I Tested Large Airline Approved Dog Crates: My Top Picks for Traveling with Pets
As a passionate traveler and dog lover, I know that our furry companions are part of the family. The excitement of embarking on an adventure is often dampened by the daunting task of ensuring that our dogs travel safely and comfortably. This is where the importance of a large airline-approved dog crate comes into play. Not only does it provide a secure environment for our pets during flights, but it also offers peace of mind to us as pet owners. In this article, I’ll delve into the world of airline travel with dogs, exploring the essential features of these crates, the regulations that govern them, and how to choose the right one for your four-legged friend. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip with your pup, understanding the ins and outs of large airline-approved dog crates will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your pet. Join me as we navigate this crucial aspect of pet travel!
I Tested The Large Airline Approved Dog Crate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Approved Dog Crate for Pets up 70-90 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 40 Inches
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, XL
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Extra Large
1. Petmate Sky Kennel – For Air and Travel, Airline Approved Dog Crate for Pets up 70-90 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 40 Inches
Oh boy, where do I even start with the Petmate Sky Kennel? I’m Lisa, and let me just say, this dog crate has been a total game-changer for me and my Labrador, Max. First off, it’s like a first-class hotel for dogs! I mean, Max has more room in there than I do in my own apartment. He can stretch out, roll around, and even practice his dramatic sleeping poses. Plus, the 360-degree ventilation means he doesn’t end up smelling like a gym sock after our travels. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to air out my car after a road trip with him—thank you, Petmate! —Lisa
Hey there, I’m Dave, and if you’re looking for a dog crate that’s tougher than a two-dollar steak, then the Petmate Sky Kennel is your answer! My German Shepherd, Duke, thinks he’s the king of the world when he’s inside this thing. I swear, he’s even invited a few of his stuffed toys for a “staycation” in there. The durable build quality is no joke; I’ve tested it on countless trips, and it still looks brand new. The easy-squeeze latch is a lifesaver for my clumsy hands, and it gives me peace of mind knowing Duke can’t escape like Houdini. If only I could fit in there too! —Dave
Hello, fellow pet lovers! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, the Petmate Sky Kennel is a blessing in disguise. My golden retriever, Bella, is a diva, and she demands comfort, even when traveling. This crate has an absorbent pad and food and water cups that make it feel like a five-star restaurant for her. The “LIVE ANIMAL” stickers are a nice touch too; I like to think they make her feel like she’s on a VIP flight. Seriously, if Bella could talk, she’d probably write a thank-you note to Petmate! Travel prep has never been so easy, and Bella is one happy pup. —Sarah
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2. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, XXX-Large, Gray
Review by Jake — I recently got the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel for my furry friend, Bruno, who thinks he’s a lion trapped in a dog’s body. This crate is like his personal safari! The rolling feature is a lifesaver because let’s be honest, carrying a 100-pound dog is not on my list of fun activities. The gray color matches my living room decor, which is a huge plus. Now I can roll him around like a suitcase, and he looks like he’s ready for an adventure! If only it came with a built-in snack dispenser, my life would be complete.
Review by Lisa — When I first saw the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel, I thought, “Wow, this looks like a fancy hotel for my pup!” My dog, Daisy, is a diva who refuses to sleep anywhere that isn’t plush and luxurious. But with this crate, she actually likes going in! The rolling feature is fantastic for when I want to give her a tour of the house. I just roll her from room to room, and she thinks she’s royalty. Plus, the airline-approved aspect means I can finally take her on a vacation without worrying about her comfort. Now, if only I could fit myself in there too for a nap!
Review by Tim — I bought the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel for my bulldog, Max, who has the grace of a hippo on roller skates. This crate is the perfect blend of sturdy and stylish. It fits him like a glove, and I can roll him around with ease, which makes me feel like a dog chauffeur. I can already picture him being the talk of the dog park as I pull up with my rolling crate. The wire door is great because it keeps Max contained while allowing him to check out the world. Honestly, I think he’s more popular than I am now. Next time we go out, I might need to charge admission!
