The best best travel dog kennel is the ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate, the only one here that combines soft-sided portability with a built-in leash, plush pad, and tool-free setup in under 30 seconds. It's the top pick for anyone who travels by car, camps, or needs a versatile indoor/outdoor crate for large dogs.
Want guaranteed airline approval instead? The Petmate Sky Kennel Air Travel is IATA compliant and built for the cargo hold, as long as you don't need it to fold flat for storage.
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This guide covers seven travel kennels across soft-sided, plastic, and wire styles, matched to real travel scenarios. If you're looking for a heavy-duty home crate or a chew-proof enclosure, you'll want to skip this category entirely (more on that later).
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, manufacturer specs, and verified buyer feedback across thousands of reviews. No hands-on testing here, just honest research.
Quick Answer: The Best Travel Dog Kennel
The ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate is the best overall travel kennel for most dog owners who need a portable, easy-to-setup crate for car trips and everyday use.
- ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate (Best Overall for Large Dogs): Soft-sided, folds in seconds, includes leash and pad.
- Petmate Sky Kennel Air Travel (Best for Air Travel): IATA compliant, made in USA, ready to fly.
- ZOMISIA 28" L Collapsible Dog Crate (Best Portable with Wheels): Heavy-duty steel, no-tool assembly, built-in wheels.
- Petmate Vari Dog Kennel (Best Budget Plastic Kennel): Durable hard plastic, airline friendly, great value.
- Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel 40in (Best for Extra Large Dogs): Handles 70-90lbs, heavy duty, made in USA.
- Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog (Best Budget Soft-Sided): Double door, collapsible, affordable.
- Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Medium (Best Value Wire Crate): Foldable, two doors, mesh windows.
Thinking about a heavy-duty home crate or a chew-proof enclosure 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.
ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate: Best Overall for Large Dog Travel
#1
ZOMISIASoft-Sided with Leash & Pad
9.2OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.3
Ease of Use9.5
Portability9.0
Owner Verdict9.0
This is the pick for anyone who wants a travel kennel that sets up in seconds without tools and includes everything you need. The ZOMISIA 36 Inch collapses flat for storage, pops open in one motion, and comes with a plush pad and a built-in leash tether. Verified buyer feedback across thousands of reviews consistently praises the 30-second setup and the breathable mesh windows that keep dogs calm and visible.
The soft-sided design makes it ideal for car travel, camping, and indoor use. At 36 inches, it fits large breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers comfortably. The built-in leash inside the crate lets you tether your dog safely, and the removable pad makes cleanup straightforward.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Soft-sided crates are not chew-proof, so a determined chewer can damage the mesh. It’s also not airline approved for cargo hold travel, so it’s strictly for car and home use. Some owners wish the floor pad had a non-slip backing.
⚠Sizing: Measure your dog from nose to tail and add 2-4 inches to ensure they can stand and turn around comfortably. The 36-inch size suits dogs up to about 70-80 lbs.
Pros
- ✓Collapsible design folds flat in seconds for storage
- ✓Includes plush pad and built-in leash tether
- ✓Breathable mesh windows on all sides for ventilation
- ✓Tool-free setup with no assembly required
Cons
- ✕Not airline approved for cargo hold travel
- ✕Soft mesh can be damaged by determined chewers
- ✕Floor pad lacks non-slip backing per some owner reports
Dimensions
36 x 25 x 25 in
Best for: Large dog owners who travel by car and want a lightweight, foldable crate that sets up instantly and includes a pad and leash tether.
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel: Best Budget Plastic Travel Kennel
#2
PetmateDurable Plastic, Airline Friendly
8.6OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.5
Ease of Use8.5
Portability8.8
Owner Verdict8.6
This is the budget-friendly plastic kennel that’s been a trusted travel companion for years. The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is made from durable hard plastic with a metal door and ventilation slots on all sides. It’s airline friendly for most carriers and works just as well for car travel and home use. Owner reviews consistently highlight how well it holds up after years of regular trips.
