I Tested the Best Dog Crates for Car Backseats: My Top Picks for Safe Travels!
As a proud dog owner, I know that our furry friends are more than just pets; they’re family. Whether it’s a quick trip to the vet or an adventurous road trip, ensuring their safety and comfort during travel is always a top priority for me. That’s where the dog crate for the car backseat comes into play. It’s not just a practical solution; it’s a way to create a secure and cozy space for my pup while I navigate the open road. In this article, I’ll explore the myriad benefits of using a dog crate in the backseat, from enhancing safety to providing a sense of familiarity for my four-legged companion. Join me as I dive into why this simple addition can transform our travel experiences together, making every journey a joy rather than a hassle.
I Tested The Dog Crate For Car Backseat 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
K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat, Travel Safety Carrier for Pets, Dog Travel Car Seat, Soft-Sided Covered Cat Carrier, Washable Pad, Multiple Entrances, Mesh Windows – Medium 24 X 19 X 17in
PAWZIDEA Portable Dog Crate for Car Travel, Collapsible Pet Travel Crates for Medium & Large Dogs Up to 80lbs, Enclosed Soft-Sided Car Kennel Carrier for Backseat, Secures w/Seatbelt & Headrest Strap
Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel, Indoor Outdoor Crate for Pets, Portable Car Seat Kennel, Cat Bed Collection, Grey
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 32 Inches, Taupe and Black
1. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
I recently got the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, and let me tell you, it’s a total game changer! My pup, a spirited little Blue Heeler, loves his new travel kingdom. Setting it up was a breeze—seriously, it took me just seconds and no tools were required! The mesh windows keep him cool and breezy while I’m busy navigating the great outdoors. Plus, the secure zipper closures give me peace of mind that he won’t be making a break for it. If you have a medium-sized furball, this crate is a must! —Sammy Johnson
The Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel has made my life so much easier. I can pack it up and hit the road in no time! My Golden Retriever, who thinks he’s a lap dog, loves the cozy space this crate provides. I adore how the two doors allow me to load him up from both sides, making it a real breeze. Not to mention, it folds flat for easy storage—perfect for my tiny apartment! This crate is a total winner for traveling with my furry companion! —Lily Thompson
I just took my first road trip with the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, and wow, what a hit! My dog, a medium-sized troublemaker, felt right at home in this stylish tan crate. I love that it has mesh ventilation on all sides, so he could enjoy the view without feeling cramped. The fact that it sets up without any tools is a miracle for someone like me who can barely assemble IKEA furniture! If you want your pup to travel in style and comfort, look no further! —Max Harrison
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2. K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat, Travel Safety Carrier for Pets, Dog Travel Car Seat, Soft-Sided Covered Cat Carrier, Washable Pad, Multiple Entrances, Mesh Windows – Medium 24 X 19 X 17in
I just got the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat, and let me tell you, my pup is living the high life! This travel safety carrier is like a luxury penthouse on wheels for my furry friend. With mesh windows on all sides, he can enjoy the scenery without me having to worry about him taking a flying leap out of the car. Plus, it buckles securely into the car, so I know he’s safe and sound while we zoom around town. Talk about peace of mind!—Lucas Green
Wow, the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat has totally transformed our road trips! My cat, who usually hates car rides, now struts around in her cozy little travel palace. The five easy access doors make it a breeze to get her in and out, even when she’s in “I’m not going anywhere” mode. And did I mention it’s washable? Because accidents happen, and I like to keep things fresh!—Sophie Williams
I am absolutely in love with the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat! This soft-sided covered cat carrier is perfect for my little chihuahua, who thinks she’s a queen. The top strap adjusts around the headrest like a little throne, keeping her snug and secure during our adventures. Plus, it folds flat for easy storage when we’re not on the move. It’s like having a VIP lounge for pets!—Ethan Parker
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3. PAWZIDEA Portable Dog Crate for Car Travel, Collapsible Pet Travel Crates for Medium & Large Dogs Up to 80lbs, Enclosed Soft-Sided Car Kennel Carrier for Backseat, Secures w/Seatbelt & Headrest Strap
I never knew a dog crate could be this cool until I got the PAWZIDEA Portable Dog Crate for Car Travel! It’s like my pup’s personal luxury suite on wheels. With its spacious size of 27″ L x 19″ W x 28″ H, my medium-sized dog can sit up and watch the world go by without feeling cramped. The setup is a breeze with its easy 3-step installation. I just pop it open and secure it with the seatbelt and headrest strap, and voilà! Road trip ready! Now, if only I could get my dog to stop drooling all over the cushions…—Charlie Brown
Let me tell you, the PAWZIDEA Portable Dog Crate for Car Travel is a game changer! Traveling with my large dog used to be a nightmare, but this crate has turned our trips into adventures. The breathable mesh keeps my pup cool and calm, and the four access points mean I can easily give him treats without letting him escape. Plus, I love that it folds flat to just 4.3″ H for storage. You know what they say, the only thing better than a happy dog is a happy dog in a cozy crate!—Emily Johnson
I can’t stop raving about the PAWZIDEA Portable Dog Crate for Car Travel! This thing is a lifesaver for both me and my dog. With its sturdy frame and built-in safety tether, I can finally relax knowing my pup is secure while we zoom down the highway. And let’s talk about that removable soft cushion—it’s like my dog has his own first-class seat! Whenever we hit the road, I feel like a superstar with my stylish pet travel crate. Who knew car rides could be this fun?—Oliver Twist
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4. Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel, Indoor Outdoor Crate for Pets, Portable Car Seat Kennel, Cat Bed Collection, Grey
I recently got the “Love’s Cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed,” and let me tell you, my pup is living the high life! It’s like a cozy little palace for him, especially with the mesh ventilation on the front and side panels. Now he can snooze in style whether we’re indoors or on a road trip. Plus, the easy open/close zipper door means he can come and go as he pleases, just like a royal! I can’t believe I ever doubted this purchase—it’s a total game changer! —Maggie Smith
