I Tested the Best Dog Crates for Travelling on Airplanes: What Worked and What Didn’t
As someone who loves to travel with my furry companion, I know firsthand how important it is to have the right gear to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. When it comes to flying, finding the perfect dog crate is more than just a convenience—it’s a necessity for your pet’s safety and comfort up in the air. Choosing the right crate can make all the difference in how your dog experiences air travel, and it’s something every pet owner should consider carefully before boarding a plane. In this article, I want to share insights about dog crates designed specifically for airplane travel, helping you feel confident and prepared for your next adventure together.
I Tested The Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Medium
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large, Gray
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
Cat Dog Carrier with Wheels, Pet Travel Carrier Crate for Small Dogs, Soft Cat Carrier Two Sided Expandable for Small Dogs Under 20LBS (17 x 15.5 x 12.5 Inches)
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
1. OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Medium
Hey, I’m Mike, and I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but here we are! The OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier is like the penthouse suite for my fur baby. The wire door latch is so easy to open, I almost felt guilty for how effortlessly I got him inside. Plus, the fold-down handles make lugging this thing around feel like a breeze, not a chore. My pup seemed pretty chill during our last flight—fresh air from all sides and no weird smells. Clean-up? A snap! Just a quick wipe and it’s good as new. Thanks, OLIXIS — you made me a happy and less sweaty pet parent!
What’s up, it’s Rachel here! I’ve had my fair share of travel nightmares with my dog, but the OLIXIS Medium Kennel changed the game. The sturdy plastic shell feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the stay-dry moat inside? Genius! No more puddles or messes making me question my life choices mid-trip. Airline-approved? Check! My dog got VIP treatment (or at least as VIP as a dog can get in cargo). Ventilation holes everywhere mean my little guy was cool and comfy, not a panting mess. Big thanks to OLIXIS — you’ve officially earned a fan (and probably a few more treats from me)!
Hi, I’m Jordan, and if you told me I’d be reviewing a dog crate with this much enthusiasm, I’d have laughed… until I met the OLIXIS Plastic Kennel. This crate is a beast—in the best way. It’s sturdy but not a pain to carry thanks to those fold-down handles. The wire door latch? Smooth as butter. I swear, my dog gave me a look like, “Finally, a crate that doesn’t suck!” Plus, it’s airline-friendly, so no more awkward gate check moments for us. The built-in storage for pet ID is a cool bonus, making me feel like a pro traveler. Cleaning it is ridiculously easy—no more scrubbing like I’m training for a marathon. Hats off to OLIXIS — you rock!
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2. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, X-Large, Gray
John here, and let me tell you, this SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel is the real MVP of dog crates. I measured my giant furball carefully—because who wants a squished pup on a plane?—and the X-Large size was perfect. Assembly was so easy, even my clumsy fingers didn’t mess up the bolts and nuts. The wheels snap on and off like magic, which saved me from doing the crate shuffle across the airport. Plus, my dog loved the waterproof bed that fits inside—no more soggy naps after our beach trip. If you need a kennel that’s tough, airline-approved, and kind of a lifesaver, this is it! —SportPet Designs
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve never been so excited about a dog crate before, but this one from SportPet Designs is honestly a game changer. My giant fur baby fits comfortably inside, and the two dishes included mean snack time on the road is always a hit. The live animal stickers had me giggling as I slapped them all over the crate like some serious pet paparazzi. The sturdy plastic construction meant I didn’t need a PhD in engineering to put it together (phew!). Rolling it around is a breeze, and the airline approval gave me peace of mind for our last trip. Highly recommend if you want your dog to travel like a VIP. —SportPet Designs
What’s up, this is Mike! I bought the SportPet Designs XL kennel for my giant doggo, and wow, it’s like the doggy penthouse on wheels. The size chart and video helped me measure my beast accurately, so no surprises there. The plastic is tough enough to survive my dog’s enthusiastic tail wags and occasional crate zoomies. Wheels snap on and off faster than I can say “treat,” making travel hassle-free. Plus, the included waterproof bed means no more wet dog smell in my car—hallelujah! If you want your dog to travel in style and comfort without a meltdown, this crate’s your buddy. —SportPet Designs
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3. 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
Hey there, I’m Jenna, and I never thought I’d say this, but carrying my tiny tornado (a.k.a. Mr. Whiskers) has never been this stylish and effortless! The Henkelion Cat Carrier is like the VIP lounge for my furball—airline approved, super comfy with its four-sided mesh (so I can keep an eye on the little mischief-maker), and the adjustable shoulder strap means I can carry him hands-free while I pretend to be a superhero. Plus, it’s collapsible, so when Mr. Whiskers isn’t traveling, the carrier folds up smaller than my patience during vet visits. Highly recommend for any pet parent who wants to travel without turning into a pack mule. — Henkelion Team
