By Audrey HayesUpdated November 2026
If you travel with a dog, a foldable travel dog crate can make the trip safer, calmer and far easier to manage. A crate that collapses flat fits in a trunk or hatchback, pops open quickly at a hotel, and gives your dog a familiar space wherever you stop. This guide compares six soft-sided and pop-up options with a focus on the things that matter most on the road: how small the crate folds, how easily it sets up, how well it ventilates, whether it can be closed securely, and whether your dog will fit comfortably inside. We based the selection on manufacturer specifications, brand reputation and common owner feedback patterns rather than on any hands-on trials.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallAmazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog CrateView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for large dogsDog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Dog CrateView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for indoor and outdoor usePortable Dog Crate Soft Sided 36 InchView on Amazon - 4
Best for quick pop-up setupCollapsible Pop Up Kennel 32.5"View on Amazon - 5
Best for extra-large breedsSoft Collapsible XL Dog Crate, 42inView on Amazon - 6
Best budget pickZikopomi 30 Inch Portable Soft Foldable Dog CrateView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate | Most small to medium dogs on car trips | Double door and easy assembly |
| Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate | Large and medium dogs needing headroom | Two doors and durable mesh windows |
| Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided 36 Inch | Dogs that split time indoors and outdoors | Built-in leash and plush pad |
| Collapsible Pop Up Kennel 32.5″ | Travelers who want fast setup | Pops up and folds flat |
| Soft Collapsible XL Dog Crate, 42in | Extra-large breeds up to about 90 lbs | Four doors and a 42-inch length |
| Zikopomi 30 Inch Portable Soft Foldable Dog Crate | Small and medium dogs on a budget | Three zipper doors |
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate
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
Best for: Small to medium dogs that need a simple, dependable crate for car trips and short stays.
This crate suits first-time travelers and owners who want a straightforward design without extra features. Its double-door layout gives you access from the front or side, which helps when loading a dog into a backseat or cargo area.
Key specs
- Medium size: 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″
- Collapsible soft-sided frame
- Double door
- Tan color
Pros
- Easy to assemble and fold
- Double doors offer flexible access
- Compact enough for most car cargo areas when folded
Cons
- Not suited to large or heavy chewers
- Soft walls offer less protection than a hard-sided crate in a collision
Bottom line: A sensible first choice for owners of small to medium dogs who want a no-fuss foldable crate for road trips.
Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate
Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 2-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey
Best for: Large and medium dogs that need more floor space and headroom than a standard soft crate offers.
The 36-inch footprint makes this a practical option for dogs that need to stand, turn around and lie stretched out on a long drive. The two-door design and mesh windows help with airflow.
Key specs
- Size: 36″ x 25″ x 25″
- Portable, foldable frame
- Two doors
- Mesh windows
- Light grey color
Pros
- Generous interior for larger dogs
- Two doors for easier loading
- Works for both travel and home use
Cons
- Large footprint when set up, so check your vehicle space first
- Folded size will be bigger than compact pop-up models
Bottom line: Best for owners of medium to large dogs who need room and do not mind a larger folded package.
Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided 36 Inch
Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided, Easy Fold & Setup Kennel, Indoor & Outdoor, Breathable Mesh Windows, Built-in Leash, Plush Pad 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Travel Dog Crate Grey
Best for: Owners who use the same crate at home, in the yard and on trips.
This soft-sided model is marketed for indoor and outdoor use and includes a built-in leash, which is handy at rest stops or campsites. The plush pad adds comfort on longer rides.
Key specs
- 36-inch length, suited to large dogs
- Breathable mesh windows
- Built-in leash
- Plush pad included
- Grey color
Pros
- Useful for both indoor and outdoor setups
- Built-in leash adds convenience at stops
- Mesh windows support ventilation
Cons
- Soft walls may not hold up to strong chewers
- The included pad may need washing or replacing over time
Bottom line: A good all-round choice for owners who want one crate for home, yard and travel.
