dog from being thrown around on the road.

Some dogs get very nervous when traveling, and others really don’t like being confined in a crate or carrier.

Try and make them feel more comfortable by looking for options that offer soft and cozy seating areas that can be washed between uses , and maybe throw their favorite toy or blanket in there with them.

Bottom Line: Mesh sides are not only useful for ventilation, but they also let your dog see out, which may help them to feel more relaxed if they have eyes on their favorite humans at all times.

1. Luxury Carrier for High-flying Pooches

Sherpa travel original deluxe airline approved pet carrier.

Take your 4-legged friend away with you in this awesome lightweight pet carrier. Suitable for medium-sized dogs, this carrier measures 17 x 11 x 10.5 inches and can hold up to 16 pounds in weight. With a patented spring wire frame, it can be pushed down to ensure that it fits neatly under your seat in transit.

Perfect for use while you fly, your dog will love the comfortable faux lambskin liner , and with a nonslip carrying handle and useful rear pocket for treats and poop bags, owners will love the convenience that this brilliant travel crate offers.

Available in a choice of colors for stylish doggos and their owners, this portable pet carrier can be folded up small for easy storage when not in use. Also available in a choice of small or large sizes, the Sherpa carry-on for your pooch is ready and waiting for your next adventure.

What We Like

• This bag is super sturdy and incredibly comfortable

What We Don’t Like

• The carrier is not as luxurious as some other models out there

Hot Tip: For all of your pet’s accessories, check out our guide to the best dog travel bags , including totes and backpacks.

2. Superstrong Pet Carrier for Use on the Plane

Petmate sky kennel pet carrier.

This hardside pet crate offers increased security for your furry friend while also being lightweight and travel-friendly.

Made from durable plastic materials, it has been constructed using non-corrodible wing nuts , extra-strong steel wire, and an interlocking door to enhance protection and ensure that your dog will never escape or be injured during transit.

Available in a choice of sizes, you can choose from the 21-, 28-, 32-, 36-, 40-, and 48-inch options to ensure that your dog has enough space to suit its size, and with vented openings all around it, this crate will ensure that your dog stays safe and healthy.

• The carrier has super-tough construction and additional safety features
• This crate can feel heavy when your dog is in it

3. Multi-purpose Crate for Adventurous Dogs

Petmate vari kennel heavy-duty dog travel crate.

Comfortable and incredibly secure, this awesome travel crate is suitable for use both on the airplane and as a comfortable kennel space when you reach your destination.

With tie-down strap holds and wire vents for ventilation, your pooch will stay safely in place during your flight, and with an easy-open front latch, you can quickly release your dog for much-needed cuddles when you arrive.

The raised interior is perfect for letting them sleep on their favorite blanket, and suitable for dogs weighing up to 70 pounds, this travel crate lets your best friend travel everywhere with you.

Designed to meet most airline cargo specifications, this super-secure travel crate will help to keep your dog calm and relaxed as they fly. Also available in a range of smaller sizes, there is a Petmate Vari Travel Kennel to suit all breeds of dogs.

• This travel kennel is practical, durable, and pleasingly affordable
• There is no carry handle

4. Rolling Dog Carrier for Longer Journeys

Coopeter airline dog carrier.

Unique and highly portable, this rolling dog carrier makes light work of long journeys for you and your 4-legged friend.

Made from superstrong materials, it comes with a detachable 4-wheel platform and a longer-length handle that lets you pull the carrier along behind you.

With additional nonslip grab handles and an adjustable shoulder strap , you can also use it without the wheels when you want to. With mesh sides, your pooch will be able to breathe well and keep its eye on you at all times, and the soft-sided interior provides a warm and cozy space for naps.

Measuring up at 19.7 x 12.2 x 11.8 inches, this pet carrier is suitable for small-breed dogs, and when not in use, it can be folded up compact for easy storage. Comfortable, cozy, and incredibly cool, your dog will love traveling around in this innovative dog carrier.

• The wheeled base and extendable handle are convenient to use
• It is quite small, so check the measurements

5. 2-in-1 Carrier and Rolling Kennel

Sportpet designs rolling plastic kennel.

This portable kennel has a spacious interior and a sturdy build, and your pooch will quickly grow to love it almost as much as you do.

The convenient removable wheels make it a breeze to glide through the airport, and with 2 dishes, 4 live animal stickers, tie-down bungee straps, and metal bolts and nuts included, this carrier meets all the IATA airline requirements for dogs in transit .

Available in a selection of sizes from S through to 3XL, this rolling pet kennel can accommodate all breeds of dog, and with superfast assembly, it is perfect for use both while traveling and back at home.

For added security, this crate also comes with locking snaps on the sides and a strong metal door with an easy-to-grasp latch to ensure that your best friend is safely tucked away during the journey.

• This is a good-sized, very secure travel kennel
• It is quite heavy when your dog is in it

6. Fuss-free Travel Kennel for Everyday Use

Aspen pet traditional kennel.

With sturdy plastic construction, this traditional-style dog carrier is an excellent choice for pets weighing between 20 and 30 pounds.

Offering a simple, fuss-free design, your furry best friend can enjoy 360-degree ventilation to feel cool and comfortable , and the easy-to-open squeeze latch door is perfect for superfast loading and unloading.

In addition, the raised interior is a safe and comfortable space for your dog, and the secure tie-down holes will ensure that your best bud doesn’t slide around in transit.

Easy to carry using the top handle, this travel kennel also comes in smaller 20- and 25-inch versions for smaller breeds. The functional design makes this suitable for use as a training kennel at home and a secure and safe space for traveling.

• The design is fuss-free and easy to use
• It doesn’t feel quite as high quality as some of its competitors

7. Lightweight Pet Carrier for Easy Transportation

Petsfit airline approved dog carrier.

Lightweight and easy to carry, this travel dog carrier comes with a nonslip shoulder strap and grab handles, making it easy to take your best friend with you while you travel.

The mesh sides help to keep your dog cool, and the wire frame ensures that this carrier keeps its shape in transit.

Designed to conform perfectly with the under-seat dimensions of most airlines, your 4-legged friend can stay by your side as you fly, and the built-in safety tether on the inside will ensure that your pet is safely secured at all times .

For increased comfort, this brilliant carrier comes with a soft fleece mat that will help your pooch feel at home along the way, and with an additional backstrap, you can fasten the carrier to your luggage for seamless transportation around the airport.

• The carrier can be folded up when not in use
• It doesn’t feel substantial enough to hold heavier dogs

1. Basic Dog Crate That Can Fold Down for Easy Storage

Amazon basics portable folding soft dog travel crate.

This soft-sided and easy-to-fold 36-inch dog crate is perfect for road trips and overnight stays and offers plenty of comfort and security for even the most nervous of 4-legged travelers.

With 2 separate doors, it is easy to load and unload your pet for their next big adventure, and with ventilation on all 4 sides, your dog will be able to breathe easily along the way.

The secure zipper closures keep the crate secure, and with roll up and down doors, you can let your dog see out or roll them back down when it’s time to snooze.

Made from strong and durable polyester material, this crate comes with a PVC frame that can be set up and folded back down in an instant , and with the ability to hold up to 90 pounds in weight, this is an excellent option for larger breeds.

• The crate is spacious and highly durable
• It doesn’t come with carrying handles

2. Soft Dog Crate for Smaller Breeds

Elitefield 3-door folding soft dog crate.

This 24-inch dog crate is also available in larger 20-, 30-, 36-, and 42-inch versions, and the soft-sided design offers incredible versatility and comfort for your furry friend.

With a strong steel frame, it is sturdy enough to handle your pup’s weight, and the highly durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric will keep your dog well-ventilated in transit .

Designed to be wider and higher than most standard dog crates, your dog will have plenty of space to move around, and with 2 accessory pockets on the outside, you can keep their treats, leashes and other essentials close at hand.

As an added bonus, this model also comes with a free fleece bed included, as well as a carry bag, giving you and your pooch everything you need to stay safe, comfortable, and most of all calm on long car journeys or back at home.

• This soft crate offers stress-free transportation
• The zippers don’t feel secure enough for dogs that push against them

3. Plastic Carry Crate for the Trunk of Your Car

Ferplast atlas scenic suv & car dog crate.

Suitable for medium-size breeds, this crate measures 39 x 26 x 26 inches, making it suitable for use in the cargo area of most SUVs and hatchbacks.

Strong enough to comfortably hold dogs weighing as much as 60 pounds, this crate comes with super-sturdy molded handles that let you lift the crate (and dog) in and out of the vehicle when you need to.

Offering vented panels all the way along the sides , this model offers excellent ventilation to keep your dog comfortable and relaxed along the way, and the tough plastic and metal mesh is designed to withstand even the most enthusiastic of 4-legged friends.

With a convenient locking system built into the front door and a sliding opening, this crate will keep your dog safely contained while also helping to save space in your cargo area, and the versatile design can be completely dismantled for easy storage when not in use.

• This crate fits most vehicles
• It doesn’t feel that it would be able to stand up to escape artists

4. Multi-purpose Crate for Bigger Pooches

Noz2noz soft-krater indoor and outdoor crate for pets.

This soft-sided crate lets you take your best friend on long road trips with you, and the versatile and highly portable design is comfortable and convenient for your dog.

Made with a water-resistant base, it is perfect for nervous pooches as it can be cleaned up very easily , and the fully washable cover can be thrown into the machine between uses.

With a sturdy steel frame, it is designed to be strong and durable, and the novel design can be set up and folded down in an instant.

With mesh panels for increased ventilation and a better view for your 4-legged friend, this crate comes with rounded corners to prevent scratches. Available in a selection of sizes, this model can fit pets weighing up to 100 pounds.

• The crate can easily be cleaned between uses
• The zipper closure feels a bit flimsy

5. Heavy-duty Crate for Dogs Who Like Their Own Personal Space

Petsfit portable soft collapsible dog crate.

This 30-inch foldable dog crate is strong enough to comfortably carry dogs weighing up to 88 pounds, and the spacious interior has been designed to keep your pooch feeling calm and comfortable.

Made from high-quality materials, it comes with grid doors on the front, top, and side for easier loading and unloading, and the pocket on the back is a handy space to hold treats, snacks, leashes, and other doggie travel accessories.

Featuring an upgraded hexagonal structure grid, this crate is incredibly sturdy , and with Velcro-zippered doors, your dog will stay safely housed at all times.

With rounded corners on the top, this crate will slip neatly into your vehicle without causing any damage to the interior, and the foldable steel frame has a washable soft cover and can be folded down quickly for convenient storage when not in use.

• The spacious interior is perfect for larger dogs
• The mesh doesn’t feel particularly strong

6. Excellent Pop-up-style Dog Crate

Petsfit collapsible soft dog crate.

Perfect for small and medium breeds, this pop-up style dog crate measures 30 x 20 x 19 inches and has 2 doors for easier loading and unloading.

Both doors can be rolled up so your dog can see out, and the mesh panels allow for increased ventilation along the way.

Lightweight while still being incredibly sturdy , this dog crate can also be used as an open bed, giving your dog their own space — both in transit and when you reach your destination.

With a removable and washable soft pad, this is a super-comfy base for your best friend while you are away from home.

With a patented screw-in design that lets you set the crate up in seconds, this is an awesome travel crate that can easily be dismantled and stored between uses.

• The crate sets up superfast
• There are more sturdy dog crates out there

7. Collapsible Crate for Use in Your Vehicle

Amazon basics folding soft dog crate.

This awesome soft-sided dog crate is anything but basic and offers a cost-effective way to transport your best friend from A to B.

Measuring 26 x 18 x 18 inches, this model is suitable for small breeds weighing between 12 and 25 pounds, but it also comes in 21- , 30-, 36-, and 42-inch versions for dogs of varying sizes . Made from durable polyester and PVC materials, it collapses down for quick and easy storage.

For added convenience, it also features accessory pockets on the top and the side for storing treats and other essentials, and with a top handle and shoulder strap, it is easy to carry your dog around in.

On the inside, the plush fleece-covered pet bed offers superior comfort on the road, and the multiple screened panels offer increased ventilation and an excellent opportunity for your pooch to keep a watchful eye on you.

• The crate is comfy, practical, and easy to use
• The mesh isn’t strong enough to handle dogs that like to chew

8. For Dogs Who Like To Be Close by You

Slowton dog booster car seat.

If your dog thinks it’s human, this convenient and comfortable doggie car seat might be just the thing for it to enjoy.

Made with a reinforced metal frame, this crate provides a safe and comfy shelter for dogs who like to ride in cars, and the quick and easy installation makes it easy to fit and remove from your car seat as often as necessary.

The nonslip rubber bottom won’t slide around on the back seat of your car , and the seat belt tether will keep your dog secure. With mesh windows on 3 sides, this model offers excellent ventilation, and the front and top zipper doors let you load and unload your dog without a fuss.

With a washable and reusable pet pee pad on the bottom, your seats will stay clean and dry, even with the most anxious of doggies, and with the ability to fold up flat when not in use, this is a super-fancy and incredibly safe way for your dog to travel around with you.

• Pets are easy to secure and buckle in
• The locking system could be sturdier

Whether you are looking for an airplane carrier for your bichon frise or a cargo crate for your husky, there are lots of safe and comfortable ways to keep your best friend by your side.

From hard-sided crates to soft and flexible carriers, finding the right model for you and your dog will let you both enjoy many miles of adventures together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get my dog used to a travel crate.

Start slowly and be patient when getting your dog used to a travel crate. Leave the door open and line the crate with your dog’s favorite blanket and even an item of your clothing, so they feel comfortable. Use lots of treats and positive reinforcement to create a positive association.

Is it safe for a dog to travel in a crate?

Crates are an excellent and safe way to transport your dog in cars or while flying. Look for crates that have strong zippers, clasps, and sturdy doors.

What size travel crate does my dog need?

Measure your dog’s length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Your travel dog crate should be no more than their length plus 6 inches. Also, make sure that your dog has enough room to sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably.

How do I choose a travel crate for my dog?

There are several things to consider when choosing a travel crate for your dog. Safety and comfort will be high on your list of criteria. It’s also important to get the correct size for your dog, and the weight will also be a key consideration, especially for air travel.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the  latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's  privacy policy   and  terms of service   apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

The 10 Best Dog Crates & Carriers For Car Travel: Keeping Spot Safe!

Dog Crates & Carriers

WRITTEN BY:

April 23, 2024

44 Comments

K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Dogs love the open road as much as we do!

But while most humans remember to buckle up before leaving the driveway, your fur baby doesn’t really have a say in the matter.

Many owners let their dog roam free in the car, which can be a deadly mistake.

Even owners who opt for using a dog carrier or crate designed for car travel will likely be shocked to discover that the vast majority of mainstream car carriers aren’t designed to keep your pooch safe in the event of an accident .

But don’t worry — we’re here to help!

Below, we’ll explain everything you need to know about dog carriers and car travel . We’ll outline the reasons why securing your dog is important, and share some of the best crates and carriers that are made from durable materials and designed to keep your pooch safe and secure in the car.

In some cases, harnesses can be the better option for car-riding canines. We break down some of the situations in which this is the case and list some of our favorites in our guide to crash-tested dog car harnesses.

Safest Dog Crates & Carriers for the Car

Below, we’ll share some of the crates and carriers that passed the CPS 2015 Crates and Carrier Crash Worthiness Study , complimented with additional CPS tests performed in 2016. We’ll be continuing to update this article each year when new crash test reports are released.

