Soft-sided dog crates are good for dogs and they are safe for the right animal on the right trip, but they are not chew-proof and they are not crash-tested. A fabric kennel on a folding steel frame gives a crate-trained dog a familiar den in a hotel room, a campervan or the back of a wagon, and that den is the whole reason to buy one instead of a hard plastic kennel. This roundup covers the best soft sided dog crates for travel we could find across ten models, from a 2.49 lb pop-up kennel to a 36-inch frame sized for a 55 lb dog.
Before we get into the list, the honest part. A soft crate is a comfort and containment tool, not a safety shell. Dogs that chew fabric, scratch seams or push mesh through with their nose will get out, and in a moving car that is a serious problem. Every honest guide in this category says the same thing, and we are not going to pretend otherwise. If your dog is a chewer, look at our heavy duty dog crate picks instead.
What a soft crate does well is disappear when you do not need it. It pops open in seconds, folds into a disc roughly three inches thick, and tucks into a trunk or under a hotel desk. Owners on r/dogs and r/OpenDogTraining describe the same pattern: one soft crate lives in the house as the daily den, so the dog is already crate-trained before the trip ever starts. That is the single biggest factor in how a trip goes, and no product on this list can substitute for it.
Here is how we narrowed the field. We compared frame material, fabric denier, door count, weight, folded bulk, base construction and whether the crate carries real attachment points for a vehicle. We weighted review volume and average rating together, and we favoured crates whose specs we could state exactly rather than as a weight range. We left out anything marketed for chewers, because fabric and mesh cannot deliver that promise at any price point.
Key buying criteria we scored every crate against:
Frame and fabric. Steel tube or iron pipe frames hold shape far better than PVC. 600D Oxford cloth is the common baseline in this category.
Door security. Locking zippers and self-locking zippers beat plain roll-up flaps. Clip-on roll-ups are the weakest option.
Base and cleaning. A waterproof, leak-resistant liner saves you the single most common travel mess.
Vehicle attachment. Built-in seatbelt straps or tie-down loops are the difference between a crate that stays put and one that slides on winding roads.
Portability. Actual weight in pounds and the folded thickness, not marketing adjectives.
Chew warning. Every soft crate on this list fails against a determined chewer. None of them pretend otherwise.
If you want the wider picture rather than fabric crates specifically, our general best dog crates guide covers hard plastic and wire options too, and our large dog crate picks go deeper on the 36-inch and up end of the market.
Top 3 Best Soft Sided Dog Crates for Travel in 2026
Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate
- Folds flat with shoulder strap
- Machine-washable fleece pad
- Four screened panels
- Rated for dogs up to 70 lb
EliteField 3-Door Soft Crate
- 600D fabric over steel tubing
- Three doors with zipper locks
- Removable washable cover
- Folds to 3 inches thick
SportPet Designs Pop-Open Kennel
- Pops open and folds flat
- Built-in seatbelt straps
- Two-sided waterproof pad
- Weighs under 2.5 lb
All 10 Soft-Sided Dog Crates Compared Side by Side
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate 36 inch |
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Check Latest Price |
| EliteField 3-Door Soft Crate |
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| SportPet Designs Pop-Open Kennel |
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Check Latest Price |
 JESPET 3-Door Soft Crate 24 inch |
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Check Latest Price |
 Petprsco Collapsible Soft Crate 24 inch |
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Check Latest Price |
 PETSFIT 36 Inch Soft Crate |
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Check Latest Price |
 Lesure Today Soft Crate 36 inch |
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 Garnpet 36 Inch 4-Door Soft Crate |
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Check Latest Price |
 DONORO Pop-Up Soft Kennel 28 inch |
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Check Latest Price |
 ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Crate |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate – Best Overall and Best for Large Dogs
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Pet Dog Crate Carrier Kennel for Large Dogs, Easy to Clean, 36 x 24 x 24 inches, Grey
35.83 x 23.62 x 24.02 in
9.66 lb
Polyester and PVC
Machine-washable fleece pad
Pros
- Folds flat and packs down small
- Machine-washable fleece pad and wipe-clean shell
- Multiple screened panels for airflow and visibility
- Handles plus shoulder strap and side pockets
- Rated for pets up to 70 lb
Cons
- Fabric is not chew-proof for a determined dog
- Soft base offers little support for bigger dogs
This is the crate we keep coming back to, and the reason is simple: it has the largest body of owner feedback of anything in this roundup, at 18807 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, and the specs are specific rather than vague. The frame is polyester and PVC over a 35.83 by 23.62 by 24.02 inch footprint, weighing 9.66 lb, and the manufacturer rates it for pets up to 70 lb and under 32 by 21 inches. That is a genuinely large soft crate, not a medium one with optimistic copy attached.
