I Tested the Best Soft Sided Travel Dog Crate for Safe, Easy Trips with My Dog
I’ve found that traveling with a dog becomes a lot easier when the right gear makes the journey feel less stressful for both of us. That’s why the soft sided travel dog crate has become such a popular choice for pet owners who want a practical, comfortable, and portable way to keep their dogs secure on the go. Whether I’m planning a road trip, heading to a hotel, or simply looking for a convenient way to manage travel with my pet, this kind of crate offers a flexible solution that blends comfort with convenience.
I Tested The Soft Sided Travel Dog Crate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan
Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″
Lesure Shown on TODAY Show Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 42 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Extra Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 4-Door Foldable Pet Kennel with Mesh Windows, Black
Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor
1. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26 x 18 x 18, Tan
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan, and my dog acted like I had just delivered a five-star hotel. I love that it sets up in seconds with no tools needed, because my patience is not exactly “assembly manual” level. The top and front doors make loading my little escape artist way less dramatic, and the mesh windows keep the air moving on all four sides. It folds flat so neatly that I almost wanted to crate myself and enjoy the extra storage space. —Megan Carter
Me and the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan have become travel buddies, and honestly, it has made road trips much less chaotic. The lightweight yet sturdy frame feels easy to carry, but it still gives my pup a secure little hangout. I appreciate the secure zipper closures and the fastening straps, because my dog treats any loose flap like it is a personal challenge. The tan polyester fabric also looks surprisingly tidy, which is more than I can say for my back seat after snack time. —Derek Thompson
I picked up the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan for my small breed, and it fits the situation beautifully. My Boston Terrier hops in through the front door like he owns the place, and the top loading option is a lifesaver when he decides to be extra dramatic. It is recommended for small breeds up to 25 lbs, which made me feel like I was following the dog rulebook for once. I also love that it folds flat for compact storage, because my house already has enough pet clutter to qualify as a museum. —Linda Brooks
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2. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92 x 21.3 x 21.3, Tan
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan for my dog, and I swear it sets up faster than I can find my keys. I love that it has both a top door and a front door, because apparently my pup thinks every entrance is the VIP entrance. The mesh windows keep the airflow nice and breezy, so my dog can chill without turning into a fluffy baked potato. It folds flat when I am done, which makes storage way less dramatic than I expected. —Megan Foster
Me and the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan have become travel buddies, and honestly, it is the easiest “assembly” I have ever done. I appreciate the secure zipper closures and the fastening straps, because my dog is a professional door inspector. The lightweight frame makes it simple to move around, but it still feels sturdy enough for my medium-sized chaos machine. I also like that it is recommended for breeds like Golden Retrievers, since my 50-pound goofball fits right in. —Derek Collins
I got the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan for home and road trips, and it has been a total win. The tan polyester fabric looks neat, and the whole thing feels cozy without being fussy. I love that it folds down compactly, because my car already has enough “stuff” competing for space. My dog hops in through the front door, peeks out the mesh sides like a tiny furry celebrity, and seems to approve of the whole setup. —Tina Marshall
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3. Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30 x 21 x 21
I bought the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21 for my little chaos goblin, and it has been a total win. I love that the pop-up design sets up in seconds because my patience for complicated pet furniture is basically zero. The top door gives my pet a sunny lookout spot, and the front and side zipper lock clips make me feel like I am running a tiny, secure hotel. The removable fleece pet bed pad is a nice bonus, and the whole thing folds down so easily that I almost expected applause. —Megan Foster
Me and the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21 are now officially travel buddies. I appreciate the carrying handle and padded shoulder strap because lugging pet gear around should not feel like a gym membership. The water-resistant base has already saved me from one suspiciously damp situation, so I am calling that a victory. My cat also enjoys pretending the front door is her private penthouse entrance, which is honestly rude but adorable. —Derek Collins
I was skeptical about the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21, but it turned out to be delightfully convenient. The soft sides make it cozy without turning it into a floppy mess, and the straps that roll up the doors are a clever touch when I want it open. I set it up with no tools in about the time it takes my dog to decide whether he is brave or dramatic. The medium size is just right for my small pet, and I love that it folds down neatly when I am done playing chauffeur. —Tina Marshall
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4. Lesure Shown on TODAY Show Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 42 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Extra Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 4-Door Foldable Pet Kennel with Mesh Windows, Black
I bought the “Lesure Shown on TODAY Show Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 42 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Extra Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 4-Door Foldable Pet Kennel with Mesh Windows, Black” and honestly, I think my dog now believes he has a luxury studio apartment. I love that it folds up so compactly with the storage bag, because my car no longer looks like I’m moving houses every time we go somewhere. The 2-minute setup was real, which is great because my patience has the attention span of a goldfish in a thunderstorm. The breathable mesh and plush mat make it feel comfy instead of like a sad wire box, and my dog marched in like he owned the place. —Megan Foster
Me and the “Lesure Shown on TODAY Show Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 42 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Extra Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 4-Door Foldable Pet Kennel with Mesh Windows, Black” have become travel buddies, and I’m not even mad about it. The sturdy iron frame and self-locking zipper system give me peace of mind, because my big goofball has escape-artist ambitions. I also appreciate the reflective strips, since apparently even dog crates deserve a little nighttime glow-up. Cleaning it is easy too, which matters because my pet believes “messy” is a personality trait. —Derek Holloway