The 28-inch size fits dogs up to about 30-40 lbs, and the two-piece design comes apart for storage. The plastic construction is easy to clean with a hose, and the latch system keeps the door securely closed during travel. It’s a simple, no-frills design that just works.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The plastic can feel a bit thin on the sides compared to heavier-duty kennels. Some owners report the latch can be tricky to close properly. It also doesn’t fold flat like soft-sided options, so storage takes more space.
⚠Compatibility: Always check with your specific airline before flying. Most US carriers accept Petmate Vari kennels, but size and weight limits vary by airline.
Pros
- ✓Durable hard plastic resists scratches and cleans easily
- ✓Airline friendly design accepted by most carriers
- ✓Ventilation slots on all four sides for airflow
- ✓Decades of proven owner satisfaction with Petmate
Cons
- ✕Does not fold flat for compact storage
- ✕Plastic side panels feel thinner than premium models
- ✕Latch can be finicky to secure properly
Dimensions
28 x 20 x 20 in
Best for: Budget-conscious owners who need a durable plastic kennel for occasional car trips and airline travel with small to medium dogs.
Petmate Sky Kennel Air Travel: Best IATA Compliant Air Travel Kennel
#3
PetmateIATA Compliant, Ready to Fly
8.9OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.0
Ease of Use8.8
Portability8.9
Owner Verdict8.9
This is the only kennel on this list specifically designed and certified for air travel. The Petmate Sky Kennel meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements, which means it’s accepted by virtually all major airlines for cargo hold travel. It includes “ready to fly” essentials like a leak-proof bowl, ventilation guards, and a live animal sticker. Buyer reviews consistently praise how airlines accept it without issues.
The 28-inch size fits dogs 15 to 30 lbs, and the heavy-duty plastic construction is made in the USA. The metal door has a reinforced locking system that meets airline security requirements, and the recessed handles make it easy to carry. The included water cup mounts inside the doorfor easy access during travel.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The Sky Kennel is heavier than soft-sided options, weighing around 12 lbs empty. It also doesn’t fold flat, so storage requires more closet space. Some owners note that the plastic can feel warm in direct sunlight, so ventilation placement matters during ground transport.
⚠Airline: Always check your specific airline’s pet policy before booking. Some carriers have additional requirements beyond IATA compliance for kennel dimensions.
Pros
- ✓IATA compliant and accepted by all major airlines
- ✓Includes leak-proof bowl and live animal sticker
- ✓Reinforced locking system meets airline security standards
- ✓Made in the USA with heavy-duty plastic construction
Cons
- ✕Heavier than soft-sided alternatives at about 12 lbs
- ✕Does not fold flat for storage
- ✕Plastic can feel warm in direct sunlight
Dimensions
28 x 20 x 20 in
Material
Heavy-Duty Plastic
Best for: Dog owners who fly frequently and need a kennel that meets IATA airline requirements for cargo hold travel with small to medium dogs.
Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel 40in: Best for Extra Large Dogs
#4
PetmateHeavy Duty for 70-90 lbs Dogs
8.4OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.8
Ease of Use8.0
Portability8.2
Owner Verdict8.5
This is the go-to kennel for large breed owners who need a sturdy plastic crate that can handle 70 to 90 lb dogs. The Petmate Ultra Vari 40-inch model is built heavier than the standard Vari, with thicker plastic walls and a reinforced metal door. Owner reviews consistently note how well it contains strong, active dogs during car travel and at home. The 40-inch length gives a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd room to stand and turn.
The two-piece design clips together securely and breaks down for storage, though it still takes up significant space. The ventilation slots are larger than the standard Vari, which helps with airflow for bigger dogs. It’s also made in the USA, which matters to buyers looking for domestic manufacturing.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. This kennel is heavy and bulky, weighing over 20 lbs, so it’s not ideal for frequent lifting. The plastic can feel flexible on the side panels when a large dog pushes against it. Some owners also wish the latch system was more robust for escape artists.
