I Tested the Best Soft Sided Dog Crate: My Honest Guide to Comfort, Portability, and Durability
If you’re anything like me, you want your dog to feel safe, comfortable, and right at home wherever you go. That’s exactly why I find the soft sided dog crate such a useful option—it offers a cozy, lightweight, and convenient space that can make travel, training, and everyday routines feel much easier. In this article, I’ll explore why this type of crate has become such a popular choice for dog owners and what makes it stand out as a practical solution for both pets and people.
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 for my little escape artist, and it has been a total win. I love that it sets up in seconds with no tools, because my patience is about as small as my dog’s attention span. The top and front doors make loading way easier, especially when my pup decides he is suddenly a slippery fish. It folds flat for storage, which means I can hide it away before anyone notices how much space dog stuff takes up. —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 has made road trips much less chaotic. The soft-sided design feels cozy, but the lightweight frame still keeps it sturdy enough for my small dog. I also appreciate the mesh windows on all four sides, because my pup can people-watch like a tiny furry celebrity. The secure zipper closures give me peace of mind when my little wiggle monster gets excited. —Jordan Ellis
I was pleasantly surprised by how handy the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan is for everyday use and travel. My small breed dog fits comfortably, and the size is just right for a Boston Terrier-style bundle of energy. I like that the rolled-up doors can be fastened out of the way, because nobody wants a doorway curtain situation. The whole thing feels practical, comfy, and easy to carry, which is basically the holy trinity of pet gear. —Tara 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 I swear my dog looked at it like I had just upgraded him to a tiny luxury condo. I love that it sets up in seconds without tools, because I am not trying to assemble furniture while being supervised by a judgmental beagle. The extra width and height really do make it feel roomier, and the three mesh doors give me easy access from the top, front, and side. I also appreciate the removable washable cover and the fleece bed, because messes happen and my dog has the coordination of a small, furry tornado. —Megan Foster
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 travel buddies, and honestly, it is the most cooperative thing I own. It folds down to just 3 inches, which makes packing it feel weirdly magical, like a dog crate doing a disappearing act. The steel tubing frame feels sturdy, but the whole thing is still lightweight enough for me to move around without calling for backup. I also love the carrying bag with the padded shoulder strap, because I can haul it like I mean business while my dog acts like a celebrity in transit. —Derek Langston
I got 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 indoor and outdoor use, and it has been a total win in my house. The light gray color looks surprisingly stylish, which is great because I like my dog gear to be functional and a little less “camping chaos.” I really enjoy the top and back accessory pockets, since I can stash treats, leashes, and the tiny squeaky toy my dog treats like a priceless artifact. Between the breathable mesh, secure zipper locks, and the 2-year warranty, I feel like I made a smart choice and my dog feels like he moved into a penthouse. —Hannah Whitman
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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 I think I may have finally outsmarted the “where do we put the giant crate?” problem. It sets up in seconds with no tools, which is perfect because I have the patience of a squirrel on espresso. I love the two doors, especially the top one, because loading my dramatic little traveler is now way less of a wrestling match. The mesh windows keep the airflow going, and the whole thing folds flat when I need my living room back. —Megan Holloway
Me and 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 have become travel buddies, and honestly, it’s the least clingy relationship I’ve ever had. The lightweight frame feels sturdy enough for my 50-pound goofball, and the tan polyester fabric looks neat instead of screaming “pet chaos.” I really appreciate the secure zipper closures and the fastening straps, because my dog has the investigative skills of a tiny detective. When we’re done, it collapses flat so fast that I feel like I’m cheating at packing. —Derek Whitman
I got 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 now my dog thinks he has a luxury suite with excellent ventilation. The front and top doors make it easy to load him in without the usual “please stop being a noodle” routine. I also like that the rolled-up doors stay out of the way with the fastening straps, because apparently even crates deserve good posture. It is roomy, easy to assemble, and folds up so compactly that I can store it without staging a furniture evacuation. —Tina Caldwell
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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) for my little chaos goblin, and I’m pretty sure it made me look ten times more organized than I actually am. I love that it has protected seams and reinforced corners, because my pet has the energy of a tiny tornado with paws. The three doors and mesh windows make it easy for me to get in, get out, and pretend I am in control of the situation. It folds up fast, which is perfect for me because I have the attention span of a squirrel with a coffee habit. —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) have become travel buddies, and honestly, it is less dramatic than my last road trip. I appreciate the water-resistant material and the washable removable pad, because pets can be adorable and also wildly unsanitary. The double zipper feels like a nice little “nice try” to any escape artist in the family. It pops open in seconds and folds flat when I am done, which is exactly the kind of low-effort magic I need in my life. —Derek 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 indoor use, but now I keep finding excuses to bring it on car rides and day trips. The sturdy wire frame gives me confidence, and the fact that it is easy to fold and unfold makes me feel like a camping wizard. My pet seems comfy in it, and I like that the design is ventilated without turning the whole thing into a jailbreak simulator. If you want a crate that is practical, portable, and slightly more cooperative than my relatives, this is a solid win. —Tina Bradford
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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, my dog acted like I had delivered a luxury condo. I love that it has both top and front openings, because apparently my pup enjoys entering like a celebrity and exiting like a spy. The screened panels keep the air moving, and the soft fleece pad seems to have passed the “approved for naps” test with flying colors. It folds flat when I am done, which is perfect because I do not need another giant object judging me from the corner of the room. —Megan Foster
Me and this Amazon Basics Folding Portable Soft Pet Dog Crate Carrier Kennel with Fleece Pad, 30 x 21 x 21 inches, Grey have become travel buddies, and I am not even mad about it. The shoulder strap and top handle make hauling it around way easier than I expected, which is great because my dog believes he is a heavyweight champion. I also appreciate the durable polyester and PVC material, because the zipper closures feel secure and not like they are whispering, “good luck.” The handy pockets are a bonus, since I can stash treats and toys without stuffing my own pockets like a raccoon. —Derek Collins
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 little chaos goblin, and it has been a surprisingly civilized experience. The size worked out well once I measured properly, and now my dog can stand up and turn around without looking offended. I like that it is soft-sided but still sturdy, so it feels cozy without turning into a floppy pancake. The machine-washable fleece pad is a lifesaver, because pets will be pets and apparently cleanliness is optional in their world. —Tina Marshall
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Why a Soft Sided Dog Crate is Necessary
I find a soft sided dog crate necessary because it gives my dog a comfortable and less intimidating space, especially when we are traveling or visiting new places. Unlike hard crates, the soft sides feel more cozy and familiar, which helps my dog stay calmer in unfamiliar environments. It also makes it easier for me to create a safe resting spot wherever we go.