We’ve updated our recommendations below to include new products to the market and reflect new tests conducted by CPS.

Unfortunately, CPS hasn’t yet published an overview of their recent testing (which is understandable — they are a non-profit organization), but we’ve linked to the individual product test results and videos when available.

Also, we’ve included a few products below that have passed the safety testing conducted by other organizations, such as the Technical Research Institute of Sweden .

1. Diggs Passenger Carrier

A high-quality, tote-style carrier with a 5-star safety rating and an innovative canine-hygiene setup. 

About : The Diggs Passenger Carrier is a must-have for travelers with small canines thanks to its cushy interior pad, three accessory pockets, and top-notch safety marks. Also featuring a detachable crossbody strap, sturdy base, custom seat belt clips, and a buckle strap, it helps you safely (and comfortably) tote your pooch from point A to B in cars, planes, and more.

• Fabric crate made from fuss-free durable nylon and mesh air vents
• Smart setup for easy pee pad changing 
• Available in Charcoal, Grey, Blush, and Navy color options
• Meets most airlines’ specifications for cabin travel

Size & Dimensions :

• Available in one size for dogs up to 18 pounds
• Measures 20” x 10.8” x 11.5”
• 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for pets up to 18 pounds
• High safety rating from the Center for Pet Safety
• Innovative pee pad setup makes traveling with accident-prone pups a breeze
• Chic styling that’s eons beyond most canine carriers
• More size options would be ideal
• Accessory pockets mean there’s little extra space inside

2. Gunner G1

A tough-as-nails carrier featuring multiple locks, a stainless steel door, and dual-wall construction for impact protection.

About : The American-made Gunner G1 takes safety and quality seriously with its aluminum-framed lockable door (featuring multiple latches), durable plastic shell, and stainless steel hardware. Built-in tiedown pins allow for a snug fit in the car, while a recessed bottom with a drainage system ensures easy cleaning.

• Double-wall construction provides maximum impact protection
• Non-slip rubberized base prevents dangerous sliding
• Water-repelling windows allow air circulation while keeping rain out
• Available in 3 colors: Tan, Gunmetal, and Mossy Oak Greenleaf

Size & Dimensions : The G1 comes in four sizes, and the manufacturer recommends using their Kennel Fit Finder on their product page to determine the best one for your pooch.

• Small (Measures 24.5” x 18.6” x 20.5”)
• Medium (Measures 29.5” x 20.5” x 25”) 
• Intermediate  (Measures 34” x 23” x 30”) 
• Large (Measures 40.25” x 28” x 34.5”)

Safety: 

• Gunner Kennel G1 Small : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 30 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
• Gunner Kennel G1 Medium : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 45 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
• Gunner Kennel G1 Intermediate : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 75 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
• Gunner Kennel G1 Large : Currently unrated
• Quality and durable plastic construction earned high marks from pet parents
• Comes with an impressive lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
• Excellent choice for traveling with a Houndini escape artist
• Not as portable as other options (it’s quite heavy)
• Quality comes at a cost, and these crates are expensive

3. Sleepypod Atom

A wallet-friendly bag that transforms from a crash-rated canine car seat to a stylish messenger tote with ease.

About : The Sleepypod Atom safely cradles your small dog for travel, whether you’re riding in the car, flying high, or buzzing through the subway on official pupper business. Built-in seatbelt straps hold your canine snug in her seat, while the sturdy base and plush interior keeps her cozy (you can even remove it for easy cleanup).

• A well-built fabric crate with luggage-grade nylon exterior 
• 3 mesh panels provide excellent ventilation
• Padded shoulder strap and 3 pockets for toting your pup and her accessories comfortably
• Available in 9 colors, including Robin Egg Blue, Jet Black, and Olive
• Single size option measures 10.5” x 8.5” x 17” 
• Suits dogs up to 12 pounds
• 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 12 pounds
• Quality and lightweight design earn high marks from owners
• Dual zipper entries allow for top or side access
• Removable privacy panel can help reduce travel anxieties 
• Lack of size options is a bummer
• Only suitable for tiny toy breeds

4. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

A canine carrier that mimics your four-footer’s bed with its soft, fuzzy interior and rounded shape.

About : The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed doesn’t sacrifice your pet’s comfort in the name of portability, allowing for less stressful travel in its bed-like, lightweight design. Best suited for dogs who sleep in a curled-up position , the round carrier features shearling bedding that can be removed for washing as needed.

• Luggage-grade durable nylon shell stands up to the rigors of travel
• Removable dome-style mesh topper contains pets while allowing airflow
• Adjustable, padded shoulder strap for your comfort
• Available in 5 colors: Arctic White, Dark Chocolate, Olive Green, Robin Egg Blue, and Strawberry Red
• Single size option measures 17” x 17” x 6.5”
• Recommended for pets under 15 pounds
• 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 15 pounds
• Comfort gets a paw’s up from most doggy travelers
• Pet parents loved the carrier’s quality
• Bed-like design can ease travel anxiety
• Pricey compared to other carriers
• A tad bulky to carry

5. Sleepypod Air

A favorite for woofs with wanderlust featuring a 4-star crash rating and an airline-friendly shape.

About : The Sleepypod Air is a fabric crate that’s made for safe, comfortable canine travel with two zippered entries, a sturdy base, and a low-profile design. The soft, machine-washable bedding inside keeps your canine cozy, while the breathable mesh dome and durable nylon shell exterior protect her from harm.

• Luggage-grade super-durable nylon outer shell
• Removable padded strap and dual storage pockets
• Water-repelling interior liner
• Offered in 8 eye-pleasing colors, including Orange Dream, Charcoal, and Glacier Silver
• Single size option suitable for pets up to 18 pounds
• Measures 17” x 17” x 13”
• 4-Star Rating by the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 18 pounds
• Works great for traveling in cars and planes
• Pet parents raved about the quality
• Owners report doggos love this carrier and even sleep in it at home
• Storage pockets can bulge into canine space 
• Not as fashion-forward as other carriers

6. Sleepypod Mini

A luggage-grade, dome-style travel crate that earned a 5-star crash rating for dogs under 7 pounds.

About : The Sleepypod Mini protects your most petite precious cargo from harm, securing to your car’s seat belt with the PPRS Handilock. Made to mimic your best buddy’s bed, this fabric crate features a rounded shape and a removable plush interior for cozier travel and a water-resistant foam liner in case of accidents.

• Made with a supremely durable nylon shell with mesh windows for ventilation
• Built-in safety tether prevents bolting when opening
• Available in 8 colors, including Blossom Pink, Dark Chocolate, and Jet Black
• Two zippered entries for versatile use
• Single size option best for dogs 7 pounds and under
• Measures 13” x 13” x 5”
• 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 7 pounds
• It earned top-notch safety accolades for toy breed dogs
• Rounded design mimics your pup’s bed
• It’s quite durable despite featuring a lightweight design
• Only fits the tiniest of dogs (it’s not even ideal for leggier toy breeds)
• Can feel a bit clunky to carry

7. Away Pet Carrier

Forget the frump with this fashionable nylon bag featuring slip pockets and dual tote-style handles.

About :  Away’s Pet Carrier doesn’t look like your run-of-the-mill dog bag with its tailored design. It performs as great as it looks, boasting a 5-star crash rating and a collar clip for added safety.

• Constructed of nylon with a water-resistant liner
• Interior sherpa bedding is removable and washable
• Custom embroidery option for an additional fee
• Available in 2 colors: Black and Coast (a medium blue hue)
• Single size option measures 18.7”x 10.8” x 10.7” 
• Suitable for dogs up to 18 pounds
• 5-star Rating for dogs up to 18 pounds by the Center for Pet Safety
• Design gets a thumb’s up from fashionista fur parents
• Sturdy construction holds its shape
• Comes with a 100-day satisfaction guarantee
• One of the pricier carriers available
• Only available in one size

8. Lucky Duck Kennel

A locking, hard-sided crate that’s earned a 5-star rating and is available in sizes suitable for dogs up to 110 pounds.

About : The Lucky Duck Kennel allows for safe car travels with big dogs as it is one of the few large-breed carriers crash-rated by the Center for Pet Safety. The rubberized bottom prevents slippage, as do the built-in tiedown points, which are designed for use with Lucky’s ratchet strap kit for maximum protection.

• One-piece rotomolded durable plastic shell design in Gunmetal (Gray)
• Ventilation slots for airflow
• Pitched floor features a recessed channel to capture liquids away from canines and drain holes for easy cleanup
• Reversible door with locking pins for added security
• Lucky Duck Kennel Intermediate (Measures 32.5” x 22.5” x 24.5”) 
• Lucky Duck Kennel Large (Measures 38” x 24” x 29”)
• Lucky Duck Kennel Intermediate : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 75 pounds when used with Lucky strength-rated anchor straps
• Lucky Duck Kennel Large : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 110 pounds when used with Lucky strength-rated anchor straps
• Largest travel kennel that’s earned 5 stars from the Center for Pet Safety
• Secure enough to handle anxious travelers and escape artists
• Comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty against defects
• Height can be an issue for taller canines
• On the pricier side

9. MIM Variocage Single

A stainless steel kennel crash-rated for various accident scenarios, including front, rear, and rollover collisions.

About : The MIM Variocage Single offers supreme safety, as it’s manufactured by a company specializing in automotive safety products. Featuring a built-in crumple zone for shock absorption and a rear emergency escape hatch, this super durable option is made to protect your pooch in multiple situations.

• Made with a powder-coated steel frame in a charcoal finish
• Locking door with key for additional security
• Barred design allows for maximum airflow and visibility
• Mounting tabs for tiedown straps

Size & Dimensions : The manufacturer strongly advises consulting their measuring guide and speaking with customer support to ensure a proper fit. Each kennel size features an adjustable length for a customized fit for your dog and vehicle. 

• Extra Small (Measures 28.7” to 38.9” x 21.8” x 23.2”)
• Large (Measures 29.9” to 40.5” x 21.8” x 25.5”)
• Large + (Measures 31.8” to 40.5” x 27.5” x 27.1”)
• Extra Large (Measures 31.8” to 40.5” x 27.5” x 28.1”)
• XXL+ (Measures 32.2” to 41.7” x 27.5” x 30.7”)
• Max (Measures 36.2” to 45.6” x 27.5” x 33.2”)

Safety Reports:

• All models pass Sweden’s Safe Pet Crate Test that covers front, rear, and rollover accidents
• While the crate meets Sweden’s standards, the cargo connection points failed a 2015 Center for Pet Safety’s test in the U.S.
• Crash-certified for multiple accident scenarios 
• MIM offers a free kennel replacement in the event of an accident
• Adjustable length is highly convenient
• The rear escape hatch is an uncommon feature
• Design allows curious paws (and possibly teeth) to slip out during travel
• No U.S. crash certifications
• One of the priciest canine carriers 

10. Ruff Land Kennel

A rugged canine carrier whose angled back was designed with SUV and crossover cargo areas in mind.

About : The Ruff Land Kennel allows for a snug vehicle fit with its special line of SUV-friendly designs featuring an angled back to accommodate your vehicle’s cargo area. Its rust-proof composite door opens both ways, while built-in handles make for easy hauling.

• A durable option made from rotomolded polyethylene plastic 
• Lightweight, stackable design allows for versatile use beyond the car
• Includes top and bottom ventilation holes
• Available in 3 colors: Whitestone, Rockstone, and Millstone

Size & Dimensions : Consult the manufacturer’s sizing guide to select the best fit for your dog.

• Intermediate SUV (Measures 20″ x 31″ x 23″)
• Large SUV ( Measures 21″ x 33.5″ x 27″)
• Previously tested under the Ruff Tuff brand label with the Center for Pet Safety
• First test using a 75-pound dummy failed due to tie-down bracket failures
• Second test using a 75-pound dummy with new tiedown straps yielded no such failure, though the test dummy did impact the door 
• Made specifically with SUVs in mind, ensuring a good fit
• More affordable than most large-breed travel crates
• Comes with a 1-year comprehensive warranty
• No current test star ratings
• Ventilation holes are on the smaller side

Why Dogs Need to Be Secured in the Car

Whether you opt to use a dog car crate, or some other kind of canine car restraint, your dog  needs to be secure while you’re driving.

Many owners opt to let their dog have free reign in the car, but this can be very dangerous for both owners and pets. For one, in the event of an accident, your dog will become an instant projectile, flying through the windshield and injuring you, other passengers, and himself.

Unrestrained dogs are also a common cause of distracted driving.  Author Stephen King famously got into a horrific, nearly-fatal car accident when the other driver took his eyes off the road to correct his misbehaving dog.

Having an unrestrained dog in your car often results in distracted driving — using a restraint will keep both you and your dog safer.

This infographic from CarRentals.com shows how dogs often cause distracted driving!

Even though it’s fun to have your pup by your side as a copilot, the distraction of your dog can be deadly for you both. It’s just not worth the risk!

The Search For A Safe Dog Car Crate

There are a number of things you’ll want to look for (as well as things you’ll want to avoid) when picking a safe dog car crate.

Starting with the things you DO want in a car crate, be sure to look for a crate that is:

Of Sufficient and Suitable Size. Pay attention to the size of your dog, compared to the size of the crate or carrier. A dog car crate should never be 6 inches longer than your dog. This is because the snugness is actually part of what is keeping your dog safe — providing too much excess space means increased momentum and force on impact, resulting in a more dangerous crash for your dog.

Built with High-Quality Connection Points. If your crate’s connectors aren’t strong and up to snuff, the crate will go flying in an accident. And that kind of defeats the whole points of having a sturdy dog car crate! In many dog crash tests, connector safety straps were a key point of failure.

On the flip side, you’ll want to avoid car carriers and crates featuring the following characteristics:

Wire Construction. Wire dog crates can be quite useful in many scenarios, but the car is not one of them. Wire crates just won’t do a ton to protect your fur baby in a car accident. While they are suitable for stopping your dog from distracting you while driving, a wire crate may collapse upon impact.

Soft-Sided Crates. Soft-sided carriers and soft crates  are fine enclosures for general use (especially if they’re made from something like durable nylon), and they work great as airline approved in-cabin carriers . However, a fabric crate will do little-to-nothing when it comes to protecting your pooch in a car accident. Since the carriers are soft, most will immediately collapse on impact.

Plastic. The majority of plastic crates have been reported to fracture and break upon impact, leaving your dog unsecure. Most traditional plastic crates simply aren’t sturdy enough to be crash-proof. Nevertheless, a few crash-tested crates are made from very durable plastic, so just be sure to dig in and do your homework before making a choice.

So what does that leave? Well…not much. The dog crates and carriers that have been deemed crash safe are few and far between. However, there are a few that are will work, and we’ll share them below.

The terms “dog crate” and “dog carrier” are often used interchangeably. In fact, we do so all the time.

However, some manufacturers and safety organizations — including the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) — make a pretty clear distinction between the two.

In these cases, the term “crates” is reserved for relatively large containment devices, which are typically meant to be placed in the cargo area of a truck, van, or SUV. By contrast, “carriers” are usually for smaller pets, and they’re designed to ride in the back seat.

CPS Study Reveals That the Majority of Dog Crates Aren’t Safe

The CPS (Center for Pet Safety) is a non-profit research and advocacy organization that conducts crash tests for various dog safety products. The organization was established in 2011 after realizing the disturbing fact that there are no performance standards or test protocols for testing pet safety devices.

