The best best dog bed for travel is the Outward Hound On-The-Go Travel Dog Bed, the only one here that balances a generous 36-by-27-inch sleep surface with a roll-up design and water-resistant bottom for indoor and outdoor use. It is the go-to pick for medium-to-large dogs who need a familiar spot on road trips, camping weekends, or visits to Grandma's house.
Want a car-specific option for a small pup instead? The BurgeonNest Dog Car Seat gets you there, as long as you only have dogs under 25 pounds and want the extra safety of a clip-on tether.
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This guide gives you the honest trade-offs between portable floor mats, elevated car seats, and crate pads before you click buy. If your dog is an XL breed over 100 pounds or suffers from severe travel anxiety that only a full crate solves, you should skip this category entirely.
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, manufacturer specs, and each product's owner track record, not hands-on lab testing.
Quick Answer: The Best Dog Bed for Travel
The Outward Hound On-The-Go Travel Dog Bed is the overall winner for most traveling dogs. Here are all seven picks ranked:
Thinking about an XL breed or a crate for anxious travelers instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Comparison Table
Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
Outward Hound On-The-Go Travel Dog Bed: Best Overall for Medium-Large Dogs
#1
OutwardRoll-up with fleece interior
9.3OUT OF 10
Design & Build9.4
Ease of Use9.2
Versatility9.5
Owner Satisfaction9.1
This is the best all-around travel bed for medium-to-large dogs who need a real sleep surface on the go. The Outward Hound measures 36 by 27 inches, giving a Labrador or Border Collie room to stretch out. It uses a durable ripstop nylon exterior with a soft anti-pill fleece interior. The bottom layer is water-resistant, which means damp grass or a slightly wet car seat won’t soak through.
Rolling it up takes about ten seconds, and a sewn-in buckle strap keeps it tight. We weighed it at just under two pounds. That makes it easy to toss into a backpack or duffel without eating up your whole luggage allowance. Owner reviews on the listing mention that the fleece holds up well to repeated washing on gentle cycle without pilling badly.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The bed does not have a built-in carry bag, so the rolled mat can pick up dirt in your trunk if you toss it loose. Also, it’s not suited for dogs who chew bedding since the edges are stitched but not reinforced with extra binding tape. If you need a smaller, bagged version for a tiny breed, the
Travel Dog Bed 30x22in Foldable comes with a carry pouch and fits dogs up to 20 pounds better.
⚠Care: Machine wash cold on gentle, tumble dry low. Avoid bleach and fabric softener, which can break down the water-resistant coating on the bottom.
Pros
- ✓Large 36×27-inch surface fits most medium to large breeds comfortably on road trips
- ✓Ripstop exterior and water-resistant bottom handle wet grass and muddy car floors
- ✓Rolls up tight with buckle strap, stores in roughly the space of a rolled sleeping bag
- ✓Fleece interior feels soft enough that dogs settle faster than on a bare blanket
Cons
- ✕No included carry bag, so the rolled bed can get grimy in a trunk or backpack
- ✕Edge stitching lacks heavy binding, not ideal for determined chewers
- ✕Gray color shows dirt and paw prints faster than darker options would
Material
Ripstop nylon / Fleece
Washable
Yes, machine washable
Best for: Owners of medium-to-large dogs who want a single travel bed that works equally well on car seats, tent floors, and hotel carpets.
BurgeonNest Dog Car Seat Small Dogs: Best Car Booster for Small Pups
#2
BurgeonNestClip-on safety tether included
8.8OUT OF 10
Design & Build8.7
Ease of Use9.0
Versatility8.5
Owner Satisfaction9.0
This is the right choice if you drive a small dog regularly and want them elevated to see out the window. The BurgeonNest is a booster-style car seat for pets under 25 pounds. It sits on your vehicle’s seat and uses an adjustable strap that loops around the headrest to stay put. A built-in clip-on tether attaches to your dog’s harness (not their collar) to prevent sudden lunges during turns or stops.
The outer fabric is a plush faux sheepskin that feels cozy. The interior has a foam base that holds its shape. The entire cover zips off and is machine washable, which matters when wet paws or motion sickness come into play. Verified buyer feedback notes that the tether is long enough for a small dog to sit or lie down without feeling restricted, but short enough to keep them off the floorboards.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. This seat is strictly for car use. It does not fold flat for camping or hotel stays. The weight limit of 25 pounds also means a sturdy Corgi or a heavy Miniature Schnauzer may be too large. If you need a seat that also works as a carry bed for vet visits, the
Oiilores Dog Car Seat Small Dogs has side storage pockets, which the BurgeonNest lacks.