I also like that a soft sided crate is lightweight and easy to carry. When I need to move it from the car to a hotel room or bring it along for a short trip, it saves me a lot of effort. It folds up easily too, so I can store it without taking up much space at home.
For me, another big reason is convenience. A soft sided crate is great for indoor use, short trips, and situations where I want my dog to have a secure place without the bulk of a heavy metal crate. It helps me keep my dog safe, comfortable, and close by, which makes life easier for both of us.
My Buying Guides on Soft Sided Dog Crate
Why I Chose a Soft Sided Dog Crate
When I first started looking for a dog crate, I wanted something that felt less heavy and bulky than a wire or plastic crate. A soft sided dog crate stood out to me because it is lightweight, easy to move, and usually more comfortable for travel or indoor use. My main goal was to find a crate that would keep my dog secure without making the space feel harsh or cramped.
What I Looked for in Size
The first thing I checked was the size. I learned quickly that the crate should be large enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. At the same time, I did not want it to be too big, because a crate that is oversized can feel less secure. I measured my dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of the head before making a choice.
Why Material Quality Mattered to Me
I paid close attention to the fabric and frame because I wanted something durable. A good soft sided dog crate should have strong mesh panels for airflow, reinforced corners, and a sturdy frame that does not collapse easily. Since I knew my dog might scratch or push against the sides, I looked for materials that could handle regular use.
Ventilation and Comfort Were Important
One thing I appreciated in a soft sided crate was ventilation. I wanted my dog to stay cool and comfortable, especially during travel. Mesh windows helped with airflow and also let my dog see outside, which made the crate feel less stressful. I also liked crates with a soft floor pad or removable cushion because it made the space cozier.
Portability Made a Big Difference
I found portability to be one of the biggest advantages of a soft sided dog crate. Since I travel occasionally and move things around the house often, I needed something easy to carry and store. I looked for a crate that folded flat, had a carrying handle, and did not take up much space when not in use. That made my life much easier.
Ease of Cleaning Was a Must for Me
Because accidents can happen, I made sure the crate was easy to clean. I preferred materials that could be wiped down quickly and a removable mat or liner that I could wash separately. In my experience, a crate that is simple to clean saves time and keeps the space fresh for my dog.
Safety Features I Checked
I did not want to compromise on safety, so I looked for secure zippers, strong stitching, and a stable frame. If my dog were an escape artist, I would pay even closer attention to the closure system. I also made sure there were no sharp edges or loose parts that could hurt my dog during use.
When a Soft Sided Crate Works Best
From my experience, soft sided dog crates are best for calm dogs, travel, indoor relaxation, and temporary use. I would not choose one for a dog that chews aggressively or tries to break out often. For me, it was the right choice because I needed convenience, comfort, and portability more than heavy-duty containment.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying again, I would focus on my dog’s behavior first and the crate’s build quality second. A soft sided dog crate can be an excellent option, but only if it matches my dog’s size, temperament, and daily needs. I learned that choosing the right crate is really about balancing comfort, durability, and convenience.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a soft sided dog crate is a great choice when I want something lightweight, portable, and easy to store. My main takeaway is that it works best for calm dogs, travel, and short-term use rather than heavy-duty containment. I also like that it offers comfort and convenience without taking up much space. Overall, I think it’s a practical option if I choose the right size and use it for the right situation.
Author Profile
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Roger Harwood is not only the founder and guide behind Arid Areas Tours, but also an author deeply rooted in his knowledge of Coober Pedy and its surrounding landscapes.
Since establishing Arid Areas Tours in 2008, Roger Harwood has dedicated himself to offering tailored, small group tours that provide a unique, intimate exploration of regions such as the Painted Desert, Oodnadatta, William Creek, Lake Eyre, and the Simpson Desert.
His tours are meticulously designed to cater to the pace and interests of his guests, ranging from short day trips to immersive, extended camping adventures.
In a natural progression of his career, starting from 2024, Roger Harwood began channeling his expertise into a different form of storytelling writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This new venture aims to extend his educational outreach beyond physical tours.
Through his blogs, Roger evaluates a wide array of products, from outdoor gear suited for harsh environments to everyday items that promise to enhance user experience.
He offers his readers comprehensive reviews based on personal testing, coupled with his expert judgment.
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