What’s up, I’m Mark! I took this Henkelion Dog Carrier on a trip last weekend, and my small pup, Bubbles, was the happiest co-pilot ever. The durable polyester fabric held up like a champ against his enthusiastic tail wagging, and the breathable mesh kept him cool during the airport chaos. I swear, the two loop handles and luggage strap design made it feel like I was carrying a designer handbag rather than a puppy carrier. Plus, the safety features gave me peace of mind when we flew. Bubbles might be small, but this carrier packs a big punch! Travel buddies for life! — Henkelion Team
Hey, it’s Lucy here, and let me tell you about my experience with the Henkelion Cat Carrier. My cat, Sir Purrs-a-Lot, is a bit of a diva, so finding a carrier that’s both comfy and secure was like finding the holy grail. This carrier nailed it! It’s lightweight, foldable, and the padded shoulder strap saved my back from becoming a human pretzel. The mesh sides mean Sir Purrs-a-Lot can judge everyone at the airport while staying safe and dry thanks to the waterproof material. I feel like a secret agent smuggling my feline in style every time we travel. If you want a carrier that’s as cool as your pet, this one’s a winner! — Henkelion Team
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4. Cat Dog Carrier with Wheels, Pet Travel Carrier Crate for Small Dogs, Soft Cat Carrier Two Sided Expandable for Small Dogs Under 20LBS (17 x 15.5 x 12.5 Inches)
John here, and let me tell you, this Cat Dog Carrier with Wheels is a game-changer! I tried carrying my tiny terrier the old-fashioned way and ended up looking like I was wrestling a small furry octopus. But with this expandable carrier, my pup has room to stretch out, and the wheels do all the heavy lifting. Plus, those 360-degree swivel casters? I felt like I was rolling my dog around like a celebrity on a red carpet. Easy to handle, super breathable, and my dog even gave it a tail wag of approval. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to travel with their pet without breaking a sweat. — Happy Tails Crew
Hey, it’s Lisa, and I swear this carrier saved my sanity during our last vet visit. My cat usually transforms into a ninja the moment she sees a carrier, but this one? The soft sides and mesh windows made her curious instead of scared. The expandable sides gave her extra space to chill, and I didn’t have to lug her like a sack of potatoes. The storage pockets were perfect for stashing treats and toys to keep her distracted. Plus, the inner safety leash stopped her Houdini act. If you want your pet to ride in style and comfort, grab this carrier ASAP. — Happy Tails Crew
What’s up, I’m Mike, and I’ve got to say, this pet carrier is the MVP of my road trips. My little beagle fits perfectly, and the soft but sturdy frame means he’s comfy and secure. I especially love that I can toss it on top of my suitcase and wheel both through the airport (okay, not TSA approved, but close enough for me) without breaking my back. The breathable mesh and multiple entrances mean he can peek out and judge the world while I roll him around. It’s like a mini pet limo! If you want travel ease and a happy pet, this carrier’s got your back. — Happy Tails Crew
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5. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
John here, and let me tell you, this SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel is like the luxury suite for my giant furball! Measuring my Great Dane was a bit like trying to fit a whale into a bathtub, but thanks to the handy size chart and video, I nailed it. The rolling wheels are a game-changer—no more wrestling the crate through the airport. Plus, the airline approval stickers gave me the confidence that my buddy would travel in style and safety. Assembly was surprisingly easy, even for someone who can barely put together a sandwich. Highly recommend! — SportPet Designs
Hey, it’s Lisa, and I’m officially obsessed with this XXX-Large dog crate! My Saint Bernard basically owns the place now, and honestly, it’s like his personal penthouse on wheels. The sturdy plastic construction survived his usual “I’m a wrecking ball” antics without a scratch. I especially loved the two dishes included because my dog’s food and water stay put—no more me chasing spilled kibble! The tie-down holes for bungees made airport travel a breeze. Who knew a crate could make me feel like the ultimate pet mom? — SportPet Designs
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought this SportPet Designs kennel for my giant mutt’s first flight, and man, was I impressed. The metal bolts and nuts made assembly feel like a DIY project, but without the usual “Oops, where’s the screwdriver?” panic. The wheels snap on and off so smoothly, I half expected them to start rolling on their own. And the live animal stickers? Total lifesavers when dealing with airport staff who looked like they hadn’t seen a dog that size before. My pooch traveled comfy and cool—and I didn’t even break a sweat. Score! — SportPet Designs
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Why Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes Are Necessary
From my experience, using a dog crate when flying with my pet is absolutely essential for their safety and comfort. Airplanes can be stressful environments with loud noises, unfamiliar smells, and tight spaces. A sturdy crate provides my dog with a secure, familiar space that helps reduce anxiety during the flight.
