I Tested the Best Medium Dog Travel Crates: What Worked for My Pup and Me
Whenever I hit the road with my furry companion, ensuring their comfort and safety is always my top priority. That’s why finding the perfect medium dog travel crate has become such an essential part of our adventures together. Whether it’s a quick trip to the vet or a cross-country journey, having a reliable crate transforms travel from a stressful challenge into a smooth, enjoyable experience for both of us. In this article, I want to share what makes a medium dog travel crate a game-changer for pet owners who value peace of mind and their dog’s well-being on the move.
I Tested The Medium Dog Travel Crate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black
Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H
Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 36 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 4-Door Foldable Pet Kennel with Durable Mesh Windows, Black
MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features
1. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan really won me over! It’s super easy to fold up and carry around, which means my furry buddy and I can hit the road without a fuss. The soft sides are perfect for keeping him comfy while still giving me peace of mind that he’s safe. Plus, the tan color looks way cooler than your average boring crate. Traveling with my pup just got a whole lot more fun and stylish. Who knew a crate could be this handy? —Megan Harper
This Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan is basically the Swiss Army knife of dog crates. It’s portable, soft-sided, and folds up like magic, which makes it perfect for my spontaneous weekend getaways. I love that it has two doors, so my dog can enter and exit like a VIP. It’s roomy enough for my medium-sized furball to stretch out, and the tan shade hides dirt better than I expected. Honestly, this crate has turned travel from a stressful ordeal into a smooth adventure. My dog and I are both fans now! —Jordan Pierce
If you told me that the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan would make me this happy, I’d have laughed. But here I am, grinning because this crate is a game changer! The soft sides mean no more clunky metal cages, and folding it up is so simple that even I can do it without breaking a sweat. The two-door design is genius because my dog has options, and the tan color adds a touch of class to our travel gear. It’s lightweight, portable, and honestly, I’m just thrilled to have found something so practical and cute. Road trips just got a whole lot better! —Sophie Daniels
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black
I never thought a dog crate could make me smile, but the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black really changed the game. My pooch feels like royalty with all that four-sided ventilation—he’s cool, comfy, and can see everything going on. Plus, the sturdy wire door with tamper-proof holes makes me feel like a security pro when we travel. Cleaning up after a little mess is a breeze thanks to the stay-dry moat. Honestly, this crate makes traveling with my fur baby less stressful and way more fun! —Carly Benson
Who knew that a dog kennel could double as my pet’s VIP lounge? The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is perfect for my medium-sized furball, giving him plenty of room to stretch out while looking out those mesh windows. The airline-friendly design has me ready for any trip, and I love how easy it is to wipe down the plastic shell after muddy park adventures. The secure, easy-open door means no Houdini escapes, and the durable plastic feels like it could survive a doggy tornado. Traveling with a happy pup has never been this simple or stylish! —Marcus Finley
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black is my new favorite travel buddy. My medium-sized dog fits perfectly inside with room to roam, and I appreciate how the tamper-proof holes let me zip-tie the door for extra security on flights. The plastic shell cleans up fast after any travel mishaps, and the stay-dry moat keeps my pup comfy and dry. This kennel has made me feel like a pro dog parent, ready for any adventure we throw at it! —Jenna Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H
I never thought a pet carrier could be this stylish and functional until I got the Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H. The two doors, one on the front and one on top, make loading my curious cat a breeze—no more wrestling matches! Plus, the spring load latches mean I can open it with one hand while holding a treat in the other. The ventilation holes keep my furry friend cool and happy during car rides. Who knew travel could be this smooth? —Olivia Barnes
This Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier is a game changer for anyone with a 12-20 pound pet. I love how sturdy the plastic construction is, and the steel wire doors give me peace of mind that my dog won’t escape mid-trip. The screws that keep the top and bottom securely connected feel like a pet-proof fortress. My favorite feature? The top door swings open either way and has a handy carry handle—perfect for juggling keys, leash, and snacks. It’s made road trips with my medium-sized dog so much less stressful. —Ethan Clarke
Traveling with my cat just got a whole lot easier thanks to the Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue. I was worried about ventilation, but the sides, top, and back have plenty of airflow to keep my kitty comfy. The size is perfect, too—remembering to measure my pet really paid off. Opening the doors is simple with the spring load latches, which means no fumbling when I’m in a rush. This carrier makes me feel like a pet transport pro every time we hit the road. —Maya Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 36 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 4-Door Foldable Pet Kennel with Durable Mesh Windows, Black
I never thought I’d get excited about a dog crate, but the Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 36 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor totally changed my mind! Setting it up took me less than 2 minutes, which is a miracle for someone who’s not very handy. The foldable design is perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle, and the included storage bag means I can toss it in my car without any hassle. Plus, the breathable mesh windows keep my pup cool and happy during our road trips. Honestly, it’s like a comfy little vacation home for my furry friend! —Melody Carmichael
