Traveling with your dog in the car requires a secure and comfortable crate that meets safety standards and fits your vehicle. We researched, compared, and evaluated the top dog crates for car travel based on manufacturer specifications, published crash-test data, and aggregated owner feedback. Our guide covers a range of options from budget-friendly to premium crash-tested models, with honest assessments of each product’s strengths and weaknesses.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
|
🚗
|
Gunner G1 Intermediate Kennel Top Pick Crash-tested, rotomolded plastic, 42x27x30 inches, 40-70 lb dog |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Petmate Vari Kennel Ultra Best Value Crash-tested, plastic, 36x25x27 inches, up to 50 lb dog |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Pet Crate Best for Small Dogs Crash-tested, steel frame with mesh, 20x14x14 inches, up to 15 lb dog |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Petsfit Airline Approved Dog Crate Best for Travel Versatility Airline approved, plastic, 30x19x22 inches, up to 25 lb dog |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Best for Budget Folding metal crate, 36x23x25 inches, up to 50 lb dog |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
EliteField 2-Door Soft Dog Crate Best Lightweight Option Soft-sided, foldable, 30x20x22 inches, up to 35 lb dog |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Petego Pet Taxi 2.0 Best for Small Cars Plastic, 20x16x16 inches, up to 12 lb dog |
7 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Gunner G1 Intermediate Kennel: Top Pick
The Gunner G1 Intermediate is a premium crash-tested kennel that offers top-tier protection for medium to large dogs. It features a rotomolded plastic shell with double-wall construction, making it highly impact-resistant. The kennel includes integrated tie-down loops and aircraft-grade hardware for secure mounting in the vehicle. Owner feedback consistently praises its durability and peace of mind during travel.
However, the G1 is heavy (over 50 pounds) and requires a significant investment. It may be overkill for occasional short trips, and some owners find the assembly instructions unclear. If you have a small car or a tight budget, this crate might not be the best fit. Skip it if you need a lightweight, easily movable kennel.
- Passes TUV and CPS crash testing with high safety ratings
- Rotomolded double-wall construction is extremely durable
- Integrated tie-down loops and aircraft-grade hardware
Pros: Exceptional crash protection; Very sturdy build
Cons: Heavy and expensive
2. Petmate Vari Kennel Ultra: Best Value
The Petmate Vari Kennel Ultra is a budget-friendly crash-tested crate that offers reliable protection for dogs up to 50 pounds. It features ventilation slots on all sides and a simple assembly process. Owner feedback highlights its value for money and adequate safety for everyday use.
However, the plastic material can become brittle in very cold temperatures, and some users report the door latch loosening after repeated use. It is not suitable for large or powerful dogs that might push against the door. Skip this crate if you live in a very cold climate or need a heavy-duty option for a strong chewer.
- Meets TUV crash test standards
- Ventilation slots on all sides
- Easy to assemble and clean
Pros: Affordable crash-tested option; Good airflow
Cons: Plastic can crack in extreme cold; Latch may loosen over time
3. PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Pet Crate: Best for Small Dogs
The PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe is a crash-tested crate designed specifically for small dogs under 15 pounds. It features a foldable steel frame with mesh sides and a built-in seat belt strap for secure mounting. Owners appreciate its portability and the included soft pad.
However, the mesh construction is not chew-proof, and the crate is too small for any dog over 15 pounds. It also lacks the rigidity of hard-sided crates, so it offers less protection in a high-impact crash. Skip this crate if you have a chewer or a dog that needs more space.
- Foldable design for easy storage
- Includes seat belt strap
- Soft fleece pad included
Pros: Very easy to install and remove; Compact for small cars
Cons: Not suitable for medium or large dogs; Mesh can be chewed through
4. Petsfit Airline Approved Dog Crate: Best for Travel Versatility
The Petsfit Airline Approved Dog Crate is a versatile option that works for both car travel and airline cargo. It is made of durable plastic with ventilation on all sides and includes a removable wire door. Owner feedback notes its convenience for multi-modal travel.
