Traveling with your dog in the car boot requires a safe, secure, and comfortable crate. We researched and compared top-rated models using manufacturer specifications, published crash-test data, and aggregated owner feedback to bring you this guide. Our evaluation focuses on crash protection, ease of installation, durability, and value. Whether you have a small terrier or a large Labrador, we have a crate that fits your needs and budget.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Gunner G1 Intermediate Dog Crate Top Pick Rotomolded plastic, crash-tested, FODMA certified |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Petmate Vari Kennel Ultimate Dog Crate Runner Up Plastic airline-approved crate, multiple sizes |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Lucky Champ Large Dog Crate Best Value Heavy-duty metal wire, foldable, with divider panel |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Dog Crate Best for Small Dogs Wire crate with single door, multiple sizes, foldable |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Pet Carrier Best for Portability Collapsible fabric carrier with seat belt attachment |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Pet Gear Travel Lite Pet Stroller/Carrier Multi-Function Convertible stroller/carrier with removable wheels |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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SportPet Designs Heavy Duty Plastic Dog Crate Budget Pick Molded plastic crate with metal door, multiple sizes |
7.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Gunner G1 Intermediate Dog Crate: Top Pick
The Gunner G1 Intermediate is our top pick for safety-conscious owners. In our evaluation of published crash-test data, this crate consistently ranks among the best for impact absorption. The rotomolded polyethylene shell is virtually indestructible, and the steel door with dual-pin latch ensures your dog stays put. Owner feedback highlights how it has held up in actual accidents, protecting pets from serious injury. The tie-down system is robust, and the non-slip base keeps it stable during sharp turns.
However, the G1 is heavy (over 50 pounds) and takes up significant boot space. It is also one of the most expensive options. If you have a very small dog or need a crate that is frequently removed, this may be overkill. But for those prioritizing maximum safety and durability, the Gunner G1 is the gold standard.
- Rotomolded construction excels in impact absorption and durability.
- Passes the Center for Pet Safety crash test (CPS 2015 protocol) with flying colors.
- Includes tie-down straps and non-slip rubber feet for secure boot installation.
Pros: Exceptional crash protection with industry-leading safety certifications.; Very durable, resists chewing and weather extremes.
Cons: Heavy and bulky, may be difficult to move in and out of the boot.
2. Petmate Vari Kennel Ultimate Dog Crate: Runner Up
The Petmate Vari Kennel Ultimate is a solid runner-up, especially for those on a budget. We compared its specifications against industry standards and found it meets airline safety requirements, which translates to decent crash protection. Owner feedback praises its ease of assembly and the fact that it fits in most car boots without issue. The ventilation is excellent, and the raised base keeps your dog off a cold floor.
That said, the plastic shell is not as robust as rotomolded crates. In our research, some owners reported cracks after heavy use or a hard impact. If you have a large, powerful dog that might try to escape, this crate may not hold up. But for the price, it offers great value and reliable day-to-day performance.
- Meets airline cargo specifications for stress and impact resistance.
- Ventilation on all four sides, plus a raised base for air circulation.
- Quick-assembly design with wing nuts and bolts, no tools needed.
Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for frequent travel.; Affordable price point with good crash protection for the cost.
Cons: Plastic can crack under extreme impact or aggressive chewers.
3. Lucky Champ Large Dog Crate: Best Value
The Lucky Champ Large Dog Crate is our best value pick for owners who need a versatile crate that can transition from home to car. We researched owner feedback and found it is praised for its sturdy wire construction and easy assembly. The foldable design is a bonus for those with limited storage space. The included divider is useful for crate training a puppy.
However, this crate is not crash-tested and lacks the impact absorption of heavier-duty options. In a serious collision, the wire may deform. We recommend it primarily for short trips or as a home crate that occasionally goes in the car. If crash safety is your top priority, consider a more robust model.
- All-steel wire construction with a secure slide-bolt latch.
- Folds flat for easy storage when not in use.
- Includes a divider panel to adjust crate size as your puppy grows.
Pros: Very affordable and great for training or home use.; Foldable design makes it easy to store in the boot when not in use.
Cons: Not crash-tested; wire can bend under severe impact.
4. MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Dog Crate: Best for Small Dogs
The MidWest iCrate is a popular choice for small dogs, and we understand why. Owner feedback consistently highlights its ease of use, portability, and low cost. It folds flat for storage and is light enough to move around. For a small dog under 20 pounds, this crate provides adequate containment during short car rides.
