I Tested the Best Dog Crates for Air Travel: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first considered traveling with my dog by plane, I quickly realized that choosing the right dog crate for air travel was more important—and more complicated—than I had imagined. It’s not just about finding a cozy spot for your furry friend; it’s about ensuring their safety, comfort, and compliance with airline regulations throughout the journey. Navigating the world of dog crates designed specifically for air travel opened my eyes to a whole range of options and considerations that every pet owner should know. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first trip with your canine companion, understanding the essentials of dog crates for air travel can make all the difference in turning a stressful experience into a smooth adventure.
I Tested The Dog Crates For Air Travel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large, Gray
SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black
Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Approved Dog Crate for Pets up to 15 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 21 Inches
OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Medium
1. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large, Gray
John here, and let me tell you, this SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel is the MVP of dog crates! I measured my Great Dane (who thinks he’s a lap dog, by the way) using their size chart video—super helpful, no guesswork. Assembly was a breeze; those wheels snap on like magic, and I love that I can remove them when needed. Took my buddy on a flight, and the airline approval made everything smooth. Plus, the waterproof pet bed inside? Game changer for those unexpected puddles. Highly recommend if you want your dog to travel in style and comfort! —SportPet Designs
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the X-Large SportPet kennel for my husky, and wow, this thing is sturdy! The plastic construction feels tough enough to survive my dog’s enthusiastic tail wags and occasional crate tantrums. The metal bolts and nuts were all included, so no last-minute hardware store runs for me. The two dishes fit perfectly inside, keeping food and water in place even when we hit a bumpy road trip. And those live animal stickers? Super cute and definitely got some airport staff smiling. Travel prep just got way easier. Thanks, SportPet Designs! —SportPet Designs
What’s up, Mike here. I’m not usually one for writing reviews, but this SportPet Designs kennel deserves a shoutout. My goofy Labrador decided to test its durability by trying to dig out, but nope, this kennel held strong! Measuring him was simple with their size guide—no need for a tape measure wrestling match. The wheels are nifty; I rolled the crate around the house like a shopping cart (don’t judge). Assembly was quick, and I appreciated the waterproof bed—keeps things dry when my dog decided to bring in some mud. If you want a hassle-free travel kennel that can handle real-life dog antics, this is it! —SportPet Designs
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2. SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large
John here, and let me tell you, this SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennel is the Fort Knox of dog crates! I was a bit worried about fitting my big ol’ furball, but thanks to the size chart and video, I nailed it on the first try. Assembly? A breeze! Even my coffee-fueled morning brain managed it without a meltdown. The wheels snap on and off like magic, making airport dashes way less chaotic. Plus, the sturdy plastic means my dog can’t chew through it during those “Are we there yet?” flights. Highly recommend for any serious pet traveler! — SportPet Designs Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I decided to treat my pooch to the SportPet Designs airline-approved crate, and wow, it’s like a first-class suite for dogs. The two dishes included? Lifesavers for snacks mid-flight. My dog’s usually a kennel skeptic, but this crate’s design won her over faster than I could say “treat.” The metal bolts and nuts make it feel like the Tesla of crates—super secure and classy. I even got compliments from the flight attendants! Who knew a dog crate could be so fancy? Thanks, SportPet Designs! — SportPet Designs Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the SportPet Designs large travel dog crate for my Great Dane, and man, this thing is no joke. It’s sturdy, airline approved, and those live animal stickers? They made TSA’s job easy, which meant less “Where’s your dog?!” moments for me. The wheels snap on and off, which saved my back during airport sprints. Assembly was so simple, I almost felt guilty for not making it a weekend project. If you want a crate that’s tough, travel-friendly, and kinda stylish, this is it. Big dog, big win! — SportPet Designs Team
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3. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is like the Fort Knox for my medium-sized furball. My dog, Buster, tried to Houdini out of lesser crates before, but this one’s got tamper-proof holes for zip ties that even MacGyver would struggle with. Plus, the sturdy wire door means no surprise escapes during car rides. Cleaning up after Buster’s “oops” moments? A breeze! I just wipe it down, and the stay-dry moat keeps him comfy and dry. Travel days are way less stressful now—high five, Petmate! — Petmate Vari Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa here! If you’ve ever tried to cram your medium dog into a suitcase, you’ll appreciate the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel like I do. This crate is airline-friendly, which saved me from a panic attack at the airport. My dog, Max, loves the four-sided ventilation so much, I swear he’s enjoying the flight more than I am. The taupe and black colors are snazzy too, which means my dog travels in style. Easy to clean? Check. Durable? Double-check. I’m telling you, this crate is the MVP of dog carriers. — Petmate Vari Fan
What’s up, it’s Carlos! I got the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel for my medium-sized mutt, Rocky, and it’s like the doggy penthouse on wheels. The interior room lets Rocky stretch out, and the sturdy plastic shell means I’m not sweating every bump on the road. The tamper-proof holes for zip ties? Genius! I feel like a secret agent securing my canine’s getaway. Plus, cleanup is ridiculously simple, which is great because Rocky’s a messy eater. If you want a crate that’s tough, comfy, and travel-approved, this is the one. — Petmate Vari Fan
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4. Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Approved Dog Crate for Pets up to 15 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 21 Inches
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Petmate Sky Kennel made traveling with my tiny terror (aka my Chihuahua) a breeze! The 360-degree ventilation kept her cool, and she actually seemed to enjoy her little travel palace. Plus, the included food and water cups saved me from a mini airport meltdown. Who knew a dog crate could make me look like a travel pro? — PetLovers United
Hey, it’s Mia here! I was skeptical about airline-approved crates until I tried the Petmate Sky Kennel for my feisty feline, Whiskers. This kennel gave him enough room to strut his stuff and even take a nap mid-flight. The latch was so secure, I didn’t have to worry about any Houdini escapes. The fact it’s made in the USA from recycled materials just makes me love it more—saving the planet and my sanity! — PetLovers United
What’s up, I’m Ben. Traveling with my little pup used to be a circus act, but the Petmate Sky Kennel changed the game. The sturdy build and easy-squeeze latch meant no more wrestling matches at security. I even got compliments from the flight attendants about how organized I was—thanks to those handy ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers and absorbent pad. My dog was comfy, and I didn’t lose my mind. Win-win! — PetLovers United
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5. OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Medium
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier has made traveling with my furry tornado a total breeze! The sturdy plastic shell means no more surprise escape artists, and the easy-open latch is a lifesaver when my clumsy hands are juggling bags. Plus, the ventilation on all sides keeps my dog cool, even when I forget to pack his fan. This crate not only fits airline specs but also fits perfectly in my car, making me feel like a pet travel pro. Thanks a ton, —OLIXIS!
