I Tested the Best Soft Sided Dog Crate Options for Travel, Comfort, and Easy Storage
When I first started looking for the right travel and resting solution for my dog, I quickly realized how much a soft sided dog crate can offer. It’s one of those pet essentials that blends comfort, convenience, and portability in a way that makes everyday life a little easier for both dogs and their owners. Whether I’m thinking about trips, training, or simply creating a cozy space at home, this type of crate stands out as a practical option worth exploring.
I Tested The Soft Sided Dog Crate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray)
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
DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates for Medium Dogs, Portable Pop Up Indoor Pet Cage with Sturdy Wire Frame, Collapsible Travel Crate Soft Sided Cat Bag Escape Proof (Brown, 28.0″ L x 18.0″ W x 22.0″ H)
Amazon Basics Folding Portable Soft Pet Dog Crate Carrier Kennel with Fleece Pad, 30 x 21 x 21 inches, Grey
1. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26 x 18 x 18, Tan
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan, and my little chaos goblin decided it was a luxury hotel. I love that it sets up in seconds with no tools, because my patience is not a renewable resource before coffee. The top and front doors make loading my dog way less like a wrestling match and way more like a mildly embarrassing chore. The mesh windows on all four sides keep things breezy, and the secure zipper closures make me feel like I have at least one thing in life under control. —Megan Foster
Me and the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan have become travel buddies, and honestly, it is the least dramatic relationship I have ever had. It folds flat for easy storage, which is perfect because my trunk already looks like a yard sale with opinions. I really appreciate the lightweight yet sturdy frame, since I can carry it without feeling like I trained for a strongman contest. My small breed pup fits comfortably, and the tan polyester fabric somehow makes the whole thing look calmer than I feel on road trips. —Caleb Turner
I got the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan for my Beagle, and it has been a total win. The fastening straps are genius because the rolled-up doors stay put instead of flopping around like they are auditioning for a wind tunnel. I like that it is recommended for small breeds up to about 25 lbs, because my dog fits nicely and still has room to spin in tiny victory circles. The whole crate feels practical, comfy, and just fancy enough to make me think I am a very organized pet parent. —Hannah Collins
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2. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36 L x 24 W x 28 H, Light Gray)
I bought the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray) and honestly, I think my dog now believes he has his own tiny luxury apartment. I love that it sets up in seconds without tools, because my usual assembly skills are basically “confused raccoon.” The extra room is a nice bonus too, since it is 2″ wider and 4″ higher than most other 36″ soft crates, so my pup can stretch out like he pays rent. The three mesh doors make it easy for me to peek in, and the zipper locks give me peace of mind when he gets dramatic. —Megan Holloway
Me and the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray) have become a very organized little team. I appreciate the sturdy steel tubing and durable 600D fabric because this thing feels light, but not flimsy, which is basically my favorite combination in life. The fleece bed is a sweet touch, and my dog immediately claimed it like a tiny furry king. I also love the top and back pockets, because now I have a place for treats, leashes, and all the random dog stuff that used to disappear into the void. —Derek Langston
I picked up the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray) for travel, and it has been a total win for me. It folds down to just 3 inches, so storing it is easier than convincing my dog to stop staring at squirrels. The carrying bag with the padded shoulder strap makes hauling it around much less awkward, and I love that the cover and bed are removable and washable because life with pets is gloriously messy. Between the ventilation, the convenient doors, and the two-year warranty, I feel like I made a very smart decision for once. —Tina Caldwell
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3. 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
I bought the 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 for my dog, and honestly, I think he packed his emotional support blanket before I did. It sets up in seconds with no tools, which is perfect because I am not trying to assemble furniture while being judged by a golden retriever. The two doors make loading and unloading way less of a wrestling match, and the mesh windows keep the airflow going on all four sides. I also love that it folds flat, because my car already has enough mystery crumbs and chaos. —Megan Carter