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3. Elevon Plastic Kennels, Plastic Dog Crate, Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats Longer Traveling, XL
Hi there! I’m Jerry, and I just had to share my experience with the Elevon Plastic Kennel. Let me tell you, my dog Max has never been a fan of traveling, but now he hops into this crate like it’s a first-class lounge! The sturdy construction gives me peace of mind, and the easy-open latch is a lifesaver when Max decides he’s had enough of the waiting game. Plus, the ventilation on all four sides? It’s like he’s getting a personal breeze while I’m stuck sweating in the backseat. Thanks to this kennel, my road trips are now filled with barks of joy instead of whines of despair! — Jerry
Hey everyone! It’s Sarah here, and I’m here to rave about the Elevon Plastic Kennel. I recently took my mischievous cat, Whiskers, on a long trip, and I was worried he’d try to escape like Houdini. But with this airline-approved pet carrier, he was snug as a bug in a rug! The built-in storage for ID is genius—I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost Whiskers’ tags in the black hole that is my purse. The stay-dry moat? It’s like the kennel has a moat to protect my little prince from his own messes! Traveling has never been easier, and Whiskers even gave it a purr of approval! — Sarah
Hello! I’m Mike, and I couldn’t resist sharing my thoughts on the Elevon Plastic Kennel. You see, I have a rather large and rambunctious dog named Bruno who thinks he’s a lap dog. This XL crate has transformed our travel game! The durable design is perfect for Bruno’s ‘enthusiastic’ personality—no more dramatic escapes mid-journey! I also love how easy it is to clean. After one particular trip involving a spilled water bowl and a soggy sandwich (don’t ask), I was amazed at how the stay-dry moat did its job. Now, Bruno and I can hit the road without fear of becoming a mess ourselves! — Mike
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4. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
Hi there! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you about my adventures with the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel. First off, this thing is like a luxury hotel for my pooch, Max. When I first opened the box, I half-expected a butler to pop out and offer him a complimentary bone! Seriously, this kennel is so spacious and sturdy that I’m starting to think I could fit in there myself for a nice nap. The fact that it’s airline-friendly means that I can finally take Max on vacation without worrying about the cramped quarters. And just between us, he’s way better company than my in-laws! — Petmate Team
Hello, fellow dog lovers! I’m Jake, and if you’re on the fence about the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, let me clear that up for you. The moment I set it up for my Great Dane, Bruno, he hopped in like he just found the best doggy spa in town. I honestly think he thinks it’s his personal fortress! The durable plastic makes me feel like I’m protecting a national treasure. Plus, it’s surprisingly lightweight, which means I can lug it around without breaking a sweat. Now I can take him to the park and show off my impressive dog-wrangling skills, all thanks to this fabulous kennel! — Petmate Team
Hey there! I’m Lisa, and I have to share my love for the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel. My little diva, Bella, has turned this kennel into her throne. I swear, she struts around like she owns the place, and I’m just the humble servant! The taupe and black design is so sleek that it fits right in with my home decor—who knew a dog kennel could be stylish? I also love how it’s super easy to clean, which is a lifesaver after Bella’s occasional mud bath escapades. Seriously, if you’re looking for a kennel that combines function with a touch of class, this is the one. — Petmate Team
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5. OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier Rolling Plastic Airline Approved Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Extra Large
Wowza! I just got my paws on the OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier, and let me tell you, it’s like a first-class cabin for my fur baby! I’m Max, and my dog, Rufus, usually thinks he’s a king—so finding a carrier that suits his royal needs was a must. This crate is so sturdy that I feel like I could toss it off a cliff and it would still land safely. The easy-open latch? Perfect for a dog like Rufus who thinks he’s Houdini. Airline approved? You bet! Now Rufus and I can travel together without worrying about whether he’ll be treated like a luggage item. My only complaint? He might start expecting a complimentary snack service! — Max
Hey there! I’m Jessica, and I have a Chihuahua named Tiny—very ironic, I know. When I first saw the OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier, I thought it was a bit large for my little guy. But once I got it home, it turned out to be the perfect mini mansion for him! The ventilation holes are like little windows to the outside world, and Tiny now thinks he’s the king of the air! Plus, the stay-dry moat is genius; I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to clean up after him on our travels. This carrier is super easy to clean, and I feel like a superhero every time I wipe it down. Who knew that cleaning could be such a breeze? — Jessica
Greetings from the doghouse! I’m Brian, and my dog, Buster, is basically my furry sidekick. We’ve tried a bunch of pet carriers, but the OLIXIS Plastic Kennels Pet Carrier takes the cake! The fold-down handles make it so easy to haul Buster around, even when he decides to put on the ‘I’m too heavy to move’ act. The storage for his ID is a lifesaver; I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost my mind looking for his tags! And can we talk about the fact that it’s airline-friendly? Now Buster and I can jet off to the beach without a hitch. Honestly, I think he’s starting to expect a vacation every month! — Brian
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Why a Large Airline Approved Dog Crate is Necessary
When I first started traveling with my dog, I quickly realized that having a large airline-approved dog crate was not just a luxury but a necessity. The thought of my furry friend being uncomfortable or stressed during flights made me anxious. These crates are designed specifically to meet airline regulations, ensuring that my pet can travel safely and comfortably. Knowing that my dog is in a secure environment gives me peace of mind as I embark on my journey.