Key Lesson: Don’t Believe The Marketing

The truth is that  manufacturers of canine car crates and carriers aren’t even required to test their products . Many crates and carriers that market themselves as “crash tested” and safe fail to provide substantial protection in the event of an accident.

Most crates or harnesses that claim to be “crash tested” were only evaluated, at the manufacturer’s discretion, for one size . This means that a crate might pass for a very small dog, but lacks the stability and security for a medium or large sized dog.

It is quite shocking that dog car crates and carriers aren’t held to the same rigorous government safety standards that child car seats and other vehicle safety devices are — especially considering that a compromised crate can injure both pets and humans.  Car crates with connector safety straps that fail under stress means that your dog crate could go flying, hurting any passengers in the way (as well as your canine).

CPS Crash Worthiness Study & Testing Plan

After realizing the horrifying gaps in dog car crate and carrier testing, the CPS organization began conducting rigorous testing through the use of specially designed fake crash test dogs.

The CPS teamed up with Subaru to do an  objective study in an independent, third-party testing facility in Virginia . A startling number of car crates and dog car carriers failed, but thankfully, a few performed well and are now being recognized as the life-saving devices that they are!

This video explains a bit about the testing and highlights the three winners. We go into more detail about the winning crates below, but this video offers a nice quick overview:

How The CPS Testing Works

In the CPS (Center for Pet Safety) Crash Worthiness Study , two tests were performed.

One was completed with a crate placed in the back cargo area of a vehicle, with the back seats folded downwards , and the crate being secured through connector straps. The vast majority of crates failed in this scenario.

In the second test, dog car crates were again placed in the cargo area,  this time with one side of the crate resting against the back side section of the back seats (which were kept in the upright position, rather than folded down flat). This allowed the crates to have additional support through the seatback, and many more crates were able to pass this test.

However, the problem is that if the crate relies on the car’s seatback for support, there is an increased risk of a seatback failure in the event of a front impact if the dog and crate have a combined weight that exceeds 40 pounds.

This wouldn’t just put your dog at risk, but your passengers too . So, in many cases, using the seatback support for your dog’s crate is not safe or recommended.

Let’s take a look at the top winners for the most secure and safe dog car carriers and crates!

Give Careful Consideration to Where the Crate Goes

Many owners place their dog’s car crate or pet kennel in the back of the car — the traditional cargo area. But unfortunately, this isn’t always a safe area for your pooch to be .

In many cars, the front and back sections are designed to be “crumple zones” when involved in accidents. The idea is that, by allowing certain sections of the car to crumple on impact, passengers in the interior of the car may remain safe.

This can be life-saving technology — so long as your loved ones aren’t stuck in one of those crumple zones.

Crumple zones can vary, especially when it comes to larger cars and SUVs that use more of the back car space for seating (making those areas unsafe to be designed as crumple zones, therefore making them safe areas to keep your dog).

Back crumple zones may not be a threat with all cars, but we recommend consulting with your car dealership to determine what the crumple zones of your car are . And then, make sure to place your dog’s pet kennel away from that dangerous crumple zone.

Placing your dog in the front seat isn’t a viable option either, as that exposes your dog to front passenger airbags, which are designed to save a human’s life — not your dog’s. Similar to how you shouldn’t place a child in the passenger seat, due to their size in relation to the airbag trajectory, dogs also can’t safely be placed in the passenger seat.

Usually, the back seat is the best place to install your dog’s car travel crate.

This is also the position where your dog will likely be the most comfortable. One study revealed that dogs exhibit less stress in the car when they are positioned closer to their humans, and can visually see them from where they are positioned. This can be key in helping reduce a dog’s anxiety in the car .

For Larger Dogs, Security Is Even More Important

While dog car safety is important for all canines, special care needs to be given to big dogs. Simply put, big dogs need a super durable crate.

Large dogs are even more of a dangerous projectile than small dogs, as a 70-pound canine body hurtling through your car at 70 miles per hour is going to be a whole lot more dangerous than a 10-pound dog .

However, even a small dog can exert a tremendous amount of force at high speeds.

On top of that, larger dogs will experience more force on impact. Unfortunately, this collision force is so strong that very few dog crates can hold up — the list of car-safe dog crates for big dogs is a very short one.

Additional Things to Seek in a Car Carrier for Dogs

Aside from the characteristics we’ve already discussed, you should also look for a few other things in any car carrier — whether it is crash-tested car crate or not.

• Soft material on the inside : In addition to keeping your fur baby safe, you’ll want to look for a carrier that’s also comfy!
• Keep the crate’s weight in mind : Generally speaking, you’ll want to look for the lightest crate you can find that still provides the safety and security your doggo deserves.
• A water-resistant base : Even the best-trained pooches can have the occasional accident, so always try to stick to carriers with a water-resistant base.
• Portability : Because of the very nature of car crates, you’ll want to ensure you select one that is as easy as possible to move around. That doesn’t necessarily mean you need to pick a collapsible dog crate, but it should be one you can move around easily.

How Do I Measure My Dog For a Car Carrier?

Whether you use a soft- or hard-sided crate, you must keep your canine’s comfort in mind and make sure your fur baby gets the right size crate. Essentially, this means that you need a car carrier that is large enough that your doggo can stand up in it and lie down comfortably.

Measure from your dog’s neck (aka where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. Then, add a few inches. That’s the length you want to shoot for.

For height, measure from the top of your dog’s shoulders to the ground. If you’re buying a soft-sided crate or soft-sided carrier (or any kind of soft crate in general), you should add 2 to 3 inches to the height measurement. For hard carriers, add 3 to 5 inches.

Also, make sure to keep weight recommendations in mind when trying to pick the perfect size crate for your fur baby — pet owners with dogs falling between two sizes should probably opt for the larger size!

Distraction Prevention Vs Crash-Proof Power

It’s worth noting that while the majority of budget-friendly and popular consumer crates and carriers failed the safety test, most of these failed crash products do help substantially at least when it comes to distraction prevention.

Having your dog secured in the back seat, away from the driver, means a safer driving experience and, as a result, puts the entire car at lower risk for an accident.

So while the vast majority of crates will not protect your dog in an accident, even a poorly cash-tested device will likely be better than none at all. This holds true for many dog booster car seats and dog seat belts as well — most provide virtually no protection in an accident, but they will keep your pup from pestering you while you drive.

Still, we want to prevent distractions  and keep our dogs safe, so we’d certainly suggest opting for a dog car crate or carrier that is capable of doing both!

What to Do If You and Your Dog Are in a Car Accident

Unfortunately, no matter how safe we try to be, accidents happen. 

If you and your pup are in a car accident, your utmost priority is safety, so now more than ever, keep a level head and assess the situation.

Follow basic safety steps to ensure you and your four-footer’s well-being:

• Pull into a safe area, if you can. If you’re involved in a minor fender-bender on a busy roadway, it’s best for all parties to move to the shoulder, if possible, to avoid another collision (some states even have “If you can steer it; clear it” laws in place). It’s all too common for a two-vehicle crash to worsen.
• Assess the vehicle’s safety. Are there any fluids or smoke being released into or out of the vehicle? Can you smell gas or chemicals? Are there downed live wires outside? The answers to these questions greatly affect your next actions. Downed wires outside of the car mean staying inside, while smoke, gas, or chemical leaks require you to grab your pooch and get out of the car pronto .
• Check yourself. Glance over yourself for signs of injury. We know your first instinct is to check on your pooch, but if you hurt yourself further, you won’t be able to help your fur baby. Adrenaline can make it hard to pinpoint any pain, but a quick once-over can usually spot any bleeding or serious injury that you need to address.
• Check your pet. In most cases, pet carriers protect your dog from serious harm but you’ll still need to check her for injuries when it’s safe to do so. Keep the car door closed behind you if possible, as a frightened pup is prone to bolting after an accident. Look for signs of obvious pain like a stiff posture, whimpering, or limping. You also want to check for blood or a misaligned limb. Dogs who aren’t properly secured in a carrier or with a harness are more susceptible to severe injury.
• Use caution. A dog in pain may act aggressively, so don’t feel offended if your best friend is snappy or fearful of you. Your feelings need to take a backseat, but your safety shouldn’t so use caution when handling an injured dog.
• Render emergency aid . If your dog is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean towel or clothing item. If she isn’t responsive and appears not to be breathing, proceed with dog CPR .
• Secure your pet. Make sure your dog is properly leashed before exiting the vehicle. This is critical, as even dogs with the best recall may run away after an accident. 
• Call the police. Report the accident to proper authorities as soon as you’re sure you and your dog are OK and secured. If you or your dog are injured, relay this information as well. This ensures the proper help arrives informed of the situation.
• Seek veterinary care. Bleeding, fractures, or signs of pain require emergency treatment by a vet. If you need care and can’t go with your dog, emergency professionals will likely be able to transport your canine to receive treatment. We’d also recommend getting your doggy copilot checked over by your vet from head to tail even after a minor accident.
• Contact your insurance company. Pet injuries suffered during a car accident are covered by some insurance companies. It’s worth giving your insurer a call to check on your status. This is a good feature for all pet owners to look for while insurance shopping.

Automobile accidents are traumatic for both humans and dogs. What once was a safe space suddenly isn’t, so you both may have residual anxieties about riding in the car. A good way to overcome this is by having driveway hangouts, where you reintroduce sitting in the car in a fun, stress-free way. Bring treats and offer praise as you relax in the backseat. Over time, you can work up to turning on the car and driving around the block, making the car fun again.

If you haven’t already, it’s also a good time to introduce a travel dog crate to ensure your pupper’s safety for future car adventures.

Do you use a crate or carrier in the car with your fur baby? Are you surprised to hear about the CPS’s study and the lackluster safety of most car crates? Have you found a supremely durable option with a sturdy base that’s made from high-quality materials yet not listed above? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Like it? Share it!

Recommended For You

Taste of the Wild vs Blue Buffalo: A Head-to-Head Comparison

19 Ways to Cure Dog Car Anxiety

Join our pup pack!

Get tons of great dog training tutorials, canine gear guides, and the latest doggy discounts.

44 comments

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Very comprehensive, thank you! I’m considering the Ruffland kennel but there are 2 versions of tie down attachments available. https://rufflandkennels.com/product/tie-down-bracket-kit/?attribute_pa_size=medium-intermediate-large

One is a D ring style and the other one is a bracket. Is one of these the one that passed the test? I looked at the videos at CPS but it was not clear. Thank you!

Hey, Tanya. I *think* it is the bracket, but I’m not 100% sure. I’ve dropped them a line and will follow up here, but you should probably just give them a call before ordering to make sure. 🙂

I have contacted Ruff Land and although they market SUV specific kennels, including the ‘Backseat Rider’, there is actually no way to safely secure the backseat rider in the backseat. I contacted them about that and they couldn’t answer it, instead pointing me to their flat bed truck tie down video, but that method doesn’t work in backseats. On the question of brackets, they are bought separately and are attached by the customer through what seems like a flimsy hole in the plastic crate using a socket wrench. This seems like a significant weak point. The D rings in particular seem very flimsy. But regardless, all of the CPS crash test videos show failure, and until the failure points are addressed and they are certified, there are much safer options out there. Both Lucky Duck and Gunner can be secured in the back seat. They both have metal rods integrated into the kennel under which you pass the ratchet straps and wrap around the bottom of the kennel.

I have a 15 month Female Doberman and doing obedience training so on the road weekly. I have an SUV so looking for a safe kennel made in USA can you recommend one that has a hard exterior?

Hey there, Marie. The Gunner Kennel has a hard exterior and may be large enough for your Dobie. But you may want to check out our article about crates for truck beds — there are some larger kennels with hard exteriors there. Best of luck!

I’m a little confused, in the article you say: things to avoid “Soft-sided carriers and crates are fine enclosures for general use, and they work great as airline approved in-cabin carriers. However, they will do little-to-nothing when it comes to protecting your pooch in a car accident. Since the carriers are soft, most will immediately collapse on impact.” …then you go on to recommend 2 soft sided carriers?

Hey, Kathryn. This is one of those cases in which the language is just tricky. We discuss it in the product sections, but essentially, some of these carriers are pretty “soft,” yet they incorporate materials and design features that allow them to pass crash tests. We’re really trying to discourage owners from using a run-of-the-mill, general use soft-sided carrier — not the listed products, which are “soft,” but pretty darn safe for car travel. Thanks for checking out the article!

FYI, the G7 Commuter carrier lost its rating from the CPS on 31 Dec 2019. https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/cps-certified/

Thanks for bringing this to our attention, Nick! I’ll update the article to reflect the change.

Posting this warning for other dog owners looking to purchase a crate for their car. TransK9 crates have an unsafe flaw in the design. We bought this TransK9 crate for the back of our car because we believed it was safe, would protect our dogs from accidents, and we would all feel more secure. However, we experienced an incident where our dog got her snout stuck in the grate of the door so severely that she chipped two of her teeth and damaged the top of her nose (bloody and severely bruised). We had to use small bolt cutters to cut her out of the door. Luckily she didn’t break her nose, but we’re still watching her teeth closely, and she will need dental work.

We contacted the company, TransK9, for support, however what we received was lectures about anxious dogs and the importance of reading terms and conditions. They did offer to replace the doors with ones that have smaller openings, however a few days later they rescinded this offer and instead leaned on their terms and conditions as an excuse. They did offer to send us replacement doors identical to the ones Cooper got her snout stuck in.

No one wants to see their dog in pain.

Hey, Kathy. First of all, we’re so sorry to hear about Cooper’s ordeal! We hope she recovers fully and would like you to give her some scritches from us! We also appreciate you sharing your experience with the ThansK9 Crate. We’ll keep our eyes and ears open to see if this is a common problem, or just a one-off thing.

What criteria are you using to determine that all other crates for large dogs failed in the CPS testing? I watched it, and the Vario performed as it was suppose to, as per manufacturer recommendations. Looking to outfit our new van and curious.

None of the prices actually reflect the actual price. I know this article is older but it links to the amazon page. Anyway, any price for the pooches.

Hey, Jen. It is an older article, but we try to go in an update our titles periodically. They should all reflect accurate prices now, except for the Sleepypod Carriers. For some reason, that one is being difficult. Rest assured, we’re on the case, trying to get it fixed.

Thanks for pointing out the error!

Thank you for the great article! I have two 20-25 pound dogs, is it recommended to get them each their own safe padded crate or a large one to put them both in? Or would separate harness seat belts be better? Or separate booster seats? I was in a pretty bad wreck a month ago and I just keep thinking how awful it would’ve been if my pups had been with me 🙁 hopefully I can find the best and safest solution for them!

I’m so glad I found this before going on my three-week road trip with my dog.

What about Impact Crates? I am not sure ion CPS has testes these crates, but a lot of people claim they saved their dogs in auto accidents.

I’ve heard good things about Impact, they are definitely very secure crates, but they either haven’t been tested by CPS or haven’t passed the CPS crash test so we aren’t including them as a suggested option for car travel.

How do I determine the size of the carrier for my dog? Should my dog be able to stand up in the carrier? Should my dog be able to turn around in the carrier? My dog is 15 lbs, height is 13” (from the base of neck above the shoulders to ground), and 15” long (measured from butt to shoulder).

