Pet Carriers & Crate Accessories in the UK: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

Why the right carrier and crate accessories matter

If you own a pet, you quickly learn that comfort and safety go hand in hand — especially when you’re on the move. The right carrier and crate accessories turn a cramped travel box into a calm den, make vet visits less stressful, and help your dog or cat settle at home. Think of a carrier like a favorite armchair: the shell provides structure, but the cushion, blanket, and little extras create the cozy, secure space your pet actually prefers.

Top UK retailers for pet carriers and crate accessories

When shopping for carriers and crate extras in the UK, choosing the right retailer can save you time and often money. Below are reliable stores where you’ll find wide selections across budgets — from budget-friendly basics to premium, specialist gear.

Pets at Home

Pets at Home is one of the UK’s best-known pet retailers, with a large in-store presence and online inventory. You’ll find everything from soft carriers and airline-approved travel crates to crate mats, covers, bowls, and harnesses. Their range is especially good if you want to mix mainstream brands with expert advice from in-store staff.

Amazon UK

Amazon UK offers massive choice and customer reviews that help you compare carriers and accessories on the spot. If you need fast delivery or want to read real-user experiences, Amazon is hard to beat. Look for trusted brands and read reviews carefully to avoid low-quality materials.

Argos

Argos is a convenient high-street option for affordable crates, portable carriers, and basic accessories like travel bowls and blankets. Their catalogue often includes compact carriers that are great for short trips or small pets, and same-day or next-day collection options from local stores.

John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis stocks higher-end carriers and premium crate accessories. If you want designer-style crate covers, memory-foam mats, or robust, travel-ready carriers with a focus on build quality and warranty, this is a great place to look.

Zooplus UK

Zooplus specialises in pets, so you’ll find a deep inventory of crate accessories, including breed-specific beds, insulated crate pads, and travel kits. Their focus on pets means you get variety and sometimes specialist items you won’t see at general retailers.

Pets Corner

Pets Corner focuses on high-quality pet products and tends to stock natural-fibre bedding and sustainable accessory options. If you prefer eco-friendly crate pads or handmade blankets, Pets Corner is worth checking out.

Wilko

Wilko is an economical option with handy basics: low-cost travel bowls, simple pads, and lightweight carriers. For shoppers on a budget looking for practical solutions that do the job, Wilko is a sensible stop.

eBay UK

For second-hand crates or discontinued models, eBay UK can be a treasure trove. You can often find barely used carriers from premium brands for a fraction of the price. Just inspect seller ratings and product photos carefully before buying.

What to look for when buying pet carriers

Choosing the right carrier isn’t only about looks. It’s about size, ventilation, material, and portability. Ask yourself: Is this for daily use or travel? Does my pet need extra cushioning? Will this meet airline or car safety requirements? The answers guide your choice toward soft-sided carriers, rigid plastic crates, or wire crates with removable trays.

Size & weight guidelines

Measure your pet before you buy. Your pet should be able to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. For dogs and cats, measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, and from the top of the head to the floor. Choose a carrier length that is at least 4 to 6 inches longer than your pet’s body length. If your pet weighs 20 pounds or less, soft-sided carriers are usually fine; above 20 pounds consider sturdier crates or airline-certified options depending on travel needs.

Ventilation and visibility

Good airflow keeps your pet calm and prevents overheating. Look for carriers with mesh panels or slatted sides that provide cross-ventilation. Visibility matters too: some pets prefer to see out, others like privacy — crate covers can help create a den-like space.

Material and durability

Soft carriers are lightweight and foldable, but they wear faster and are less protective. Hard plastic and metal crates offer structure and better protection for larger pets or for air travel when certified. Consider chew-resistant materials if you have a determined gnawer.

Best crate accessories to boost comfort

Accessories turn a crate into a pet sanctuary. The right mix adds warmth, traction, and a scent of home, cutting down stress during travel or when you’re away.

Soft crate mats & cushions

A good crate mat makes a world of difference. Choose memory-foam pads for joints or thick foam for extra insulation from hard floors. Sizes typically match crate dimensions, so measure interior length and width. For smaller dogs and cats, a 24-inch by 18-inch pad might work; larger breeds may need pads sized 36 inches or more.

Thermal blankets & heating pads

Thermal blankets and low-heat pads are useful in colder months. Choose items with safety features like auto-shutoff and chew-resistant cords if you’re using electric pads. For very small or elderly pets, these accessories can help maintain comfort on chilly nights.

Portable water bottles & bowls

Hydration is key, especially on long journeys. Collapsible bowls are handy and pack down flat for storage, while mounted water bottles attach to carrier sides and prevent spills. For active trips, a 16-ounce collapsible bowl often suffices for a small dog, while larger dogs may need larger containers.