Setup is the pop-up pattern the whole category uses: spring the frame open, drop the pad in, zip the doors. Folding takes the reverse, and the shoulder strap and top handle mean one person can carry the folded unit from the boot to the check-in desk. We found pockets on the top and sides, which sounds minor until you are trying to find a chew at the bottom of a bag in a car park.
The machine-washable fleece pad is the detail that wins this one over cheaper frames. Owners report using it at home as a den, in the car, and in a hotel room without ever taking it out, which is exactly the reuse pattern that makes a soft crate worth owning. Multiple screened panels give ventilation and visibility, so you can check on a dog without unzipping anything.
The limitation is the soft base, which reviewers mention for larger dogs. It has no rigid floor, so a 60 lb dog on a long drive sits low and the frame flexes under that weight. It also will not stop a dog that has decided the mesh is a door. Neither is unusual for this category, but both matter if your dog is heavy or clever.
Is the Amazon Basics soft crate airline compatible?
Not as a cabin carrier, and we want to be direct about that. At 24.02 inches tall it is far above the under-seat height limits that airlines publish for in-cabin pet carriers, and soft crates are measured on the outside including the frame and any bulge in the fabric. Treat this one as a car, hotel and camping crate, and buy a separate hard carrier if you are flying in the cabin.
For anything under roughly 18 inches of external height you are in realistic under-seat territory. Several crates on this list at the 24-inch mark and above simply are not in that conversation, no matter what the listing says about airline use.
Will it survive a dog that chews and escapes?
No, and neither will the other nine. The polyester and PVC shell is a comfort surface, not a barrier. Owners describe it as fine for calm, crate-trained dogs and unsuited to scratchers, and the screened panels are the first thing a determined dog works on. If your dog has a chewing history, the right move is a hard plastic kennel or a wire crate, not a heavier fabric model.
2. EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate – Best Value with a Warranty
EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate with Bed & Carrying Bag (2-Year Warranty)
30 x 21 x 24 in
12 lb
600D fabric and hex mesh over steel tubing
2-year warranty
Pros
- Roomier interior than similar 30 inch soft crates
- Three doors including top access
- Removable washable cover and bed
- Carry bag with padded shoulder strap
- Backed by a 2-year warranty
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than pop-up styles
- Soft construction is not for heavy chewers
The EliteField has been on the market for years and holds a 4.5 star average across 13112 reviews, which tells you the design has aged well. The frame is steel tubing with 600D fabric and a hex mesh cover, and the listed footprint is 30 by 21 by 24 inches at 12 lb. It folds to about three inches thick, which is the flattest figure any crate in this roundup gives you.
The thing that sets it apart is that 30-inch frame is described as two inches wider and four inches taller than most competing 30-inch soft crates. That sounds like marketing until you put a dog in it, because soft crate sizing is consistently sold short. The extra width matters on a long drive, when a dog that cannot lie down in its normal position will pace and settle badly.
Three mesh doors on top, front and side means you can load a hesitant dog from above instead of wrestling it through a side opening. The front and side doors carry zipper locks, which is a real step up from a plain roll-up flap. Two accessory pockets sit on the top and back, and both the crate cover and the bed cover are removable and washable.
A fleece bed and a carrying bag with an adjustable padded shoulder strap are in the box, and the warranty runs two years. For anyone who wants a crate they will still trust in five years, that warranty is the single most valuable feature in this list.
Is the EliteField worth the extra weight?
At 12 lb it is one of the heavier units here, and on a solo road trip you will feel that. The trade is a steel tube frame that springs back to shape after being folded and a footprint that gives a medium dog room to stand and turn. If you are packing for two people or driving with a tailgate open at a campsite, the weight is a non-issue.
Compare that to the pop-up designs, which weigh half as much but use lighter tubing and can warp. The EliteField is the choice for a dog that lives in the crate rather than one that only uses it on holiday.
Does it fit an airline under-seat limit?
At 24 inches of external height, no. It is a car, hotel and home crate. The height, not the weight, is what disqualifies it from the cabin, and the same external-versus-internal measurement trap that catches soft carriers at the gate applies here in reverse: a crate with generous interior dimensions can still be too tall outside.
