10 Best Car Pet Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel offers a sturdy and reliable option for medium dogs, meeting the needs of pet owners looking for a car-pet-carrier. The kennel is made of durable plastic that ensures long-term use and easy cleaning. Its size, with dimensions of 32 inches long, 22.5 inches wide, and 24 inches high, is suitable for dogs weighing between 30-50 lbs, providing sufficient space for pets to move around and relax during travel.

The kennel is airline-friendly, complying with most airline cargo specifications, which is a significant advantage for frequent travelers. It features four-sided ventilation which allows your pet to stay comfortable and visible throughout the journey, enhancing their travel experience. Additionally, the kennel has lockable features to ensure your pet's security during transit. The stay-dry moat is a thoughtful design that keeps your pet dry by directing fluids away, making it ideal for housebreaking puppies or keeping pets dry in general.

However, the kennel's weight of 12.5 pounds might not be the most portable option for all users, especially when dealing with larger dogs. Also, while the plastic material is durable, it might not provide the same comfort level as fabric or padded carriers. In summary, this product is a solid choice for those prioritizing durability, security, and ease of cleaning, but it may not be the best option if lightweight portability and maximum comfort are critical concerns.

The Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel is designed for dogs up to 90 pounds, offering a spacious size of 40" long, 27" wide, and 30" high, making it suitable for large breeds that need room to move comfortably during travel. It's made from a blend of materials that provide decent durability while keeping the kennel lightweight at about 19.5 pounds, which helps with portability. Ventilation is well thought out with side vents on three sides, allowing good airflow to keep your pet cool and comfortable. The kennel features an easy-open latch that can be operated with one hand, which is handy when managing pets on the go. It also meets most airline cargo requirements, so it's a practical choice if you plan air travel.

Cleaning is manageable as the materials are standard for pet crates. While it is portable, its size and shape might be a bit bulky for some car trunks or small spaces, so measuring your vehicle beforehand is wise. Comfort-wise, the kennel relies on size and ventilation, but you may want to add your own bedding to make it cozier for your pet.

This kennel is a suitable option for large dogs needing a sturdy, airline-approved carrier with good airflow and ease of use, though adding extra bedding may enhance your pet’s comfort.

The Petmate Sky Kennel is a well-designed pet carrier ideal for small dogs and cats up to 15 pounds, making it a great choice for owners of petite pets like Chihuahuas. With dimensions of 21 x 16 x 15 inches, it offers enough space for pets to move around comfortably during travel. Its construction from durable EcoTEC plastic, which includes recycled materials, ensures it is sturdy and built to last. The kennel meets airline standards, featuring 360-degree ventilation for good airflow, which is essential for your pet’s comfort and safety during trips. Security is enhanced with an easy-squeeze latch door with interlocking features and holes for tie-down straps, providing peace of mind that your pet will stay secure. Portability is supported by a folding top handle, making it easier to carry.

The crate also comes with helpful travel accessories like food and water cups, absorbent pads, and identification stickers, which simplify preparation for trips. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the plastic material, which can be wiped down easily. One possible downside is that while the size suits small pets well, it won’t accommodate larger dogs, so it’s not versatile for multiple pet sizes. Also, despite being lightweight at about 2.2 pounds, some users might find the rigid plastic less flexible compared to soft-sided carriers for certain travel situations. This kennel represents a solid, secure, and airline-friendly option for small pet owners prioritizing comfort and ease during travel.