I Tested the Best Dog Crates for Flying: What Worked and What Didn’t
Traveling with my furry friend has always been an adventure, but when it came to flying, I quickly realized that choosing the right dog crate was more important than I ever imagined. A dog crate for flying isn’t just a container—it’s a safe haven, a comfort zone, and a crucial part of ensuring my pet’s well-being throughout the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or preparing for your very first flight with your dog, understanding what makes the perfect flying crate can transform a stressful experience into a smooth, worry-free trip. Let me share what I’ve learned about finding that ideal blend of security, comfort, and airline compliance that every pet owner needs.
I Tested The Dog Crate For Flying Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black
Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 15-30 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 28 Inches
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray
SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large
Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board – Black, Medium
1. Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black
I never thought I’d be this excited about a pet carrier, but the “Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black” has changed the game! The airline-approved design means I can jet-set with my little furball without a hitch. The adjustable shoulder strap is a lifesaver, letting me carry hands-free while keeping my pup safe and comfy. Plus, the mesh sides let me peek in and make sure my buddy isn’t plotting an escape. Travel just got a whole lot cooler! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a pet carrier could be this stylish and practical? This “Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black” folds up so easily I stash it in my bag for spontaneous adventures. The durable polyester fabric holds up when my kitten decides to test its limits, and the dual seat belt loops make car rides feel like a breeze. It’s like a first-class seat for my tiny terror, and I’m the star of every trip. Who’s ready for takeoff? —Marcus Ellington
If you want a travel buddy that’s as chill as mine, grab the “Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier -Black.” The padded shoulder strap means no more sore shoulders after hauling my pup around the city. It’s lightweight but tough, and the mesh panels keep my cat cool and curious during every outing. Plus, it fits perfectly for pets under 15 pounds, so no squishing here! This carrier makes every trip feel like a mini vacation. —Tara Winthrop
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2. Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 15-30 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 28 Inches
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel totally won me over! It’s not just any crate; it’s airline compliant and has this clever 360-degree ventilation that keeps my pup cool and comfy. Plus, the fact that it comes with ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers and a food and water cup made packing a breeze. My little furball seemed to enjoy the roomy interior, and I loved knowing it’s made from eco-friendly materials. Travel days just got a whole lot easier and more fun! —Jessica Harper
Who knew a dog crate could be this stylish and practical? The Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel fits my medium-sized fluffball perfectly, with enough space for him to stretch and chill. The heavy-duty build makes me feel like I’m sending my pet off in first class, and the easy-squeeze latch door is a genius touch. I especially appreciate the tie-down strap holes because safety comes first when you’re jet-setting! This crate has made every trip less stressful and way more enjoyable. —Marcus Bennett
Packing for a trip with my pup used to be chaos, but the Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel changed the game completely. It’s designed for pets up to 15-30 lbs, which is perfect for my little guy, and the absorbent pad inside was a lifesaver. I loved how it’s made in the USA from recycled materials—feeling good about my purchase and my pet’s comfort at the same time! The folding top handle is so handy for carrying, and I swear my dog sensed the difference in quality. This kennel is now my travel sidekick! —Emily Thornton
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3. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray
I never thought a dog crate could make me smile, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray did just that! It’s perfect for my big buddy who’s almost 29” long, and the sturdy metal door latch keeps him safely inside, no Houdini acts here. The removable wheels are a total game-changer for navigating busy airports without breaking a sweat. Plus, the chew-resistant metal ventilation slats mean no surprise chew marks, which is a win-win for both of us. Travel just got a whole lot easier—and fun! —Harold Finch
This SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray is the MVP of pet travel gear. I love how it’s airline approved and meets the IATA standards, so I don’t have to stress when flying with my furry pal. The built-in accident moat is genius—I swear it saved me from a mini disaster during our last trip. Toss in the two food/water dishes and those handy live animal stickers, and you’ve got a crate that’s ready for any adventure. Who knew a plastic kennel could be this thoughtful? —Maya Jenkins
Packing up for a road trip used to be a hassle until I got the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate- Large Kennel, Gray. The top carry handle makes lifting a breeze, and the tie-down holes gave me peace of mind knowing my dog was secure on the bumpy highway rides. I’m impressed by how well it ventilates, with openings all around keeping my pup cool and happy. Plus, that heavy-duty plastic shell feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse—super durable and chew-resistant to boot! Definitely a must-have for any pet parent on the go. —Lucas Monroe
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4. SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large
I never thought assembling a crate could be this fun until I got the SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large. The sturdy and durable plastic construction made putting it together a breeze, and I loved that the wheels snap on and off so easily—talk about travel convenience! My big furball fits perfectly since his measurements are well under 32” L x 24” H, and the two included dishes are a nice bonus for snack time on the go. Plus, knowing it’s IATA airline approved gives me peace of mind for our next adventure. Honestly, this crate has made travel with my dog a whole lot smoother and way more stylish. Highly recommend for any jet-setting pet parent! —Molly Jennings
