10 Best Travel Crates for Labradors 2025: Top Picks, Safety Tips, and Size Guide
The Ultimate Guide to the 10 Best Travel Crates for Labradors
Picture this: you’re planning a road trip or flight with your Labrador, that loyal, tail-wagging bundle of energy who’s ready for any adventure. But without the right travel crate, your journey could turn chaotic. Best travel crates for Labradors are more than just carriers—they’re safe havens that keep your furry friend secure and comfy during travel. Labradors, with their friendly demeanor and boundless enthusiasm, are exceptional travel companions, but their size and energy demand crates built for durability and comfort. This guide will help you choose the perfect large dog travel crate, covering top picks for 2025, safety tips, and everything you need to ensure stress-free travel with your Lab. Let’s dive in!
Why Labradors Need Special Travel Crates
Labradors are America’s favorite breed for a reason—their intelligence, playfulness, and 55-80-pound frames make them unique. But these traits also mean they need specialized safe travel crates for Labradors.
Look for crates with robust materials, ample ventilation, and cozy interiors to match your Lab’s needs. Always secure crates in cars with straps or seatbelts, and check airline requirements for air travel to avoid surprises.
What to Look for in a Travel Crate for Labradors
Choosing the best Labrador dog crate involves balancing size, durability, and portability. Here’s what to prioritize:
Travel Compatibility: Ensure airline travel crates for Labradors meet IATA standards (ventilation, secure latches). For car crates for Labradors, check crash-test ratings.
Size and Weight Capacity: A 42-inch crate (42”L x 28”W x 30”H) is ideal for most adult Labs, allowing them to stand, turn, and lie down. Ensure it supports up to 100 pounds.
Material:
- Plastic: Durable, airline-approved, easy to clean (e.g., Petmate Sky Kennel).
- Metal/Wire: Great for car travel, collapsible, but less insulated.
- Soft-Sided: Lightweight, portable, but only for crate-trained Labs who don’t chew.
- Portability: Look for wheels, handles, or foldable designs for easy transport. Collapsible crates save space in hotels or cars.
- Travel Compatibility: Ensure airline travel crates for Labradors meet IATA standards (ventilation, secure latches). For car crates for Labradors, check crash-test ratings.
Top 10 Best Travel Crates for Labradors (2025 List)
Here’s our expert-curated list of the best travel crates for Labradors in 2025, based on safety, comfort, and durability.
1. Gunner G1 Kennel
5-star crash-test rating, 40.25”L x 28”W x 33.25”H, 48 lbs, heavy-duty plastic with aluminum frame.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
2. Gunner G1 Large Kennel
40”L x 27”W x 30”H, 25 lbs, IATA-approved plastic, wire vents.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
3. MidWest iCrate Double Door
42”L x 28”W x 30”H, 35 lbs, wire with plastic tray, collapsible.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
4. Lesure Collapsible Dog Crate
42”L x 31”W x 31”H, 15 lbs, soft-sided polyester with PVC frame.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
5. Thule Allax Dog Crate
40.6”L x 27.6”W x 31.5”H, 45 lbs, aluminum, crash-tested with crumple zone.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
6. Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Crate
42”L x 28”W x 30”H, 33 lbs, wire with rubber feet, collapsible.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
7. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel
42”L x 28”W x 30”H, 30 lbs, plastic with wheels, IATA-approved.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
8. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel
40”L x 27”W x 30”H, 50 lbs, aluminum, foldable with brackets.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
9. Precision Pet Products Soft-Sided Crate
42”L x 28”W x 28”H, 12 lbs, nylon with mesh windows.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
10. Pet Gear The Other Door Steel Crate
42”L x 28”W x 28”H, 40 lbs, steel with plush pad, four doors.
Pros
Cons
Price Range: $120-$150
Best Travel Crates for Air Travel with Labradors
For air travel, airline travel crates for Labradors must be IATA-compliant, with secure latches, ventilation on all four sides, and a snug fit. Our top picks:
Size and Regulation Compliance
Airlines require crates to allow dogs to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. A 40-42”L crate fits most Labs, but check with your airline for exact specs.
Comfort Features
Look for padded interiors, attachable water dishes, and low-visibility designs to reduce anxiety during flights.
Best Travel Crates for Road Trips & Cars
For road trips, car crates for Labradors prioritize crash safety and stability. Top picks:
Safety Features
Choose crates with seatbelt compatibility or tie-down straps. Crash-tested models like Gunner reduce injury risk in accidents.
Storage Convenience
Collapsible crates like the MidWest iCrate or Lesure save space when not in use, perfect for SUVs or minivans.
Travel Crates vs Travel Bags: What’s Right for Your Labrador?
Dog travel crate vs travel bag—which is better? Here’s a breakdown:
| Travel Crates | Travel Bags |
| Durable, secure, airline-approved, crash-tested options. | Lightweight, stylish, easy to carry. |
| Bulky, heavier. | Less durable, not safe for chewers, rarely crash-tested. |
| Long trips, air travel, car safety. | Short trips, small or crate-trained Labs. |
For Labradors, crates are usually the safer choice due to their size and energy.
How to Measure Your Labrador for the Perfect Fit
A properly sized crate ensures comfort and safety. Follow this Labrador crate size guide:
- Length: Measure from nose to tail base, add 3-5 inches.
- Height: Measure from floor to top of head when standing, add 2-4 inches.
- Width: Measure shoulder width, double it for comfort.
Size Chart
| Age/Size | Crate Size (L x W x H) | Weight Capacity |
| Puppy (10-30 lbs) | 30” x 19” x 21” | Up to 40 lbs |
| Adult (55-80 lbs) | 42” x 28” x 30” | Up to 100 lbs |
Expert Tips for Crate Training Before Travel
Crate training is key to stress-free travel. Here’s how to prepare your Lab:
- Introduce Gradually: Place treats and toys inside the best travel crate for Labrador Retriever to create positive associations.
- Practice Runs: Start with short car rides or home sessions, increasing duration.
- Comfort Items: Add a familiar blanket or chew toy to reduce anxiety.
- Vet Advice: Ensure your Lab is healthy for travel; consult on calming aids if needed.
Regular practice makes the crate a safe haven, not a stressor.
FAQs
Conclusion
Traveling with your Labrador Retriever is an adventure best enjoyed with the right gear. The best travel crates for Labradors in 2025, like the Gunner G1 for car safety or the Petmate Sky Kennel for air travel, prioritize durability, comfort, and safety. By choosing a crate that fits your Lab’s size, energy, and travel needs, you’ll ensure stress-free journeys for both of you. Use our travel crate buying guide for large dogs to pick the perfect option, and don’t forget to crate-train in advance. Ready to hit the road or skies? Share your Lab travel tips below or spread the word with fellow pet parents!
