Taking your dog away with you can make a good trip even better. Whether you're heading off for a weekend in the countryside, a coastal escape or a camping adventure, a little preparation can make travelling with your dog much easier.
From food and water to their favourite bed, here's our dog travel checklist to help make sure you don't forget the essentials.
1. Food & Water
It's always worth taking enough of your dog's usual food for the whole trip.
Changing their food while travelling can cause an upset stomach, so keeping their diet consistent is usually the easiest option.
Don't forget:
- Their usual food
- Treats
- Food and water bowls
- Plenty of fresh water
- A travel water bottle or bowl
- Food storage container
If you're travelling for several days, packing a little extra food is a good idea in case your plans change.
2. Leads, Collar & ID
Before heading off, make sure your dog's identification details are up to date.
Pack:
- Collar with ID tag
- Lead
- Harness
- Long line if needed
- Spare lead
- Poo bags
A spare lead takes up very little room and could save you from a holiday headache if the original gets lost or damaged.
3. A Comfortable Place to Sleep
Dogs often settle more easily when they have something familiar from home.
Taking their usual dog bed or blanket can give them a familiar scent and comfortable place to rest after a busy day exploring.
For road trips, camping or weekends away, a practical, supportive dog bed can be especially useful whether it's being used in the car, tent, accommodation or simply outside while you're relaxing.
4. Towels & Cleaning Supplies
If your dog loves mud, water or generally finding the messiest possible part of the walk, don't leave home without towels!
Pack:
- Dog towels
- Wet wipes
- A brush
- Poo bags
- A spare blanket
- Old towels for the car
- Cleaning bags for muddy or wet items
You never know when a quick walk can turn into a full-body mud bath.
5. Their Favourite Things
A new environment can be exciting, but familiar items can help your dog feel more comfortable.
Pack a favourite:
- Toy
- Blanket
- Chew
- Treat
- Bed
You don't need to take the entire toy box. Just a couple of familiar favourites should do the trick.
6. Basic Dog First Aid
A small first-aid kit is worth packing, particularly if you're heading somewhere rural or planning lots of outdoor adventures.
Consider taking:
- Pet-safe wound cleaning supplies
- Bandages
- Tweezers
- Tick remover
- Any regular medication
- Your vet's contact details
It's also a good idea to check where the nearest vet is before travelling.
7. Car Travel Essentials
If you're travelling by car, make sure your dog is properly secured.
Depending on your setup, this could be with a suitable travel crate, dog guard, harness or other appropriate restraint.
Also consider packing:
- A travel water bowl
- Dog bed or blanket
- Towels
- Poo bags
- Treats
- A favourite toy
- Car seat cover
And don't forget regular breaks so your dog can stretch their legs, have a drink and go to the toilet.
8. Outdoor & Camping Extras
Planning a camping trip, beach day or outdoor adventure?
You may also want to pack:
- Portable dog shelter
- Long line
- Extra towels
- Cooling equipment for warm weather
- Warm layers for colder trips
- Portable food and water bowls
A dog tent or portable shelter can provide a familiar place for your dog to relax while you're enjoying the outdoors.
📋 Your Dog Travel Checklist
Before you leave, run through this quick list:
☐ Food & treats
☐ Food and water bowls
☐ Fresh water
☐ Collar & ID tag
☐ Lead & harness
☐ Poo bags
☐ Dog bed or blanket
☐ Favourite toy
☐ Towels
☐ Grooming supplies
☐ Medication & first-aid essentials
☐ Car travel equipment
☐ Outdoor/camping equipment
Ready for the adventure?
The best dog-friendly trips don't need to be complicated. Pack the essentials, bring a few familiar comforts and leave plenty of room for muddy walks, new smells and plenty of exploring.
Because the best adventures are even better with your dog along for the ride. 🐾
