🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Why Soft Dog Crates Beat Shells for Camping: Top 5

Portable soft crates are ideal for camping, but lack crash-test certification. See why the MidWest iCrate leads our top 5 picks for car-free travel.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate ★ Top Pick: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Single D… Check Price on Amazon →
5-15 lbs
Average weight of soft crates
30-42 inches
Typical length range for medium dogs
Up to 90 lbs
Maximum dog weight for large crates
2-5 minutes
Average setup time for folding crates
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This wire crate is sturdy and folds flat for easy transport.
  • Best for Car Travel: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed with Carrier and Car Seat. Crash-tested and certified, this carrier doubles as a car seat and bed.
  • Best for Airline: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier. Airline-approved with a spring wire frame that collapses to meet under-seat requirements.
  • Best Budget: Frisco Soft Folding Crate with Carry Bag. Affordable and lightweight, this soft crate includes a carry bag for easy transport.
  • Best for Large Dogs: Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier. This heavy-duty plastic kennel is ideal for large breeds, with ventilation on three sides.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Si… Best Overall Check price →
Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed with Carrier and Car… Best for Car Travel Check price →
Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier Best for Airline Check price →
Frisco Soft Folding Crate with Carry Bag Best Budget Check price →
Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier Best for Large Dogs Check price →

Quick answer

The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry is our top pick for camping due to its sturdy frame, mesh ventilation, and quick folding design. For smaller budgets, the Frisco Soft Folding Crate offers great value with a carry bag. If you need a crate for a large dog, the Petmate Sky Kennel provides extra durability.

What to consider for Soft Dog Crate For Camping

When choosing a soft dog crate for camping, prioritize portability (lightweight and foldable), ventilation (mesh panels for airflow), and weather resistance (water-resistant fabric). Ensure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down. Look for a secure zipper or latch system to prevent escapes. Some crates include a carry bag or handle for easy transport. Also consider the crate’s stability on uneven ground; some models have anchor loops for tent stakes.

What to look for in a travel or containment product (crate, carrier, gate or car seat)

Correct sizing: measure your dog’s height and length, add a few inches. Good ventilation: mesh windows or vents on multiple sides. Secure construction: look for crash-tested carriers (like Sleepypod) or escape-resistant zippers. Easy cleaning: removable, washable pads or fabric. Portability: lightweight, foldable, with carrying handles or wheels. For car travel, use a crash-tested crate or carrier secured with a seatbelt. For gates, ensure the width fits your doorway and the material is sturdy.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated product specifications for size, weight, and materials.
  • Reviewed customer feedback on durability and ease of use.
  • Checked for safety certifications like CPS crash testing.
  • Compared price points to offer budget-friendly options.
  • Considered brand reputation and warranty.
  • Assessed portability features for camping.
  • Ensured picks cover various dog sizes.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • A crate or carrier too small for your dog to stand and turn around.
  • Unsecured carriers in a moving car; always use a seatbelt or tie-down.
  • Flimsy gates that a determined dog can push through.
  • Over-long crating; provide breaks every few hours.

For more guides, visit our dog guides and check out dog food and dog care products.

Why this matters

Soft dog crates are ideal for camping due to their portability, but they lack crash-test certification, so they should not be used as primary car restraints.

The Options

Types Explained

Soft Folding Crate

Made of fabric over a collapsible metal frame. Lightweight and portable, often includes a carry bag. Suitable for camping, indoor use, and travel.

Best for: Camping, road trips, and temporary containment

Wire Crate

Metal wire construction with a removable tray. Folds flat for storage. Provides good ventilation and visibility. Heavier than soft crates.

Best for: Home use, car travel, and dogs that need a sturdy enclosure

Plastic Kennel

Hard-sided plastic with a metal door. Often airline-approved. Durable and secure but heavy. Good for large dogs and air travel.

Best for: Air travel, large breeds, and rugged outdoor use

Carrier Bag

Soft-sided bag with handles or shoulder strap. Designed for small dogs. Usually airline-approved. Less durable than crates.

Best for: Small dogs, airline travel, and short trips
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate
Best Overall

MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

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This wire crate is sturdy and folds flat for easy transport. Its mesh sides provide excellent ventilation, and the included divider allows for size adjustment. However, it is heavier than soft crates, which may be a trade-off for some campers.

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#2
Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed with Carrier and Car Seat
Best for Car Travel

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed with Carrier and Car Seat

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Crash-tested and certified, this carrier doubles as a car seat and bed. It offers superior safety with a padded interior and ventilation. The main limitation is its higher price and smaller size range, not ideal for large dogs.

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#3
Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier
Best for Airline

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

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Airline-approved with a spring wire frame that collapses to meet under-seat requirements. It has mesh panels for airflow and a padded shoulder strap. However, it is not as durable for rugged camping use and may not suit very large dogs.

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#4
Frisco Soft Folding Crate with Carry Bag
Best Budget

Frisco Soft Folding Crate with Carry Bag

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Affordable and lightweight, this soft crate includes a carry bag for easy transport. It has mesh windows and a washable pad. The main drawback is that it is less durable than wire or hard-sided crates, and some dogs may chew through the fabric.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier
Best for Large Dogs

Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier

View on Amazon

This heavy-duty plastic kennel is ideal for large breeds, with ventilation on three sides and a secure door. It is airline-approved and stackable. The trade-off is its bulk and weight, making it less convenient for backpacking.