3. SportPet Designs Pop-Open Kennel – Best Budget Pick and Lightest to Carry
SportPet Designs Soft-Sided Pop-Open Pet Kennel, Medium Portable Travel Crate for Cats & Dogs up to 50 lbs, Foldable Car Kennel with Seatbelt Straps & Washable Waterproof Pad, Green
31.8 x 20 x 20 in
2.49 lb
Soft fabric with waterproof pad
Built-in seatbelt straps
Pros
- Built-in seatbelt straps stop it sliding on long drives
- Waterproof reverse pad protects vehicle seats
- Lightweight at under 2.5 lb and folds flat fast
- Front and side zip openings for access and airflow
Cons
- Zippers are a known weak point for some owners
- Soft base means two people to move it when loaded
- Not built for heavy chewers or unsupervised use
This is the one to buy if your dog is a car dog. The built-in seatbelt straps are the feature that separates it from cheaper pop-ups, and they address the single complaint that shows up most often in travel crate reviews, a crate sliding around the back seat on winding roads. The footprint is 31.8 by 20 by 20 inches and it weighs 2.49 lb, the lightest frame in this roundup by a clear margin.
It is sized for cats or medium dogs up to 50 lb, which makes it a genuine large-dog option for a dog that fits that weight range, not a stretched size label. Setup is instant: it pops open and folds flat, and a drawstring carry bag is included for the folded state.
The removable cushion pad is soft on one side and waterproof on the reverse, which is a two-sided trick that solves the car seat problem neatly. Fleece side up for a cold morning, waterproof side up after a spill or an accident, and it wipes down rather than needing a wash mid-trip. Front and side zip openings give access and airflow.
The 4.2 star average across 6650 reviews is the lowest in this roundup, and the reason is visible in the reviews: the zippers. Owners report zippers that have split or come apart, and the soft base means you need two people to move it with a dog inside. The flip side of that lightness is that it is not a rigid carrier, and it is not designed for unsupervised use.
Are the seatbelt straps enough to secure it in the car?
They are a real improvement over nothing, and they are the reason this crate keeps its rating at 4.2 rather than lower. Thread the webbing through the built-in loops and the vehicle belt, and the crate stays with the seat rather than migrating to the footwell on a bend. We would still put the folded crate on the rear floor behind the front seat for maximum stability, rather than up on the bench where a dog can throw its weight against the side.
What the straps cannot do is protect the dog in a collision. Nothing soft-sided is crash-tested. For a dog large enough to be a real projectile in an accident, that is a genuine limitation, and a hard kennel or a secured harness is the safer answer.
Is it light enough to carry one-handed?
Yes, at 2.49 lb empty. That is the whole appeal of this design, and it is why owners say they take it everywhere. It fits in a backpack, it can be carried from a car park to a hotel lobby by one person, and it folds down to almost nothing in a suitcase. The DONORO at 3.25 lb is the other genuinely ultralight option, with a stiffer wire frame in place of this softer one.
4. JESPET 3-Door Soft Dog Crate – Best for Small Dogs and Cats
JESPET 3 Door Soft Dog Crates Kennel, Collapsible Travel Pet Carrier
24 x 16.5 x 16.5 in
6.3 lb
600D Oxford fabric on steel frame
Fleece pad and strap included
Pros
- Quick pop-up setup with no tools
- Three doors including top access
- Included fleece pad and adjustable strap
- Light enough to carry by hand
Cons
- 24 inch size suits dogs up to about 25 lb
- Mesh and fabric scratch easily for determined dogs
The JESPET is the compact one, at 24 by 16.5 by 16.5 inches and 6.3 lb, built from 600D cationic Oxford fabric over heavy-weight mesh on a steel tube frame. It is rated for large dogs up to 25 lb, which is really small and medium dog territory, and at that size it is one of the few crates here that could plausibly be evaluated for in-cabin use depending on the airline.
The collapsible steel tube frame uses retractable springs, so setup is genuinely tool-free. You spring it open, drop the fleece pad in and zip up. Same in reverse to fold, and at this footprint the folded bundle is small enough to live in a hall cupboard between trips rather than a garage.
Three mesh doors, on top, front and side, mean a cat or a nervous small dog can be loaded from above and settled without being pushed through a side opening. A fleece pad, a carrying handle and an adjustable shoulder strap are all included, which at 6.3 lb makes this a realistic one-person carry for a short walk to the vet.
The honest limit is size. A 4.4 star average across 2763 reviews is solid, but the reviews themselves note the compact footprint suits smaller dogs, and mesh plus fabric is scratchable by a determined animal. If your dog is over 25 lb, skip this and step up a size.
Can this size work as an airline under-seat carrier?
It is closer than anything else in this roundup, but close is not the same as compliant. At 16.5 inches of external height it sits under many published under-seat limits, yet airlines measure the outside of the carrier and the answer depends entirely on the route and the aircraft. Check the specific airline’s pet policy for the specific flight, and measure the erected crate rather than the packed one.
Many flyers on r/aircanada and r/unitedairlines describe arriving compliant and still being asked to check the carrier at the gate, because policies shift and gate agents apply them inconsistently. Arrive early and go to the service desk before you queue if you are flying in-cabin with a soft carrier.
