What makes a safe travel setup?
Choosing the right product is only part of the picture. How it fits and is used matters just as much.
A safe setup should always consider:
- Level of protection: Crash-tested products offer independently verified crash protection. Practical containment options help restrain your dog and prevent driver distraction, meeting legal requirements for safe pet travel.
- Correct fit: A properly fitted harness, cage or carrier performs far better than an unsuitable or poorly installed option
- Vehicle compatibility: Not all products suit all cars, which is why fitting guidance matters
- Your dog's comfort:Ventilation, stability and space all affect how settled your dog feels during travel
Not sure what you need?
Many owners find that more than one option could work, depending on their dog, vehicle and how often they travel.
If you're unsure, it helps to think about:
- Your dog's size and behaviour in the car
- How often and how far you travel
- Whether your dog travels in the boot or on the back seat
- The type of vehicle you have
Getting the right setup is about finding what works in practice, not just what looks right on paper. Our range includes options to suit different needs and situations.
Consider how your dog currently travels in the car
Start by thinking about where your dog usually travels in the car and how they behave on journeys.
My dog travels in the boot space...
For many dogs, the boot is the most practical and secure place to travel.
Boot cages and carriers come in a wide range of sizes. The right choice depends on your dog's measurements and your specific vehicle. Getting the correct fit matters for both safety and comfort.
Because there are so many size and vehicle combinations, it isn't always obvious which option is right at a glance. Our fitting tools and product guidance are designed to help you narrow down the correct choice with confidence.
My dog travels on the back seat...
If your dog travels on the back seat, there are two main safe restraint options depending on your dog, your car, and how you prefer to secure them.
Attaches to the vehicle's seatbelt system and keeps your dog safely restrained in a familiar seated or lying position. Independently tested for crash protection.
Crash-tested harnesses work well for:
- Dogs comfortable travelling seated or lying on the back seat
- Medium and larger dogs (depending on fit and specification)
Provides a more enclosed travel space and can be secured using either the seatbelt system or ISOFIX anchor points (where available). Some models are crash-tested; others offer practical containment for everyday journeys.
In-car carriers work well for:
- Small dogs and puppies (typically up to around 15kg, depending on model)
- Dogs who feel more secure in an enclosed space
- Shorter or regular journeys
We're also introducing new carrier designs that extend suitability to slightly larger dogs, giving more flexibility for owners who prefer this style of travel.
Travelling with Pets Expertise
Travelling with Pets specialises in dog travel systems designed for different dogs, vehicles and travel needs. Our range includes crash-tested cages, harnesses and carriers, alongside practical containment solutions like fabric kennels. We're here to help you choose the most appropriate option for your setup - whether you're looking for maximum crash protection or a sensible way to keep your dog secure on everyday journeys.