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If you like to travel with your dog in the car boot ( cargo area) then some form of boot protection is a great investment.
Aside from the inevitable mud, dog hair and general dog walking gear, there's those nasty little scratches which can ultimately prove costly if they impact the resale value of your car.
There's a huge range of car boot protecting options on the UK market, from simple waterproof liners and rubber mats to custom made boot liners and cargo area liners with in-built bumper protectors.
Whilst this article is aimed at dogs lovers, these boot liners have a whole range of uses. Tip run anyone ?
UPDATE : OCTOBER 2024 - Following some recent tests, we've updated this article to include the NEW Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner and Tether as our top pick. |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Buying Advice for Car Boot Liners
Protecting your car's boot doesn't have to break the bank! Many off-the-shelf liners offer excellent protection at affordable prices.
While custom-fitted liners offer a luxurious and tailored fit, they come with a higher price tag. However, if you plan to keep your car for a while, they can be a worthwhile investment.
At Smart Bark, we're passionate about finding the best products for dog lovers. This guide explores your boot liner options, helping you choose the perfect fit for your car and your furry friend.
Features to Consider
Before you jump straight in and buy a boot liner, there are a few crucial aspects we think that you might want to bear in mind -
Coverage
Consider your needs: full boot coverage or just the base? Full coverage liners protect both the boot floor and the back of your rear seats, making cleanup a breeze.
Hard Wearing
For easy cleaning and durability, rubber or plastic mats are a great choice. They're heavier and less likely to slip around, making them practical for everyday use.
Padding
A few boot liners for dogs offer integral padding so they work well on their own without an additional blanket or bed. A number of the premium brands offer additional fitted dog mats and beds for comfort.
Waterproof
If your dog simply loves mud and can always seem to sniff out the nearest stream or dog-sized puddle, then clearly a waterproof liner is crucial.
Custom Fit
The luxury option for boot liners. They fit beautifully and are designed specifically for your car make and model. We explore two options in the custom fit boot liner category.
Bumper Protection
Some mats incorporate a bumper cover for dogs who love to jump in and out of the boot. It helps reduce your dog’s chances of slipping with wet paws and protects your car bumper from nasty paintwork scratches.
Ultimately, to help you decide, we've divided our review into three categories - |
Boot Liners - Fabric covering the base and bumper - Options 1–3 |
Boot Mats - Covers the base of your boot only - Options 4–6 |
Custom Fit - Designed specifically for your car make and model - Options 7 & 8 |
Alternatives - Dog Car Bed - Option 9 |
Our Picks of the Best Car Boot Liners for Dogs
1. Best Overall Car Boot Liner
Kong
We've tested a lot of boot liners over the years and the new Ultimate Cargo Liner from Kong is an absolute gem. The designers have considered all the problems dog lovers have and their innovative boot liner delivers all the solutions.
The liner not only protects the seat backs, sides of your boot and bumper from scratches, it looks better than many far more expensive made-to-measure boot protectors from the likes of Hatchbag and Titan Covers.
Let's talk size! This liner is designed for standard SUVs, 4x4's and estate cars, as you can see here, it's a near perfect fit in a Porsche Macan. We've provided full dimensions below so you can measure up.
Basically, the adjustable headrest straps and the side wall velcro mean that the Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner should stay put regardless of how much your dog likes to move around.
The cover's generous overhang acts as a bumper cover, safeguarding your bumper from scratches. Plus, when not in use, you can zip it up for extra protection inside your boot - Clever!
Does your dog launch out of the boot like an exocet missile when you open it ? Kong even provide a Cargo Swivel Tether to attach from the top tether for the ISOFIX in the rear of your car directly to your dog's harness.
We thought that the fabric has a very smart quilted finish with piped edging and quality zips. As you'd expect, it's waterproof and has aa non-slip backing for extra protection. There's even a zipped pocket to store toys, balls, poo bags etc - nice touch !
The only flaw we could find in an otherwise perfect liner, is that you can't lower one of your rear seats (if you have a 60/40 split) with the liner in place. But this is definitely not a deal breaker.
Long Term Test - We've been testing the Kong liner for 3 months now over the wet winter season and it's held up well to some serious mud. It washes well, although you will need to wrestle it into the washing machine.
