When your dog flies in the aircraft hold, the crate becomes their temporary home. It’s the space where they’ll spend a few hours without your direct supervision. That’s why choosing the right one is one of the most important steps when planning to fly with your dog.
This guide draws on our real-world experience flying with our dog Ibo on both intercontinental and European flights. We focus on choosing, buying, and outfitting the crate, plus the practical questions many people only think about after landing.
Crates suitable for transporting a dog in the aircraft hold are generally unsuitable for flying with a dog in the cabin. For that you need completely different, soft-sided carriers tailored to cabin size limits, which we cover in a separate article.
Essential requirements: what the crate must have
If your dog is travelling in the hold, the crate must comply with international IATA standards. In practice, that means:
- a rigid plastic or composite construction,
- a metal door with secure locking,
- sufficient ventilation openings on several sides,
- a way to attach a water container,
- dimensions that let your dog stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Never buy a crate that’s ‘just right’. Extra space matters not only for comfort but also for safety.
If you’re buying a specific model, we recommend trying it in a brick-and-mortar store and, ideally, putting your own dog inside. Only then will you see whether there’s enough room, whether they can turn comfortably, and whether the height really works.
Wheels: yes, but removable
Wheels make airport transfers much easier. We recommend a model with removable wheels. Most airlines require you to remove them before check-in.
Ideally, choose wheels that pop off without tools. After removing them, store them in your carry-on.
Are you planning a trip abroad with your dog? Check the entry requirements for various countries directly in BorderCooler®.
Handle and ease of handling
A comfortable handle that lets you pull the crate like a suitcase is very practical. With larger breeds, handling can be physically demanding, so try out the specific model before you buy.
Some models also offer top carry handles — you’ll appreciate them when loading into a car or moving around the airport.
Storage space: a small detail that makes a big difference
If the crate has a small integrated storage compartment, we consider it a big advantage. You can store:
- a spare absorbent pad,
- a small portion of food,
- a collapsible bowl,
- documents in a waterproof pouch.
These items can be useful immediately after landing, when you still don’t have access to the rest of your luggage.
Sturdiness versus packability
A crate needs to be strong and durable, but it’s also practical if it can be taken apart fairly easily. On longer trips you’ll appreciate being able to split it into two halves for easier storage.
When choosing, look at how the top and bottom connect — plastic clips can be a weak point. Metal screws or robust latches are better. Metal screws are often listed as a requirement by the airline transporting your dog.
Crate setup before the flight
Before handing your dog over for transport in the hold, we recommend:
- using a quality absorbent pad,
- attaching a water container so it can be filled from the outside,
- labelling the crate with your dog’s name, your contact details, and the destination,
- attaching a copy of the documentation in a waterproof sleeve.
Some owners place a familiar blanket or a piece of clothing with the owner’s scent in the crate. It can help reduce stress.
Where does the crate go after landing?
After arrival, a practical question pops up: what to do with a large crate during your trip?
If you’re sure you won’t need it during your stay and you’re planning onward travel, we’ve found these temporary storage options work well:
- at the car rental office (by arrangement),
- at your hotel, often for a small fee.
If the crate doesn’t get in the way, we recommend taking it with you. When your dog isn’t inside, it works well as storage for personal items or dog gear.
On longer road trips, it even proved useful as a mobile storage unit — everything your dog needed stayed in one place.
Conclusion
The right crate isn’t just mandatory equipment — it’s a key safety element. Choosing well can save you stress at the airport and during the flight itself.
Think of it not as a necessary evil but as an investment in your dog’s safety and comfort.
If you’re unsure about a specific model or dealing with a special situation, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to share our first-hand experience from real flights with a dog.