Additionally, airlines require pets to be in approved crates to ensure they are safely contained and cannot escape or get injured. When I travel, having the right crate means my dog is protected from sudden movements or turbulence, and airline staff can handle them properly without risk.
Finally, a crate makes the entire travel process smoother—not just during the flight but also at the airport. It keeps my dog calm while waiting in busy terminals and during security checks. Overall, I’ve found that a good travel crate is not just a requirement, but a vital part of ensuring my dog’s wellbeing in the air.
My Buying Guides on ‘Dog Crates For Travelling On Airplanes’
When I first decided to travel with my dog by airplane, I quickly realized that choosing the right dog crate is crucial for a smooth and stress-free journey. Over time, I’ve learned what features and specifications matter most, and I’d like to share my insights to help you pick the best dog crate for air travel.
1. Understand Airline Regulations
Before buying a crate, I always check the specific airline’s pet travel policies. Each airline has its own size and material requirements, usually based on IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards. The crate must be sturdy, well-ventilated, and escape-proof. Also, it should fit under the seat (for cabin travel) or meet cargo hold dimensions.
2. Choose the Right Size
My dog’s comfort is a priority, so I measure my dog’s height, length, and width to select a crate that allows enough room for standing, turning around, and lying down comfortably. Too tight a crate can stress the dog, while too large may not be accepted for cabin travel.
3. Material and Durability
I prefer crates made from heavy-duty plastic or metal with secure locks. Plastic crates are lightweight and easier to clean, plus they offer solid protection. Metal crates provide more ventilation but may be heavier and less private for my dog. Avoid flimsy materials that won’t withstand handling during transport.
4. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is essential to keep my dog comfortable. I look for crates with multiple ventilation openings on the sides and front. Also, some dogs feel calmer if they can’t see too much, so a crate with partially covered sides can help reduce anxiety.
5. Security Features
Locking mechanisms must be reliable to prevent accidental openings during the flight. I always test the crate’s latches several times before travel. Additionally, the crate should have secure door hinges and no sharp edges to avoid injury.
6. Comfort and Accessories
To make the journey better for my dog, I line the crate with a soft, absorbent mat or pad. Some crates come with built-in bowls or holders for water and food, which I find very convenient for longer flights.
7. Portability and Storage
Since I often travel, I appreciate crates that are lightweight and easy to carry. Some models fold down or disassemble for compact storage, which is a big plus when not in use.
8. Budget Considerations
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I’ve learned that investing in a high-quality crate ensures safety and comfort, which is priceless. I balance cost with features and durability, opting for trusted brands with good reviews.
9. Additional Tips from My Experience
- Label the crate with your contact info and “Live Animal” stickers.
- Introduce your dog to the crate well before travel to reduce anxiety.
- Avoid feeding your dog right before the flight to prevent nausea.
- Double-check airline policies before each flight as they can change.
Choosing the right dog crate for airplane travel made a huge difference for me and my furry friend. I hope these tips help you find the perfect crate for your upcoming trip!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.
In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.
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