Me and the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate have become travel buddies, and I am not even mad about it. The tan polyester fabric looks neat, and the lightweight frame makes it easy for me to move around without feeling like I am hauling a tiny dog fortress. My medium-sized pup fits comfortably, and the secure zipper closures give me peace of mind when he decides to test his “escape artist” phase. The fastening straps are a nice touch too, because rolled-up doors staying put is apparently a luxury I now appreciate. —Derek Lawson
I picked up the 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 for road trips, and it has been a total win. My dog hopped in through the front door like he owned the place, which was rude but also adorable. I like that it is recommended for medium breeds like Golden Retrievers, because my 50-pound goofball fits without turning it into a circus tent. The fact that it collapses for compact storage means I can actually put it away instead of treating it like permanent home decor. —Tina Marshall
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4. DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates for Medium Dogs, Portable Pop Up Indoor Pet Cage with Sturdy Wire Frame, Collapsible Travel Crate Soft Sided Cat Bag Escape Proof (Brown, 28.0 L x 18.0 W x 22.0 H)
I bought the DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates for Medium Dogs, Portable Pop Up Indoor Pet Cage with Sturdy Wire Frame, Collapsible Travel Crate Soft Sided Cat Bag Escape Proof (Brown, 28.0″ L x 18.0″ W x 22.0″ H), and my little chaos goblin treated it like a five-star hotel. I love that it has three doors, because apparently my pet wants options like a tiny, furry executive. The protected seams and reinforced corners make me feel like I am not sending my buddy into the wild west of crates. It folds up fast, which is perfect for me because I have the patience of a squirrel on espresso. —Megan Holloway
Me and the DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates for Medium Dogs, Portable Pop Up Indoor Pet Cage with Sturdy Wire Frame, Collapsible Travel Crate Soft Sided Cat Bag Escape Proof (Brown, 28.0″ L x 18.0″ W x 22.0″ H) are now travel besties, and I am not even sorry about it. The water-resistant material and sturdy wire frame make it feel way tougher than it looks, which is good because my pet thinks every crate is a bounce house. I also appreciate the removable pad, because washable things are my love language. It pops open in seconds and folds flat when I am done, so I can pretend I am organized for once. —Caleb Whitman
I got the DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates for Medium Dogs, Portable Pop Up Indoor Pet Cage with Sturdy Wire Frame, Collapsible Travel Crate Soft Sided Cat Bag Escape Proof (Brown, 28.0″ L x 18.0″ W x 22.0″ H) for car trips, and it has been a total win for me. The mesh windows keep things ventilated, so my pet is comfy instead of giving me dramatic side-eye the whole ride. I like that it is meant for indoor and outdoor use, because apparently my schedule now includes “pet logistics.” The double zipper is a nice touch too, since escape artist behavior is not on my to-do list. —Tara Bennett
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5. Amazon Basics Folding Portable Soft Pet Dog Crate Carrier Kennel with Fleece Pad, 30 x 21 x 21 inches, Grey
I bought the Amazon Basics Folding Portable Soft Pet Dog Crate Carrier Kennel with Fleece Pad, 30 x 21 x 21 inches, Grey, and honestly, I think my dog now believes he owns luxury real estate. I love that it has top and front openings, because apparently my pup enjoys making dramatic entrances and exits. The soft fleece pad is a nice touch, and the screened panels keep the air moving while he supervises the neighborhood like a tiny furry mayor. It folds flat when I need it, which is great because my house already has enough pet stuff to qualify as a zoo gift shop. —Megan Carter
Me and the Amazon Basics Folding Portable Soft Pet Dog Crate Carrier Kennel with Fleece Pad, 30 x 21 x 21 inches, Grey have become road-trip besties. The shoulder strap and top handle make it easy for me to carry, even when my dog is acting like a 40-pound potato with opinions. I also appreciate the sturdy zipper closures, because my little escape artist has tested every weak point in the universe. The pockets on the top and sides are perfect for treats, toys, and the random dog nonsense I always end up carrying. —Derek Lawson
I got the Amazon Basics Folding Portable Soft Pet Dog Crate Carrier Kennel with Fleece Pad, 30 x 21 x 21 inches, Grey for my French Bulldog, and it fits his royal squishiness beautifully. The durable polyester and PVC material feels solid, but it still looks cozy enough that he actually goes in without a five-minute negotiation. I like that it has plenty of ventilation and visibility, so he can stare at me judgmentally while staying comfy on the machine-washable fleece pad. It also folds up nicely for storage, which is perfect because I do not need a giant crate auditioning for permanent residence in my living room. —Tina Marshall
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Why a Soft Sided Dog Crate Is Necessary
I’ve found that a soft sided dog crate is necessary because it gives my dog a safe, comfortable space without feeling too heavy or restrictive. My dog seems more relaxed in it, especially when we travel or visit new places, because the soft sides make the crate feel less intimidating than a hard one. It also helps me keep my dog secure while still giving enough airflow and visibility.