⚠Weight: At over 20 lbs, this is one of the heaviest kennels on the list. Make sure you can lift and carry it, especially if you’re loading it into a vehicle alone.
Pros
- ✓Extra large 40-inch size fits dogs up to 90 lbs
- ✓Thicker plastic walls than standard Vari models
- ✓Reinforced metal door for secure containment
- ✓Made in the USA with quality materials
Cons
- ✕Heavy and bulky at over 20 lbs
- ✕Side panels can flex under pressure from large dogs
- ✕Latch system could be more secure for escape artists
Dimensions
40 x 27 x 27 in
Material
Heavy-Duty Plastic
Best for: Owners of large breeds like German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers who need a sturdy plastic kennel for car travel and home use.
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog: Best Budget Soft-Sided Travel Crate
#5
AmazonDouble Door, Budget Friendly
8.0OUT OF 10
Build Quality7.8
Ease of Use8.5
Portability8.2
Owner Verdict7.5
This is the most affordable soft-sided travel crate on the list, and it gets the job done without breaking the bank. The Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate features two doors (front and side), a collapsible steel frame, and breathable mesh panels. It’s designed for medium-sized dogs and folds into a flat carry bag for storage. Verified buyer feedback highlights the easy setup and the convenience of having two entry points.
The medium size measures 29.92 x 21.3 x 21.3 inches, which fits dogs up to about 40-50 lbs. The steel frame provides decent stability, and the mesh windows offer good ventilation. The top-loading design also has a removable cover for easy access to your dog.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The fabric is thinner than premium soft-sided crates, and some owners report the zippers can be stiff at first. The floor pad is basic and offers minimal padding. It’s also not suitable for chewers or anxious dogs who might scratch at the mesh.
⚠Care: The fabric cover is machine washable, but the foam pad is not. Spot clean the pad and let it air dry to prevent odors from building up.
Pros
- ✓Two doors for flexible placement and access
- ✓Collapsible steel frame folds into carry bag
- ✓Breathable mesh panels on all sides
- ✓Very affordable price point for budget buyers
Cons
- ✕Fabric feels thinner than premium soft-sided crates
- ✕Zippers can be stiff when new
- ✕Floor pad offers minimal padding
Dimensions
29.9 x 21.3 x 21.3 in
Material
Fabric + Steel Frame
Dog Size
Medium, up to 40-50 lbs
Best for: Budget-conscious owners who need a lightweight, foldable crate for occasional car trips and home use with a calm medium-sized dog.
Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Medium: Best Value Wire Crate for Home & Travel
#6
DogFoldable Wire with 2 Doors
7.6OUT OF 10
Build Quality7.5
Ease of Use8.0
Portability7.0
Owner Verdict7.8
This is the wire crate option for owners who want a foldable, multi-purpose kennel that works well at home and on the road. The Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch features two doors, durable mesh windows, and a foldable design that collapses for transport. It’s a hybrid between a traditional wire crate and a travel-friendly option, offering good visibility for your dog and easy access for you. Owner reviews highlight the solid construction and the convenient folding mechanism.
The 36-inch size fits large and medium breeds, and the wire construction provides better ventilation than plastic or soft-sided options. The two doors make it easy to place in tight spaces, and the removable tray simplifies cleaning. The light grey finish blends well with home decor.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Wire crates are heavier than soft-sided options and don’t fold as compactly. Some owners report the door latches can be a bit flimsy over time. It’s also not suitable for air travel and offers less privacy than a plastic or soft-sided kennel.
⚠Compatibility: Wire crates are not airline approved for cargo hold travel. Use this for car trips and home use only.
