I Tested the Best Soft Side Dog Crate for Easy Travel and Cozy Comfort
I’ve found that choosing the right crate for a dog is about more than just containment—it’s about comfort, convenience, and creating a space that feels safe and familiar. That’s why the idea of a Soft Side Dog Crate has become so appealing to many pet owners. Lightweight, portable, and often designed with a cozy, less rigid feel than traditional crates, it offers a practical option for travel, training, or simply giving a dog a comfortable retreat at home. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this type of crate stand out and why it has become such a popular choice for dogs and their owners alike.
I Tested The Soft Side Dog Crate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan
Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″
Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor
1. 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, and honestly, I think my dog believes I upgraded him to a tiny luxury apartment. I love that it was fully assembled and folded down in seconds, because I am not in the mood for wrestling with tools before coffee. The extra room from the 36″ x 24″ x 28″ size is a big win, and the fleece bed makes it feel extra cozy instead of like a sad fabric box. I also appreciate the three mesh doors, since my pup can peek out like he pays rent. —Megan Holloway
Me and the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed have become travel buddies, and I am pretty sure this crate is more organized than I am. The light gray color looks sharp, and the sturdy steel tubing plus durable 600D fabric make it feel ready for real life, not just a cute photo shoot. I especially like the top and back accessory pockets, because apparently even dog crates can have better storage than my purse. The fact that it folds down to just 3 inches is basically magic to me, and the carrying bag makes hauling it around much easier. —Derek Whitman
I got the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed for indoor and outdoor use, and I am delighted that my dog now has a portable hangout spot with excellent ventilation. The front and side zipper locks make me feel better about safety, while the mesh doors keep everything breezy and bright. I also love that the crate cover and bed cover are removable and washable, because my dog’s idea of “clean” is suspicious at best. With the 2-year warranty, I feel like this crate is saying, “Relax, I got this,” which is exactly the energy I need. —Tara Winslow
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2. 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 pup, and honestly, it set up faster than I can find my own keys. I love that it has two doors, because my dog seems to believe every entrance is a dramatic event. The mesh windows keep the air flowing on all four sides, so my furry tornado stays comfy instead of giving me the stink-eye. It folds flat easily, which means I can stash it away without turning my car into a storage unit. —Megan Harper
Me and this soft-sided dog crate have become road-trip besties. The lightweight frame is sturdy enough for my medium-sized pup, but still easy for me to carry without doing an accidental workout. I also appreciate the secure zipper closures and the fastening straps, since my dog treats open doors like an invitation to chaos. The tan polyester fabric looks neat, and the whole thing feels smartly designed for travel and quick setup. —Daniel Whitman
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I like 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. It gives my Golden Retriever plenty of room, and the recommended size feels right on the money. I especially love the top and front doors because loading my dog used to feel like a tiny wrestling match, and now it is much less of a comedy show. When I am done, it collapses flat for compact storage, which makes me feel wildly organized for once. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. 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 because my little chaos goblin needed a travel spot that did not involve my car seats becoming a fur museum. I love that it sets up in seconds with no tools, because my patience for assembly is about as sturdy as wet cardboard. The top and front doors make loading my dog way easier, and the mesh windows keep the whole thing breezy instead of stuffy. It folds flat too, which means I can stash it without performing a storage miracle. —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 a surprisingly great travel duo. The lightweight frame makes it easy for me to move around, but it still feels secure enough that my pup cannot stage a jailbreak. I also appreciate the zipper closures and the fastening straps, because my dog has the investigative skills of a tiny detective. The tan polyester fabric looks neat, and the whole thing gives my small breed buddy a cozy little den on the go. —Caleb Turner
I was honestly expecting the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan to be another clunky pet gadget, but it turned out to be a very civilized solution. My Beagle-sized sidekick fit nicely, and the recommended small-breed sizing made sense right away. I like that the doors open from the top and front, because sometimes my dog acts like entering a crate is a royal event. The ventilation on all four sides is a big win, and the crate folds flat when I am done pretending my trunk has infinite space. —Hannah Whitaker
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4. Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30 x 21 x 21
I bought the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″ for my little chaos goblin, and honestly, it has made travel feel less like a circus. I love that it pops up in seconds with no tools, because my patience is not a renewable resource. The top door is great for sunlight and airflow, and the front and side zippers make me feel like I am running a tiny, very secure pet hotel. The removable fleece bed pad is a nice bonus, and my pet seems to approve with maximum dramatic lounging. —Megan Carter
Me and the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″ have become a surprisingly solid travel team. I especially like the carrying handle and padded shoulder strap, which make me look far more organized than I actually am. The soft sides are cozy, but the water-resistant base gives me peace of mind when my pet decides to be a little messy. I also appreciate the straps that roll up and secure the fabric doors when I want it open, because apparently even crates can have good manners. —Daniel Brooks
I was expecting the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″ to be just “fine,” but it turned out to be delightfully handy. The medium size fits my small pet well, and the whole thing folds down so quickly that I briefly wondered if it had superpowers. I like that it has four doors, because my pet can enter from whichever side best matches the mood of the day. Between the breathable top, the secure zipper clips, and the comfy fleece pad, I feel like I got a tiny portable suite instead of a crate. —Laura Mitchell
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5. Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor
I bought the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor for my little chaos gremlin, and I’m honestly impressed. I love that it sets up and folds down in seconds, because I have the patience of a squirrel on espresso. The 360° ventilation and three doors make it feel fancy, like my pet has a tiny penthouse with multiple entrances. The bonus blanket and foldable bowl were the cherry on top, and I’m pretty sure my cat now thinks road trips are a luxury experience. —Megan Foster
I got the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor for my small dog, and it has been a total win. The steel frame and rugged 600D Oxford cloth make it feel sturdy, but it still folds up like it’s hiding from responsibility. I really appreciate the lockable zippers and attached leash, because my pup has the confidence of a tiny escape artist. The soft mat is washable too, which is fantastic because my dog treats every blanket like a snack-adjacent project. —Caleb Morgan
Me and the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor are basically road-trip besties now. I like that it has anti-collision corner protection, because my car interior deserves a little respect and my pet deserves a cozy ride. The side pockets are super handy for treats and toys, and the top handle makes it easy to carry without looking like I’m hauling a suitcase full of secrets. It is roomy enough for my cat to sprawl out like royalty, and the included bowl and blanket make it feel delightfully overprepared. —Hannah Ellis
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Why a Soft Side Dog Crate Is Necessary
I have found that a soft side dog crate is necessary because it gives my dog a comfortable and secure place to rest without feeling trapped. Unlike hard crates, it feels lighter and more cozy, which makes it easier for my dog to relax at home or while traveling. My dog seems calmer when there is a familiar space that feels safe and gentle.