Check Price on Amazon →
Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Size and Fit

Measure your dog's height (from floor to top of head) and length (from nose to base of tail). Add 2-4 inches to each dimension to ensure comfort. The crate should allow your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.

02

Ventilation

Look for mesh panels or vents on at least two sides to promote airflow. Good ventilation prevents overheating, especially in warm camping conditions. Some crates have roll-up flaps for shade.

03

Portability

Consider weight, folding mechanism, and whether a carry bag is included. Soft crates are generally lighter than wire or plastic. Handles or shoulder straps add convenience. For car camping, a heavier but sturdier crate may be acceptable.

04

Durability

Check the fabric thickness, zipper quality, and frame material. Reinforced stitching and chew-resistant materials are important for dogs that may scratch or bite. Water-resistant or waterproof fabric is beneficial for outdoor use.

05

Safety Features

Ensure the crate has secure latches or zippers that cannot be easily opened by the dog. For car travel, look for crash-tested models. Some crates have anchor points to secure them in a vehicle or tent.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning

Remove the pad and wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle. For the crate itself, spot clean with mild soap and water. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals. Air dry completely before storing.

Storage

Fold the crate and store it in a dry, cool place. Keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fabric fading. If using a carry bag, ensure the crate is completely dry to avoid mold.

Inspection

Regularly check zippers, seams, and frame for wear. Replace or repair any damaged parts. For wire crates, ensure no sharp edges. For soft crates, check for chew holes or loose stitching.

Pro tip

Use a carabiner to secure the zipper pulls of a soft crate to prevent escape-prone dogs from unzipping from inside.

Frequently asked questions

How do I size a soft dog crate for camping?
Measure your dog's height from the floor to the top of their head (or ears if erect) and length from nose to base of tail. Add 2 to 4 inches to each measurement for comfort. The crate should be tall enough for your dog to stand without crouching and long enough to stretch out. Most manufacturers provide size charts based on dog weight, but measurements are more accurate. For camping, consider a slightly larger crate for extra comfort during long stays.
Are soft dog crates safe for car travel?
Soft dog crates are generally not crash-tested and may not provide adequate protection in a collision. For car travel, we recommend using a crash-tested carrier like the Sleepypod or a wire crate secured with tie-downs. If using a soft crate, place it on the floor behind the front seats and secure it with a seatbelt or bungee cords. Never put an unsecured crate in the cargo area. Always prioritize safety over convenience.
What are airline rules for soft dog crates?
Most airlines require soft-sided carriers to be airline-approved, meaning they must be well-ventilated, leak-proof, and fit under the seat in front of you. Typical dimensions are around 18 x 11 x 11 inches, but check your airline's specific requirements. The carrier must allow your dog to stand and turn. Some airlines prohibit soft crates for cargo; only hard-sided kennels are accepted. Always confirm with the airline before booking.
How long can a dog stay in a crate during camping?
Adult dogs can typically be crated for 4 to 6 hours during the day, but puppies and seniors need more frequent breaks. During camping, aim for no more than 4 hours at a time, with potty breaks and exercise in between. Never leave a dog in a crate overnight without a break. Provide water and ensure the crate is not in direct sunlight. Over-crating can cause stress and health issues.
How important is ventilation in a soft dog crate?
Ventilation is critical to prevent overheating, especially in warm weather. Look for crates with mesh panels on multiple sides to allow cross-breeze. Some crates have roll-up flaps for extra airflow. Avoid crates with limited mesh or small windows. If camping in hot conditions, consider a crate with a removable top for open-air feel. Always monitor your dog for signs of heat stress.
How can I make a soft dog crate escape-proof?
Choose a crate with heavy-duty zippers and lockable clips. Some dogs can unzip zippers from inside; use a small carabiner to secure the zipper pulls together. Reinforce seams with duct tape if needed. For chewers, consider a metal crate instead. Ensure the crate is properly assembled and the frame is locked. Never leave a determined escape artist unsupervised in a soft crate.
What is the difference between soft and hard dog carriers?
Soft carriers are lightweight, foldable, and often airline-approved for cabin travel. They offer less protection and durability. Hard carriers (plastic kennels) are heavier, more secure, and crash-tested for car travel. They are required for cargo air travel. Soft carriers are better for short trips and small dogs, while hard carriers suit large dogs and rugged use. Your choice depends on your primary use case.
Can I use a soft dog crate for a puppy?
Yes, but ensure the crate is appropriately sized for the puppy's current size, with room to grow. Use a divider if available to prevent the puppy from using one end as a bathroom. Soft crates are less sturdy, so supervise your puppy to prevent chewing. For potty training, a wire crate may be easier to clean. Always provide a comfortable bed and toys.
What safety concerns should I consider with soft dog crates?
Soft crates can be chewed through by determined dogs, posing an escape risk. They are not crash-tested, so use them only for stationary containment. Ensure the crate is placed on a flat surface to prevent tipping. Avoid leaving your dog in a soft crate in a hot car or direct sunlight. Check for loose threads or small parts that could be ingested. Always supervise your dog initially.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.