Collapsible Pop Up Kennel 32.5″
Collapsible indoor/outdoor travel cat and dog crate with mesh screen windows pops up and folds flat for easy storage Portable Collapsible Pop Up Kennel, 32.5"L x 19.5"W x 19.5"H, Blue
Best for: Travelers who want a crate that sets up in seconds and folds flat for storage.
Pop-up designs use a spring-steel frame that opens without tools. This model is listed for both cats and dogs, so it suits households with mixed pets, though the size is best for small to medium dogs.
Key specs
- Size: 32.5″L x 19.5″W x 19.5″H
- Pop-up, collapsible frame
- Mesh screen windows
- Blue color
Pros
- Very quick to open and fold
- Mesh windows for airflow
- Flat storage between trips
Cons
- Interior height may be limiting for taller dogs
- Pop-up frames can be awkward to fold for first-time users
Bottom line: A strong pick for small to medium dogs when setup speed matters more than interior space.
Soft Collapsible XL Dog Crate, 42in
Portable Travel Camping Pet Kennel, 4-door, Indoor Outdoor Use, Easy to Set Up and Fold, For Extra Large Breeds Up to 90 lbs Lesure Shown on Today Show Soft Collapsible XL Dog Crate, 42in Black
Best for: Extra-large breeds and owners who want a crate with several access points.
Listed for dogs up to about 90 pounds, this crate offers four doors, which helps when you need to reach a dog from several angles or set up a quick shelter at a campsite.
Key specs
- Size: 42 inches
- Four doors
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Rated for dogs up to about 90 lbs
- Black color
Pros
- Large interior for big dogs
- Four doors give flexible access
- Suitable for camping and car travel
Cons
- Large size requires a roomy vehicle
- Heavy when folded compared with smaller models
Bottom line: The right choice for owners of very large dogs who need maximum space and access.
Zikopomi 30 Inch Portable Soft Foldable Dog Crate
3 Zipper Door,Collapsible Soft Pet Kennel, Foldable Dog Cage, for Small and Medium Dogs, Indoor Outdoor Travel Zikopomi 30 Inch Portable Soft Foldable Dog Crate, 30" L x 21" W x 21" H
Best for: Small and medium dogs and owners looking for a lighter, lower-cost travel option.
This crate uses three zipper doors and is designed for both indoor and outdoor travel. Its compact 30-inch size folds into a small bundle for easy storage.
Key specs
- Size: 30″ L x 21″ W x 21″ H
- Three zipper doors
- Collapsible soft frame
- Designed for small and medium dogs
Pros
- Compact size suits small cars
- Three doors for flexible loading
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Not suitable for large dogs
- Zippers need care to avoid snagging on fur or fabric
Bottom line: A practical budget option for owners of small to medium dogs who need a compact foldable crate.
Buying Guide
Folded size and vehicle fit
Measure the cargo area of your vehicle before you buy, including the height of the rear seats if your dog will ride there. Foldable crates vary widely in packed size, and a crate that folds small in a catalog can still be bulky to handle. Check how far the back seats fold and whether the crate will sit flat on the floor.
Good picks for this: Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Zikopomi 30 Inch Portable Soft Foldable Dog Crate
Interior size and your dog’s needs
A travel crate should let your dog stand up without touching the top, turn around and lie down stretched out. As a general guideline, measure your dog from nose to base of tail for length and from floor to the top of the head when standing for height, then add a few inches to each measurement. Larger dogs need proportionally more room, and crowding can make a long trip stressful.
Good picks for this: Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate, Soft Collapsible XL Dog Crate, 42in
Door design and access
Multiple doors make it easier to load a dog in tight spaces and to reach an anxious dog without opening the crate to the full sky. Look for zippers that run smoothly and latches or clips that hold firmly. Zippers should be sturdy, and the door frames should not sag when closed.
