Most dog lovers will have to travel with a pet at some point. In some cases, you might just be transporting a rescue dog to a new location, but in other instances, you could be going on a long trip with your furry friend. No matter the situation, you should create a dog packing list to ensure you have everything the dog needs. By being prepared, your dog will be safer and more comfortable on the go.
Should You Travel with Your Pet?
As a dog lover, it’s normal to want a dog by your side during every adventure. Yet, not all dogs are good travel companions. You should only travel with your dog if your dog is well-behaved in public settings and not easily stressed by new situations.
Sometimes, travel may be necessary, such as if you’re moving. However, if you’re going on vacation, it’s only a good idea to bring your dog if you’ll be doing lots of dog-friendly activities (and if your dog will enjoy it, of course). For anxious dogs, traveling will likely be worse for them than staying at home.
So, make sure you consider your dog’s needs before bringing them on a trip. Some dogs love to travel while others despise it. If you’re unsure how your dog will react, start with a smaller trip, such as a day trip to a nearby area, and pay attention to your dog’s body language.
Dog Packing List for Your Upcoming Trip
Below is a comprehensive list of everything you might need for traveling with your dog. Consider all the following supplies and add each one to your list if you think it’s necessary for your dog on your upcoming trip.
Everyday Supplies
These are items that every dog probably needs when they’re away from home for a few days. You may need to adjust this list based on where you’re going, how long you’ll be gone, and your dog’s needs.
- Dog food (enough to last the entire trip)
- Water and a bowl to pour it in (collapsible bowls are great for travel)
- A collar with an up-to-date identification tag
- Walking supplies like a harness, leash, and poop bags
- Any necessary medications (including heartworm preventatives and flea/tick preventatives)
- A dog bed
- Toys and treats
- Paper towels and other cleanup supplies
- A dog seat belt or another way to secure your dog (if you’re traveling in the car)
- Pet carrier (if you’re traveling on an airplane)
Items for Emergencies
It’s always a good idea to prepare for an emergency. Packing special items and extras of essential items can help you ensure that your pup still stays safe and comfortable even if your trip doesn’t go according to plan.
- Proof of your dog’s vaccinations and medical history
- A pet first aid kit
- Emergency contact numbers (a nearby vet, poison control, etc.)
- Extra food for at least another day or two
- Special medication (such as medication for motion sickness)
Optional Items
Every dog has unique needs. So, what may be crucial for one dog might not be needed at all for other pets. Consider if your pet needs any of the following supplies on a trip.
- A dog crate
- Dog sunscreen
- Seasonal clothing items (dog rain jacket, sweater, boots, etc.)
- Cooling mats
- Brush, nail clippers, and other grooming supplies
- Special treats (dental chews, bully sticks, etc.)
Other Aspects to Consider
Packing is a crucial part of any trip, but there are other things you need to consider before traveling with your dog. First, you need to ensure that your trip is pet-friendly. That includes the place you’re going to stay, your transportation method, and any activities you plan to do with your dog.
Also, before traveling with your dog, make sure you check the pet requirements for relevant places like hotels, campgrounds, and airlines. Even if they’re pet-friendly, they may have restrictions on breeds, sizes, and number of pets. Many of these places also require certain vaccinations and paperwork, so don’t forget your dog’s medical records.
Create a Dog Packing List so You Don’t Forget Anything
A dog packing list is the perfect way to prepare for traveling with your dog. The above items can help you get started, but you should adjust the list based on your dog’s needs and the details of the trip. Just to be safe, it’s always a good idea to pack extra supplies in case something goes wrong or you need to stay longer than you planned.
Remember, if the trip isn’t necessary, you should only travel with your dog if they have the right temperament for it. Many dogs get stressed in vehicles and new environments, so if you think they’d be more comfortable staying behind, trust your gut.