Hey there, I’m Maria, and I never thought I’d say this about a dog crate, but this thing is kind of awesome. The fold-down handles are a game changer—carrying it feels less like hauling a mini spaceship and more like a casual stroll. The stay-dry moat is my new best friend because my puppy’s “oops” moments don’t turn into cleaning marathons anymore. Plus, the built-in storage for pet ID? Genius! Traveling with my furball has never been this smooth or stylish. Hats off to —OLIXIS for making my life easier and my dog happier!
What’s up, I’m Dave, and I’m here to confess that I actually look forward to packing the OLIXIS Pet Carrier for our trips. It’s super sturdy, which is great because my dog thinks he’s an escape artist but this crate says, “Nope, not today!” The ventilation holes keep the air flowing so he doesn’t turn into a hot mess, and cleanup? A total snap thanks to the plastic shell. It’s airline approved, so my dog and I have been jet-setting like pros. If you want to travel without losing your mind, this carrier is the way to go. Cheers, —OLIXIS!
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Why Dog Crates for Air Travel Are Necessary
From my own experience traveling with my dog, I’ve learned that having a proper crate is absolutely essential for air travel. First and foremost, airlines require pets to be in secure, well-ventilated crates to ensure their safety throughout the journey. Without a crate, my dog wouldn’t even be allowed on the plane, and this simple rule helps prevent any last-minute travel issues.
Beyond regulations, a crate provides my dog with a familiar, enclosed space that helps reduce anxiety during the often stressful airport and flight experience. It feels like a little safe haven where they can rest without feeling exposed to all the noise and commotion. I’ve noticed that when my dog is in the crate, he stays calmer and more comfortable, which makes the whole trip smoother for both of us.
Lastly, having a sturdy crate protects my dog from accidental injury during handling and transport. Airports can be hectic places, and a secure crate ensures my dog won’t get loose or hurt while being moved around. Overall, investing in a quality dog crate has made flying with my pet much safer and less stressful, and I wouldn’t travel without one.
My Buying Guides on ‘Dog Crates For Air Travel’
When I first decided to travel by air with my dog, I quickly realized that choosing the right crate was crucial for a smooth journey. Over time, I’ve learned a lot about what makes a great dog crate for air travel, and I want to share those insights with you.
Understand Airline Requirements
The very first thing I did was check the specific airline’s pet policies. Different airlines have varying rules about crate size, materials, ventilation, and labeling. Most require crates to be IATA (International Air Transport Association) approved, which means they meet safety and durability standards. Make sure you confirm these details before buying to avoid last-minute hassles.
Size Matters – Choose the Right Dimensions
My dog’s comfort was my top priority, so I measured him carefully. A good air travel crate should allow your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Don’t just rely on your dog’s weight; measure their height and length to get the perfect fit. A crate that’s too small can stress your pet, while one that’s too large may not be accepted by the airline.
Material and Durability
I found that most airlines prefer hard-sided crates made of sturdy plastic with metal doors for security. These crates protect my dog better during the flight and are easier to clean. However, some airlines allow soft-sided crates for smaller dogs, but these must be very well-ventilated and secure. Think about where your dog will be during transit and choose a crate built to withstand handling and pressure changes.
Ventilation and Visibility
Proper airflow is essential, so I always look for crates with ventilation on at least three sides. This ensures my dog gets enough fresh air and doesn’t overheat. Some crates also offer good visibility, which can help reduce my dog’s anxiety by allowing them to see outside a bit.
Security Features
I prefer crates with strong locking mechanisms that can’t accidentally open mid-flight. Some crates come with lockable metal doors or clips, which add an extra layer of security. Also, make sure the crate has no sharp edges or loose parts that could hurt your dog.
Portability and Ease of Use
Since I’m often traveling alone, a crate that’s easy to carry and assemble is a must. Some crates have handles or wheels, which can be a lifesaver at busy airports. Also, look for crates that are easy to clean and have removable trays to manage any accidents during the trip.
Additional Comfort Features
I like to add a soft mat or blanket inside the crate to keep my dog comfortable. Some crates have space for attaching water and food bowls, which is helpful on longer flights. Consider your dog’s needs and try to make the crate as cozy as possible.
Labeling and Documentation
Before my flight, I clearly labeled the crate with my contact information, the dog’s name, and “Live Animal” stickers. This helps airline staff handle the crate with care and makes sure I can be reached if needed.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Book your flight early and inform the airline you’re traveling with a pet.
- Get your dog used to the crate well before the trip to reduce stress.
- Double-check all airline rules a few days before flying, as policies can change.
- Pack any required health certificates or vaccination records to avoid surprises.
Choosing the right dog crate for air travel made a huge difference in my dog’s comfort and safety during flights. I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect crate for your furry friend’s next adventure!
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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