However, this crate has not been crash-tested, so its safety in a collision is unknown. The plastic latch is a weak point, and some dogs have escaped. It is best for calm, small dogs and short trips. Skip this crate if crash safety is your top priority.
- Meets airline cargo requirements
- Removable wire door for home use
- Ventilation on four sides
Pros: Dual use for car and air travel; Sturdy plastic build
Cons: Not crash-tested; Latch is plastic and can break
5. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry: Best for Budget
The MidWest iCrate is a popular folding metal crate that is widely used for home and travel. It features a collapsible design, dual doors, and a divider panel for puppies. Owner feedback highlights its low cost and ease of use.
However, this crate is not crash-tested and offers minimal protection in a car accident. It is not designed to be secured with tie-downs, and the metal bars can bend if a large dog pushes against them. It is best for short, low-speed trips or as a temporary containment solution. Skip it if you need crash-rated safety.
- Folds flat for storage
- Dual door for easy access
- Divider panel for growing puppies
Pros: Very affordable; Easy to set up and collapse
Cons: Not crash-tested; Metal bars can bend under pressure
6. EliteField 2-Door Soft Dog Crate: Best Lightweight Option
The EliteField 2-Door Soft Dog Crate is a lightweight, foldable option ideal for owners who need a portable crate for short car rides or occasional use. It features mesh panels for ventilation and two doors for convenience. Owner feedback appreciates its low weight and ease of setup.
However, this crate provides no crash protection and is easily destroyed by a determined chewer. It is not suitable for high-speed travel or dogs that are anxious or destructive. Skip this crate if safety is a concern or if your dog is prone to chewing.
- Lightweight and portable
- Two doors for access
- Includes carrying bag
Pros: Very easy to transport; Breathable mesh panels
Cons: No crash protection; Not chew-proof
7. Petego Pet Taxi 2.0: Best for Small Cars
The Petego Pet Taxi 2.0 is a compact plastic crate designed for very small dogs or cats. It is top-loading and has a built-in handle, making it easy to carry. Owner feedback notes its convenience for tiny pets and small vehicles.
However, the crate is only suitable for dogs under 12 pounds and is not crash-tested. The plastic is thin and can crack under impact. It lacks tie-down points for secure mounting. Skip this crate if you have a dog larger than a Chihuahua or if you need any level of crash protection.
- Compact size fits in tight spaces
- Top-loading for easy access
- Integrated handle for carrying
Pros: Very small footprint; Easy to carry
Cons: Too small for most dogs; Not crash-tested
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dog crates safe for car travel?
Yes, but only if the crate is crash-tested and properly secured. Look for crates that meet TUV or CPS crash test standards. Always use tie-downs or seat belts to anchor the crate, and never place it in the front seat due to airbag risk.
What size dog crate do I need for my car?
Measure your dog’s length from nose to tail and height from floor to top of head. Add a few inches for comfort. Then measure your car’s cargo area or back seat to ensure the crate fits. Most manufacturers provide size charts based on dog weight and dimensions.
Can I use a soft-sided crate for car travel?
Soft-sided crates are not crash-tested and offer minimal protection. They are suitable for short, low-speed trips or as a temporary containment. For highway travel, a hard-sided, crash-tested crate is recommended.
How do I secure a dog crate in my car?
Use tie-down straps that attach to the crate’s base and your car’s anchor points (e.g., LATCH system or cargo hooks). Some crates have integrated loops. Alternatively, use a seat belt routed through the crate’s handle. Ensure the crate does not move more than an inch in any direction.
What is the best dog crate for a large breed?
For large breeds (70+ pounds), the Gunner G1 Large or the Ruff Tough Kennels are top choices. They are crash-tested and built to withstand high impact. Ensure your vehicle can accommodate the crate’s size and weight.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top options, the Gunner G1 Intermediate Kennel is our top pick for its exceptional crash protection and durability. For a more budget-friendly choice that still offers crash testing, the Petmate Vari Kennel Ultra is a strong runner-up. Choose based on your dog’s size, your vehicle, and your safety priorities.