Crate covers & privacy curtains

Crate covers help some pets feel secure and calm by reducing visual stimuli — think of it like drawing curtains for bedtime. Choose covers that allow airflow and are easy to remove for cleaning. Covers also provide shade on sunny days, helping keep the interior cooler.

Travel-specific accessories

If you travel frequently by car or air, a few specialist accessories make every trip smoother and safer.

Car restraints & seatbelt attachments

Seatbelt harnesses and crate tie-downs reduce movement during travel and improve safety. A properly fitted harness distributes force in a crash and keeps your pet from becoming a projectile. For crates, use anchor straps that attach to the car’s tether points; ensure the crate is stable and cannot slide more than a few inches.

Airline-approved carriers

Airlines have strict size and construction rules. Soft carriers that meet under-seat dimensions are common for cabin travel, while hard-sided crates are typically required for hold shipments. When flying, double-check each airline’s current rules and measurement limits — airlines vary, and sizes are often specified in inches.

Safety and legal considerations in the UK

Keeping your pet safe during transport is not just good practice — it’s important for legal and welfare reasons. In the UK, drivers are expected to secure animals so they don’t distract the driver or cause danger. That usually means a well-secured crate or a harness that anchors into the seatbelt system.

Securing crates in cars

Place heavy crates on the car floor or in the boot, and anchor them so they can’t tip. For larger crates, use travel straps that attach to the vehicle’s anchor points. A properly secured crate helps protect both your pet and passengers in sudden stops.

Health checks and regulation awareness

Before travel, ensure vaccinations and microchipping are up to date — some carriers require proof for certain services. If you’re travelling internationally, different rules apply, so consult the relevant official guidance ahead of time. For domestic UK travel, simple preparedness like a recent vet check is usually enough for comfort and safety.

Budget vs premium: where to splurge

Deciding where to spend your money is a balancing act. For some items, cheap is fine; for others, the upfront cost saves headaches later.

Where to save

Collapsible bowls, basic blankets, and entry-level harnesses are areas where low-cost options often perform adequately. If your pet only travels occasionally, a budget soft carrier might cover your needs.

Where to invest

Invest in a high-quality crate for frequent travel or for larger breeds. Premium mats, crash-tested car crates, and airline-certified carriers are worth the extra cost when safety and longevity matter. Materials and warranty can make a big difference, and spending a bit more now often avoids replacements down the line.

How to measure your pet for the right carrier

Getting measurements right is critical. Small mistakes lead to cramped, uncomfortable trips or wasted returns.

Length and height

Measure your pet from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, then add 4 to 6 inches. Measure height from paw to shoulder, and add about 2 to 4 inches so your pet can sit upright comfortably. For example, if a medium dog measures 22 inches long, look for a crate at least 26 to 28 inches long.

Weight

Most carriers list maximum recommended weights in pounds. Match a carrier’s indicated capacity with your pet’s current weight and allow a little buffer for growth or seasonal weight changes. If your pet is close to the weight limit, go up one size for comfort and durability.

Maintenance and cleaning tips

Keeping carriers and accessories clean extends their life and helps prevent odors and skin issues. Regular maintenance also keeps seams and fasteners in good shape so the carrier remains safe.

Cleaning fabrics and cushions

Read care labels and remove inserts where possible for machine washing. Use pet-safe detergents and air-dry foam pads to preserve shape. For quick refreshes, a fabric refresher spray or a gentle wipe-down with diluted pet-safe cleaner works well between washes.

Sanitising hard crates

Hard plastic crates can be wiped with a mild bleach solution (diluted according to label instructions) to remove odors and bacteria, then rinsed and dried thoroughly. Metal crates are usually fine with household cleaners and a soft brush to reach corners.

Making the crate a safe space: training tips

Accessories help, but good crate experience comes from positive reinforcement. Introduce new bedding and toys, and feed meals inside the crate to create positive associations. Short, predictable sessions work better than long, stressful introductions. Think of crate time as supervised relaxation, not punishment.

Using scent and routine

Keeping a piece of your clothing or a favourite toy in the crate helps; your scent is calming to pets. Consistent pre-crate routines — a short walk, then crate time — signals what’s next and reduces anxiety.

Where to compare prices and read reviews

Before you buy, compare across retailers. Use product reviews and price comparison tools to spot deals and assess real-world performance. Look for items with plenty of recent reviews and images from buyers, which reveal how products wear over time and whether sizes run small or large.

Whether you buy from a specialised pet shop or a general retailer, prioritise safety, comfort, and correct sizing. A well-chosen carrier and thoughtful accessories make travel stress-free and let your pet relax like they do at home.

Conclusion: Investing a little time in picking the right carrier and crate accessories pays off in less stress, better safety, and a happier pet. From reliable UK retailers that cover every budget to accessories that add warmth, hydration, and privacy, the right setup makes every trip and stay more comfortable. Measure your pet, think about how you’ll use the crate, and don’t be afraid to mix budget finds with a few key premium pieces for safety and durability.