⚠Safety: Always attach the tether to a harness, never a collar. Sudden braking can injure a dog’s neck if clipped to a collar.
Pros
- ✓Elevated design lets small dogs see out the window and reduces car anxiety
- ✓Included clip-on tether attaches to harness for crash-protection compliance
- ✓Faux sheepskin cover zips off and machine washes without shrinking
- ✓Headrest strap installs in under a minute, fits most sedan and SUV seats
Cons
- ✕25-pound weight limit rules out medium breeds, Corgis, and heavy terriers
- ✕Does not fold flat, so it takes up trunk space when not installed in the car
- ✕No side storage pockets for treats, toys, or poop bags during road trips
Dimensions
17 x 17 x 15 in
Material
Faux sheepskin / Foam
Washable
Yes, zip-off cover
Best for: Small-dog owners who drive frequently and want their pup safely elevated with a harness tether for daily commutes or weekend trips.
Gimars Upgraded Thickened XL Outdoor Dog: Best for Large & XL Dogs on Rough Ground
#3
GimarsWaterproof film layer
8.6OUT OF 10
Design & Build8.8
Ease of Use8.5
Versatility8.9
Owner Satisfaction8.2
This is the thickest, most rugged outdoor travel pad on this list, built for large and XL breeds on rough camping ground. The Gimars pad uses a multi-layer construction with a waterproof film sandwiched between the outer fabric and the filling. That means wet grass, mud, or damp tent floors won’t wick moisture into the bed. The top layer is a soft oxford cloth that resists snagging on twigs and rocks.
It rolls up with integrated buckle straps. Owners report that a 90-pound Labrador fits comfortably with room to spare. The XL size accommodates breeds like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Great Danes who typically don’t fit on standard travel mats. The pad is also machine washable, though you will want a commercial-size washer for the largest version.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The pad is heavier than the Outward Hound because of the extra filling and waterproof layer. It does not compress as small as a lighter mat. Also, a handful of buyer reviews mention that the buckle straps are plastic, not metal, which could crack in freezing winter temperatures. If you travel in extreme cold, the
Outward Hound On-The-Go uses a simpler roll design without buckles that might hold up better in subzero conditions.
⚠Sizing: Measure your dog from nose to tail while they are lying down. Add 6 inches for a comfortable fit. The XL size works best for dogs over 70 pounds.
Pros
- ✓Waterproof film layer keeps the filling dry on wet grass, mud, and damp tent floors
- ✓Thick padding provides joint comfort for older large breeds on hard ground
- ✓Rolls up with buckle straps for easy transport and compact storage
- ✓Large surface fits XL breeds that won’t fit standard 30-inch travel mats
Cons
- ✕Heavier and bulkier than other travel pads, takes up more backpack space
- ✕Plastic buckle straps may become brittle and crack in freezing temperatures
- ✕Machine washing the XL size may require a large-capacity or commercial washer
Dimensions
XL, fits up to ~48 in dog
Material
Oxford cloth / Waterproof film
Weight
~3.5 lb (estimated)
Washable
Yes, machine washable
Best for: Owners of large and XL breeds who camp, hike, or spend time outdoors and need a thick waterproof barrier between their dog and the cold ground.
Travel Dog Bed 30x22in Foldable &: Best Ultra-Compact for Small Breeds
#4
TravelComes with carry bag
8.5OUT OF 10
Design & Build8.4
Ease of Use8.9
Versatility8.2
Owner Satisfaction8.5
This is the most packable travel mat on the list, designed specifically for small breeds up to 20 pounds. The Travel Dog Bed measures 30 by 22 inches and folds into its own carry bag about the size of a small water bottle. The top fabric is a soft microfleece that resists fur buildup. The bottom layer is water-resistant, which keeps damp car seats from soaking through.
The teal color is easy to spot in a cluttered trunk. It takes maybe 15 seconds to stuff it into the bag. Owner reviews mention that it works well for Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Pomeranians who appreciate a familiar soft spot during road trips. The mat is also machine washable on gentle cycle. It comes out looking good after multiple washes, according to the aggregate feedback.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The 30-inch length is too short for most medium-sized dogs like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels. The padding is thin, so it doesn’t offer much joint support on hard ground. If your dog is larger than 20 pounds or needs thicker cushioning for car rides, the
KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Medium Size gives you a plush 35-inch pad with an anti-slip bottom that works better for medium breeds.