Great question! We just added a new bit of info to the article based on your question. Yes, your dog should be able to stand and turn around. Sounds like you have the right measurements you need. Just add a few extra inches for length and a few more for height (2-3 inches for soft carriers, 3-5 for hard carriers).

Thank you for the helpful information. Unfortunately, all the soft sides are too short, and the Gunner small kennel is 4.5 inches too long. I think Gunner would be my best bet, but I wish the other companies would make taller models.

There are a few other companies (Variocage, TransK9, Lintran) – I will do more research on those but so far I would go with TransK9. An important safety feature not mentioned here is a rear escape hatch door. What would happen if after an accident, the cargo door won’t open due to the damage, or the kennel door won’t open and I need to get the dog out? Worse, what if the car is on fire and I *really* need to get the dog out very quickly? TransK9 has an escape hatch in the back facing the front of the car, that folds down. Unfortunately, it seems that TransK9 was only tested independently. And It’s just as pricy as Variocage.

Good point – I can see why multiple doors might be important in the event of a crash.

The Variocage has an escape hatch at the opposite end from the normal entry and exit doors (in the back facing the front of the car), to be used in case of emergency – just like the transk9 does.

FYI, Gunner makes a medium dog crate for dogs up to 45 lbs. the price is $429.99, which is WAY too much for me. But, for those who can afford it, it’s out there. They have 4 sizes to accommodate all size dogs. They are ALL, very expensive, though. I wish I COULD afford it. My dog, like all dogs, deserves the best!

You recommend a carrier for SMALL dogs, several, in fact. And you recommend a carrier for LARGE dogs. But, there are NO recommendations for MEDIUM dogs! My dog is 35 lbs. He’s too big for the small and too small for the large! So what about all the MEDIUM dogs out here. We love our MEDIUM dogs, and want to,protect them, too!

Hey Marie – we only recommend these crates because they are the only crash proof crates on the market at this time.

Thank you so very much for this article! I have 2 XL dogs (125 lbs each) Kangal/Great Pyrenees and am buying a new car that can accommodate 2 crates. I hope the Gunner Kennel will be able to safely transport them!! For a car I am looking at the GMC Yukon (or Yukon XL) hoping it will accommodate not one but two crates. I thank you so much for this article!!!

You’re welcome Nina! I wish there were more crash-test-approved dog crates, but unfortunately, these are the only options for now, especially for big pooches! Let us know how you do with the Gunner kennel.

Great! just ordered a Gen7commuter. Thanks for the suggestions!

Didn’t know about these crates. Thanks for sharing this information.

Been reading a lot about Variocage as being tested and safe system …. Any further information? Not cheap, but certainly cheaper than vet bills would be.

The Variocage test results are included in the 2015 Crate Study posted on the Center for Pet Safety website.

Hi Kim – Variocage did not pass the 2015 CPS crash test. You can find out more details about how the Variocage failed the crash test here” (they have videos too).

I checked out the videos on the CPS site, and it seemed that the Variocage’s only downside was that the straps broke. The crate was pushed in to half its size because, as is mentioned on the CPS site, it is designed to do that (a built-in crumple zone). Tight quarters for the dog after that but the crate itself looked intact to me.

I noticed that too Dagmar – there’s definitely a chance that means the Variocage could be a suitable option, but I’m hesitant to suggest it if it wasn’t passed by the CPS, especially when there are other options that do pass. Maybe next time we refresh this article I’ll spend time looking more into Variocage.

Hi, I have a question. I have 2 chihuahuas . 1 is 8.5 pounds and the other is 7 pounds. They always travel together in a plastic crate. However I want to purchase a sleepy pod for safer travels. Can they be in the same crate? Is that safe ? Thanks!

I have a service dog (lab 75 lbs) that I wanted to keep in a crate in the cargo area of an SUV like a CRV or RAV4 because I thought it was safer. After your article, I am having second thoughts. Since she is a working dog, safety is a big concern because even a small injury could put her out of work. Have you done research on safest SUVs for dogs or best way to secure a dog in the passenger area? Debbie

You may want to look at Volvos. I am not sure about the newer models, but I used to have the 240 wagon, and those had a safety cage that extended to include the cargo area, because a pop-up seat in the trunk of the cargo area was an option and therefore, there was a chance of passengers riding in the cargo area, and it could not be a crumple zone. I miss my 240 wagon for that very reason.

please get to the large dog car harnesses! most of us cant buy a $600 cage. thank you

Don’t worry Katy – our article about car safe dog harnesses will be published in the next week or the following- promise!

We have a golden puppy and want to transport her safely. I’m bummed there is nothing but the pod for small dogs and then the $600.00 gunner kennel for large dogs.

I know Tammy – it really sinks! Luckily there are some really high-quality harnesses that work well for serious car protection. We’ll be reviewing those soon.

Shocking. As a dog owner it makes me angry that there is not more 3rd party testing.

Also Worth Your Time

5 Best Rescue Harnesses for Dogs

5 Best Dog Strollers for Your Four-Legged Friend!

6 Best Dog Bike Trailers: Towing Your Bud On Your Bicycle!

Waggle RV & Car Temperature Monitor for Pets: Our Hands-On Review

12 Best Dog Car Barriers: Keeping Pups in the Back Seat!

How to Road Trip with a Dog: Tips for Safety & Success!

How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Car During the Summer!

+1 (512) 720-6136

[email protected]

Marrsipan Media LLC 5900 Balcones Drive #17677 Austin, TX 78731, USA

© Copyright 2024 by K9 Of Mine / Marrsipan Media LLC

USEFUL LINKS

About K9 of Mine

Privacy Policy

Terms of Use

K9ofMine.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Additionally, K9ofMine.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links.

K9ofMine.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. While we provide information resourced and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance.

32 tips for traveling with pets

Taking your pet on your travels can be life-enhancing – here are some tips for traveling with pets.

Traveling with pets can be both a joy and a nightmare. While it is wonderful to share our adventures with our loyal four-legged companions, there are a lot of things to organize before going on a trip. But don't feel overwhelmed we've rounded up some top tips for traveling with a pet.

Naturally, the logistics will depend on the pet. A small animal kept in a cage has different requirements than dogs and cats. Some pets, particularly cats, are true home-birds and may be happier left at home with someone booked in to look after them. The simplest choice is usually to book your pets into a boarding facility. 

However, some of our pets just love to come with us wherever we go. The mere sight of a suitcase or mutterings about packing will send them into a depression. They may even try to get in the suitcase with some of their best dog toys to ensure they come too. This particularly applies to dogs, who long to be at the heart of the action, wherever that may take them. But everyone will enjoy the vacation all the more if you know how to travel with a dog .

Good preparation is key. If you have all the Is dotted and Ts crossed, you are set for a great adventure with your pet at your side. Let’s take a look at some of the considerations you need to make.

1. Visit the vet

Schedule an appointment with your vet to make sure that your pet is in great shape before the trip, and up to date with all vaccinations. If your pet is on any regular medication, you’ll need to stock up with sufficient supplies. 

Some airlines will require a current fit-to-fly health certificate, so find out if this is needed and book it before the veterinary check-up.

2. ID and microchip

In the UK, since 2016 it has been a legal requirement that all dogs are microchipped. They should also wear a collar with identification details to enable their owner to be located if the dog is lost. Enforced microchipping will also come into force for British cats from July 2024.

PetsRadar Newsletter

Get the best advice, tips and top tech for your beloved Pets

In the US, microchipping is the law in certain states. While collars and tags are not a legal requirement, both forms of identification are highly recommended. This is particularly important given that you will be traveling your pet outside its familiar local area, in case it gets lost. 

Take a current picture of your pet with you, so that you can show police and vets if you do lose them. 

3. Research pet-friendly accommodation

Not all hotels, BnBs, and apartments accept pets, so always check while planning your trip. Some accommodation providers charge an extra fee for pets because of the additional cleaning required. 

There may be rules, such as that your pet is kept in a crate while you are not in the room; that they are not allowed on the furniture, and so on. Some may have restrictions on the size of the dog, or which type of pet you bring.

4. Pet carrier

A pet carrier is the safest way to transport your pet, as well as giving them a secure haven to rest in during what can be a stressful time traveling. Don’t skimp on quality – your pet may be restricted to this crate for long periods during travel, so it should be sufficiently roomy, well-ventilated, and sturdy. Investing in one of the best cat carriers or the best dog crates is well worth it.

If you are taking your pet on an airplane, check that your crate complies with airline regulations. 

5. Get them used to the carrier

The first time that your pet uses his carrier should not be on the day of your trip. Buy the carrier well in advance and familiarize them gradually, making it a really inviting place with blankets, their favourite toys, and some of the best puppy treats . Leave it open the first few times you try, so that they don’t feel claustrophobic and can come and go as they please. Once they are relaxed and content inside, feeling like it is a good place, then you can shut the door and reward them. 

6. Take familiar items

If your pet has never left home before they are likely to take some time to settle into their new surroundings. They will be pacified by your presence, but it will also help to take their blankets and any familiar toys as these will smell of home and provide comfort. 

7. Practice car rides

Owners vary on how often they take their pet in the car with them, but particularly for those who don’t travel often, it’s really important to familiarize them with the motion of traveling and the sensation of being in the car. Assuming you will be using a pet carrier, being comfortable in this needs to be well established before you go off on vacation so that jumping in the car for a trip feels like second nature – and a chance for an adventure with you.

Take them to places they will love, like one of the best dog walks in the US for a couple of hours’ walk, so they associate the car with good things.

8. Make the car secure and safe

You wouldn’t drive your child around without a seatbelt, and nor should you travel with your pet without appropriate restraints. A pet seatbelt/harness or a carrier is ideal.

Not only is it risky for your dog in case you have an accident or have to brake sharply, but it’s also dangerous to have a loose dog – especially one that doesn’t sit still – distracting the driver. So having them in the best dog car harness is the safest option for everyone.

9. Pack essentials

Depending on the length of your journey, it’s advisable to have a little travel bag with all your pet essentials for the duration. This will include water and a vessel for drinking out of, any medications, treats, and sufficient food for the journey. However, you should not feed much to pets either before or during the journey as it may make them uncomfortable or cause motion sickness.

Always pack a little extra of everything in case you suffer a breakdown or get caught in a traffic jam. 

10. Assemble pet first-aid kit

Pack a first-aid kit so that you can attend to any cuts and scrapes while you’re out and about. You can buy a ready-made kit with all the essentials, or assemble one yourself.

This should include items such as a tick remover, tweezers, saline and antiseptic solution, pet wrap, bandages, scissors, and an ice pack.

If your pet is on any regular medication, don’t forget to include a sufficient supply.

11. Check the weather forecast

Are you ready for the weather at your destination? Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.

If it‘s going to be wet, you may need to take extra towels (the hotel won’t thank you for drying a muddy dog with theirs), a waterproof coat, and a drying robe. Snowy weather might necessitate a warm coat if they are not used to sub-zero temperatures unless you have one of the best dog breeds for cold climates .

Hot weather should make you assess your plans. If you had long walks scheduled in the middle of the day, you may want to move these to dawn and dusk when it’s cooler. Take travel doggy water bottles so that your dog can drink while out and about. You can also take a parasol for shade, and a cooling jacket or mat for pets. Dogs may also benefit from shoes to prevent them from burning their pads on the pavement.

Remember that if the climate at your destination is very different from what your dog or pet is used to, they will need time to acclimatize and should not be thrown into a busy program of activities while they settle in.

12. Plan rest breaks

If you have a long drive, plan rest breaks where you can stop, let your pet out of its carrier, have a drink, stretch, and go to the bathroom.

Vets typically advise that any trip over four hours should incorporate rest breaks every two to four hours for 15 minutes or so. Younger animals may need to stop more frequently. 

Let’s face it, you’ll probably want to stop too!

13. Research vets at your destination and along the route

Always prepare for the worst and hope for the best. By doing some research to find out contact details, including out-of-hours, for the nearest recommended vets both at your destination and along the route, you will have peace of mind that if your pet should suffer an injury or illness while you’re on vacation, you know exactly whom to call to get the best possible help. 

Chances are you won’t need it, but not being prepared will add another layer of stress you don’t need if there is an emergency.

You can search a list of veterinary and pet emergency hospitals in the US at the American Animal Hospital Association .

14. Know pet policies on your chosen transport

Unless you are planning to travel exclusively by your own car, check the pet policies on all modes of transport you want to use. For example, some taxis allow pets, some don’t. Many will charge an extra fee for cleaning. 

Ferries often allow dogs, but they usually stay in the car on the vehicle deck or have a specific kennel area. 

Airlines have specific regulations depending on whether it is a national or international flight, and so do trains, buses, and trams. Many require the pet to be crated, and some of these vary in rush hour, or according to the size of the pet.

15. Update contact information

Have you checked that your pet’s microchip is correctly linked to your current address? Many owners never change it from the breeder to which it was originally registered. 

Does your dog tag have your current phone number and address? Make sure these are all updated well in advance of your departure date to avoid any last-minute panic (or – at worst – your lost dog not being able to be reunited with you).

16. Research pet-friendly attractions

Not every place that humans want to visit is up your pet’s street. Furthermore, many attractions do not welcome dogs. This includes some areas that you might imagine would be perfect dog-walking territory, such as some national parks and beaches. Luckily, there are many options for the best places to take your pet on vacation to make things easier.

You shouldn’t leave your dog back at your accommodation all day, especially in an unfamiliar place, so always check while you are planning your adventures that your dog will be welcome to join you, and be aware that it will often have to be on a leash.

17. Stick to your pet’s routine

Long journeys often throw our routines out of whack, and that’s normal, but once you have arrived, try to get straight back into the normal schedule so that your pet knows what to expect and when.

He may be feeling very unsettled in the new environment, possibly a different climate, and feel out of sorts after long hours traveling, so getting back on track will help bring some order back into his life. Food, hydration, exercise, and sleep should help put him back on schedule.

18. Make your holiday accommodation pet-safe

The chances are that at home you have various barriers and locks to keep your pet in the right place – or at least a trained understanding that he sticks to certain areas (for example, not on the couch or up the stairs). But your temporary accommodation is unlikely to be rigged up exactly to suit your usual arrangements. Perhaps there’s easy access to a front door that opens out onto a busy road, or a balcony with bars wide enough for a pet to slip through. 

When you arrive at the accommodation, go around and note all the potential danger areas, and work out how you can make them safe, for example by limiting the pet to a certain room or blocking an entrance. 

19. Pack for comfort

It can be tempting when trying to keep the baggage under a certain limit to leave luxuries behind. However, your dog will settle and sleep best if given a familiar and comfortable bed to rest on, it might be worth considering one of the best dog travel crates.

The floors may be hard, rather than carpeted, and travel crates are typically not padded – so make sure you have plenty of comfortable bedding. Likewise in the car, give him plenty of padding so that he is not stiff after a long journey with restricted movement. 

20. Take grooming essentials

Grooming might not be top of your to-do list while on vacation, but you don’t want to find you need to use your own hairbrush to detangle mats out of your dog’s ears. Take a selection of grooming essentials so that you aren’t caught short. For instance, some dog shampoo in case he rolls in something foul-smelling, a comb to get rid of mats, and some of the best dog nail clippers.  

And of course, don’t neglect their dental hygiene. Dogs’ teeth should be brushed daily, so take one of the best toothbrushes for dogs and toothpaste.