Is it big enough to stop a restless dog pacing?
For a settled dog who sleeps in the crate, yes. For a dog that paces when stressed, a 24-inch length is tight, and soft crates at this size do not have rigid floors to keep the dog from shifting. Measure your dog standing at the shoulder and lying stretched out before you buy, and add a few inches of length beyond that.
5. Petprsco Collapsible Soft Crate – Best for Camping and Full Kit Bundles
Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, 24″ Soft Dog Crate for Car Travel
23.62 x 16.54 x 16.54 in
6.39 lb
600D Oxford and hex mesh on steel
Mat blanket and bowl included
Pros
- Sets up and folds in seconds with no tools
- Generous bundled kit with mat blanket and bowl
- Lockable zippers plus an internal safety leash
- Corner anti-collision pads protect car interiors
- Mesh on all four sides for airflow
Cons
- Not sized for compact cars or airline travel
- Mesh and zippers fail against persistent chewers
- Included floor mat is thin
The Petprsco is the one to pack for a camping trip, and the reason is the bundle. A removable washable mat, a blanket and a foldable travel bowl come in the box, which is the difference between a dog crate and a dog travel setup. At 23.62 by 16.54 by 16.54 inches and 6.39 lb it is compact, and larger 32-inch and 40-inch variants exist in the range.
The frame is steel with 600D Oxford cloth and hex mesh, plus corner anti-collision pads that protect car seats and hotel furniture. Those pads are a small feature that reviewers single out, because fabric corners are exactly where a soft crate wears through first when it is dragged in and out of a vehicle.
Security is the strongest part of this design for its size. Lockable door zippers and an internal adjustable leash mean a dog cannot simply shoulder a roll-up door open, and the leash clips to the collar inside. Four-sided mesh gives 360-degree ventilation, which matters more outdoors in warm weather than in an air-conditioned hotel room.
It is rated for pets from 12 lb to 30 lb in this size, and the 4.5 star average across 2754 reviews reflects owners who are happy with the roomy interior and the accessories. The recurring gripe is the mat, which owners describe as thin enough that you will want to add a thicker cushion on a long trip.
Is the internal leash a real safety feature or a gimmick?
It is real, and it is one of the better ideas in this category. A dog that wakes disoriented and pushes a roll-up door open is the most common escape route owners describe, and a short internal leash attached to the collar closes it off. It is not a substitute for a correct size, but in a crate it is doing real work.
It does mean you cannot leave the dog in the crate wearing a martingale or a head halter that catches, and you should use a standard buckle collar or a harness with a clip. Owners using the leash with a harness report the same issues you would expect from any tether point.
Does it pack down well enough for a small car?
The folded crate is small, but the practical limit is the 24-inch erected footprint, not the packed one. Owners with compact cars note that a 24-inch soft crate on the back seat leaves little room for passengers, so this works best in a hatchback with the crate on the rear floor behind the front seat. For a 32-inch or 40-inch variant, plan on an estate or a wagon.
6. PETSFIT 36 Inch Soft Crate – Best Frame Durability and Best for Large Dogs
PETSFIT 36″ Soft Portable Dog Crate – Patented Spiral Sturdy Frame, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Medium & Large Dogs, 3 Mesh Door, Lockable Zippers, Indoor & Car Use Green
36 x 24 x 23 in
9.92 lb
600D fabric over full steel frame
Waterproof liner and washable cover
Pros
- Patented spiral frame holds shape after use and washing
- One-piece steel frame with no centre fold
- Waterproof leak-proof liner simplifies cleanup
- Three reinforced mesh doors with lockable zippers
- Quick fold for SUV and RV packing
Cons
- Plastic zippers can be chewed through
- Mesh and seams scratch or split for strong dogs
- No pad included
The PETSFIT is the most structurally interesting crate here. It uses a patented spiral frame that holds its shape after repeated use and after washing, and it carries a one-year warranty. At 36 by 24 by 23 inches and 9.92 lb, the 36-inch size fits medium and large dogs up to about 55 lb.
The other key detail is that the frame has no middle fold, so there is no crease down the centre of the floor. That means a dog can stand, turn and lean against a wall without the frame collapsing inward, which is exactly the failure mode of folded pop-up designs in this roundup. Owners who have had cheaper soft crates call this the first one that feels rigid.
Cleaning is where this one earns its place. The waterproof, leak-proof bottom liner is removable, and the cover comes off for washing, so an accident on a six-hour drive is a wipe-down rather than a crisis. Three reinforced mesh doors at front, side and top have lockable zippers and roll-up Velcro curtains, giving access options without relying on a single flap.