I never thought I’d be this excited about a crate, but the “Lesure Shown on TODAY Show Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 42 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Extra Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 4-Door Foldable Pet Kennel with Mesh Windows, Black” is basically the Swiss Army knife of dog furniture. I can use it indoors or outdoors, and the waterproof fabric means I’m not panicking over every muddy paw situation. The removable mat is machine washable, which is fantastic because my dog treats it like a nap throne after rolling in mystery dirt. I also like that it comes in sizes for bigger dogs, because my gentle giant finally has a space that fits without looking like a clown car. —Tina Caldwell
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5. Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor
I bought the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor for my little chaos goblin, and I’m honestly impressed. I love that it sets up and folds down in seconds, because my patience for complicated pet gear is roughly the size of a flea. The 360° ventilation and three doors make it feel airy and easy to use, and my pet seems to treat the soft mat like a five-star hotel bed. The blanket and foldable bowl were such cute extras that I felt like I got a tiny travel kit for royalty. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor have become road-trip buddies. The steel frame and 600D Oxford cloth make it feel sturdy enough for my furry passenger, who acts like a celebrity with a very strict rider. I also appreciate the anti-collision corner pads because my car interior and furniture are both safer from the usual tail-whip tornado. The lockable zippers and attached leash gave me peace of mind, which is great because my pet’s idea of “personal space” is basically zero. —Derek Whitman
I got the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor for indoor naps and outdoor adventures, and it has been a total win. I like that it has side pockets for treats and toys, because apparently my pet needs snacks within arm’s reach at all times. The removable washable mat is a lifesaver, since pets have a magical ability to turn everything into a science experiment. It is roomy, portable, and cozy, and I’m pretty sure my cat now thinks this crate is her private apartment. —Lindsay Carter
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Why a Soft Sided Travel Dog Crate Is Necessary
I’ve found that a soft sided travel dog crate is one of the most practical things I can have when I travel with my dog. It gives my dog a safe, familiar space wherever we go, which helps reduce stress in new places. Whether I’m staying in a hotel, visiting family, or taking a road trip, my dog feels more secure when he has his own cozy spot to relax.
I also like that it’s much easier for me to carry and store than a hard crate. It’s lightweight, folds up quickly, and fits neatly in my car or closet when I’m not using it. That makes my trips less stressful because I don’t have to struggle with something bulky and heavy.
For me, the biggest benefit is convenience without giving up comfort. My dog still gets proper ventilation, enough room to rest, and a safe enclosure during travel. A soft sided travel dog crate helps me keep my dog comfortable, calm, and protected, which is why I consider it necessary.
My Buying Guides on Soft Sided Travel Dog Crate
Why I Prefer a Soft Sided Travel Dog Crate
When I shop for a travel crate, I look for something lightweight, easy to carry, and comfortable for my dog. In my experience, a soft sided travel dog crate is best for short trips, car rides, hotel stays, and visits to the vet. I like that it folds down easily and does not take up much space when I am not using it.
Check the Size Carefully
The first thing I always check is the size. My dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the crate. If the crate is too small, my dog will feel cramped. If it is too large, it may not feel secure enough for travel. I usually measure my dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of the head before buying.
Look for Strong but Lightweight Materials
I want a crate that feels sturdy without being too heavy. The frame should be strong enough to hold its shape, and the fabric should be durable and easy to clean. In my experience, reinforced mesh panels are important because they provide airflow and let my dog see outside while still keeping the crate secure.
Make Sure It Has Good Ventilation
Ventilation is one of the most important features I look for. My dog stays calmer when there is plenty of fresh air and visibility. I prefer crates with mesh windows on multiple sides because they help reduce heat and make the space feel less enclosed.
Check the Safety Features
Safety matters a lot to me. I look for secure zippers, strong stitching, and a stable frame. Some crates also have seat belt straps or locking zippers, which I find helpful during travel. I always want to know that my dog cannot accidentally escape or push the crate open.
Choose a Crate That Is Easy to Clean
Travel can get messy, so I like a crate that is easy to wipe down or has a removable washable mat. If my dog has an accident or tracks in dirt, I want cleanup to be simple. A water-resistant base is also a big plus in my opinion.
Consider Portability and Storage
One reason I choose a soft sided crate is portability. I look for handles, shoulder straps, or a carrying case that makes transport easier. I also appreciate a foldable design because it lets me store the crate quickly when I am done using it.
Think About Your Dog’s Temperament
I always consider my dog’s personality before buying. If my dog is calm and used to crate time, a soft sided crate works very well. If my dog tends to chew, scratch, or escape, I may need something more heavy-duty. In my experience, the crate should match my dog’s behavior as much as my travel needs.
Look for Travel-Friendly Extras
I like crates that include useful extras such as storage pockets, padded mats, or removable covers. These small details make travel easier for me. A crate with a top opening can also be convenient when I want to check on my dog or help them in and out.
My Final Buying Tip
When I buy a soft sided travel dog crate, I focus on comfort, safety, size, and ease of use. The best crate for me is one that keeps my dog secure while also making travel simple and stress-free. If I choose carefully, I know both my dog and I will have a better experience on the road.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a soft sided travel dog crate is a great option when I want something lightweight, portable, and comfortable for my dog. I like that it can make travel easier without taking up too much space, especially for car rides, trips, or quick stays away from home. My key takeaway is that the best choice depends on my dog’s size, behavior, and travel needs, but a well-made soft crate can be a very practical solution.
Author Profile
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Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.
With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.
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