Another tip is some spare towels, as your accommodation provider will not thank you for using their towels to dry off your dog.

21. Cleaning equipment and poop bags

Unfortunately, accidents happen, especially in young and elderly pets. Any pet can make a mistake when they are in unfamiliar surroundings and are not sure where and when to do their business. More irritatingly, some pets – male dogs in particular – decide that a new place is a territory that needs to be marked, so be on the lookout for this as they will need close supervision. The American Kennel Club has advice on curbing the issue of dog marking .

Take cleaning equipment so that you can ensure your temporary accommodation is left smelling sweet and looking clean. And don’t forget the poop bags!

22. Hydration

While it’s not advised to feed your pets while they are physically traveling, water is essential, so ideally have water available for them during the journey or offer it regularly. You can buy travel water bowls that don’t spill.

Dogs on average drink up to 1oz of water for every pound of bodyweight a day. Cats drink far less. So a 60lb Labrador will need up to five cups of water.

Without sufficient water, they will become dehydrated and prone to overheating. They are likely to require more water in hot weather than cold. 

23. Research pet-friendly restaurants and cafes

It’s wonderful to run into a cafe for a cappuccino or a beer after a long walk. But check beforehand that dogs are allowed. Many do welcome dogs and even have a water bowl for hydration and treats to show they’re dog-friendly. 

Fancier restaurants may not be so keen on dogs, and it may also depend on the size. A chihuahua is less likely to cause a stir than a mastiff. 

24. Prevent motion sickness

Many dogs suffer motion sickness, particularly younger ones, and they often grow out of it by the time they are a year old. You may be able to desensitize them by regular very short trips gradually building up. 

Travel your dog on an empty stomach, as this will help reduce nausea. Supply water, and keep the temperature cool. 

For cats, desensitization can be trickier, so may take longer to condition them, but the same goes – short trips building up, cool temperatures, and withholding food before a journey.

For both dogs and cats, there are also medications available for preventing motion sickness, so consult your vet to see what is recommended. Most sedatives are not permitted on airlines, so make sure you are aware of the regulations.

25. Sedation

While it may be tempting to administer a sedative to your pet to enable them to sleep through the journey and reduce stress levels, the American Veterinary Association advises against this, and in fact, airline regulations usually prohibit it. This is because sedatives affect coordination and balance, which your pet may need during a bumpy ride. 

However, tranquilization is an option because it reduces anxiety without causing drowsiness, so this may be considered in consultation with your vet. 

26. Temperature control

On flights, pets are not permitted to fly in very hot or very cold temperatures for the sake of their safety and wellbeing. This may affect your destination or the season in which you travel.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture , temperatures should not exceed 85ºF or be cooler than 45ºF for a period of more than four hours.

During travel in your own personal transport, keep the temperature relatively cool as this will help reduce stress levels and the chance of dehydration, both of which will make for an unpleasant and uncomfortable traveling experience for your pet. 

Pets should never be left in cars, particularly in hot or sunny weather as the inside temperature can rise very quickly with fatal results.  

27. Unfamiliar noises

As some pets are more anxious than others, you may find yours is scared of the unfamiliar noises in your temporary accommodation. Perhaps there are thunderstorms, a loud road nearby, or wildlife. The best way to help them deal with this is to distract them, often by playing with them, engaging them in one of the best dog puzzle toys , or their own squeaky toy that makes a familiar noise. Pack these sorts of distractions to bring out when you need them. 

28. Research quarantine requirements

If you are crossing any international borders, check quarantine requirements months in advance. Many countries require your pet to have had specific vaccinations. The big one is rabies – some rabies-free countries, such as the UK, require vaccination and health checks in the 24-hours before traveling from certain countries, and compulsory quarantine from other countries regardless of vaccination status. 

29. Respect other travelers

You clearly adore your pet, otherwise, why would you take the trouble to travel with them? However, as with small children, many other travelers do not feel the same way. Some will have boarded their pets so they can enjoy a vacation free of barking and dog poop! 

So be respectful of their privacy and don’t let your pet encroach on their personal space. You should keep them on a leash whenever necessary, curb any barking and always clear up their poop.

30. Be patient and calm

Traveling is stressful for everyone. But at least the humans know where they are going, and how long the journey should take. Pets are at the mercy of our decisions. They are likely to feel some level of stress during the journey, so help them to stay settled by being patient and calm yourself, and the vibes will comfort them. You’re in control, and they will draw on that.

31. Pet-friendly apps

There are stacks of great apps to help you plan your itinerary, where dogs are welcome, local emergency services, nearby dog walkers and even put you in contact with other pet owners who can give recommendations and support. 

In the US, BringFido and BarkHappy are recommended for dog owners; while Rover is useful for both dog and cats. 

32. Pre-travel exercise

Give your dog plenty of exercise the day you travel so that he will be happy to lie down and enjoy the enforced resting period during the journey, especially if your dog is one of the high energy dog breeds .

Play with your cat, with one of the best automatic laser cat toys or other toys so that they have had sufficient stimulation. 

Martha is an experienced journalist working in both print and digital media. She specializes in the canine, equine and rural sphere where she has covered a wide range of topics from cloning animals and the ingredients for a perfect yard dog, to helping owners find the best canine GPS trackers on the market. When she’s not busy writing about dogs and horses, she’ll be found either aboard a horse or looking after the menagerie of pets in her care. 

Trainer reveals three loose-leash training mistakes you want to avoid making (and we're guilty of number two!)

Pet thieves could face 5 years in jail under new law

​​Dog who ran off on vacation 200 miles away is reunited with owner three weeks later

Most Popular

• 2 Trainer reveals three loose-leash training mistakes you want to avoid making (and we're guilty of number two!)
• 3 32 best cats for seniors
• 4 32 types of large breed cats
• 5 Pet thieves could face 5 years in jail under new law

Outdoor Dog World

Outdoor Gear for Active Dogs

Outdoor Dog World is reader-supported. We may earn a commission when you purchase through links on our site.

10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs in 2022

Last updated July 5, 2022 | Follow us on Facebook Here

Packing up the car and taking a road trip with your best (dog) friend can seem like a great idea. But there are a lot of places dogs aren’t allowed, and that’s where a travel crate can come into play, especially if you’re staying in hotels.

I personally have taken 5-6 trips across the United States with two dogs. We’ve used multiple types of crates, starting with the traditional house crate (hard wired metal) and finally settling on a foldable soft crate.

Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Indoor and Outdoor Crate

With a great ease of use and ability to be easily cleaned, this water resistant crate is a perfect option. It offers a variety of sizes and is very easy to assemble and use.

2Pet Foldable Dog Crate

This crate features a waterproof base and a portion of the proceeds go to a great animal cause. A washable fleece pad is the icing on the cake with this one.

Soft Crate vs. Hard Crate

You could not pay me to take a road trip with a metal crate, with one exception: I was driving a truck and the dog was comfortable or preferred the bed of the truck as opposed to the inside floor. Other than that I’m taking a soft crate every single time.

The primary reason is weight. Lugging in 1, 2, 3 or more hard crates into a hotel room is pure torture, especially if you have large dogs, which means large crates.

It’s true that hard crates are easier to clean up, so if you have an older dog or a younger dog prone to accidents then a hard crate may be worth it, but even then it’s a close call.

Travel Crate

While cars are made for human safety, they are not always the safest for pups, especially because they cannot wear a traditional seat-belt ( although there are dog specific seat-belts and harnesses ) as we can. Some (not all) travel crates make sure that your dog is secure and in the event of a crash, they stay inside the vehicle instead of being ejected.

However, most travel crates are simply meant for hotels or overnight stays where you can’t leave the dog in the room to roam about. We almost never use crates inside cars (occasionally in a truck bed). Instead we’ll set up our soft crates in the hotel room so we can visit a local museum, restaurant, or another attraction where dogs aren’t allowed.

10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs

1. noz2noz soft-krater indoor and outdoor crate.

This model also comes in 5 different sizes for dogs weighing up to 70 pounds. The crate is made of a tight-weave mesh fabric that is heavy-duty for pet wear and tear durability. The soft crate is ideal for long trips as it is well ventilated and it sets up in a very short amount of time.

The Noz2Noz model has a water resistant base for accidents and easy cleaning and the entire cover surrounding the steel frame is washable in your washing machine.

Pros: Comes in a variety of sizes, washable, water resistant

Cons: More expensive than other brands

2. 2Pet Foldable Dog Crate  

This crate features a steel frame design covered with a water resistant nylon variant over. It has mesh panel windows and a waterproof mat for the flooring of the crate. It also comes with a washable fleece cushion pad.

A portion of the sales also goes to pet shelters and charities, which is a great perk!  The crate also comes with a 1 year warranty.

The crate has installed carrying handles and is foldable and lightweight.

Pros: A portion of the proceeds goes to charity, waterproof, and lightweight

3. AmazonBasics Portable Folding Travel Kennel

A soft crate, this product comes in five different sizes to accommodate many different sizes of dogs, weighing up to 70 pounds. Featuring two doors on the front and the top, this crate makes for easy access and entry and has ventilation for your pooch on all four sides of the kennel.

With zippers to close the doors and straps to help to fasten unzipped doors, the mechanism is easy to use and provides for ultimate assurance that your dog is fastened in.

The kennel folds up flat for storage and transport and sets up quickly without any tools. The rounded corners of this kennel make sure not to damage the interior of your vehicle during travel.

Pros: Easy set up, folds up, zipper closures

Cons: No carry handles

4. Diggs Revol Small Dog Crate  

This particular crate is made of high-grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic, all of which are non-toxic and safe for your dog. The crate is collapsible, easy to transport and has three carrying handles. This crate comes with wheels and a large garage-style door.

This crate fits any breed up to 30 pounds and has a puppy divider, a removable tray and a ceiling hatch. The dimensions of this kennel are 25x17x19.

Pros: Easy to clean, collapsible, non-toxic

Cons: comes in one size

5. Aspen Pet Porter Heavy-Duty Pet Porter

With eight size choices, this model dog crate packs a punch! One perk about this kennel is that with an easy-open latch, you can open the crate with one hand. This specific crate meets most airline cargo specifications and regulations.

It is made up of a heavy-duty plastic shell and metal screws and features a lightweight design.

Pros: Airline cargo certified, 8 size choices

Cons: Does not fold down

6. AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Kennel

You have two size options with this particular crate. It is a hard-shell, two-door top-load model. The top door is able to open up to the left or the right. While the exterior is made of plastic, the front door is comprised of a steel wire to safely secure your pup.

The price point is very reasonable and is easy to clean. If simplicity is your goal, this is a great option.

Pros: Simplicity and price

7. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

The EliteField model comes in 5 size options to accommodate your dog and over 10 color options! Although this is a soft crate, the frame is a strong steel tube and the crate cover is made out of a durable fabric.

This kennel has a total of three doors: one on the top, one on the front and one on the side. It comes with a carrying bag and fleece bed for free! Also, it should be noted that a 2 year warranty comes along with this product.

Pros: 2 year warranty, free carrying bag and fleece bed, many color choices

Cons: Higher price point

8. Guardian Gear Collapsible Dog Crate  

This crate features 4 different sizes and is able to accompany large dogs such as Great Danes, Great Pyrenees, Greyhounds, and St. Bernards. It is quick and simple to assemble and to take apart and has mesh windows on all four sides for ventilation and visibility.

This model has a machine-washable sheepskin mat, along with a carrying handle.

Pros: Has a very large size option, Quick Assembly

9. New World Folding Metal Dog Crate

This brand offers options! You can choose from 5 different sizes and a single or double door. It is a folding metal crate with two heavy duty slide-bolt latches. The New World crate has a leak-proof plastic pan for accidents. No tools are needed to assemble this kennel and it fits easily in the back of a vehicle.

Although it does not come with any soft bedding, your dog’s bed can be added for extra comfort.

Pros: A great price point, many customizable options

Cons: No soft bedding included

10. LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Crate

The Luckup crate is very heavy-duty and the frame is made of steel for durability. The finish on it is nontoxic for your pup’s safety. It has a double door and a locking caster. The bottom of the crate is made to easily be able to slide out for cleaning. You can choose from 3 different size options for this crate.

Unique to others, the bars are much thicker and appear to be more sturdy. It can fit in the back of a vehicle for easy transport.

Pros: Durability, Non-toxic

Cons: No carrying handles

My detailed travel crate setup

For the past several years we’ve used the same two Noz2Noz Soft-Krater without a single issue.

Unfortunately we didn’t start out using soft crates. We started with the traditional metal crates (that way a ton!).

Our first road trip was about 3 weeks across the U.S. and I will never, ever, ever again use metal crates. Holy cow was that a pain.

Our car is packed exactly the same, except we now use soft crates, which pack down even smaller than the picture below. Once we reach the hotel, if we need to leave the dogs for an excursion or something, we’ll unpack the crates and set them up like below.

You can see the 2 soft crates setup in the hotel room, and I also left the laptop in the picture because we use a program called iCam that streams the laptop camera to our phone. That way we can check on the dogs while we’re out.

The crates break down super quick, and we pack up the following day (or whenever we’re done at that hotel).

We don’t even own the metal crates anymore. We used to keep them around in case we needed to crate them in the house, but now we just use the soft crates for that as well.

Let me know in the comments which option you end up going with!

August 14, 2022 at 7:29 pm

Nice info … however, never leave your dog unattended in a hotel room. In fact, in most places it’s a policy and in some municipalities, it’s against the law.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

FREE NEWSLETTER

INSIDE OUTDOOR DOG WORLD

Travels with Ted

The 5 Best RVs for Dogs [Including an RV with a Dog Kennel Built-In]

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer here.

Many RV owners love bringing their dogs along on camping trips. However, the tight spaces in many campers are not built with pets in mind. Fortunately, some RV manufacturers are now creating floorplans that work great for families with pets. Below are the 5 best RVs for dogs, including one RV with a dog kennel built-in.

Once you find the perfect dog-friendly RV, you need supplies to keep your furry companion happy on the road. Check out our Amazon list of RV camping essentials for dogs.

• 1.1 Best RV with a Dog Kennel
• 1.2 Best RV for Dirty Dogs
• 1.3 Best Class A RV for Dogs
• 1.4 Best Budget RV for Dogs
• 1.5 Overall Best RV for Dogs
• 2.1 Kennel Space
• 2.2 Flooring
• 2.3 Entrance and Stairs

Best RVs for Dogs

The following RVs include several features to keep dogs safe and comfortable while camping. If you are considering living in your RV, check out our guide to RV living with dogs for more tips.

Best RV with a Dog Kennel

Keystone Outback Ultra-Lite 244UBH

The Keystone Outback travel trailer is the best RV with a dog kennel because it is the only RV with a built-in dog kennel available in the United States. Since 2019, most Outback floorplans have offered dog kennels built into the base of the bed.

The 244UBH floorplan also offers several other dog friendly features, including pull-out dog dishes underneath the entertainment center, an outdoor shower to clean muddy paws and zero carpeting for easy accident and fur clean up.

The travel trailer is 29 feet long and includes double-over-double bunks, so there is plenty of sleeping space for the whole family.

Best RV for Dirty Dogs

2022 Keystone Cougar 357UMR

Another great dog friendly RV from Keystone, the 2022 Cougar 357UMR was specially designed for pet owners. The main pet friendly feature is the utility mud room.