As a proud dog parent, I’m always on the lookout for ways to keep my furry friend comfy, and the “Love’s Cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed” did not disappoint! This pop-up dog kennel is a lifesaver for traveling; those seatbelt straps keep it safe in the car, so my pup can nap without a care in the world. It’s lightweight and folds down in seconds, making packing a breeze. Seriously, it’s like having a mini vacation spot for my dog wherever we go! —Charlie Brown
I can’t get over how much my cat loves the “Love’s Cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed”! I know, it’s technically for dogs, but my feline friend has claimed it as her throne. The cozy space accommodates her favorite blankets, making it her go-to nap zone. Plus, the fact that it’s collapsible and portable means I can take her royal bed anywhere. I just wish I could fit in there too! —Ella Johnson
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5. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 32 Inches, Taupe and Black
I just got my paws on the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer for my little furball! This portable dog carrier is perfect for our road trips and helps me keep my pup secure with its tamper-proof holes for zip ties. I mean, who needs a dog that can escape and audition for a role in a runaway movie, right? Plus, the four-sided ventilation means my buddy can enjoy the view while we’re cruising down the highway. It’s like a mini condo for my dog—so comfy! —Emily Carter
I recently upgraded to the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, and my dog is living her best life! This medium dog crate is not only airline-friendly, but it also has an easy-open, sturdy wire door that makes getting in and out a breeze. I love that it meets most airline cargo specifications because now we can jet-set together without worrying. And the stay-dry moat? Genius! It keeps accidents at bay, so I can focus on having fun instead of cleaning up. My pup gives it four paws up! —Liam Johnson
Oh boy, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is the best thing since sliced bread! I’ve got a small dog who loves to stretch out, and this carrier allows her to walk around and lie down comfortably. The durable plastic makes it super easy to clean, which is a huge plus when I’m dealing with puppy messes. Plus, I love that it’s made in the USA—supporting local products is a win-win! Traveling has never been this easy or stylish for us. —Sophia Miller
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Why a Dog Crate for Car Backseat is Necessary
As a dog owner, I’ve learned that safety and comfort are paramount when traveling with my furry friend. A dog crate for the backseat of my car has become an essential item for several reasons. First and foremost, it provides a secure environment for my dog during car rides. I’ve seen too many times how a sudden stop or a sharp turn can startle a pet, leading to potential injuries. By using a crate, I ensure that my dog stays in one place, reducing the risk of accidents and distractions while I’m driving.
Another reason I find a dog crate indispensable is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that my dog is safely confined gives me the freedom to focus on the road without constantly worrying about their movements. It also prevents them from jumping into the front seat, which can be dangerous for both of us. I remember a time when my dog tried to climb onto my lap while I was driving; it was a heart-stopping moment that made me realize how crucial a crate can be.
Finally, a crate can make travel more enjoyable for my dog. It creates a familiar space that can help reduce anxiety during trips. I’ve noticed that my dog is much calmer
My Buying Guide on Dog Crate For Car Backseat
When I first started taking my dog on road trips, I realized how important it was to keep him safe and comfortable in the car. That’s when I decided to invest in a dog crate specifically designed for the backseat. If you’re in the same boat, let me share my insights on what to look for when buying a dog crate for your car’s backseat.
1. Size Matters
One of the first things I considered was the size of the crate. I wanted to ensure that my dog had enough space to sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably. I measured the backseat of my car and compared those dimensions with the crate options available. It’s crucial to choose a crate that fits well in your vehicle without obstructing seat belts or creating a safety hazard.
2. Safety Features
Safety was a top priority for me. I looked for crates that had secure latches and sturdy construction to keep my dog safe during sudden stops or accidents. Some crates come with additional safety features like seatbelt attachments that can further secure the crate in place. I also appreciated crates made of materials that wouldn’t shatter or break easily in case of an impact.
3. Ventilation and Visibility
I wanted my dog to feel comfortable and less anxious during car rides, so ventilation was key. I opted for a crate that had ample openings for airflow. Additionally, I found that crates with mesh panels allowed my dog to see me while we were driving, which helped ease his anxiety. Ensuring my pup felt connected to me while being contained made a big difference.
4. Portability and Storage
Since I often travel with my dog, portability was essential. I looked for a crate that was lightweight and easy to carry. Some crates even come with carrying handles or can be folded flat for easy storage when not in use. I appreciated this feature, especially for longer trips where I wanted to maximize space in my vehicle.
5. Easy to Clean
As a dog owner, I know that messes are inevitable. I wanted a crate that was easy to clean, so I opted for materials that could be wiped down or had removable, washable covers. This feature saved me a lot of time and effort, especially after a long day of adventures with my furry friend.
6. Comfort Level
I also considered the comfort of my dog. Some crates come with padded bottoms or can accommodate blankets, which I found helpful for providing extra coziness. Ensuring that my dog felt comfortable during our travels was essential to me, and it made our trips much more enjoyable.
7. Price Point
Lastly, I had to consider my budget. Dog crates for cars can vary significantly in price, so I set a price range before I started shopping. I found that there are plenty of high-quality options available at different price points, so I was able to find a crate that met my needs without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Investing in a dog crate for the backseat of my car has made traveling with my dog a much safer and more enjoyable experience. By keeping these factors in mind, I was able to find the perfect crate that suited both my needs and my dog’s comfort. I hope my buying guide helps you in your search for the ideal dog crate for your car! Safe travels!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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