9 Essentials for Traveling With A DOG {for Amazing Pup-ventures!}

Updated: April 2024

Traveling with a dog can be an added challenge to any road trip. And leaving the precious fur baby behind is not always an option. But with the proper prep, things can move along smoothly for you and your fur child. Making sure you have all the necessary items is key.

We take Penny the bernedoodle on ALL of our road trips, hikes, camping, and adventures. We have been in a few situations with her and have learned ALL the items we could possibly need to help her live her best adventures. Here are Penny’s Dog Traveling Essentials…

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“The journey of life is sweeter when traveled with a dog.”

anonymous

We often travel in a camper van. And although there is limited space, you can bet we will find a way to squeeze in Penny and her essentials!

1. Dog Food and Water

Of course, we have to cover the basic essentials when traveling with a dog: food and water. We always pack enough dog food and water to last the length of the trip. In a pinch, dog food and water can be purchased along the way, but if you have a picky eater or if you buy a specific brand, then pack up enough for the entire trip.

2. Travel Dog Bowls

Now that we have the food and water covered, we need bowls to put them in! Luckily, our van comes equipped with a slide-out drawer with a water and food tray for pets. If you don’t have one of these, be sure to pack some food and water trays for fur baby meal time!

3. Travel Food and Water Containers

Portable, collapsible food and water containers are also important. We spend a lot of time away from the van, exploring the outdoors in any way we can. We always pack a couple of collapsible dog bowls that snap onto our bags to take on our adventures exploring a nearby city or hiking.

“No matter how little money and how few possessions you own, having a dog makes you rich.”

Louis Sabin

4. Dog Collar/Harness and Leash

A collar and leash are crucial. Most places will require your dog to be on a leash. And it’s always a good idea, for your pet’s safety, to keep them close by and on a leash.

We alternate between a collar and a harness on Penny, depending on the need at the time. The harness is better for hiking and adventures. The leash is better for simple walks and city exploring. The leash we use will also vary, from a standard leash to a hands-free leash.

5. Tags On The Collar when Traveling with a Dog

If you are traveling with a dog, have your contact information on the dog in the event they get lost. Hopefully, you won’t ever need this. But it’s good to have, just in case.

6. Lights For The Collar

To make life easier for you, put a light on their collar. Especially if you have a dark-colored dog that you are taking out to use the bathroom in the middle of the night while boondocking.

It’s easy for them to disappear into the darkness. A light can help you easily keep tabs on them.

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7. Pet Bed For Traveling with a DOG

You could probably get away without having this one. But we use it so Penny knows exactly where her spot is while traveling during the day and sleeping at night.

And, of course, because she is a princess and deserves a doggy bed. We use a simple, easy-to-wipe-down bed.

“Life is short, but the memories of a great road trip with your dog will last forever.”

Our scenic tails

8. Dog Toy

Bring a toy (or snacks) along to keep your baby occupied while you go into locations that are not pet-friendly. Tennis balls are great for throwing at pet zones or parks, to help work off some excess doggie energy they have stored up from traveling.

9. Dog Brush for Traveling With A DOG

If you spend much time outdoors with your dog, a dog brush is a good item to bring along to brush off dirt and debris before she hops back into the van. And maybe pack some doggy dry shampoo to keep her smelling fresh!

With some preparation, traveling with a dog doesn’t have to be stressful for you or your pooch!

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