Pros
- ✓Two doors for flexible placement and access
- ✓Foldable design collapses for transport
- ✓Durable mesh windows provide good ventilation
- ✓Removable tray makes cleaning easy
Cons
- ✕Heavier and bulkier than soft-sided alternatives
- ✕Door latches may feel less durable over time
- ✕Not suitable for air travel
Dimensions
36 x 25 x 25 in
Best for: Owners who want a versatile wire crate that works for home use and occasional car travel, with good visibility and ventilation for their dog.
ZOMISIA 28″ L Collapsible Dog Crate: Best Portable with Wheels for Small/Medium Dogs
#7
ZOMISIAHeavy Duty Steel with Wheels
8.8OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.0
Ease of Use8.7
Portability8.5
Owner Verdict8.9
This is the heavy-duty steel crate that rolls, making it the most portable option for small to medium dogs who need a secure enclosure. The ZOMISIA 28-inch Collapsible Dog Crate features a 4-side steel frame, built-in wheels, and a no-tool assembly design that sets up in minutes. It’s built for both indoor and outdoor use, with a space-saving foldable design. Verified buyer feedback consistently praises the sturdy construction and the ease of moving it around the house.
The 28-inch length fits small to medium breeds like Beagles, Corgis, and French Bulldogs. The steel frame is significantly stronger than soft-sided alternatives, and the wheels make it easy to roll from room to room or out to the car. The foldable design collapses for storage when not in use.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The crate is heavier than soft-sided options due to the steel frame, weighing around 15-18 lbs. The wheels are great for rolling on hard floors but can be less effective on grass or carpet. Some owners also note that the assembly, while tool-free, takes a few minutes longer than a pop-up soft crate.
⚠Sizing: The 28-inch size is best for dogs up to 30-40 lbs. Measure your dog’s length and height to ensure they can stand and turn around comfortably.
Pros
- ✓Heavy-duty steel frame provides excellent durability
- ✓Built-in wheels for easy mobility
- ✓No-tool assembly sets up in minutes
- ✓Foldable design saves space when not in use
Cons
- ✕Heavier than soft-sided crates at 15-18 lbs
- ✕Wheels work best on hard floors, not carpet or grass
- ✕Assembly takes a few minutes longer than pop-up designs
Dimensions
28 x 20 x 22 in
Dog Size
Small to Medium, up to 30-40 lbs
Assembly
No-tool, foldable
Best for: Small to medium dog owners who want a heavy-duty, wheeled crate that’s easy to move around the house and take on car trips.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Travel Dog Kennel
Picking the right travel kennel comes down to three main factors: your travel style, your dog's size and temperament, and the type of trips you take. Let's break each one down.
What type of travel do you do most?
The biggest decision is whether you need a kennel for car travel, air travel, or both. Soft-sided crates like the ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate are perfect for road trips because they fold flat and weigh under 10 lbs. But they're not approved for airline cargo holds.
If you fly regularly, you need a hard-sided plastic kennel that meets IATA standards. The Petmate Sky Kennel Air Travel is the only one on this list specifically designed and certified for air travel. For occasional flying, the standard Petmate Vari is also airline friendly with most carriers.
How big is your dog, and what's their temperament?
Measure your dog from nose to tail and add 2 to 4 inches for comfortable movement. A kennel that's too small will stress your dog out. For reference, the 36-inch kennels on this list fit dogs up to about 70-80 lbs, while the 28-inch options suit dogs up to 30-40 lbs.
Temperament matters even more. Soft-sided crates are great for calm, well-trained dogs. But if your dog is an anxious chewer or a determined escape artist, you need a steel frame like the ZOMISIA 28" L Collapsible Dog Crate or a heavy-duty plastic option like the Petmate Ultra Vari.
What's your budget and storage space?
Prices for travel kennels vary widely based on materials and features. Soft-sided crates are generally the most affordable and easiest to store. Plastic kennels cost a bit more but last longer.
Wire crates offer the best value for home use but are bulkier.