I also like how practical it is for my daily routine. My soft side dog crate is easy to carry, quick to set up, and simple to store when I am not using it. This makes it very useful for trips, visits, and even short stays away from home. I do not have to struggle with heavy equipment, and that saves me time and effort.
Another reason I consider it necessary is that it helps me keep my dog protected in new or busy environments. When my dog has a quiet place of his own, I can reduce stress and help him feel more settled. For me, that peace of mind is important because I know my dog is comfortable, secure, and cared for.
My Buying Guides on Soft Side Dog Crate
Why I Chose a Soft Side Dog Crate
When I first started looking for a dog crate, I wanted something that was lightweight, easy to carry, and comfortable for my dog. That is when I found soft side dog crates. In my experience, they are a great option for travel, short-term use, and indoor relaxation. I liked that they felt less bulky than metal crates and were much easier for me to move around the house or pack into the car.
What I Look for in a Soft Side Dog Crate
The first thing I check is the size. I always make sure my dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I also pay attention to the material because I want something durable but still soft enough to be cozy. Ventilation is another important factor for me, since my dog needs good airflow to stay comfortable. I also prefer a crate with strong zippers and a sturdy frame because I want it to hold up over time.
Portability and Travel Convenience
One of the biggest reasons I like soft side crates is how easy they are to travel with. I can fold them down quickly and store them without taking up much space. When I travel with my dog, I appreciate that the crate is lightweight and simple to carry. For road trips, visits to family, or hotel stays, this kind of crate has worked really well for me.
Comfort for My Dog
My dog seems to enjoy the softer interior of these crates. I often add a blanket or cushion to make it even more inviting. Compared with hard crates, I feel soft side crates create a more relaxed space for my dog. They are especially useful when I want my pet to have a cozy resting area indoors or while traveling.
Durability and Safety
Even though I like the soft design, I still look closely at durability. I want a crate that can handle regular use without tearing easily. I also check that the frame feels stable and that the mesh panels are secure. Safety matters a lot to me, so I avoid crates that seem too flimsy or have weak stitching. If my dog is a strong chewer or very energetic, I know a soft side crate may not be the best choice.
Easy Cleaning
I always consider how easy the crate is to clean. Accidents happen, so I prefer a crate with removable or wipeable fabric. This makes my life much easier and helps keep my dog’s space fresh. I also like crates that dry quickly after cleaning, especially if I use them often.
Best Uses for a Soft Side Dog Crate
From my experience, soft side dog crates work best for:
- Travel and road trips
- Indoor lounging
- Temporary containment
- Dogs that are calm and not destructive
- Small to medium-sized dogs
I would not choose one for a dog that scratches, chews, or tries to escape often.
My Final Tips Before Buying
Before I buy a soft side dog crate, I always read reviews and compare a few options. I look for a balance of comfort, strength, and convenience. I also think about my dog’s personality, because the right crate depends on how my dog behaves. In my opinion, the best soft side dog crate is one that feels safe, fits well, and makes travel or relaxation easier for both me and my pet.
Final Thoughts
I think a soft side dog crate is a great option if you want something lightweight, portable, and comfortable for your dog. My takeaway is that it works especially well for travel, quick setups, and dogs who prefer a cozy, less rigid space. I’d just make sure it matches your dog’s size, behavior, and safety needs before choosing one.
Author Profile
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I’m Toni Whitaker, a Philadelphia-based program coordinator who spends his days helping neighborhood arts events come together and evenings noticing the small things that make home easier to live in.
Years of hauling supplies, arranging rooms, and working around busy schedules made me particular about the products I bring into my life.
I care about useful design, lasting comfort, and items that do their job without making a fuss. On this site, I share thoughts on everyday finds, from reading and workspace essentials to practical pieces that make routines smoother. I write with curiosity, honesty, and no patience for clutter.
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