Our Verdict - In our opinion, the Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner & Tether stands head and shoulders above other 'off-the-shelf' boot liners we've tested. It's thoughtfully designed by people who understand dogs, exceptionally well made, looks great and is amazing value - less than half the price of many made-to-measure boot liner alternatives.
Ultimately, if the Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner fits your car boot, you'd be mad to look at anything else.
Dimensions :
Reasons to Buy
+ Best in class
+ Good value
+ Design
+ Anti-slip backing
+ Quilted fabric
+ Tether included
+ Allows use of ISOFIX system
Reasons to Avoid
- Doesn't allow 60/40 rear seat split
Buying Options
Designed here in the UK and available from Dog Gear
with FREE Shipping on all orders
If you would like even more information before deciding if this is the Boot Liner for you, checkout our detailed review - Road Trip Ready : The Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner & Tether Review
2. Best Budget Cargo Liner
Toozey
The Toozey boot protector offers great value for money. This is Amazon's best selling dog boot liner, and whilst it's a 'one size fits all' solution, so admittedly it won't be a perfect fit, it does offer great protection at a relatively low price.
It's a fairly standard size (similar to the majority of off-the-shelf boot liners) so should fit a wide range of cars and SUVs.
In addition to the adjustable headrest straps, the rear seat and side panels have a total of 11 velcro attachments, which all work together to keep the boot protector stable.
This boot liner should stay glued in place as your dog jumps in and out. Available in black or grey it's also a waterproof car boot liner so you can simply wipe it clean if it gets muddy.
What's more, it features a handy wide flap which you can unroll to protect your bumper from scratches.
On the downside, it doesn't allow for you to split the rear seat.
Our Verdict - Admittedly the Toozey car boot liner isn't going to fit as well as the Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner and it won't have all the bells and whistles, but if it's simple protection you're after not the looks, then this car boot liner will do just fine.
Dimensions (L W) : 186 x 105 cm - with 34cm side panels
Reasons to Buy
+ Great value
+ Covers base and sides
+ Waterproof
+ Integral bumper protector
+ Available in black or grey
Reasons to Avoid
- Not padded for comfort
- Doesn't allow 60/40 rear seat split
Buying Options
3. Best Value Fabric Boot Liner
PetSafe
A great alternative to full boot coverage is a simple simple liner which protects the base of your boot the back of your rear seats and bumper.
Made to fit most SUV's, the Happy Ride® Cargo Area Liner from PetSafe is a no-nonsense solution which definitely won't break the bank.
We tested this boot liner for coverage and the general wear and tear associated with transporting your dog in the boot.
We loved the simple design and felt it had a lot to offer for a really great price. Lengthwise, there was plenty of excess to cover the bumper and protect it from our over-excited dog leaping in and out of our boot .
As it isn't designed to protect the boot sides it's incredibly easy to fit in your car using the six attachment points. Two headrest straps and four velcro fasteners fix it firmly to your boot floor and stop it moving about on journeys.
For reference, our test photo shows the liner in a Range Rover Velar, so a mid-sized SUV.
The two headrest straps are fully adjustable so you can make sure the boot liner is in an ideal position to cover the full height of your rear seats.
For even more versatility, the rear seats can be lowered without removing the liner, ideal for those occasions when you have a long load to carry.
It's worth noting that the liner is long enough to cover the whole boot base with the seats down.
The liner is made from tough and durable waterproof fabric, however it isn't padded so we would recommend adding a cushion for that extra bit of comfort on longer journeys.
If you would like further information on the PetSafe Happy Ride® Cargo Area Liner, read our in-depth test and review - Dog Boot Liner Review : PetSafe Happy Ride
Dimensions (L W) : 178 cm x 127cm
Reasons to Buy
+ Great value
+ Good size for most SUV's
+ Adjustable headrest straps
+ Additional velcro fastening
+ Waterproof
+ Machine washable
Reasons to Avoid
- No boot side protection
- Not padded for comfort
- No choice of colour
Buying Options
You may be interested to know that PetSafe offer a car seat which we put through it's paces in in our review Petsafe Car Dog Bed.
4. Best Value Custom Mat
Novline
Another option you could consider is a simple mat for your boot. Amazon offer you the option to enter your car registration to find boot mats and trays that are a custom fit for your car make and model.
We love this option as you can achieve a custom look at a great price whether you drive a Land Rover or a Fiat 500.