The 4.3 star average across 2386 reviews is not the highest here, and the reviews tell you why. Some owners report chewed zippers and mesh tearing, which is the soft-crate ceiling no matter how good the frame is. The crate also ships without a pad, so you are buying bedding separately.
What is the spiral frame actually solving?
It solves shape retention. Most soft crate frames are round tubes held by tension, and once the fabric is washed or the crate has been folded in a hot car for a week, the tension drops and the walls bow. The spiral design resists that, which means the door still closes square and the dog is still contained after a year of use.
It does not change the fundamental limit. The doors have plastic zippers, and a dog that chews zippers will defeat this frame as surely as any other on this list. Durability of the frame and durability against teeth are two separate questions, and only one of them is answered well here.
Will a 55 lb dog be comfortable in the 36-inch size?
Yes, with a caveat about height. The 36-inch length and 24-inch width give a large dog room to lie down and stretch, but 23 inches of height is snug for a dog that stands at the shoulder, so measure your dog’s height at the withers and add a few inches. Many owners add a thick cushion on top, which eats into the headroom further, so measure before you add bedding.
7. Lesure Today Soft Crate – Best for Night Driving and Reflective Trim
Lesure Today Show Soft Collapsible Dog Crates for Large Dogs, 36in Black
36 x 25 x 25 in
12.75 lb
Waterproof fabric over iron frame
Reflective side strips
Pros
- Assembles in about two minutes with no tools
- Reflective strips improve low-light visibility
- Self-locking zippers and integrated leash
- Waterproof fabric wipes clean with a damp cloth
- Machine-washable removable mat and storage bag
Cons
- At 12.75 lb it is one of the heavier frames
- Soft mesh is not chew-proof
The Lesure Today is the 36-inch option for a large dog, at 36 by 25 by 25 inches and 12.75 lb, built on a sturdy iron frame with waterproof fabric. It assembles in about two minutes and folds two ways so the same unit works indoors and outdoors, and the range covers pets from up to 35 lb all the way to up to 90 lb.
Reflective side strips are the feature nobody else in this list does, and they are more useful than they sound. If you are breaking camp before dawn or loading up at a dark rest stop, having the crate visible from a distance is a real safety gain for you and for everyone on the road.
Containment is handled well. The self-locking zipper system means the door stays shut without you thinking about it, and there is an integrated safety leash inside for a dog that pushes at doors when it wakes. Four-side zippered breathable mesh walls give ventilation on all faces, and a plush mat plus a storage bag are included.
The waterproof fabric wipes clean with a damp cloth, and the mat is machine washable, which makes this straightforward to keep fresh across a multi-week trip. At 4.4 stars across 1396 reviews, buyers consistently point at fast assembly, the reflective trim and easy cleaning as the reasons they are happy.
Is the extra weight worth it for a 25-inch tall frame?
The 12.75 lb frame buys you a 25-inch height and a 25-inch width, which is meaningfully more room than the PETSFIT at 24 by 23. For a dog that stands tall, the height matters more than the weight, and the extra inch of headroom is worth carrying for a dog that would otherwise crouch.
For a solo traveller moving the crate solo, the weight is the drawback. Two people can lift it comfortably, one person can manage it for short distances, and it is not a crate you want up onto a roof rack alone. Plan your packing position before you lift it rather than after.
What do the self-locking zippers actually do?
They hold closed without a separate clip or Velcro strap, which removes the most common failure point in soft crates. Owners of clip-on roll-up designs report constantly finding the flap undone, and the clip ending up in a hotel carpet. A self-locking slider stays where you put it.
It is not a chew-proof mechanism, because the zipper is still fabric-mounted and plastic-toothed. It is a convenience and security feature against a dog nudging a door, not against a dog deliberately working a zipper open. Those are very different threats.
8. Garnpet 36 Inch 4-Door Soft Crate – Best for Four-Door Access and Awkward Loading
Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate for Large Dogs, 4-Door Foldable Travel Dog Kennel with Durable Mesh Windows for Indoor & Outdoor Portable Pet Crate, Soft Side Dog Crate, Beige
36 x 25 x 25 in
12.85 lb
Waterproof Oxford over steel frame
Four roll-up doors
Pros
- Sets up and folds in under five minutes
- Steel frame holds shape with a 45 lb dog
- Four roll-up door flaps for access and airflow
- Waterproof Oxford fabric wipes clean
- Handles at both top ends for moving
Cons
- Included mat is thin and usually needs a top-up pad
- Strong synthetic smell on arrival
- Mesh can be pushed through by an anxious dog
The Garnpet is the only four-door crate in this roundup, and with a 36 by 25 by 25 inch footprint on a steel frame it is built for large dogs. Owners report that the frame holds its shape with a 45 lb dog inside, which is the figure we would expect from a frame of these dimensions, and it sets up and folds in under five minutes.