⚠Sizing: This mat fits dogs up to 20 pounds. Measure your dog’s length from nose to base of tail. If they exceed 22 inches, choose a larger option.
Pros
- ✓Compact carry bag fits in a small backpack or purse, ideal for air travel
- ✓Lightweight at roughly 0.8 lb, doesn’t add noticeable weight to your luggage
- ✓Water-resistant bottom protects against damp car seats and wet ground
- ✓Machine washable, holds up well to repeated gentle cycles without pilling
Cons
- ✕Thin padding provides minimal joint relief for older dogs on hard floors
- ✕30-inch length is too short for medium breeds like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels
- ✕Microfleece top can attract static and pet hair between washes
Material
Microfleece / Water-resistant bottom
Washable
Yes, machine washable
Best for: Owners of tiny breeds who need a no-fuss travel mat that packs down to nearly nothing for plane carry-ons or weekend road trips.
KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Medium Size: Best Crate Pad That Doubles for Travel
#5
KSIIAAnti-slip bottom
8.3OUT OF 10
Design & Build8.5
Ease of Use8.1
Versatility8.6
Owner Satisfaction8.0
This is the best option if you already use a crate at home and want the same pad to travel with you. The KSIIA Washable Dog Bed is a plush kennel pad measuring 35 by 23 inches. It fits most medium-size crates and also works as a standalone travel mat. The bottom has a non-slip silicone dot pattern that keeps it from sliding around on car seats or tile floors.
The fill is a thick polyester fiber that provides decent joint cushioning for dogs up to about 40 pounds. The cover is removable and machine washable. Buyer feedback notes that the zipper is sturdy and doesn’t break after repeated washings. The gray color hides dirt reasonably well between cleanings. It also works well in hotel bathtubs or on an air mattress corner for a small dog.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The KSIIA is bulky to carry because it doesn’t roll up tightly like the Outward Hound or the Gimars. It is more of a flat pad that you fold or stuff into a bag. It also lacks a built-in handle or carry strap. If you need a more portable version for longer trips, the
Outward Hound On-The-Go rolls up with a buckle and is easier to transport.
⚠Care: The cover zips off for washing. Wash on gentle cycle and tumble dry low. The fill may clump if dried on high heat, so use low heat and fluff periodically.
Pros
- ✓Non-slip silicone bottom keeps the pad securely in place on slick car seats
- ✓Thick polyester fill offers good joint support for medium dogs on hard surfaces
- ✓Removable, machine-washable cover makes cleaning up accidents straightforward
- ✓35×23-inch size fits most medium crates and also works as a standalone mat
Cons
- ✕Bulky to carry without a strap or bag, not as packable as roll-up beds
- ✕No carry handle or storage pouch included for travel convenience
- ✕Polyester fill may clump over time if not dried on low heat properly
Material
Microsuede / Polyester fill
Washable
Yes, removable cover
Best for: Owners who crate their dog at home and want a plush pad that can double as a travel bed for hotel stays or weekend visits.
Oiilores Dog Car Seat Small Dogs: Best Car Seat with Storage Pockets
#6
OiiloresStorage pockets included
8.1OUT OF 10
Design & Build7.8
Ease of Use8.3
Versatility8.4
Owner Satisfaction7.9
This is the car seat to choose if you want somewhere to stash treats, leash, and toys during a road trip. The Oiilores Dog Car Seat is a booster-style seat for dogs under 25 pounds. It features two deep side pockets that can hold a water bottle, poop bags, and a small pouch of kibble. The main compartment is lined with plush faux fur and has a clip-on safety tether that attaches to your dog’s harness.
The seat installs with adjustable straps that loop around the headrest and a non-slip bottom that helps keep it stable. It also has a fold-down flap that acts as a ramp or step for older or very small dogs who struggle to jump up. The entire outer cover zips off for machine washing. Buyer reviews note that the pockets are spacious enough for a phone and a small treat bag.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The build quality is slightly less robust than the BurgeonNest. Some owners report the zipper feels a bit flimsy after several washes. The foam padding is medium density, so it provides decent comfort but may flatten over time with heavier dogs near the 25-pound limit. If you need a more durable, simpler booster for daily commutes, the
BurgeonNest Dog Car Seat uses a thicker foam and has fewer moving parts that could wear out.
⚠Safety: Always clip the tether to a harness, not a collar. The pockets are convenient but keep heavy items like water bottles in the lower pocket to prevent tipping.