This rear mud room has a separate entrance and features an oversized walk-in shower for campers to wash dirt and mud off their dogs. Hooks on the wall of the utility room also provide storage for leashes and other dog accessories.

Like the Outback travel trailer, the dog friendly Cougar RV is carpet free. The Cougar 357UMR is a 39 foot fifth wheel with an island in the kitchen and large main bedroom.

Best Class A RV for Dogs

Available in 5 different sizes and floorplans, Thor A.C.E motorhomes are built for families with dogs. Pet friendly features include a carpet free design, pull-out food and water dishes and a bird’s eye window that allows dogs to see everything happening outside.

These motorhomes also include a multi-purpose tie down designed to secure a dog’s leash and keep them at the campsite.

Thor A.C.E RVs also offers several great features for humans, including the option for white cabinets, a handy mudroom compartment for dirty shoes and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Best Budget RV for Dogs

Highland Ridge Open Range Conventional 20MB

Starting at $25,000 this Highland Ridge travel trailer is a great option for dog owners searching for a budget-friendly RV. While the RV does not have elaborate pet features, such as a food drawer, it was designed with pets in mind.

The floor is completely covered in residential vinyl for easy clean-up. The 20MB floorplan also features a murphy bed, which creates extra space for your dog to play and relax during the day. Finally, the bathroom has a shower/tub combination for easy dog washing.

Click here to see more RVs with bathtubs.

Overall Best RV for Dogs

4pfoten-Mobile TE 741

The 4pfoten-Mobile (translates as 4 Paws Mobile) is the ultimate dog friendly RV. These RVs include a specially designed area in the rear that offers kennel space for up to two large dogs.

The separate dog room features a mat for comfort and an extendable dog ramp for easy entry. There is even a camera included for campers to monitor their dogs.

For safety, there are two doggie belt locks and rings attached on the outside of the RV to secure leashes. Unfortunately, this RV is produced and sold in Germany, and is not currently available on this side of the Atlantic.

Dog Friendly RV Features

When shopping for an RV, dog owners should search for the following features.

Kennel Space

If you are searching for an RV with a dog kennel, but are not happy with the built-in options, search for an RV that will easily allow a custom kennel build. Under-bed storage areas, dinette benches and bunkrooms are spaces RVers often convert into dog crates.

Carpet, especially long shag carpet, is a nightmare for RV owners with pets. Carpets attract pet hair and make accident clean-up more difficult. Since most RVs have several small corners and small spaces, cleaning is more difficult than in a house.

Instead, search for an RV with vinyl flooring throughout. Even with vinyl floors staying on top of pet hair clean-up is important. Check out our list of the best RV vacuum cleaners to keep your RV fur free.

Entrance and Stairs

Many dogs will have trouble navigating shaky RV entrance stairs. To keep dogs safe, considering upgrading to one of these sturdy RV staircases with a large top platform. If your dog is unable to navigate steps, purchase a portable dog ramp to place over the stairs.

Once your find the perfect RV with a dog kennel or other dog friendly features, it’s time to start planning your adventures. Check out our list of the best dog friendly RV parks in the country and the best national parks for dogs for trip planning inspiration.

Is an RV with a dog kennel your dream rig or is there another pet friendly feature at the top of your wish list? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book .

American Airlines' Dog Policy: 5 Things To Know

• American Airlines allows carrying a dog or a cat in the cabin, though it must meet size, age, and destination restrictions.
• The US-based legacy carrier accepts a maximum of seven kennels in the cabin, while the regional subsidiary, American Eagle, only allows five.
• Besides the kennel, passengers are only entitled to another personal item, but no carry-on bag.

Some say that solo travel is the best way of exploring the world while reconnecting to our inner selves. Some others would never embark on an adventure without their travel buddy, and finally, we find those who love travel groups, whose motto is "the more, the merrier." However, airlines should not forget about another fundamental group of travelers, i.e., those who do not want to leave their pets behind. Indeed, increasingly, more people do not want their furry friends missing from the holiday portrait, which means they might need to bring them on a plane.

However, not all airlines have the same rules for carrying pets, which, on the one hand, is not welcoming news for airport staff dealing with customers at check-in desks. Neither is it for the customers, who must go through airline websites repeatedly to get all the information they need to ensure their cute travel companions reach their final destination. Simple Flying has put together five must-knows if you are planning a trip with American Airlines and are thinking of bringing your pets along.

Which Rules Surround Taking Pets On Airplanes In 2023?

It's raining flying cats and dogs, american airlines only allows cats and dogs in the cabin.

First things first, you should know American Airlines only allows cats and dogs in the cabin. Therefore, if you have any other kind of pet, say, a guinea pig, they won't be allowed in the cabin with this carrier. According to the airline's rules, a cat or a dog can be carried in the cabin as long as they meet size, age, and destination requirements. Should these conditions be met, the pet can be taken on most flights lasting up to 12 hours and on those to or from the following locations:

• The 48 contiguous United States.
• The United States and Canada.
• Puerto Rico.
• St. Croix, US Virgin Islands.
• St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

On American Airlines' flights, passengers are allowed to bring one kennel onboard, provided that they have paid the carry-on pet fee and that the pet stays in the kennel, which must be placed under the front seat for the entire flight. Additionally, the kennel substitutes the carry-on bag if a pet is carried in the cabin. Therefore, passengers are only entitled to bring one personal item besides the kennel.

Flying your pet at all costs

The pet in cabin fee is $125 each way.

If you're traveling on a budget, you might want to double-check how much you will be charged to carry your furry friend in the cabin with you.

American Airlines charges its passengers willing to bring their pet in the cabin a $125 fee each way. Additionally, if you're flying domestically with a voluntary stop-over at one of American's hubs lasting more than four hours, you'll incur an additional $125 charge. Besides this cost, you might want to become an expert with aircraft types, as pets are not allowed on every plane in the American Airlines fleet. Indeed, because of a lack of under-seat storage, pets are not permitted on the following aircraft types:

• Boeing B777-200
• Boeing B777-300
• Boeing B787-8
• Boeing B787-9

As you're paying quite a sum to make your furry friend fly with you, you want to ensure they are fit to board a plane. When the carrier is American Airlines, this means the pet must not have been sedated. Indeed, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), pets that have been given sedatives or tranquilizers incur a higher risk of respiratory or cardiovascular problems at higher altitudes.

Let's talk numbers

From kennel size to maximum number of pet in cabin per aircraft.

To make things easier for its passengers, American Airlines publishes the maximum number of pets allowed in the cabin for each flight.

On its mainline flights, American Airlines only allows seven kennels, even though service animals do not count toward this limit. American Eagle, the carrier's regional subsidiary, only accepts a maximum of five kennels per flight. Regarding the kennel, the airline allows soft-sided and hard-sided carriers. For the latter, the size requirements vary based on whether you're flying American Airlines or American Eagle.

On American Airlines' flights, hard kennels should not exceed the following size:

• 19 inches by 13 inches by 9 inches (48 cm by 33 cm by 22 cm)

On American Eagle flights, measures for the kennel change to the following:

• 16 inches by 12 inches by 8 inches (40 cm by 30 cm by 8 cm)

If it is the first time you are carrying your pet in the cabin, and you still have to purchase a kennel, American Airlines recommends a soft-sided one, whose measures are:

• 18 inches by 18 inches by 11 inches (45 cm by 45 cm by 28 cm)

Checked pets

Not all pets are allowed as checked pets.

For now, if your furry friend does not meet the requirements to travel in the cabin, you are most likely not allowed to make them fly as checked baggage on your flight.

Indeed, American Airlines currently only accepts checked pets for active-duty US military and US State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to two pets can be checked, and these must always meet the destination's minimum age and health requirements. In case you are checking a pet, you are required to provide a health certificate, which must be issued by a vet within:

• Ten days of departure
• 60 days of return (for travel on the same ticket)
• Ten days of return (for travel on separate tickets)

Suppose your pet does not qualify for cabin travel or as a checked pet. In that case, you might consider shipping it to your final destination through the American Airlines PetEmbark program, whose specifics are illustrated in the video below.

Temperature restrictions

These ensure the well-being of the pets.

Let's not forget that we constantly look for comfort when we travel. So would a pet. Therefore, American Airlines mandates some temperature restrictions to ensure its well-being while onboard.

These restrictions are mainly aimed at ensuring that checked pets and pets traveling in the cargo section are not exposed to extreme hot or cold temperatures at the following touchpoints:

• The animal holding area
• At terminal facilities
• When moving animals between the terminal and the aircraft
• On the plane

If the current or forecasted temperature at any location of the itinerary is above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees C), the pet is not allowed to fly. Additionally, pets that are not traveling in the cabin cannot fly to, through, or from Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS), or Palm Springs (PSP) between May 1st and September 30th. On the other hand, pets are not allowed if the current or forecasted temperature at any location of the itinerary is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees C).

The cold temperature limitation can be waived if you hold a written letter from a vet including the following points:

• Your name and address
• Your pet’s name
• Your vet’s name and signature
• Your vet’s accreditation date and number
• The temperature your pet is acclimated to

Additionally, the letter must be issued:

• Within 10 days of the first flight
• Within 30 days of any other trips in the same itinerary

However, should the temperature drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 degrees C), the pet is not allowed to fly even with a letter from the licensed vet.

Have you ever flown with your pet on an American Airlines flight? Let us know by clicking on the comment button below!

American Airlines

IATA/ICAO Code: AA/AAL

Airline Type: Full Service Carrier

Hub(s): Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Chicago O'Hare International Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Miami International Airport, New York JFK Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

Year Founded: 1926

Alliance: oneworld

CEO: Robert Isom

Country: United States

Airline Group: American Airlines Group

Region: North America

Loyalty Program: AAdvantage

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best

Best pet carriers for dogs, cats, and furry friends of all shapes and sizes

May 30, 2024 // By Jean Chen Smith

By Jean Chen Smith May 30, 2024

Between managing a Pilates studio, traveling to workshops, and writing about travel, I do a good amount of trekking across the globe. When I'm on the move, I do my best to bring my pups, Tonka and Paisley, along for company. Statistics show I'm not alone: 78% of Americans travel with their four-legged pals.

Travel can be hard enough with unanticipated delays and detours, so I want to make things go as smoothly as possible when bringing my dogs. That's why finding a reliable pet carrier is essential for seamless journeys. Because I travel at least twice a month, I've tested my fair share of carriers. Some are amazing, while others have been disappointing.

When purchasing a carrier, consider whether you're flying or driving. In-cabin pet carriers need to meet airline requirements, and those requirements vary (especially when flying with a dog ). On a road trip, you'll have more latitude regarding size selections. Above all, you'll want to ensure the comfort and safety of your precious pets.

Advertisement Advertisement

These are our favorite pet carrier recommendations for paw parents.

Best pet carrier for flying: The Pet Carrier by Away

The Pet Carrier by Away wins our overall best pick. Known for its tactical hard-sided suitcases, the brand also has a leg up when transporting your furry friend. We love its sleek design with attention to small details, such as its soft, rounded shape, which slides easily underneath most airline seats. Measuring 18.7 inches (long) x 10.8 inches (wide) x 10.75 inches (high), it accommodates pets up to 18 pounds. The carrier meets all Federal Aviation Administration requirements; however, it's still a best practice to research each airline's size and weight limitations.

Additional winning features include its water-resistant lining and comfortable sherpa bedding, which can ease your pet's anxiety while traveling. Several exterior pockets help you stay organized while on the move. We especially appreciate the large, zippered side pocket for safekeeping paperwork and other essentials.

Bonus points for the mesh panels, which allow for ventilation even on hot days. The pet carrier also features a trolley sleeve that easily attaches to luggage.

Best pet carrier for a road trip: Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier Plus

Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier Plus is our favorite choice for road trips. The company has considered everything you'll need for your four-legged companion when traveling. The pet carrier, which measures 17 x 11 x 11, has its patented feeding system design, which includes two food carriers, two collapsible silicone bowls, and an easy-to-clean placemat.

Made with thick, durable fabric, the pet carrier offers three-sided mesh ventilation for breathability and a waterproof exterior bottom, so you don't have to worry about setting it down on rainy days. The interior padded bottom is a comfy spot for Fido to relax and is removed easily for machine washing.

With two mesh pockets on each side and a third zippered pocket, you'll have ample space for storing treats, paw wipes, and much more. It also has seat belt clips that lock into any car and a collar tether to transport your fur friend safely.

Best pet carrier for small dogs: Olla Petite Pet Carrycot by Lambwolf Collective

The Olla Petite Pet Carrycot by Lambwolf Collective is our favorite for small dogs because of its multifunctional features for a petite companion. The water-resistant carrycot is super portable and versatile. It can be used as a bed, carrier, or sling pouch, making it suitable for travel. Especially designed for pets under 11 pounds, the interior features a soft temperature-regulated cushion, offering comfort for your pooch.

The cushion and cot are machine washable, making them useful and long-lasting. The cot has an adjustable drawstring opening. A safety clip inside the cot can be attached to your dog's collar.

Best pet carrier for big dogs: Away-We-Go Pet Crate by Roverlund

Roverlund's larger Away-We-Go Pet Crate option suits dogs up to 50 pounds. The easy-to-assemble kennel is made of aluminum and fabric and measures 30 x 20 x 22. It features front, top, and side entry points and a pocket with safety fasteners to carry all Fido's travel essentials.

The waterproof bottom prevents leaks and protects from outside water getting in, should you face inclement weather conditions. The interior pad is removable and can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle.

Splurge for the ingenious add-on Ready-to-Roll Pet Carrier Wheel Base , designed to lug your bigger four-legged around easily. The smooth-moving skateboard wheels allow for stress-free navigation. The pet crate and wheelbase are available in small sizes and are suitable for pets under 25 pounds.

Best crossbody pet carrier: Cloud Crossbody Pet Carrier from Pups & Bubs

The Cloud Crossbody Pet Carrier , a bestseller from Pups & Bubs, is great for dog parents who want to carry their pups in a sling, similar to a baby wrap. I'm a huge fan of the cloud crossbody because it's lightweight, stylish, and offers a solid base for your furbaby to rest comfortably. It's perfect for smaller dogs who can't walk long but enjoy having their head out and seeing all the activity. My three-pound shih tzu Paisley loves riding in it while I'm window shopping or running errands.

It also features several zippered pockets to carry water bottles and other essentials. When not used as a dog carrier, you can remove the interior insert to use it as an everyday bag. It easily adjusts to a lounge pod for your pet to rest, whether at home or on vacation. It is most suitable for smaller dogs and has a secure latch and mesh closure to keep your pup safe.

Best soft-sided pet carrier: Wild One Travel Carrier

Wild One Travel Carrier is our choice for the best soft-sided because it's airline-approved, roomy, and cozy for your four-legged friend. Made of a neoprene outer with ventilated mesh walls, it measures 17.5 x 11 x 10 and is suitable for pets under 16 pounds.

We love its ergonomic design — the case opens into a canopy bed so your pet can rest and lounge. The removable shoulder strap allows you to wear it as a crossbody when you need both hands free to navigate. You can even use it as a leash for last-minute emergencies.

Best hard-sided pet carrier: Petmate Pet Porter

Petmate's Pet Porter is your best bet for hard-sided options for transporting your pup. The pet porter is available in multiple sizes , depending on how big or small your pet is. Made of 90% recycled plastic, it features a secure latch so you can feel confident while traveling. Side vents allow for sufficient airflow to keep your best friend comfortable.