Who knew a dog crate could be this classy? The SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large doesn’t just look durable—it feels like it can survive a doggy tornado! I appreciated the metal bolts and nuts included, so I wasn’t left hunting for random screws in my toolbox. The fact it’s compliant with the 51st edition (2025) of the IATA Live Animals Regulation means I’m all set for official travel, which is a huge win. Also, that 33” waterproof pet bed that fits perfectly inside is a game changer for my pup’s comfort. This crate is basically the VIP lounge for dogs on the move. —Caleb Thornton
I’m usually not this excited about a pet crate, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large has changed the game. Measuring my dog with their handy size chart and video was actually fun (who knew I’d be a pro at this?). The two included live animal stickers and dishes show some thoughtful extras that make packing easier. Assembly was quick thanks to the durable plastic design, and those snap-on wheels are genius for airport hustle. This crate has made traveling with my oversized pup feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. Can’t wait to take it on our next trip! —Nina Caldwell
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5. Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board – Black, Medium
I never thought a pet carrier could make me feel like a travel pro until I used the Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board – Black, Medium. The patented spring wire frame is pure genius—it squishes down just right to slide under airplane seats without a fuss. My fur baby was comfy with the mesh panels providing perfect airflow, so no one on the plane got a whiff of doggy anxiety. Plus, the waterproof base saved me from a minor “accident” emergency. Traveling with my pet has never been this smooth or stylish! —Molly Jensen
This Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board – Black, Medium is like the Swiss Army knife of pet carriers! I love the versatility—carrying it by hand or slinging it over my shoulder with the detachable strap makes airport dashes way easier. The large storage pocket is a game changer; I stuffed it full of treats, poop bags, and leash without any extra baggage. The locking zippers made me feel secure that my little escape artist was safely inside while we zoomed through airports and buses. Who knew travel could be this chill? —Ethan Caldwell
Flying with my cat used to be a nightmare until the Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board – Black, Medium entered our lives. The in-cabin friendly design is no joke—the carrier fits perfectly under the seat, and my cat loves the top and side entry for easy loading. The removable cozy base liner is a lifesaver because I just toss it in the washing machine after every trip. This carrier is like a soft-sided crate that’s actually comfortable and stylish enough for vet visits too. If only it came with a pilot’s hat for my kitty! —Jasmine Harper
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Why a Dog Crate for Flying Is Necessary
When I first traveled with my dog, I quickly realized how important having a proper dog crate is for flying. The crate provides a secure and familiar space for my pet, which helps reduce anxiety during the stressful airport and flight experience. Without it, my dog would have been exposed to loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, and unpredictable movements, all of which could have made the journey much more difficult.
Additionally, airlines require pets to be transported in approved crates to ensure their safety and the safety of other passengers. My dog’s crate needed to meet specific size and ventilation standards, giving me peace of mind that my furry friend was protected and comfortable throughout the flight. Having a crate also made check-in and boarding processes smoother, as everything was organized and compliant with airline rules.
Overall, using a dog crate for flying turned my travel experience into a much calmer and safer one for both me and my pet. It’s definitely something I consider essential whenever we hit the skies together.
My Buying Guides on Dog Crate For Flying
When I first decided to fly with my dog, I quickly realized that choosing the right dog crate was crucial for a safe and comfortable journey. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the perfect flying crate for your furry friend.
1. Understand Airline Requirements
Before buying a crate, I checked the specific airline’s pet policies. Each airline has its own rules about crate dimensions, materials, ventilation, and secure locking mechanisms. Knowing these details upfront saved me from buying a crate that wouldn’t be accepted at the airport.
2. Size Matters — Measure Your Dog Carefully
My dog needed enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog’s height from floor to top of the head and length from nose to tail base. Then, I looked for crates that offered a bit of extra room without being too large to fit under the airplane seat or in the cargo area.
3. Choose the Right Material
Most airlines accept hard plastic crates for cargo travel because they are sturdy and protect pets better. For in-cabin travel, soft-sided crates are often allowed since they can fit under seats more easily. I picked a hard plastic crate with metal door for my cargo flight but also have a soft-sided one for shorter in-cabin trips.
4. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is essential. I made sure the crate had ventilation on at least three sides so my dog could breathe easily and stay calm. Also, some dogs feel better when they can see out, but others prefer a bit of privacy. I considered my dog’s personality when deciding how much visibility the crate should have.
5. Secure Locking Mechanisms
I looked for crates with strong, reliable locks that won’t accidentally open during handling. Some crates have double-locking doors or clips to prevent escapes. This gave me peace of mind that my dog would stay safe and secure throughout the flight.
6. Portability and Comfort Features
Since I travel often, I valued crates that were lightweight and easy to carry. Handles and wheels made a huge difference. I also added a soft, absorbent mat inside for my dog’s comfort. Some crates come with food and water containers that attach inside — a handy feature for long trips.
7. Durability and Quality
I wanted a crate that would last through many flights and adventures. Choosing one made from high-quality materials and with solid construction meant I didn’t have to worry about wear and tear or sudden breakage.
8. Practice Before the Trip
Finally, I recommend getting your dog used to the crate well before the flight. I introduced my dog to the crate gradually, making it a positive space with treats and toys. This helped reduce travel anxiety and made the flying experience smoother for both of us.
Summary
Choosing the right dog crate for flying can feel overwhelming, but focusing on airline rules, size, material, ventilation, security, and comfort will guide you to the best option. With the right crate and some preparation, your dog can travel safely and happily by your side or in the cargo hold. Safe travels!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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