Traveling with your dog in the car requires a safe, secure crate that meets crash-test standards and fits your vehicle. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry safety ratings, and aggregated owner feedback from thousands of reviews to compare the top options. Our evaluation focuses on crash protection, ease of installation, durability, and value. Below are our picks for the best crates for car travel, with honest assessments of their strengths and weaknesses.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Gunner G1 Intermediate Crate Best Overall Rotomolded plastic, crash-evaluated, 40x27x30 inches |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Pet Crate Best Budget Fabric and mesh, foldable, 4 sizes available |
8.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Ruff Tough Kennels Intermediate Crate Best for Durability Rotomolded plastic, airline-approved, 36x23x26 inches |
8.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel Best for Versatility Plastic, top and front doors, 4 sizes |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Best for Portability Metal wire, foldable, single door, 6 sizes |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed Best for Small Dogs Fabric and foam, crash-evaluated, 19x12x10 inches |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Pet Gear Travel Lite Pet Stroller/Carrier Best for Air Travel & Car Nylon and mesh, collapsible, 6 sizes |
7.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Gunner G1 Intermediate Crate: Best Overall
The Gunner G1 Intermediate Crate is our top pick for car travel due to its exceptional safety credentials. It has been crash-evaluated and certified to meet or exceed industry standards, giving owners confidence. The rotomolded polyethylene construction is incredibly tough, and the crate includes integrated tie-down loops and a non-slip base to keep it firmly in place during sudden stops. Based on owner feedback, this crate holds up well over years of use, even with large, active dogs.
However, the crate’s weight and size are significant drawbacks. It is heavy and takes up considerable space, making it impractical for small vehicles or frequent removal. Owners with limited trunk space or those who need to regularly take the crate in and out may find it cumbersome. If you have a smaller car or need a lightweight solution, consider a collapsible or fabric option instead.
- Crash-evaluated and certified for safety in vehicles
- Rotomolded construction is extremely durable and impact-resistant
- Includes tie-down straps and non-slip base for secure installation
Pros: Proven crash protection with industry certification; Very sturdy build; can withstand heavy impacts
Cons: Heavy and bulky; difficult to move when loaded
2. PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Pet Crate: Best Budget
The PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Pet Crate is a budget-friendly option that prioritizes convenience. It folds flat for storage and comes with seat belt loops that attach to your car’s seat belts, keeping the crate stable. The mesh panels provide good ventilation, and many owners report that their dogs settle well inside. For occasional trips and calm dogs, this crate offers good value.
However, this crate is not crash-evaluated and provides minimal protection in a serious accident. The fabric construction can be chewed or torn by determined dogs, and it may not hold up well to heavy use. We recommend it only for small, well-behaved dogs and short, low-speed trips. Owners of large or anxious dogs, or those who prioritize crash safety, should skip this pick and invest in a hard-sided crate.
- Foldable design for easy storage and portability
- Includes seat belt loops for secure attachment
- Ventilated mesh panels for airflow and visibility
Pros: Very affordable compared to hard-sided crates; Lightweight and easy to collapse
Cons: Not crash-evaluated; limited protection in a collision
3. Ruff Tough Kennels Intermediate Crate: Best for Durability
The Ruff Tough Kennels Intermediate Crate is built to last, with rotomolded plastic that rivals the Gunner in toughness. It is airline-approved and features reinforced corners and a secure latching system. Owners who use it for car travel appreciate the tie-down slots that allow for secure anchoring. Based on spec sheets, it offers solid crash protection when strapped down correctly.
That said, the crate is heavy and has a higher price point. It also comes in fewer sizes than some competitors, so it may not fit all dog breeds. If you have a very large or small dog, you might struggle to find the right size. Additionally, the lack of a built-in water bowl or padding means you’ll need to purchase those separately. For owners seeking maximum durability for a medium-sized dog, this is a strong choice.
- Rotomolded construction with reinforced corners
- Meets airline cargo specifications for travel
- Includes tie-down slots and non-slip feet
Pros: Extremely durable; resistant to chewing and impact; Good crash protection when properly secured
Cons: Heavy and expensive; limited size range
4. Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel: Best for Versatility
The Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel offers versatility with both top and front doors, making it easy to load your dog in tight car spaces. It meets airline cargo specs, so it can double as a travel crate. The ventilation is adequate, and many owners find it a practical choice for car trips. The price is reasonable for a hard-sided crate.
However, this crate is not crash-evaluated and the plastic is less durable than rotomolded options. Some owners report cracks after extended use or in cold weather. It also lacks tie-down points, so securing it in a vehicle requires aftermarket straps. For owners who need a lightweight, multi-purpose crate and are willing to sacrifice crash safety, this is a decent option. But for serious car travel, we recommend a stronger crate.