Four roll-up zippered doors mean a dog can be loaded from the side, the front, the top or the rear without you bending into an awkward angle. That is not a cosmetic difference with a 45 lb dog. Owners of three-door crates report the top door being the one they use most for calming a reluctant pet, and this gives them more ways in.
The mesh windows give ventilation and visibility, and the waterproof Oxford fabric wipes clean with a damp cloth. Handles at both top ends make moving it a two-person job manageable for one, and the collapsible design folds flat for storage between trips. At 4.4 stars across 752 reviews, the consensus is a sturdy frame and quick folding.
Two practical notes from owners. The included mat is thin, so most people add a proper cushion, and there is a strong synthetic off-gassing smell on arrival that fades after a day or two of airing out. Both are easy to handle but worth knowing about before the trip rather than at the hotel.
Is a four-door design worth paying for?
For a large dog, frequently. Each door is another opening that can be rolled up and left open, which improves airflow and gives a nervous dog a way to be handled without forcing it through a single side flap. For a small dog or a calm one, the extra doors add little that a three-door design does not already do.
The trade is weight and time. At 12.85 lb this is the heaviest frame in the roundup, and the mesh is the most exposed surface on the crate, which is why owners of anxious dogs note it can be pushed through. More openings also means more zippers, and zippers are the component that wears out first.
How do I deal with the smell on arrival?
Aerate it before you travel. Set the crate up outside or in a well-ventilated room for a day or two, leave the doors unzipped so air moves through the mesh, and wash the cover and mat in the machine. Once the compound has off-gassed, the crate performs exactly as the reviews describe, and there is no further issue with it.
9. DONORO Pop-Up Soft Kennel – Best for Lightweight Packing and Borrowed Travel
DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates for Medium Dogs, Portable Pop Up Indoor Pet Cage with Sturdy Wire Frame, Collapsible Travel Crate Soft Sided Cat Bag Escape Proof (Brown, 28.0″ L x 18.0″ W x 22.0″ H)
28 x 18 x 22 in
3.25 lb
Water-resistant fabric on steel wire frame
Removable washable pad
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 3.25 lb yet feels sturdy
- True pop-up and fold-flat with no assembly
- Double zippers and protected seams resist escape
- Hoses off easily and dries fast
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Wire frame can warp and needs straightening after folding
- One folding side panel can develop weak spots
- Velcro door flap does not always hold
The DONORO sits at 28 by 18 by 22 inches and 3.25 lb, built on a flexible steel wire frame with water-resistant fabric. At that footprint it fits one or two cats or a small dog, and the flexible wire frame pops up in seconds with no assembly at all. It is the second-lightest frame here, behind only the SportPet, and the stiffest of the two light options.
Double zippers and protected seams are the security story. Double zippers on a roll-up door are harder to defeat than a single slider, and reinforced corners are where soft crates normally give out first. Reviewers describe the build as sturdy for its weight, and the 4.5 star average across 689 reviews reflects that.
Cleaning is genuinely easy here. The removable washable pad comes out, the fabric hoses off, and it dries quickly, which matters on a trip where the crate might get wet. It folds flat for storage and carrying, and it carries a one-year manufacturer warranty.
This is the crate people describe borrowing rather than buying their own. In r/dogs and r/Dogowners, the pattern is the same: a soft kennel is passed around because it is cheap to keep, stores between trips and costs little to replace. That is a fair use of a crate at this weight, as long as you accept the limits below.
How long does the wire frame stay straight?
It stays straight if you do not force it. Owners report that the frame can warp after folding and needs straightening by hand, which is normal for flexible wire and is a reason the corners are reinforced. The bigger issue is the folding side panel, which can develop weak spots over time and is the part to watch if you notice the wall flexing.
Treat it as a travel-lite crate rather than an everyday den. If your dog will use it daily for years, a rigid tube frame in the 6 to 10 lb range holds its shape better and is worth the extra weight in the car.
Is a 28-inch crate big enough for a small dog?
For a small dog or a cat, yes, and for two cats it is a reasonable double. The 18-inch width and 22-inch height give room to stand and turn without the dog having to crouch. For anything above roughly 20 lb, we would step up a size, because the frame will bow under a heavier dog leaning against it.
10. ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Crate – Best for Anxious Dogs and Dark Mesh
ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Travel Dog Crate Grey
36 x 25 x 25 in
12.65 lb
600D Oxford over iron pipe frame
Storage pocket and leash
Pros
- Sets up in about two minutes and folds without pinch points
- Light enough to carry with one arm at this size
- Tightly knit mesh is dark enough to need no night cover
- Removable washable cushioned base
- Top access helps calm a stressed dog
Cons
- Cheap plastic zippers can break under pressure
- Handle stitching has failed for some owners
- Not appropriate for a determined chewer
The ZOMISIA is the one to look at if your dog is anxious rather than destructive. The mesh is described as tightly knit and dark enough that owners say they do not need a separate blackout cover over it, which is unusual. A dog that cannot see out is a calmer dog, and that removes the need to buy an extra accessory.
At 36 by 25 by 25 inches it handles large dogs, and the 600D Oxford fabric over a high-strength iron pipe frame gives you a tear-resistant shell. The foldable design sets up and collapses without tools and without pinch points, and a carry handle is included. Three sizes are available in the range.
Top access is the feature that matters most for a stressed animal. You can reach in and calm a dog without opening a side door or pulling it out through an opening, and owners mention the soft plush pad and the cushioned removable base as making the crate feel less like a cage. A built-in safety leash clips to the collar, and there is an external storage pocket for treats.
The 4.5 star average comes from 451 reviews, the smallest sample in this roundup, so treat it as a shorter track record than the others. The specific complaints are the cheap plastic zippers and handle stitching, both of which owners have seen fail under pressure from an energetic pup. The design is sound; the small components are the weak point.
Does dark mesh actually help an anxious dog?
It helps some dogs a great deal. Removing visual triggers is a well-known approach with dogs who pace or bark at movement outside, and a tightly knit dark mesh approximates a blackout cover without one. If your dog’s anxiety is noise or people rather than sight, cover the crate with a light blanket before you travel and test whether it helps at home first.
The calming effect is individual, and we would never claim this crate fixes anxiety on its own. It simply removes one avoidable source of stress during a trip, which is worth having.
Is it sturdy enough to be a permanent home crate?
For a calm, crate-trained dog, yes, and owners like that it is light enough to carry with one arm despite the 36-inch size. For a dog that pushes hard against the doors, the plastic zippers are the component to watch, and replacement crates at this size are not cheap. If you already know your dog breaks zippers, buy a hard kennel instead.
How to Choose a Soft-Sided Dog Crate for Travel
Measure your dog, not the weight chart
Owners on r/dogs and r/poodles describe the same sizing mistake repeatedly: buying from the weight range and getting a crate that is too small. Weight charts are a rough guide, and soft crates in this category are frequently sold a size short.
Measure the length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail and add three inches. Measure height from the floor to the top of the shoulders, or to the top of the head when the dog is alert, and add three inches there too. Then have the dog stand, turn around and lie down inside the erected crate. If they cannot lie down stretched, it is too small.
Because soft walls bulge outward when a dog pushes against them, add a couple of extra inches on width if you are near a size boundary. It is better to have room and a divider later than to have a dog that cannot settle.
Soft, hard plastic or wire: which is safest for your trip
Soft crates win on comfort, weight and packability. Hard plastic kennels win on chew resistance and are the only option most people should consider for an unsupervised dog or a chewer. Wire crates are the sturdiest and the worst for portability, and they are the traditional choice for a dog who needs air and visibility at home.
None of the three is crash-tested, and a soft crate is the least protective of them in a collision. For a dog large enough to be dangerous in an accident, a crash-tested metal cage is the safest option, not any fabric model. If your dog is a chewer, an escape artist or unsupervised for hours, skip this entire category.
What airlines actually require for a soft carrier
Airlines publish a maximum external size, usually in the region of 18 by 11 by 11 inches, and it applies to the crate as it sits, not to the space inside it. Measure the erected crate including the frame and any bulge in the fabric, and treat the published number as a hard ceiling.
The overage problem is real. A flyer on r/aircanada found their soft kennel was 1.5 inches taller than the airline maximum, which produced a denied-boarding panic on the day. A post on r/shanghai records a similar denial after a carrier that had been bought specifically as airline-approved. The label is not standardised, and gate agents apply rules inconsistently.
Confirm the policy on the airline’s own site for the specific flight, arrive early, and go to the service desk before you join the queue. Some airlines will re-measure at the gate, and being first in line is better than being last. The crates on this list at 24 inches and above are car, hotel and camping models, not cabin carriers.
How to secure a soft crate in the car
Thread any built-in seatbelt straps or tie-down loops through the vehicle belt so the crate is anchored to the seat frame, not resting on the cushion. The SportPet and the Petprsco both give you hardware for this.
Place the crate on the rear floor behind the front seat wherever you can. That position is more stable than the bench, and it keeps the dog away from the front seats. Never transport a soft crate loose in an open truck bed or loosely in a boot, because both are dangerous in a sudden stop.