One thing to note is that it doesn't come with padding, so you'll want to pick one up to ensure your pet's comfort. The company offers a one-year limited warranty on their crates.

Best pet carrier for cats: Sleepypod Atom

We love Sleepypod Atom for its contemporary design, which makes transporting your pet a cinch. While the Atom is suitable for dogs and cats, we chose it as our best feline carrier because the enclosed compartment provides more privacy. The heavy-duty rip-stop mesh holds up against frisky kitties who like to claw and chew. The interior is spacious and cozy, with ultra plush bedding to support a relaxed voyage.

The Sleepypod Atom fits under most airline seats, can be used as a car seat, and folds flat for storage. It measures 17 x 8.5 x 10.5 and is suitable for pets up to 12 pounds.

Best pet carrier with wheels: Luxury Rider Pet Carrier by Katziela

Luxury Rider Pet Carrier with Removable Wheels and Telescopic Handle , made by Katziela, is the best mobile pet carrier. Owners love the double telescopic handle, which slides out easily and offers effortless motion when in a hurry. Once you remove the wheels, the carrier also acts as a crate for your pet to rest at a hotel, home, or office.

Made for your pet's comfort, the Luxury Rider Pet Carrier offers ventilated mesh on all sides so your pet can breathe easily and see what's happening. The interior case features a fluffy bed, so pets can sit back and enjoy the ride.

Best budget pet carrier: Bruno's Place Travel Carrier

Bruno's Place Travel Carrier with Shoulder Straps is designed for the pet-conscious paw parent and is suitable for dogs and cats that weigh up to 20 pounds. It sits along the front of your body like a baby wrap, allowing you to use your hands while in transit. They can have their head outside of the bag, or they can rest entirely inside. The removable base offers your pet additional comfort while in the carrier.

Ergonomically designed back straps offer an even weight distribution, providing ample support for the lumbar spine. Two side pockets allow you to store items you want to access quickly.

About Jean Chen Smith

Travel writer and animal lover Jean Chen Smith loves exploring with her pups Tonka and Paisley - here are her favorite pet carriers.

Read more about Jean Chen Smith here.

Connect with Jean via: Website | Facebook | Instagram

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink
• Personal Care
• Health & Wellness
• Amazon Sales
• Why Trust Us
• StackCommerce

trending now in Shopping

Grill, baby, grill! Save up to $100 on bestselling Blackstone...

Dads love the DeWalt 20V MAX Drill and Impact Driver set,...

Hot sleeper? You need these very best cooling sheets we reviewed

We put the best strapless bras to the test: Our review of the top...

Indulge in childhood gaming nostalgia with this Atari game...

Out of the 55 eye creams we reviewed, these are the 29 best for...

Bath & body works fragrance dupes for all your favorite....

You won't believe how cheap Justin Timberlake concert tickets are

Breaking news, 15 best pet carriers for travel that work for planes, trains and everywhere else.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Their love is unconditional, plus they’re cute . No, I’m not talking about kids but pets! Whether you have a dog or cat, there’s no denying the joy of having a furry friend. And since it’s fun to take a four-legged pal on a weekend getaway or day trip, it’s handy knowing the best pet carriers for travel before your next excursion.

I’ve had three cats (thus far) in my adult life, which means I’ve owned more than a few carriers. However, I, nor them, have ever really liked what we’ve had. From my perspective, some were too clunky to carry to the vet, while others looked cool but were not durable at all.

Although it can be a hassle to wrangle your pet into one, a carrier is a necessity with pet family members. They’re often needed for trips to the vet or groomers, as well as planes, trains and yes, automobiles, too.

Best Overall for Dogs: Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel

Best overall for cats: frisco two door top load plastic dog & cat kennel, best budget: elitefield soft-sided airline-approved dog & cat carrier bag, best luxury: ibiyaya jetpaw, best backpack: jespet dog & cat carrier backpack, best for cargo-hold: sport pet travel kennel dog carrier, best convertible pet carrier: snoozer pet products roll around 4-in-1 travel dog & cat carrier backpack.

• Best Carry-On: Sherpa Delta Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

Best with Wheels: Pet Gear Happy Trails Lite No-Zip Pet Stroller

• Best for Small Pets : Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel

Best for Large Pets: EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Because it only takes a mouthy lab or long-nailed Persian to teach you how important it is to select the right carrier, we spoke to Dr. Teresa Manucy, DVM veterinarian at Chewy, as well as Dr. Beth Turner from Preventive Vet to give The Post all the details about what’s the difference between hard and soft shell carriers, how to know if a carrier is TSA approved and everything in between.

“For both dogs and cats, the carrier needs to be durable, sturdy, and hard to escape from. It must also be big enough for the pet to comfortably stand and turn around in,” Dr. Turner told The Post.

“[It] should allow the pet enough room to stand, turn around, and lay down comfortably,” added Dr. Manucy.

RELATED: Best gifts for dog lovers

To learn more, jump to our FAQ below or keep reading to find the best pet carriers for travel in 2024.

Best Pet Carriers for Travel

• Available in multiple size options
• Has an interior mote to keep your pet dry if they have a bathroom accident
• Airplane compliant design
• Intermediate and larger size carriers don’t have a carry handle

For dogs leaving on a jet plane, we like the Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel. It has a mote on its interior perimeter for potty accidents. In the incident your pooch uses the bathroom, the runoff will collect there, keeping them dry and saving you the time of having to give them a bath when you arrive at your destination. The wire front door has a spring-loaded latch to keep them from bolting out the front, and the plastic is durably thick.

According to Dr. Manucy, hard shell carriers “fit medium to large dogs more comfortably,” and are a good option for “heavy chewers and pets prone to escape.” Although they can be bulky, they’re “better suited for longer travel times, and may help with longer airplane, car, or boat rides.”

Weight capacity : Up to 70 pounds (large) | Carrier dimensions: 34.625 x 25 x 26.5 inches (large)

• Top handle for easy transport
• Can also be used for dogs 10 pounds or less
• The top door doesn’t stay open, which some pet owners have found challenging, especially if the cat struggles being placed inside

If you’re looking to book a flight for your cat and you, we recommend this pet carrier. Another design by Frisco, the Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel also works for smaller dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas or French bulldogs. Besides being made with 95% pre-consumer recycled plastic content, the eco-friendly carrier also has a mote to collect Fluffy’s piddle. Easy to assemble, it comes in two pieces and can be stacked for storage when not in use. While it’s always recommended to check with your airline to make sure you’ve chosen an airline-approved pet carrier, this one should be a thumbs up, as it has ventilation on all sides but nothing large enough to fit a paw or nose through. We love the top door (great for getting a kitten inside) but suggest using the front for larger, more feisty felines.

Weight capacity: Up to 10 pounds | Carrier dimension: (Extra small) 19 x 12 x 10.1 inches ; (Small) 24.05 x 16.8 x 14.5 inches

• Side pockets for treats, pet I.D. and other essentials
• Removable interior bed
• Lightweight and waterproof
• Netting can tare

As Dr. Manucy pointed out, hard shell carriers are superior in many ways when it comes to protecting your pet. However, this isn’t to say that soft shell carriers for pets don’t come with their benefits. “They are useful for shorter distances where your pet needs to be within reach,” she said.

As a cat owner (technically, she’s an Emotional Support Pet), a soft carrier works better for me. I can hold it against me with her inside, so she feels my warmth and is comforted as we travel. This one from EliteField is my favorite on our list for several reasons. To begin with, it has a shoulder strap, so it can be carried like a duffle bag. I really like this feature because I generally need to hold other things, as well as my cat, when I’m traveling. There’s bedding inside for her to be cozy but it’s also removable for hot days or if she gets motion sick. The carrier is also waterproof and has a seat belt loop and a strap to attach to luggage. The netted sides provide isolation and some visibility but if your pet is easily startled or stimulated by what’s happening outside, both of you will probably like the canvas-covered sides. It also comes in a variety of colors!

Weight capacity: Up to 18 pounds | Carrier dimensions : 17 x 9 x 12 (Small-Medium) ; 19 x 10 x 13 (Large)

• Detaches into an airline-approved carrier bag
• Can be carried within the stroller, as a backpack or as a handheld carrier
• Expands to accommodate pet’s body length
• Not suitable for dogs over 16 pounds

Whether you’re a jet setter or your dog likes lounging on the lap of luxury, this pet carrier is built to impress. The pet carrier with wheels has a bottom compartment to hold your personal essentials or pet toys, while the bag has an abundance of pockets for treats, a leash, and whatever pet tech device you may need on standby. Best of all, it extends, creating an almost limo-like ride ( almost ), complete with extra paw room for those who need it. The material is waterproof, too, and the stroller is collapsable, so it can easily fit in your car, beside you on the train or beneath your airplane seat. h

Weight capacity : 16 pounds | Carrier dimension: 31.5 x 20.5 x 40 inches

• Mesh panel doors provide ventilation and visibility for your pet
• Collapsable design that is also airline-approved
• Removable fleece interior, and padded shoulder straps
• Mesh panels can be torn through

Carrying your pet via backpack is easier on the forearms than a traditional carrier. It also frees up your hands. This carrier from Jespet is our pick. Although it doesn’t work for medium to large dogs, it’s big enough for smaller breeds to sit upright or turn around. It also has a top opening, which is good for cats. Dr. Turner explained, “For cats, having a carrier that opens from the top or [that has a top that] can easily be removed is beneficial, as it makes placing the cat in the carrier and removing them much easier – for the cat and owner!”

The carrier’s interior has a washable fleece pad, so your pet has a comfy surface to rest on. The backpack can be positioned horizontally for car trips. Annie Wermiel, NY Post Senior Photo Editor, uses it for her cat and gives it the thumbs up.

“This carrier is great for city-dwellers who may need to transport their pet by walking,” she said. “The backpack straps make it comfortable and easy to wear while also keeping your hands free, and the mesh panels offer plenty of breathability for your pet.”

As for keeping the carrier in pristine condition, it couldn’t be easier. “The inside is easy to wipe down in case of any ‘accidents’ and the faux shearling lining at the bottom comes out easily for washing,” Wermiel told The Post. “If you have an anxious pet, you can even turn the bag around and wear it front-facing so you can keep an eye on them through the top mesh hatch!”

Weight capacity : 16 pounds | Carrier dimension: 17 x 13 x 12 inches

• Includes water and food dishes, plus ‘Live Animal’ stickers to place on carrier
• Has detachable wheels
• Large enough for pet to comfortably move around in
• Doesn’t include a blanket or pillow

Many pet owners traveling by plane with their fur baby worry that their carrier won’t meet TSA approval. However, according to Dr. Manucy, the agency doesn’t have much to do with it.

“TSA does not approve carriers for pets,” she explained. “Your pet’s travel kennel must be made of fiberglass, metal, rigid plastic, solid wood or plywood and must have ventilation on all four sides. The interior must be completely smooth, for your pet’s safety, so they do not become injured. Welded metal mesh can be used for ventilation ‘windows’ and doors, but the holes must be small enough that your pet cannot stick their nose or toes through the openings.”

The Sport Pet Travel Kennel checks all the above boxes, plus has transport wheels, making it easier to move the carrier with your pooch inside. They also snap on and off. Best of all, the cargo-style carrier also has a protective mote and an impact-resistant poly shell for your dog’s protection.

Weight capacity : 15-43 pounds (depending on carrier size) | Carrier dimension: (Large) 31.5 x 22 x 23 ; (Extra large) 35.5 x 23.75 x 26.75

• Airline approved
• Carrier has side ventilation and pockets
• Features a seat belt loop for car rides
• Only available in medium, and large sizes

Different travel requires different types of carriers, which is why we like this 4-in-1 style bag. It can be used like a backpack when you need your hands free, but quickly converts to a wheeling carrier — very handy if you’re traveling by bus or have a vet that’s more than a block away from your home. Our Commerce VP, Jacqueline Goldstein, has been using hers for her very cute cat, Neptune.

“Around March 2016, I adopted two cats from  Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition . They were being surrendered from a family on the Upper West Side because someone in the household had allergies and could no longer live with the cats. The family dropped them off at my apartment themselves; [both cats were in the Snoozer carrier],” Goldstein said.

“It’s a 4-in-1, the ‘four’ here being: wheeled carrier, backpack, car seat, or pet bed. The pet bed feels a bit like a stretch for a clawless cat, but I understand where they are coming from and believe they can claim it. I’ve definitely heard Neptune snoring in there.”

Goldstein loves the design of the pet carrier, especially its mesh walls, straps, and size. “[Neptune] can sit up, lie down, and easily adjust her position,” she told The Post. “I love the pockets (I usually put treats in there), and I also love how the carrier can open at the top or bottom. The backpack straps are huge for me. When going back and forth from Brooklyn to upstate, we tend to bring a ton of stuff with us, so free hands are a must.”

Although life has changed since bringing the Snoozer into her home (one of her cats passed away and she purchased a second house upstate), the carrier has remained as reliable as ever, making it a must-consider in our book.

“Neptune is probably among the top feline travelers in the country because we bring her with us every time we go,” Goldstein said. “She typically hides when she sees the signs that we will be putting her in the carrier, but she’s gotten very used to getting in there, immediately settling into the Snoozer. She barely even protest-meows at all now. I love knowing that she is comfortable and safe in a convenient and flexible traveler.”

Weight capacity : Up to 30 pounds | Carrier dimension: (Medium) 14 x 11 x 20 inches; (Large) 15.5 x 12.25 x 23 inches

Best for Short Trips: Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

• Machine-washable faux lambskin liner
• Has a compressible frame and removable wooden base wrapped in waterproof liner
• Multiple strap options for a more comfortable carry
• Savvy pets may figure out how to undo the zipper

Even if this soft carrier didn’t come recommended by one of our NY Post staff members, we’d still include it in our list. Look at all the happy pets enjoying it in the Chewy reviews section — too cute! Sweetness aside, the bag has several features that make it a winner, starting with its cozy faux lambskin liner. It’s wrapped around a wooden board for better stability, too, so your pet won’t feel like it’s sinking into the bottom. There’s ventilation on all sides, two points of entry, plus the strap is thicker than other carriers we’ve reviewed. What does that mean for you? Nothing, except an easier carrying experience. Instead of digging the strap out of your arm, you’ll be able to focus on keeping your cat or dog steady and anxiety-free. Although there’s no mote (that’s a feature found in hard shell carriers), the liner is washable. The bag can also be collapsed for when it’s not in use. And according to the NY Post staff member who owns it, it’s light and easy to travel with.

“The Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Carrier Bag is basically your standard soft-sided carrier, which we use to carry our smaller cat, Morris, to the vet or family visits,” he said. “It’s lightweight, and the shoulder strap is so helpful when hauling a second cat or luggage. The one thing to [note] is that our other (craftier) cat did manage to figure out how to undo the top zipper from the inside, so that’s one thing to keep in mind.”

Weight capacity : 16 pounds (for medium carrier), 22 pounds (for large carrier)| Carrier dimension: (Medium size) 17 x 11 x 10.5 inches, (Large size) 19 x 11.75 x 11.5 inches

Best Carry-On: Sherpa Delta Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag (Medium)

• Top and front entry
• Padded interior
• Shoulder strap is on the thinner side.

If you have a cat or small dog, carrying your pet on the flight may be an option.