- Two-door design: top load and front load
- Meets airline cargo specifications
- Ventilation grilles on all sides
Pros: Convenient top-loading for easy access; Good value for the price
Cons: Not crash-evaluated; plastic can crack under stress
5. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry: Best for Portability
The MidWest iCrate is a popular wire crate for home use, and its foldability makes it portable for car travel. It sets up and collapses quickly, which is great for owners who need to move the crate between car and home. The included divider panel allows you to adjust the space as your puppy grows. It is a very affordable crates on the market.
However, this crate is not designed for car safety. It lacks crash-testing and does not have tie-down points, so it can slide around in the event of sudden braking. The wire construction offers little protection in a collision and can bend or break. We only recommend this for very short trips with a calm dog, or as a temporary solution. For highway travel, choose a crate with proper crash safety features.
- Folds flat in seconds for easy transport
- Includes divider panel for growing puppies
- Durable wire construction with electrocoat finish
Pros: Very easy to fold and carry; Divider panel adds value for puppy owners
Cons: Not crash-evaluated; wire can bend in a collision; No built-in tie-downs; may slide in the car
6. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed: Best for Small Dogs
The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is a crash-evaluated option specifically designed for small dogs up to 15 pounds. It has been evaluated to meet safety standards and includes a seat belt tether that keeps the pod secure. The plush interior makes it comfortable, and the cover is removable and washable. It also functions as a carrier and a bed, adding versatility.
However, the Sleepypod is only appropriate for tiny dogs. Larger breeds cannot use it, and even small dogs that are long or tall may not fit comfortably. The price is high relative to its size, and the fabric may not hold up to heavy chewing. If you have a small, calm dog and want crash protection, this is an excellent choice. For larger dogs, look at the Gunner or Ruff Tough.
- Crash-evaluated and certified for car safety
- Converts from car seat to carrier to bed
- Machine-washable cover and padded interior
Pros: Crash-evaluated for small dogs under 15 lbs; Adaptable 3-in-1 design
Cons: Only suitable for very small dogs; Pricey for the size
7. Pet Gear Travel Lite Pet Stroller/Carrier: Best for Air Travel & Car
The Pet Gear Travel Lite is a all-around option that transitions from a car carrier to a stroller, which is handy for travel. It has a seat belt loop to secure it in the car, and the mesh panels provide good airflow. Owners appreciate the convenience of being able to stroll their dog after arriving at a destination. It comes in multiple sizes to fit small to medium dogs.
However, like many fabric carriers, it is not crash-evaluated and provides minimal protection. The fabric frame is not rigid, so it offers little resistance in a collision. It is best for calm, small dogs and short trips. Owners who need a dedicated car crate for safety should choose a hard-sided model. This is more of a travel accessory than a car crate.
- Can be used as a car seat, carrier, or stroller
- Includes seat belt attachment and padded handle
- Ventilated mesh panels with zippered openings
Pros: Multi-functional: car, stroller, carrier; Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons: Not crash-evaluated; fabric may tear in accident
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a car crate for my dog?
Key factors include crash-test certification, proper size for your dog (they should be able to stand, turn, and lie down), secure tie-down points for the crate, durable materials (rotomolded plastic is best), and ease of installation in your vehicle. Also consider your dog’s temperament: anxious dogs may do better in a crate with good visibility, while chewers need metal or tough plastic.
Are fabric crates safe for car travel?
Fabric crates are generally not crash-evaluated and offer limited protection in a collision. They are acceptable for short, low-speed trips with calm dogs, but for highway or frequent travel, we recommend a hard-sided crate that has been crash-evaluated and certified. Fabric crates can also be chewed through by determined dogs.
How do I secure a crate in my car?
Use tie-down straps that attach to the crate’s built-in loops (if available) and anchor to your vehicle’s cargo tie-downs or seat belt anchors. Some crates come with straps; otherwise, purchase heavy-duty ratchet straps. Ensure the crate cannot slide or tip. For seat belt attachments, use a crash-evaluated tether that connects the crate to the seat belt buckle.
Can I use a regular home crate in the car?
Yes, but it is not ideal. Home crates often lack tie-down points and crash-testing. They may slide or collapse in an accident. If you must use a home crate, secure it with straps and place it in the cargo area behind a seat. However, for safety, we recommend a crate designed specifically for car travel.
What size crate should I get for my dog?
Measure your dog’s height (from paw to top of head when sitting) and length (from nose to base of tail). Add a few inches for comfort. Most crate manufacturers provide size charts. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they slide around inside.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top crates for car travel, our top pick is the Gunner G1 Intermediate Crate for its proven crash safety, exceptional durability, and secure installation. For a more budget-friendly option that still offers good protection, the Ruff Tough Kennels Intermediate Crate is a strong runner-up, especially for owners who prioritize ruggedness.
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