This Novline Boot Liner is tailored to fit a Ford Fiesta Hatchback 2013 - 2017 and as you can see it's a perfect fit moulded for all those nooks and crannies.
We were amazed at how easily and cheaply you can buy a fitted car mat for your boot which looks really stylish.
Simply enter your car registration and select the boot liner you want for your car.
Although not specifically designed for your four-legged friend it could be a good value solution if you added some additional comfort.
Novline Boot liners are resistant to water, oils and dirt and have a raised edge so contain any accidents or spillages, so they're ideal for dogs. Just be mindful to chose blankets or bedding which won't slip around.
If you're not convinced by Novline car mats then take a look at Travall. They offer a great alternative.
Dimensions (L W) : Tailored to fit
Reasons to Buy
+ Cheap option
+ Custom fit
+ Easy to clean
Reasons to Avoid
- Protects base only
- Will need additional padding
- No bumper protection
Buying Options
5. Best Soft Mat Boot Protector
Pet Rebellion
If your dog tends to sit or lay still in the boot quite happily throughout the journey, a simple mat could do the job of protecting your boot.
Well known UK pet brand - Pet Rebellion offer a range of mats for your car boot, seats and home.
Their car boot mats are thick, heavy duty yet comfortable for your dog. This standard sized mat simply covers the floor of your boot and their mats have a super soft pile making a nice comfortable space for your dog's journey.
It's worth noting that this boot defender mat is easy to vacuum, plus it's machine washable, so that's a big tick for easy cleaning !
What's more, a large bumper cover is included in the design for dogs who love to jump in and out of the boot.
We recommend the Pet Rebellion boot mat as a stylish alternative to full boot coverage.
Dimensions (L W) : 100 x 145 cm
Reasons to Buy
+ Good value
+ Non slip
+ Machine washable
Reasons to Avoid
- Protects base only
- One size
Buying Options
If you're interested we also offer reviews on other dog travel solutions - Best Dog Car Seats & Best Car Seat Covers
6. Budget Friendly Boot Mat
Sakura
The truth is that if you're on a tight budget but need to protect your boot floor, then we think that this rubber boot mat by Sakura offers great protection at an amazingly low price.
The mat is large but the beauty of this option is that it's designed to be trimmed to fit your boot whatever car you drive. It's not as daunting as it first appears.
The design includes trimming guidelines, shown in the photo, and you simply place it in your boot and then trim to fit.
It's a great option for small car boots which may be drowned by some of the full boot liners we feature.
Easy to keep clean, simply wipe down or in the case of a super muddy dog, remove and hose down (the mat not the dog). Simply add a dog cushion or blanket for some canine friendly cushioning.
We think that this is an amazing value solution to protect your boot, but be aware it doesn't protect the sides.
Dimensions (L W) : 120 x 80 cm - but can be trimmed to size
Reasons to Buy
+ Super cheap option
+ Cut to size
+ Easy to clean
Reasons to Avoid
- Protects base only
- No padding
Buying Options
If you're dog suffers with travel sickness on journeys, take a look at our popular article - Dog Car Sickness, in which we offer hints on tips for a better trip.
7. Best Luxury Boot Protector
Titan Covers
Titan Covers make tough, durable, waterproof protection for your car. Each boot liner is tailor-made to fit the exact shape of your car make and model. So this is a more lavish solution to car boot protection.
Titan Covers also offer a range of custom dog guards, seat covers and dog mats.
Their customised boot covers are designed to shape around and protect all those little nooks and crannies letting you really make use of the whole of your boot space.
Better still, these trunk liners are available in a wide range of colours to coordinate with the rest of your car interior.
As with the Boot Buddy featured next, Titan Covers offer a wealth of additional options include a removable bumper flap and a 60/40 split seat.
Admittedly, not the cheapest option but a made-to-measure solution for smart boot protection. If you lease a car and get penalised on marks and scuffs this is a great option.
Equally if you are looking at keeping your car for a few years then this could work out a great money-saving option in the long run.
Dimensions (L W) : customised
Reasons to Buy
+ Custom fit
+ Range of colours
+ 60/40 split option
+ Easy to clean
Reasons to Avoid
- More expensive solution
Buying Options
You might be interested in the Thule Dog Crate - the ultimate in car safety for your dog.