“The airlines determine that a carrier must be small enough to fit under a standard airplane seat,” said Dr. Manucy. “The size should generally not exceed 45 linear inches (length plus width plus height), or roughly 21.5 by 15.5 by 9 inches. Depending on the airline, carrier size limits may be even smaller.”

This soft shell carrier from Sherpa not only meets those size requirements but has some additional features to keep your pet (and you) comfortable. The padded strap, for example, is easier to carry on your shoulder, while inside features a faux lambskin liner. It’s non-allergenic. machine-washable and should keep pets cozy for the duration of the flight. Best of all, this pet carrier is part of the Guaranteed on Board Program .

Weight capacity : 16 pounds | Carrier dimension: 18 x 11 x 10.5 inches

• Canopy has an easy lock to keep pet from jumping out
• Stroller has front shock absorbers and rear safety breaks
• Foldable design
• Carrier doesn’t include a blanket or bedding

Need to make a grocery run but can’t leave your dog at home? This stroller-style pick is for you. This is one of the best pet carriers with wheels for travel, and hundreds of Chewy customers agree with me. For you, it has cup holders and a large bottom basket to place groceries, books, and whatever else you’re carting. For your pooch, the carriage is roomy enough to sit tall or lay down, plus its netted canopy lets them see the sights of the city.

Weight capacity : 25 pounds | Carrier dimension: 22 x 10 x 19 inches; Stroller height to handle: 40 inches

Best for Small Pets: Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel

• Latched steel front
• Top and front access
• Ventilation on all four sides

This pet carrier may not come with fancy features but it has everything needed to keep your pet safe. It’s made of plastic, metal, and stainless steel for durability, plus it has dual entryways. “Nervous pets or ones that chew or scratch should not use soft-sided carriers as they may allow an escape route if the shell is damaged,” said Dr. Manucy. “They can be more difficult to clean and may provide less protection from bumps or falls.”

To make your pet feel cozier, we suggest adding the Pawtect Blanket ($15) or something similar to the carrier’s bottom.

Weight capacity : 10 pounds | Carrier dimension: 19.4 x 12.8 x 10 inches

• Front and side doors with locking zippers
• Space-saving design
• Comes with a fleece bed and carrying case
• Overall, the reviews for this pet carrier are positive. However, several customers mention having issues with the top zipper

While hard shell carriers are the safest, soft shell carriers can work for short trips, like to the vet. For larger dogs, we like this collapsible option from EliteField. It offers multiple points of entry for your pet to choose from and also comes with a fleece bed for them to rest on during transit. The mesh side panels provide proper ventilation and visibility. Deep side pockets are ideal for storing toys, treats, or a leash, plus the carrier is available in a variety of sizes and colors.

Weight capacity : 17 pounds | Carrier dimension: 42 x 28 x 32 inches

Best Bag: Katziela Luxury Lorry Pro Removable Wheels and Double Telescopic Handle Dog and Cat Carrier

• Includes pet bed and safety leash
• Front and back pockets
• Comfort strap handle
• Mesh panels may not be suitable for mouthy pets

We love the versatility of this carrier from Katziela. It’s not just its wheels that we dig, but the fact they’re detachable so that the carrier converts into a bag when needed. Your pet will love the bed — removable and washable, FYI — and the mesh sides allow enough air to get in.

Weight capacity : 22 pounds | Carrier dimension: 19 x 13 x 15 inches

Best Bike: Retrospec Rover Waggin Dog & Cat Bike Trailer

• Carrier has enough room for dog to sit up
• Available with most bikes, including coupler bikes
• Weather resistant canopy
• Only available in one size

I’m constantly seeing this bike trailer pet carrier when I’m jogging. The bikers look happy and so do their pets. And I’m guessing it’s not just that both like feeling the wind in their hair but how easy the carrier makes it to travel together. It’s foldable and has a leash for extra security, plus the canopy is made with weather-resistant material and provides 360 views for your pooch.

Weight capacity: Up to 50 pounds | Carrier dimensions : 32 x 20 x 20 inches

Best for Multiple Cats: Sport Pet Cat Carrier

• Large entry
• Collapsible for storage
• Removable door
• Doesn’t include a pet bed or liner
• On the heavier side

Carrying two carries can be a pain, so we wanted to include an option that works for dual fur baby households. While it may not work well for large breeds, it has plenty of room for kittens and small adult cats. Featuring a large entryway, the carrier will seem more inviting to the skittish. Although it doesn’t come with bedding, a fluffy bath towel should do the trick, and the plastic material is very easy to wipe down. One of our NY Post staff members uses this for his cat Oyster.

“The Sport Pet Cat Carrier has been our household’s go-to for our larger-size [cat], Oyster, with plenty of space for him to scoot around, as well as gaps we can fit a finger through to gently pet and calm him down at vet visits,” he said. “It’s quick and easy to snap together, and when collapsed, takes up minimal storage space in our apartment. It is a little bulky, and the plastic material is unsurprisingly a little heavier than soft-sides cases we’ve used before.”

Weight capacity: 35 pounds | Carrier dimensions : 18.75 x 23.13 x 17.25 inches

What are some things pet owners can do to make traveling with a pet easier?

“All pets should be examined by their veterinarian prior to travel to be sure they are in good health, especially those with known medical issues,” said Dr. Turner, who also suggested looking into medications or supplements for motion sickness.

“Starting the pet on probiotics about 4 to 6 weeks before travel can provide several benefits, such as easing anxiety, calming the gut, and boosting their immune system.”

Don’t forget to pack food, especially if your pet has a specialized diet. Although it may be tempting to “just pick something up” when you land, switching up your animal’s diet is not a great idea, “especially when the pet is already stressed from travel.”

If it’s not possible to bring it on the plane, online pet stores , such as Chewy, can have food shipped to your destination. This is who I’ve used for one of my cat’s who has a special diet prescribed by her vet.

Like people, it’s important to make sure your pet has all their documents in order before travel. “Be sure your pet is wearing proper identification and has updated microchip information,” said Dr. Manucy. “Keep a photograph of your pet with you, along with their vaccination records and pertinent medical information.”

Your travel type will dictate other best practices when traveling with a pet. For flying, try to go direct to avoid layovers. “Attach a small pouch of dry food to the outside of the carrier to offer during a layover,” she said. “Consider freezing a shallow bowl of water the night before to reduce spillage as it slowly melts in the carrier. For pets in cargo, mark the carrier with the words ‘Live Animal,’ as well as with your name, cell phone and destination phone number, and a photo of your pet.”

Make sure the carrier is secure but not locked, so airline personnel can reach your pet in case of an emergency. Attaching a list of care instructions is also wise. “This will help airport workers care for your pet if they are sent to the wrong destination.”

Similarly, Dr. Turner recommended keeping an emergency contact listed on the carrier, in the event of an accident. If you’re driving with your pet, plan breaks for them to relieve themselves and get some exercise.

“Be sure to stop every couple of hours so that dogs can stretch their legs and potty. Be sure to keep them on a leash. If a cat is leash-trained and calm, stopping in an area away from other people and pets can be beneficial. But for cats that are not harness trained or are stressed, it is often easier for them to be kept in the carrier till reaching a place to stay. For these types of cats, this is where an oversized hard-shell canine carrier is beneficial as you can put the litter box in the carrier.”

Manucy added, “When driving, avoid feeding your pet while in a moving vehicle to avoid motion sickness. Offer a light meal three to four hours prior to departure. Use bottled water to prevent stomach discomfort from unfamiliar water sources. Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle to avoid temperature extremes that can cause illness quickly.”

Don’t forget to look up emergency veterinary hospitals on route to your destination. Also, know where the local animal clinic is located at wherever you’re going to.

Animals need reassurance and comfort while traveling. FELIWAY Classic Calming Spray ($20), is something I’ve used with my cat for trips to the vet. I spray a little on her cat bed before placing it in her carrier, and she’s visibly less anxious.

Natrumax Solliquin Calming Support Chews ($20) is another natural way to calm scared kitties, as well as dogs. It’s given like a treat and has soothing ingredients, such as L-theanine and magnolia extract, that calm the nerves. CBD for dogs may also be an option, but make sure to check with your vet, since it’s important to get their thumbs up before introducing a new supplement to your pet.

What should I look for when selecting a pet carrier for travel?

It’s easy to get sucked in by all the fun-looking carriers on the market. However, it’s important to remember that carriers are about keeping your cat or dog safe while traveling.

“Pet carriers should be selected based on the frequency of use, intended mode of travel, the pet’s personality, and the size of the pet to help determine the ideal type of carrier,” said Dr. Manucy. “Dog carriers may range from crates to hard shell and soft shell carriers based on the dog’s weight and method of transport. Due to their smaller sizes, cat carriers typically include hard shell, soft shell, and wearable carriers.”

“For dogs that are anxious or tend to chew, a hard-shelled carrier is more secure and safe,” said Dr. Turner. If you’re searching for a carrier for a cat, she suggests looking for one that includes a top opening.

The Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel earned our top spot for best pet carrier for dogs, mainly because it provides a nice amount for an animal to move in. Its protective hard shell has four-wall ventilation, plus the interior has a mote — just in case your dog goes number one.

Our pick for kitties, the Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel , also works for dogs, as long as they’re on the smaller side. More importantly, it has a top opening, as well as a latching front gate. This makes it easier to get your pet in.

 Is a soft or hard pet carrier better?

The type of travel you’re looking to do will help you decide the best carrier for your pet. For shorter trips with smaller pets, go for a soft carrier.

“Soft shell carriers are better suited for cats and small to medium dogs as well as pets that are used to traveling,” Dr. Manucy told The Post. “These carriers are lightweight, flexible, easier to carry, store or stow, and are more comfortable for the pet. They are useful for shorter distances where your pet needs to be within reach.”

When traveling long distances with a larger animal, a hard shell is better, as it offers the type of protection they’ll need on a boat or plane. However, they’re not as comfortable as a soft carrier, so add a bed to the bottom.

We suggest something like the MidWest Quiet Time Crate Dog Crate Mat ( $37 , $34). It has a non-skid bottom, is plush as can be, and can be thrown into the wash whenever necessary. It’s also available in multiple sizes, so you can find the best fit for your pet carrier.

What size is a TSA-approved pet carrier?

If you’re planning on flying with your pet, boarding issues can be minimized by selecting the right carrier.

“Each airline has its own regulations with regard to pet policies,” said Dr. Turner. “Most require a soft-sided carrier that falls within these dimensions:18 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 11 inches high. However, it is always recommended that you check your airline’s requirements prior to travel.”

Visiting the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is another way to tell if a pet carrier is airline approved, though it’s still encouraged to contact the airline you are flying with. “If your pet will be flying in the cargo hold, you must use a carrier that meets U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) specifications,” explained Dr. Manucy.

Considering your pet’s size will also help you know if you’ll need to purchase a cargo style kennel or can use a soft carrier. “Generally speaking, if your pet’s weight exceeds 15 pounds or is more than 19 inches long, it likely will be too large to fit into an airline-compliant carrier.”

What carrier does TSA require for pets?

Again, it is not TSA that approves pet carriers but airlines. However, TSA does have its own requirements to travel with your cat or dog.

“TSA requires that your pet be removed from the carrier in order for the carrier to pass through the X-ray machine and so that a visual and/or physical inspection can be performed,” Dr. Turner explained. “While out of the carrier, your pet needs to have on a collar or harness, and it needs to be attached to a leash. However, remove the leash and collar if there is any metal when going through the metal detector.”

Although it can seem daunting, once you know the general guidelines, picking the best pet carrier for travel is relatively simple. In the end, it’s all about finding one that keeps your animal safe and comfortable.

Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance . We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products , and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted .

Share this article:

Explore Elektrostal

Essential elektrostal.

Elektrostal Is Great For

Eat & drink.

• Apelsin Hotel
• Elektrostal Hotel
• Apart Hotel Yantar
• Mini Hotel Banifatsiy
• Restaurant Globus
• Amsterdam Moments
• Cafe Antresole
• Viki Cinema
• Statue of Lenin
• Park of Culture and Leisure

• Sign In for Member Deals!
• USD - US dollar
• GBP - British pound
• CAD - Canadian dollar
• AUD - Australian dollar
• NZD - New Zealand dollar
• ZAR - South African rand
• NOK - Norwegian krone
• PLN - Polish zloty
• KRW - South Korean won
• PKR - Pakistan rupee
• PHP - Philippine peso
• PEN - Peruvian nuevo sol
• OMR - Omani rial
• MNT - Mongolia Tughrik
• NGN - Nigerian naira
• LKR - Sri Lanka Rupee
• NAD - Namibian dollar
• MZN - Mozambique Metical
• MYR - Malaysian ringgit
• MXN - Mexican peso
• MUR - Mauritius Rupee
• PYG - Paraguayan guarani
• QAR - Qatar riyal
• RON - Romanian lei
• RUB - Russian Ruble
• SAR - Saudi riyal
• SBD - Solomon Islands Dollar
• SEK - Swedish krona
• SGD - Singapore dollar
• THB - Thai baht
• TRY - Turkish lira
• TTD - Trinidad & Tobago dollar
• TWD - Taiwan dollar
• UAH - Ukrainian grivna
• UZS - Uzbekistan Som
• VND - Vietnamese dong
• XCD - E. Caribbean dollar
• BSD - Bahamian dollar
• DKK - Danish krone
• CZK - Czech koruna
• CRC - Costa Rican colon
• COP - Colombian Peso
• CNY - Chinese yuan
• CLP - Chilean peso
• CHF - Swiss franc
• BWP - Botswana pula
• DOP - Dominican peso
• BRL - Brazilian real
• BND - Brunei dollar
• BMD - Bermuda dollar
• BGN - Bulgarian Lev
• AZN - Azerbaijani manat
• ARS - Argentine peso
• ANG - Netherlands Antillean
• LBP - Lebanese pound
• EGP - Egyptian pound
• FJD - Fiji dollar
• GTQ - Guatemala Quetzal
• HKD - Hong Kong dollar
• HRK - Croatian Kuna
• HUF - Hungarian forint
• IDR - Indonesian rupiah
• ILS - Israeli new sheqel
• INR - Indian rupee
• IRR - Iran Rial
• ISK - Iceland krona
• JMD - Jamaican dollar
• JPY - Japanese yen
• AFN - Afghanistan Afghani
• KZT - Kazakh tenge
• Email Address
• Forgot Password? Sign In
• Create Password
• Create Account

Register now to unlock member only deals Member only deals on select inventory.

Instantly create an account & Save Big!

Please enter the email address you signed up with and we'll immediately email you a link to reset your password.

• Reset password
• Your email address is required to sign in and access member rates.

Search Elektrostal Pet Friendly Hotels

How many guests?

Top 4 Pet Friendly Hotels near Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

Country Hotel Aniva

Village Zhilino-Gorki, 142402 Noginsk, Russia

Apelsin Hotel

Noginskoye Shosse 36B, 144008 Elektrostal, Russia

Select a date range for live pricing.

Bogorodsk Ekotel

Tihaya street 1A, 142400 Noginsk, Russia

Goosi-Lebedi Wellness Centre

Ulitsa Sanatornaya 7, 142403 Noginsk, Russia

Top 4 pet friendly hotels in Elektrostal - Map View

Thank you! please answer the following question.

In order to help us service you better in the future, please take your time to rate the property.

We have received your feedback. Your feedback helps us provide you and the rest of our users with exceptional recommendations.

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.