But for larger dogs or serious crash protection, this crate falls short. It lacks any impact testing, and the wire can be bent if a dog pushes against it. We recommend it only for small, calm dogs and short trips. If you need a crate for a long journey or a larger dog, look elsewhere.
- Single-door wire crate with a secure slide-bolt latch.
- Folds down in seconds for easy transport and storage.
- Available in sizes from small to extra-large.
Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry, great for small dogs.; Very affordable and widely available.
Cons: Not crash-tested; wire can be bent by determined dogs.
5. PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Pet Carrier: Best for Portability
The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Pet Carrier is our pick for portability. We researched its design and found it convenient for small dogs under 25 pounds. The fabric is soft, and the mesh panels provide good ventilation. The seat belt loop adds some security, but it is not a substitute for a rigid crate.
However, this carrier offers very little protection in a crash. It is essentially a soft-sided bag, and we would not trust it for anything beyond short, low-speed trips. If you have a small dog that rides in the cabin, this might work, but for the boot, a hard-sided crate is much safer. Skip this if crash safety is a priority.
- Padded, machine-washable fabric with mesh ventilation.
- Includes a seat belt loop to secure the carrier in the car.
- Collapses flat for easy storage when not in use.
Pros: Extremely lightweight and portable, ideal for travel.; Easy to clean and store.
Cons: Minimal crash protection; fabric offers little impact resistance.
6. Pet Gear Travel Lite Pet Stroller/Carrier: Multi-Function
The Pet Gear Travel Lite is a unique multi-function product that can be used as a stroller and a car carrier. We evaluated its versatility and found it useful for pet owners who want one product for multiple purposes. It folds up relatively small and is easy to clean.
However, this is not a crash-safe crate. The fabric body and lightweight frame offer little protection in an accident. We recommend it only for very small dogs and for short, low-speed trips. If you need a dedicated car boot crate for safety, this is not the right choice. It is better suited for walks or errands where the dog is not in the boot for long.
- Converts from a stroller to a carrier with a removable wheel assembly.
- Features a padded interior and mesh windows.
- Includes a tether strap to secure inside the car.
Pros: Versatile for walks and car travel.; Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Cons: Not crash-tested; fabric and frame provide minimal protection.
7. SportPet Designs Heavy Duty Plastic Dog Crate: Budget Pick
The SportPet Designs Heavy Duty Plastic Dog Crate is our budget pick for those who need a basic crate for occasional use. We researched its construction and found it similar to airline-style crates but with a lower price. Owner feedback notes that it works well for calm dogs on short trips.
However, the plastic is not as durable as more expensive models. In our evaluation, several owners reported cracks after a few months, especially in cold climates. It also lacks any crash testing. We recommend this only for very short, local trips and for dogs that are not escape artists. If you can invest a bit more, the Petmate Vari Kennel offers better durability for a similar price.
- One-piece plastic construction with a metal wire door.
- Ventilation slots on sides and top.
- Available in several sizes to fit different breeds.
Pros: Very affordable and lightweight.; Easy to clean with a hose.
Cons: Plastic is brittle and may crack under impact or in cold weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a dog crate for the car boot?
Prioritize crash safety: look for crates that have been crash-tested by independent organizations like the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). Also consider size, material (rotomolded plastic is strongest), and how well it secures in the boot with tie-downs or seat belts. Ventilation and ease of cleaning are also important.
Are wire dog crates safe for car travel?
Wire crates are generally not recommended for car travel because they are not crash-tested and can deform under impact. They may also injure your dog if the wire bends. For the boot, a hard-sided plastic or metal crate is much safer.
Can I use a soft-sided carrier in the car boot?
Soft-sided carriers offer very little protection in a crash and are best used for cabin travel or short, low-speed trips. In the boot, they can shift and do not provide a secure containment. We recommend a rigid crate for boot use.
How do I secure a dog crate in the boot?
Most crates come with tie-down straps or have slots for them. Use strong ratchet straps to anchor the crate to the car’s cargo tie-down points. Some crates also have non-slip feet. Ensure the crate does not move more than an inch in any direction.
What size dog crate do I need for my dog?
Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog from nose to tail and from floor to top of head. Add a few inches for comfort. Check the crate’s interior dimensions against your dog’s measurements.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top dog crates for car boot, our top pick is the Gunner G1 Intermediate for its unmatched crash protection and durability. The runner-up is the Petmate Vari Kennel Ultimate, which offers a great balance of safety, portability, and value. For budget-conscious buyers, the Lucky Champ Large Dog Crate provides solid value for home and occasional car use, but we recommend investing in a crash-tested crate for regular travel.