Think about where you'll store the kennel when it's not in use. The ZOMISIA and Amazon Basics soft-sided options fold flat to about the size of a suitcase. Plastic kennels like the Petmate Vari break into two pieces but still need closet space.
The wire crate folds but is heavier and bulkier.
Who Should NOT Buy a Travel Dog Kennel
A travel dog kennel is the wrong purchase for two kinds of buyers. Here's who they are and what to look at instead.
You Need a Chew-Proof or Escape-Proof Home Crate
Soft-sided and standard plastic kennels are not designed for determined chewers or escape artists. If your dog has a history of breaking out of crates or destroying soft materials, a travel kennel will not last long. Look for a heavy-duty metal crate with reinforced latches and thicker gauge wire.
These are built for containment, not portability, but they'll keep your dog secure.
You Need a Crate for Potty Training or Extended Crate Time
Travel kennels, especially soft-sided ones, are designed for short-term use during trips. They don't have the same durability and ease of cleaning as a traditional wire crate with a removable tray. If you're crate training a puppy or need a crate for several hours a day at home, a standard wire crate with a divider panel is a better investment.
It's easier to clean, provides better ventilation, and allows you to adjust the size as your puppy grows.
Final Verdict
The ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate is the best travel dog kennel for most owners. It combines the portability of a soft-sided crate with the convenience of a built-in leash tether and plush pad. It sets up in seconds, folds flat for storage, and fits large dogs comfortably.
Want guaranteed airline approval? The Petmate Sky Kennel Air Travel is IATA compliant and built for the cargo hold. Need a heavy-duty option with wheels for small or medium dogs?
The ZOMISIA 28" L Collapsible Dog Crate offers steel frame durability with easy mobility.
If you're on a tight budget, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a solid plastic option that's been trusted for decades. And if you're looking for a home crate that also works for car trips, the Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Medium gives you wire construction with foldable convenience.
Think about your travel style, your dog's size and temperament, and where you'll store the crate. If none of these fit your needs, check the Who Should NOT Buy section above for alternative crate types.
FAQ
What's the best travel dog kennel overall?
The ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate is our top pick. It's lightweight, folds flat in seconds, includes a plush pad and built-in leash tether, and fits large dogs comfortably for car travel and home use .
Can I use a soft-sided crate for air travel?
No, soft-sided crates are not approved for airline cargo hold travel. Only hard-sided plastic kennels that meet IATA standards are accepted by most airlines. The Petmate Sky Kennel Air Travel is specifically designed for this purpose.
Soft-sided crates can be used as carry-on for small dogs on some airlines, but always check your specific carrier's policy first.
How do I measure my dog for a travel kennel?
Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while they're standing. Add 2 to 4 inches to that length to find the right kennel size. Also measure the height from the floor to the top of the head or ears.
The dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without hitting the walls.
Are plastic kennels better than soft-sided crates for travel?
It depends on your needs. Plastic kennels offer better protection and are airline approved, but they're heavier and don't fold flat. Soft-sided crates are lighter, more portable, and easier to store, but they offer less protection from impact and are not chew-proof.
For car travel with a calm dog, soft-sided is usually fine. For air travel or anxious dogs, plastic is safer.
How do I clean a travel dog kennel?
Soft-sided crates usually have removable, machine-washable covers. Spot clean the foam pad and let it air dry. Plastic kennels can be hosed down or wiped with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Wire crates have removable trays that slide out for easy cleaning. Always dry thoroughly before storing to prevent mold and odors.
What's the difference between the Petmate Vari and the Petmate Sky Kennel?
The Petmate Sky Kennel is specifically designed for air travel and meets IATA compliance standards. It includes a leak-proof bowl, ventilation guards, and a live animal sticker. The standard Petmate Vari is a general-purpose kennel that's airline friendly but not certified for all carriers.
The Sky Kennel is also built with heavier-duty plastic for the rigors of air travel.