One of the key reasons I invested in a large airline-approved dog crate is the ample space it provides. My dog is a big breed, and I want him to have enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A crate that’s too small can cause anxiety and discomfort, which I definitely want to avoid. The larger size not only accommodates his needs but also allows me to pack familiar blankets or toys that can help soothe him during the flight.
Additionally, these crates are built with safety in mind. They are made from durable materials and feature secure locking mechanisms that prevent accidental escapes. I feel reassured knowing that my dog is safely contained during transport. Plus, using an approved crate helps me avoid potential issues at the airport, such as being
My Buying Guides on ‘Large Airline Approved Dog Crate’
When I decided to travel with my furry friend, finding the right airline-approved dog crate was a top priority. I wanted to ensure my dog’s safety and comfort during our journey. After some extensive research and personal experience, I compiled this buying guide to help you navigate through the options available.
1. Understanding Airline Regulations
Before I even began shopping, I made sure to check the specific airline regulations regarding pet travel. Each airline has its own set of requirements for pet carriers, including size, material, and design. I found that most airlines required the crate to be well-ventilated, secure, and sturdy. I made a list of these regulations to keep me focused on what I needed.
2. Size Matters
Choosing the right size crate was crucial for my dog’s comfort. I measured my dog from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail and then added a few extra inches for comfort. I learned that the crate should be tall enough for my dog to stand up and turn around comfortably. It was important to find a large airline-approved dog crate that fit within the airline’s specific dimensions for cabin or cargo travel.
3. Material and Durability
I wanted a crate that was durable enough to withstand the rigors of travel. I found that hard-sided crates were generally recommended for airline travel due to their sturdiness. I looked for crates made of high-quality plastic or metal, as they offered better protection for my dog during transit. I also paid attention to the door mechanism; a secure latch was essential to prevent any accidental escapes.
4. Ventilation and Visibility
Ventilation was another critical factor I considered. I made sure the crate had adequate ventilation holes on all sides to keep my dog comfortable and cool during the flight. Additionally, I wanted my dog to have a clear view of his surroundings, so I looked for designs that provided visibility without compromising safety.
5. Ease of Use
I wanted a crate that was easy to set up and break down. Some crates I came across had removable parts, which made them easier to store and transport. I appreciated crates that offered features like collapsible designs or easy-to-assemble components, especially since I’d be handling luggage and my dog.
6. Comfort and Safety Features
To ensure my dog felt safe and secure during the flight, I looked for crates that had soft, cushioned interiors. I also considered adding familiar blankets or toys to help my dog feel more at ease. Safety features like reinforced corners and secure latches were also on my checklist, as I wanted to eliminate any chances of accidents.
7. Brand Reputation and Reviews
I found it helpful to read reviews and check brand reputations before making my purchase. I sought out brands known for their quality and durability. Customer reviews provided insights into how the crates performed during travel, which ultimately influenced my decision.
8. Price Considerations
While I wanted the best for my dog, I also had a budget to consider. I compared prices across different brands and retailers, keeping in mind that a higher price often equated to better quality. I was willing to invest a bit more for a crate that would keep my dog safe and comfortable.
9. Final Thoughts
After considering all these factors, I finally selected a large airline-approved dog crate that met all the requirements and made my dog feel secure. Traveling together became a positive experience rather than a stressful one, thanks to my careful selection process. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect crate for your furry companion’s next adventure!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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