Top Portable Dog Crates for Everyday Travel and Home
The Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel is our top pick for everyday travel. It is sturdy, airline approved, and offers two door access. Owners report easy assembly and cleaning, though it is heavier than soft sided options.
Traveling with your dog requires a crate that is both safe and convenient. The right portable crate makes car rides, camping trips, and home use stress free.
We compared popular models based on material, foldability, and owner feedback. Our list includes soft sided and hard plastic crates to suit different needs.
The top picks, ranked
Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel
This hard plastic kennel is durable and airline approved. It features a secure latch system and a comfortable carry handle. Owners appreciate the two doors for easy access. It is easy to clean and provides good ventilation.
Pros
- Very sturdy and secure
- Easy to clean with removable pan
- Two doors for flexible access
Cons
- Heavier than soft sided crates
- Assembly required but simple
MidWest iCrate Fold and Carry Dog Crate
The MidWest iCrate is a wire crate that folds flat for easy transport. It includes a divider panel for growing puppies and a leak proof pan. Owners like the durability and easy setup. It is not airline approved but great for car travel and home.
Pros
- Folds flat for storage and travel
- Durable wire construction
- Divider panel helps with house training
Cons
- Not suitable for airline travel
- Pan can be chewed by aggressive chewers
EliteField 3 Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
This soft sided crate folds into a carrying bag for easy transport. It has three doors for access and mesh windows for ventilation. Owners report it is lightweight and easy to set up. However, it is not for strong chewers.
Pros
- Very lightweight and portable
- Sets up in seconds
- Breathable mesh panels
Cons
- Not chew proof
- Less secure for escape artists
Petsfit Portable Soft Dog Crate
This soft sided crate offers a balance of price and function. It features a sturdy steel frame and durable fabric. Owners like the carrying handle and easy fold down. It is suitable for calm dogs and travel.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Easy to fold and carry
- Removable washable cover
Cons
- Not for heavy chewers
- No tray for spills
Carlson Pet Products Foldable Dog Crate
This wire crate folds flat for easy storage. It has a durable metal frame and a plastic pan. Owners appreciate the extra large size options. It is not airline approved but works well for home and car.
Pros
- Fits very large breeds
- Folds flat for storage
- Double door latches for safety
Cons
- Heavy when large
- Pan may need reinforcement
Noz2Noz Soft Folding Dog Crate
This soft sided crate is designed for outdoor use with a waterproof bottom. It has large mesh windows for air flow. Owners like the compact fold. It is not for strong chewers.
Pros
- Waterproof bottom is great for outdoors
- Large mesh windows for ventilation
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Not chew proof
- No handle on some models
Paws and Pals Travel Dog Crate
This soft sided crate has a padded interior and adjustable straps for secure car placement. It folds flat for storage. Owners report it is comfortable for dogs. However, it is not for heavy chewers.
Pros
- Seat belt straps secure in car
- Padded interior for comfort
- Folds flat for storage
Cons
- Not durable for chewers
- May not be airline approved
What to look for
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Material | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel | Heavy duty plastic | Air travel and car rides | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | MidWest iCrate Fold and Carry Dog Crate | Wire metal | Home and travel versatility | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | EliteField 3 Door Folding Soft Dog Crate | Polyester and mesh | Lightweight and portable | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Petsfit Portable Soft Dog Crate | Oxford fabric and steel frame | Indoor and outdoor use | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Carlson Pet Products Foldable Dog Crate | Wire metal | Extra large breeds | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Noz2Noz Soft Folding Dog Crate | Polyester, mesh, and waterproof base | Camping and outdoors | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Paws and Pals Travel Dog Crate | Polyester and mesh | Car travel | 8.3 | Check price |
Common questions
What is the best portable dog crate for air travel?
The Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel is airline approved and sturdy. It meets most airline requirements. Always check with your airline for specific size and approval.
Can I use a soft sided crate for a puppy?
Yes, if the puppy is calm and not a chewer. Soft sided crates are lightweight and easy to move. However, puppies may outgrow them quickly.
How do I measure my dog for a crate?
Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Then measure height from the floor to the top of the head. Add a few inches to ensure comfort.
Are wire crates safe for car travel?
Wire crates are safe if secured properly. They are not crash tested like some plastic crates. Use straps or a harness to secure the crate in the car.
What is the easiest crate to set up?
Soft sided crates like the EliteField fold and unfold in seconds. They are very portable. Wire crates like the MidWest also fold flat without tools.
Can I wash the soft sided crate?
Most soft sided crates have removable covers that are machine washable. Check the manufacturer’s instructions. The Noz2Noz crate has a waterproof bottom that can be wiped.
Is a portable crate good for home use?
Yes, portable crates are versatile. They can be used at home and then folded for travel. Wire crates are popular for home because they are durable.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Puppies should not be crated for more than a few hours. Adult dogs can handle longer but need regular breaks. Never leave a dog crated all day.
What is the most durable portable crate?
The Petmate hard plastic kennel is one of the most durable. Wire crates like MidWest are also strong. Soft sided crates are the least durable against chewers.
Are these crates suitable for camping?
Yes, especially the Noz2Noz with a waterproof bottom. Soft sided crates are easy to transport. Ensure your dog is comfortable and the crate is shaded.
The verdict
For most everyday travel and home use, the MidWest iCrate is the best balance of durability, convenience, and value. If you fly frequently, choose the Petmate Two Door. For lightweight portability, the EliteField is excellent for calm dogs.