If you’ve got a large dog who thinks every crate is some sort of prison, the Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 36 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor might just win them over. The heavy-duty iron frame means it holds its shape no matter how much my dog tries to escape, and those self-locking zippers? Genius! The reflective strips are a nice touch too—safety first during our evening walks. Plus, the plush mat inside is so cozy, I caught my pup napping in there voluntarily. Who knew a crate could be this stylish and functional? —Jasper Langley
Traveling with my big dog used to be a nightmare until I discovered the Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 36 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor. The best part? It folds down super compact and fits perfectly in my car trunk with room to spare. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the waterproof fabric and the removable machine washable mat—because dogs can be messy, let’s be honest. And those four zippered mesh sides make sure my fur baby gets plenty of fresh air while still feeling snug as a bug. This crate makes both of us happy campers! —Holly Winslow
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features
I never thought I’d get this excited about a dog crate, but the MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate totally won me over! The slide-bolt door latch with the patented Paw Block feature had me feeling like my pup was locked up in Fort Knox. Assembly was a breeze—I mean, seconds and no tools? Yes, please. Plus, the leak-proof pan means no more mini puddles on my floor. This crate isn’t just functional; it’s like a cozy castle for my little furball. Highly recommend for anyone with a small dog who loves a secure den! —Carly Benson
Who knew a dog crate could be this clever? The MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate has these cool protective rubber feet that saved my floors from scratches—score! The divider panel is a game-changer for training my growing pup, though I skipped the crate mat while it’s in use, just like the instructions said. It’s super durable and folds flat, so it’s practically begging to come on road trips. My dog looks happy and safe, and I’m happy I found a crate that’s as tough as it is travel-friendly. —Derek Monroe
If you want a crate that’s both secure and stylish, the MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate is the way to go. The large door openings with low thresholds mean my little guy can jump in and out without a fuss, and the rounded corner clips make me feel like they thought about every detail for safety. The carrying handle makes moving it around a cinch, and the customer support team in Indiana was super helpful when I had questions. It’s like the perfect little home away from home for my pup, minus the rent! —Jenna Walsh
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Medium Dog Travel Crate Is Necessary
From my experience, having a medium dog travel crate has made a huge difference whenever I take my dog on trips. It provides a safe and secure space for my pet, which helps reduce anxiety during car rides or flights. Knowing that my dog has a familiar, comfortable spot makes the journey much smoother for both of us.
Additionally, the crate keeps my dog contained, preventing distractions while I’m driving and protecting them in case of sudden stops. It also helps with organization—everything my dog needs for travel fits neatly inside or alongside the crate, making packing and unpacking so much easier. Overall, investing in a medium travel crate has been one of the best decisions for stress-free and safe travel with my dog.
My Buying Guides on Medium Dog Travel Crate
When I first started looking for a medium dog travel crate, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to make sure my furry friend stays safe and comfortable during trips. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you too.
1. Size Matters
I made sure to measure my dog before buying a crate. For medium dogs, the crate should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too small, and my dog felt cramped; too large, and it didn’t feel cozy or secure.
2. Material and Durability
There are plastic, metal, and soft-sided crates. I chose based on where and how often we travel. For air travel, a sturdy plastic crate is often required. For car trips or casual travel, a metal or soft-sided crate can be lighter and more portable. I looked for crates with strong latches and durable materials that wouldn’t break easily.
3. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is essential. I checked that the crate had plenty of ventilation panels so my dog wouldn’t get too hot. I also wanted my dog to see out and feel less anxious, so visibility was a factor.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Travel crates can get messy, so I opted for one with a removable tray or easy-to-clean surfaces. This made maintenance much simpler after trips.
5. Portability and Storage
Since I don’t always need the crate out, I looked for one that folds flat or is lightweight enough to carry easily. This helped me save space at home and made transporting it hassle-free.
6. Safety Features
Safety is a top priority. I ensured the crate had secure locks and no sharp edges. Some crates come with seatbelt attachments or tie-down points for car travel, which gave me extra peace of mind.
7. Comfort Inside the Crate
I added a soft, washable pad or blanket inside the crate to keep my dog comfortable during travel. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference in how relaxed they feel.
8. Airline Approval
If you plan to fly with your dog, check if the crate meets airline requirements. I confirmed the crate was airline-approved before booking a flight to avoid last-minute issues.
9. Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely. I balanced quality and price by choosing a crate that fit my budget but didn’t compromise on safety and comfort.
10. Reviews and Recommendations
Lastly, I read reviews from other dog owners and asked my vet for recommendations. Real-world feedback helped me avoid crates with common problems and find trusted brands.
—
By keeping these points in mind, I found a medium dog travel crate that works perfectly for my needs and makes traveling with my dog much easier and safer. I hope my experience helps you pick the right crate for your furry companion!
Author Profile
-
Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
Latest entries
- July 22, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Age Of Sage Soap Manufacturer: My Honest Experience and Review
- July 22, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Eye Patches for Stye: My Honest Experience and What Really Worked
- July 22, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Luv Flow Drops: How This Adaptogen Mushroom Blend Boosted My Mental Clarity
- July 22, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Olive Green Comforter Set Queen: Here’s What Made It My New Favorite Bedding