Never let a dog ride loose in the car as an alternative to the crate. A crate that is a step short of a crash-tested cage is still safer than no restraint at all, because it keeps a dog from becoming a projectile in a sudden stop.
How to clean a soft-sided dog crate
Remove the bed, mat or cover first and wash those separately. Where a removable waterproof liner is included, wipe it down rather than soaking the whole crate, since water around the frame tubes is what causes rust in cheaper models.
Wipe the mesh and fabric with a damp cloth and a mild pet-safe cleaner, then let the crate air dry completely before folding it. Trapped moisture in a folded frame leads to mildew and to a smell that will follow you into the next hotel room.
For an accident, pull the liner or pad out, rinse with cold water, and sanitise with a pet-safe product before it dries. On a trip, that is the difference between a setback and losing the crate for good. Air dry mesh panels fully in shade, not in direct sun, which degrades the fabric over time.
When not to use a soft crate at all
Do not use one for a chewer. Do not use one for a dog with an escape history, because fabric, mesh and zippers will all eventually fail against a determined animal. Do not use one as a puppy crate, where chewing is developmentally normal.
Do not use one for long highway drives with a large, heavy dog, because a soft base offers little support and no crash protection. Do not use one for a dog who is not crate-trained, because a punishment association at home follows you into the car and the hotel room.
Introduce the crate before the trip. Set it up in the room the dog already uses, leave it open, put treats inside and let the dog go in and out freely. Reward any time they settle. A few short positive sessions at home is the difference between a dog who sleeps through a hotel night and one who howls in it.
Buying for durability rather than disposability
A soft crate that lasts five years and washes is a better purchase than three cheap ones, even before you consider the cost of the replacements. Look for a steel or iron tube frame over a wire or PVC frame, 600D Oxford or better fabric, lockable zippers over plain sliders, and a removable washable cover.
Check that spare parts exist. A crate with a replaceable cover and a frame you can re-tension is repairable, and a crate that is a sealed unit is not. Our picks in sustainable wooden crates go further still on longevity if the dog will use one at home between trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good soft dog crate for airline travel?
A good soft dog crate for airline travel is one whose external dimensions, measured erected and including the frame and any bulge in the fabric, fit the airline’s published maximum. Most cabin carriers are capped around 18 by 11 by 11 inches, so soft crates above about 20 inches of external height are for cars and hotels, not the cabin. Confirm the specific flight’s policy before you buy, because the airline-approved label is not standardised.
Are soft-sided crates good for dogs?
Yes, for crate-trained, non-destructive dogs on car, hotel, camping and short travel. A soft crate gives a dog a familiar den in an unfamiliar place, folds flat for storage, and is far lighter than a hard kennel. It is not suitable for chewers, escape artists, puppies, or long highway drives with a large dog.
Are soft dog crates safe?
They are safe for the right dog in the right situation, but no soft crate is chew-proof or crash-tested. A determined dog can push through mesh or work a zipper open, and nothing soft-sided will protect a dog in a serious collision. For a chewer or an unsupervised dog, choose a hard plastic kennel or a wire crate instead.
Which dog travel crates are airline approved?
There is no single standard, which is why the label confuses people. Measure the erected crate externally and compare it with the specific airline’s published maximum for that route, because policies and aircraft vary. On this list, the JESPET 24-inch model is the closest to under-seat territory; the crates at 24 inches of height and above are car and hotel models rather than cabin carriers.
How do I clean soft dog crates?
Remove and wash the mat, bed and cover separately, then wipe the mesh and fabric with a damp cloth and a pet-safe cleaner. Wipe waterproof liners rather than soaking them, and always let the crate air dry fully before folding it, since trapped moisture causes mildew and odour. For an accident, pull the liner out and sanitise it before it dries.
Conclusion: The Best Soft Sided Dog Crates for Travel in 2026
The Amazon Basics folding soft crate takes our top spot in 2026. It has the largest owner base in the category at 18807 reviews, an honest 70 lb rating, a machine-washable pad and a footprint big enough for a large dog, and at 9.66 lb it is light enough for one person to handle. It is the crate we would buy first.
The EliteField 3-Door is the premium choice if you want a steel tube frame, a two-year warranty and the roomiest interior at its nominal size. The SportPet Designs pop-up kennel is the one to buy for the car, because the built-in seatbelt straps solve the sliding problem that trips up most soft crates, and at 2.49 lb you can carry it anywhere.
Whichever you pick, measure your dog, crate-train before you travel, secure the crate properly in the vehicle, and skip fabric entirely if your dog chews. Every soft crate here is a comfort tool for a calm dog, and none of them is a substitute for a hard kennel or a crash-tested cage when the stakes are high.