Pros
- ✓Two side storage pockets keep travel essentials organized and within reach
- ✓Fold-down flap acts as a ramp for senior or tiny dogs to climb in easily
- ✓Clip-on safety tether secures your pet to the seat via their harness
- ✓Removable cover is machine washable, good for handling muddy paws
Cons
- ✕Zipper quality feels less durable than pricier competitors based on owner reports
- ✕Foam padding may compress over time with use near the 25-pound weight limit
- ✕Storage pockets add bulk, making the seat less compact to store when not in use
Dimensions
18 x 18 x 16 in
Material
Faux fur / Foam padding
Washable
Yes, removable cover
Best for: Owners of small dogs who want a car seat with built-in storage for road trip necessities like treats, leash, and a phone.
Exsnugy Washable Dog Bed Mat Medium: Best Budget Fluffy Home-and-Road Mat
#7
ExsnugyUltra-soft fluffy surface
7.9OUT OF 10
Design & Build7.5
Ease of Use8.0
Versatility8.2
Owner Satisfaction7.9
This is the most affordable option for a soft, fluffy mat that works at home and can be tossed in the car for short trips. The Exsnugy Washable Dog Bed Mat measures 36 by 23 inches. It features a fluffy microfiber top that feels cozy and a non-slip rubber dot bottom that grips car seats and crate floors. It is essentially a kennel pad designed for comfort rather than portability.
The mat is fully machine washable, which is important for containing fur and odors. It lays flat and can be folded or rolled for transport, though it does not come with a bag. Owner feedback on the listing praises the softness and warmth, especially for dogs who like to burrow. It works well as a crate liner for a medium-size crate and doubles as a travel bed for dogs up to about 40 pounds.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The Exsnugy mat is not water-resistant. It lacks the waterproof layer found on the Gimars or Outward Hound, so wet spots from a damp coat or an accident will soak through. It is also bulkier than roll-up mats when folded. If you need a genuine travel bed that handles the outdoors, choose the
Gimars Upgraded Thickened XL Outdoor Dog with its waterproof film instead.
⚠Care: Wash on gentle cycle and tumble dry low. Avoid fabric softener, which can reduce the fluffiness of the microfiber and affect the rubber anti-slip dots.
Pros
- ✓Very affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious pet owners
- ✓Extra-fluffy microfiber top layer feels warm and inviting for dogs who like to burrow
- ✓Non-slip rubber bottom keeps the mat in place on slippery car seats and crate trays
- ✓Large 36×23-inch size accommodates medium dogs and fits standard crates well
Cons
- ✕No water-resistant layer, so moisture soaks through quickly on wet surfaces
- ✕Bulky when folded, not as packable as dedicated travel roll-up beds
- ✕Fluffy microfiber traps pet hair and requires frequent lint-rolling
Material
Microfiber / Rubber dot bottom
Washable
Yes, fully machine washable
Best for: Owners who want a soft, warm crate pad for home that can also be thrown into the car for occasional short trips without breaking the bank.
Buying Guide: Size, Portability, and Weather Resistance
Picking the right travel bed means matching your dog's size and your travel style to the right features. Here are the three factors that matter most.
What size does your dog actually need?
The single biggest mistake owners make is buying a travel bed that is too small. Your dog should be able to lie down fully stretched out in their natural sleeping position. For a rolled-up mat like the Outward Hound On-The-Go at 36 x 27 inches, that fits most Labs, Golden Retrievers, and smaller Shepherds.
For the Travel Dog Bed 30x22in Foldable, it fits only dogs under 20 pounds.
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail while they are sleeping. Add 6 to 8 inches for a comfortable fit. A 30-inch mat is fine for a Chihuahua but cramped for a Beagle.
The Gimars XL is the only option here that comfortably fits a Great Dane or a Malamute.
How portable does it need to be?
Portability is a trade-off with comfort. Thin mats like the Travel Dog Bed 30x22in fold into a carry bag the size of a water bottle. Thick pads like the KSIIA or the Exsnugy are bulkier and heavier.
If you are flying, hiking, or backpacking, go with a roll-up design that includes a carry bag or buckle straps. If you are just driving to a hotel, a thicker crate pad works fine.
The Outward Hound strikes the best balance: it rolls up tightly without a bag, and the buckle keeps it secure. The Gimars is thicker but heavier and bulkier, best for car camping rather than air travel.
Do you need weather resistance?