Read our deepdive article - Crash Tested Confidence: Thule Dog Crate Review
8. Best Durable Solution
Boot Buddy
The last boot protector to feature in our review is the Boot Buddy Versa-Liner. The Boot Buddy is entirely customised for your car boot.
It is a self -supporting boot liner made from heavy duty polypropylene, so unlike most fabric liners it doesn't depend on velcro attachments to stay up.
Sometimes you need to drop the back seats to carry larger loads and the Boot Buddy is designed for this.
The panel that protects the back of your rear seats is fully detachable so you can drop your seats without having to remove the liner entirely.
Boot Buddy also offer a Load Liner. This fits the entire space with your rear seats dropped flat, which could be a great option for dog lovers with lots of four-legged friends.
I know what you're thinking - it doesn't look very comfortable ? Boot Buddy have you covered - they offer additional extras including a dog mat, dog bedding and an optional padded bumper guard.
Whilst it's clearly not the cheapest option on the market, it does offer a extremely smart and super durable solution.
Dimensions (L W) : customised
Reasons to Buy
+ Custom fit
+ Easy to clean
+ Extremely durable
Reasons to Avoid
- More expensive option
- No padding included
- No option for 60/40 split
Buying Options
9. Alternative Solution
Luther Bennett
OK, bear with us ! This is a completely different option to the other boot liners we've featured so far, but we felt it was worth mentioning. You could consider a boot liner + dog bed combination.
If you’re prepared to fork out a little more then take a look at Luther Bennett. The ultimate in luxury dog travel, their XL Travel Pod would make an excellent boot liner + dog bed combination.
Luther Bennett offer a small but stylish range of dog travel products. Their XL Travel Pod is designed to be incredibly flexible.
You can use it as a dog car seat in the boot creating a supportive and enclosed space for your pup to curl up or simply unzip one side to offer your dog a bed in the boot.
Measuring 90cm in length it is incredibly spacious and will cover a considerable amount of your boot base protecting it from dog hair, mud etc.
Two adjustable strap secure it in your boot (one around the seat and one around the headrest).
Super strong, integral handles help you carry to the car. Made from a strong and durable nylon it is more than capable of dealing with inevitable accidents.
The bed is machine washable, however a wipe down with a dampened cloth usually does the trick.
Available in Midnight (dark blue), Coffee (brown) & Diesel (grey). Importantly, Luther Bennett offer complimentary returns and exchanges within 30 days of delivery.
Oh, and it's not recommended to use it to carry your dog to the car - it's not a dog bag!
Dimensions (L W H) : XL Travel Pod 90 x 50 x 45 cm
Reasons to Buy
+ Super stylish design
+ 2-in-1dog bed
+ Complimentary 30 day returns
+ Machine washable
Reasons to Avoid
- Unlikely to cover the whole boot
Buying Options
Smart Bark readers can enjoy 10% OFF the Luther Bennett range
with discount code SMARTBARK10
For more information on testing the Luther Bennett Dog Pod, take a look at our popular review Best Dog Car Seats
Our Verdict
There's a whole range of potential solutions for protecting your car boot from dog hair, scratches and mud, starting at under £10 to well over £100.
If you're looking for a well made 'off-the-shelf ' solution that won't break the bank, then we'd recommend the KONG Ultimate Cargo Liner. It offers full boot coverage for a great price and will keep your boot looking clean for longer.
For those looking to simply cover the base of the boot, it's hard to beat the PetSafe Happy Ride® Cargo Area Liner available from Amazon. It's a simple and durable solution and as it isn't designed to protect the boot sides it's incredibly easy to fit in your car.
How We Picked
As I'm sure you're aware there are several styles of boot protectors on the market aimed at dogs. Searching through them is a tough task since choosing the best is dependent on your dog, how much protection your boot needs and how much money you ultimately want to spend.
To help make the choice easier, we began our research by splitting the different styles of boot liner into categories based on how much coverage they provided
Our research across large and independent retailers helped us narrow the choices down to liners, mats and custom fit options.
We considered some premium boot liners compared with more budget-friendly options to suit everyone's budget.
Owner reviews of boot liners were important so we checked dozens of product listings to get a sense of what was worth considering. Lastly we began contacting brands to ask to test their product. As we compare and test more liners, we'll update this article.
Hopefully we've offered you something to suit your car, your dog and of course your budget.
Thanks for stopping by and taking a look at our article on the Best Car Boot Liners for Dogs.