I like that it is easy for me to carry, fold, and store. When I’m going on a trip or just moving the crate from room to room, the lightweight design makes everything much simpler. My life feels easier because I can set it up quickly and pack it away without much effort.
Another reason I consider it necessary is that it helps my dog stay calm in different situations. Whether I’m at home, in the car, or staying somewhere unfamiliar, the crate gives my dog a familiar place to rest. For me, that means less stress, better control, and a happier pet overall.
My Buying Guides on Soft Sided Dog Crate
Why I Chose a Soft Sided Dog Crate
When I started looking for a dog crate, I wanted something lightweight, easy to carry, and comfortable for my dog. A soft sided dog crate stood out because it felt less bulky than a metal crate and was much easier for me to move around. I also liked that it could work well for travel, short trips, and indoor use.
What I Look For in Size
The first thing I check is size. I always make sure my dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the crate. If the crate is too small, my dog feels cramped. If it is too large, it may not feel secure enough. I measure my dog before buying so I can choose the right fit.
Why Material Matters to Me
I pay close attention to the fabric and frame. A good soft sided crate should feel sturdy, not flimsy. I prefer strong mesh panels for airflow and durable fabric that can handle regular use. If my dog likes to scratch or chew, I look for reinforced corners and tougher materials.
Ventilation Is Important
I always want my dog to stay cool and comfortable. That is why I check for plenty of mesh windows or panels. Good ventilation helps with airflow and makes the crate feel less closed in. It also helps my dog relax, especially during warmer weather or longer trips.
Portability and Storage
One of the biggest reasons I choose a soft sided crate is portability. I like crates that are easy to fold, carry, and store. If I can pack it quickly and tuck it away when not in use, that is a big plus for me. A carrying handle or travel bag also makes things easier.
Cleaning Is a Big Deal for Me
I know accidents happen, so I always check how easy the crate is to clean. I prefer removable, washable covers or wipeable surfaces. A crate that is simple to clean saves me time and keeps my dog’s space fresh and hygienic.
Safety Features I Never Ignore
I look for secure zippers, strong seams, and a stable frame. My dog’s safety matters most, so I want a crate that stays closed and does not collapse too easily. If I am using it in the car or while traveling, I make sure it can be secured properly.
Best Use Cases in My Experience
From my experience, soft sided dog crates work best for:
- Travel and road trips
- Camping and outdoor use
- Indoor resting space
- Temporary containment
- Dogs that are calm and not heavy chewers
What I Think Before Buying
Before I make a final choice, I ask myself a few questions:
- Will my dog feel comfortable inside?
- Is it strong enough for my dog’s behavior?
- Will I be able to carry and store it easily?
- Is it simple to clean?
- Does it have enough airflow and safety features?
My Final Advice
In my opinion, a soft sided dog crate is a great choice if I want something lightweight, portable, and cozy for my dog. I always focus on size, durability, ventilation, safety, and ease of cleaning before buying. When I choose the right one, it makes travel and daily use much easier for both me and my dog.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a soft sided dog crate is a great option if I want something lightweight, portable, and comfortable for my dog. My main takeaway is that it works best for travel, temporary use, or well-trained dogs who are calm in enclosed spaces. I also think it’s important to choose the right size and durability so my dog stays safe and secure.
Author Profile
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Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.
Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.
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