If your travel plans include camping, the beach, or any outdoor setting, you need a bed with a water-resistant or waterproof bottom. The Outward Hound has a water-resistant ripstop bottom that handles damp grass. The Gimars goes further with a waterproof film layer that stops moisture from soaking into the fill.
The KSIIA, Exsnugy, and the Travel Dog Bed 30x22in have a water-resistant bottom but not a fully waterproof barrier. They are fine for car seats and hotel carpets but not for wet ground. If you only travel with your dog in the car and stay indoors, weather resistance is less critical.
If you camp in rainy regions, prioritize the Gimars.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Dog Bed for Travel
A travel dog bed is the wrong purchase for three types of owners. Here is who they are and what to look at instead.
You Need a Full-Size Crate for Travel
If your dog is anxious or destructive when away from home, a soft travel bed will not contain them. You need a hard-sided or collapsible travel crate that provides a secure den. Crates from manufacturers like Petmate or Gunner are better for dogs who chew bedding or need a safe space to calm down.
A travel bed can sit inside the crate, but the crate itself is the primary purchase.
Your Dog is Over 100 Pounds and Needs Extreme Support
The Gimars XL is the largest option here, but it still provides limited joint support for giant breeds like a 120-pound Mastiff. For very large breeds with arthritis or hip dysplasia, look at orthopedic travel beds with memory foam, such as those from Big Barker or PetFusion. Those beds are heavier and less packable but offer the thick, supportive foam that heavy dogs need on long car rides.
You Only Travel by Plane and Need an Airline-Approved Carrier
This guide focuses on beds for car travel and camping. None of these products are designed to meet airline cabin pet carrier size restrictions. If you fly with your dog in-cabin, you need a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat, not a travel bed.
For checked cargo, you need an airline-approved hard or soft crate. Save this guide for road trips and use a separate carrier for flights.
Final Verdict
For most owners, the Outward Hound On-The-Go Travel Dog Bed is the obvious pick. It combines a roomy 36×27-inch surface with a water-resistant bottom, a soft fleece interior, and a roll-up design that packs easily. It works for indoor and outdoor trips, fits medium-to-large dogs, and has a strong owner satisfaction record.
Want a car-specific booster for a small pup? Grab the BurgeonNest Dog Car Seat. Need a thick waterproof pad for a giant breed on camping trips?
The Gimars Upgraded Thickened XL handles wet ground and rough terrain. After reading through the details, you should have a clear idea of which bed matches your dog's size and your travel style. If none of these fit, check the Who Should NOT Buy section again.
Honest advice means knowing when to pass.
FAQ
What's the best Dog Bed for Travel overall?
The Outward Hound On-The-Go Travel Dog Bed is the best overall. It balances a large 36×27-inch size, water-resistant bottom, easy roll-up design, and soft fleece interior for a price that beats most competitors.
How do I choose the right size travel bed for my dog?
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail while they are lying down. Add 6 to 8 inches for comfortable stretching. A 30-inch bed fits small breeds under 20 pounds, while a 36-inch bed fits medium-to-large dogs up to about 70 pounds.
Are travel dog beds machine washable?
Most of the beds on this list are machine washable. The Outward Hound, Travel Dog Bed 30x22in, KSIIA, Oiilores, and Exsnugy all have removable covers or are fully washable. The Gimars is also machine washable but may require a large-capacity washer for the XL size.
Can I use a travel dog bed for camping?
Yes, but choose one with a water-resistant or waterproof bottom. The Outward Hound and the Gimars are best for camping. The Gimars has a waterproof film layer that handles damp ground well.
The other options are better suited for car seats and hotel rooms.
What is the difference between a travel bed and a car seat?
A travel bed is a flat mat that your dog sleeps on in the car, tent, or hotel. A car seat is an elevated booster that attaches to the vehicle's seat with a tether for safety. Car seats are best for small dogs who like to see out the window.
Travel beds are better for larger dogs or multi-purpose use.
How do I clean a travel dog bed on the road?
Most beds can be spot cleaned with a mild detergent and a damp cloth. For deeper cleaning, wait until you have access to a washing machine. The Travel Dog Bed 30x22in and the Outward Hound are quick-drying if you need to hand-wash and air-dry them overnight.
Is a waterproof travel bed necessary?
It depends on your trips. If you camp, go to the beach, or drive in wet weather, a waterproof or water-resistant bottom is worth the extra cost. If you only drive to climate-controlled hotels and stay indoors, a standard mat works fine.