Good picks for this: Soft Collapsible XL Dog Crate, 42in, Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate
Ventilation and mesh windows
Good airflow matters in a closed car, which can heat up quickly even on mild days. Mesh windows on several sides help keep air moving. Check that mesh is fine enough to keep small paws and toys inside but open enough to let air through.
Good picks for this: Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided 36 Inch, Collapsible Pop Up Kennel 32.5″
Setup speed and ease of folding
Pop-up crates open with a spring frame and fold flat in seconds once you learn the method. Traditional soft crates with a flexible frame take a few minutes to assemble but often fold into a more compact bundle. Think about how often you will set up and take down the crate and who will do it.
Good picks for this: Collapsible Pop Up Kennel 32.5″, Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate
Durability and chewing risk
Soft crates are not designed to contain a determined chewer or a dog that digs and scratches at the walls. If your dog is destructive, a hard-sided or wire crate may be a safer choice for travel. Check stitching, zipper quality and the strength of the frame, and inspect the crate regularly for worn spots.
Good picks for this: Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate, Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided 36 Inch
Care and cleaning
Travel crates pick up dirt, fur, drool and occasional accidents. Check whether the fabric and any padding are removable or machine washable, and whether the crate can be wiped down quickly after a trip. A crate that is easy to clean will last longer and smell better.
Good picks for this: Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided 36 Inch, Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate
FAQ
Is a soft foldable crate safe for car travel?
A soft crate can be used in a car if it is secured so it cannot slide or tip. Soft crates offer less protection in a collision than a hard-sided crate, so many experts recommend crash-tested or hard-sided options for long highway trips. Check with your veterinarian or a professional trainer about the best option for your dog.
How do I choose the right size foldable travel dog crate?
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and from the floor to the top of the head when standing, then choose a crate that gives a few inches of extra room in each direction. Your dog should be able to stand, turn and lie down comfortably.
Can I use a foldable crate for flights?
Airlines usually require hard-sided kennels for in-cabin or cargo travel, and rules differ by airline and destination. Soft foldable crates are generally not accepted for flights, so check your airline’s pet policy before booking.
How do I train my dog to accept a travel crate?
Introduce the crate gradually with treats, meals and short periods of calm rest inside it. Build up to longer stays with the door closed while you are nearby. For more detail, see Why Is Crate Training Important for Dogs? Benefits and How-To.
Are soft crates good for dogs that chew?
Most soft crates are not designed for heavy chewing. If your dog chews or digs at its enclosure, consider a sturdier wire or hard-sided crate for travel and use the soft crate only for calm, supervised trips.
How should I clean a foldable dog crate?
Remove any washable padding and wash it according to the label. Wipe the frame and fabric with a pet-safe cleaner, let everything dry fully before folding, and store the crate in a dry place to prevent mildew.
Conclusion
For most small to medium dogs, the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate is a sensible starting point, and the Zikopomi 30 Inch Portable Soft Foldable Dog Crate is a practical budget option. Owners of large dogs should look at the 36-inch and 42-inch models for adequate headroom, while pop-up designs suit travelers who value quick setup. Choose based on your dog’s size, your vehicle space and how you plan to use the crate, and always check the manufacturer’s dimensions before you buy.
For more background on choosing a crate for different trips, read Travel Dog Crates: Car and Air Travel Rules and Folding Travel Dog Crate: 6 Best Picks for Car and Flights (2026).
Sources
- Guidance on heat and vehicle safety that applies to pets left in parked cars (cdc.gov)
- General information on crate sizing, crate training and safe travel with dogs (akc.org)
- Veterinary association guidance on transporting companion animals (avma.org)
Related reading
- Foldable Wire Dog Crate: 7 Best Picks for Home and Travel (2026)
- Wire Collapsible Dog Crate: 6 Best Picks for Home and Travel (2026)
- Travel Dog Crate Collapsible: 6 Best Picks for Trips in 2026
About Audrey Hayes
Audrey Hayes is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our dogs & puppies guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
