February 16, 2025

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Road Trips with Your Dog: Expert Tips for Bringing a Pet on a Long Drive

Road Trips with Your Dog: Expert Tips for Bringing a Pet on a Long Drive
Best Dog Days is your destination for pet-friendly travel inspiration, with expertise from those who know that a family adventure just isn’t complete without your dog. Read more here.

As we progress deeper into summer, many people are packing their bags and heading out on road trips—and it has become increasingly common for those adventures to include our dogs.

Dogs can be joyful and enthusiastic companions during a long road trip, but there’s a lot to consider before heading out the door.

“Traveling with your dog can be fun and incredibly rewarding, but not if you’re worried over their well-being the whole time,” says Dave Stangle, vice president of brand marketing at Bark, an online marketplace for food, toys, and dental supplies for dogs. “The best way to vacation with your dog is to prepare in advance.”

Personally, I have been traveling with my 7-year-old mini-labradoodle Dash since he was just 16 weeks old. In that time, he’s truly been on planes, trains, and automobiles—and even a few small boats. And each mode of transportation does require a lot of thought and organization as to how I can best accommodate his needs with all of my other travel logistics.

But it has always been worth it. While it can be a bit of extra work at times, there’s nothing quite like the experience of having him at my side all the time, especially as I frequently travel alone (meaning without other humans). With my dog on trips, I never feel quite so lonely as I did before I had him and his baby Wookiee-esque face always soothes me when stressed. And to be frank, sometimes it really is easier traveling with my dog than it would be with friends. My default quip when asked about what it’s like traveling with Dash, I often respond dryly (but quite honestly) that I prefer traveling with my dog over other people because he doesn’t argue with me, he’s always on time, and he always wants to go where I want to go.

That doesn’t mean dogs aren’t telling us anything. Dash has been through advanced training as a puppy so that he doesn’t bark and is very obedient in general, but he has his ways of letting me know his needs. Dogs are constantly communicating with us, whether it be pawing at the front door, stopping and refusing to walk down the street, or panting excessively when dehydrated—the last of which is critical to notice, especially when traveling and during the summer at that.

happy leashed dog on a pier in michiganhappy leashed dog on a pier in michigan
Dash poses on a pier during a Michigan trip. | Photo by Rachel King

Thus, this guide is designed to make your trip with your furry friend a memorable and enjoyable experience, providing you with everything you need to know before your big trip, from getting ready for the journey to dealing with any unexpected situations that might arise.

Packing essentials for a road trip with your dog

Being well-prepared often results in a happy trip, and that’s especially the case with a dog in tow. By following the expert guidance below, you can ensure that your drive is safe, comfortable, and full of fun memories.

Safety first

Ensure that your dog is securely secured with an appropriate harness and seat belt attachment. Consider adding a booster seat to your vehicle for smaller dogs to make them more visible and reduce anxiety, or opt for crash-tested crate protection that ensures your dog remains safe from being thrown around in the car.

“My dogs always ride in third-party, crash-tested carriers by companies such as Sleepypod, Gunner, or Diggs,” says Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer and American Kennel Club CGC evaluator. “Many products on the market say they are crash-tested, but actually fail third-party crash testing. You can view companies that pass on the Center for Pet Safety’s website, a third-party company that any company uses to test their pet products.”

Verify that your dog’s collar is equipped with valid identification tags that display your contact information. If your dog has been microchipped, ensure that your contact information is current with the chip’s registry. And in case of an emergency or unexpected vet visit, ensure that you have copies of your dog’s vaccination certificates and other necessary medical papers.

Lastly, if you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors, there is preventative medicine available to guard pets from fleas and ticks, including topicals and chewable tablets. Having a tick removal tool is great to have on hand, Ellis notes.

Woman and her dog on paddle board, surfingWoman and her dog on paddle board, surfing
Taking your dog on some outdoors adventures while on the road? Be prepared. | Patchareeporn Sakoolchai/Moment/Getty Images

Comfort and entertainment

Bring your dog’s favorite bed, pillow, or blanket with you to ensure a sense of familiarity and comfort when they are out for the night or at resupply places.

Buy a healthy amount of your dog’s regular food and have fresh water bottled for the entire trip, as well as additional snacks and medicine in case of any delays. Collapsible bowls make it effortless to eat on-the-go without difficulty. Pack a variety of toys to keep your dog interested, especially chew toys. Treats can be beneficial in demonstrating good behavior.

Additional necessities

Even if your dog is well-behaved without a leash and collar, it’s essential to have these on hand for rest stops and any other unexpected situations.

“Even if you’re used to letting your dog off leash, be careful in new places,” Stangle says. “There are so many new smells to be had and terrain to explore. Keep your dog on a leash to avoid any problems.”

And it’s important to maintain good hygiene and show politeness when you take care of your dog. Make sure to bring a sufficient amount of waste bags with you to clean up after your dog, and dispose of it in appropriate containers.

Young female vet examining dog's ear during a medical exam in the hospitalYoung female vet examining dog's ear during a medical exam in the hospital
A pre-trip vet visit is essential for long drives with your dog. | skynesher/E+/Getty Images

Pet care on the go

Taking your dog on a summer road trip requires some extra attention to their health and well-being, especially with the potential for high temperatures and unfamiliar environments.

“I recommend taking short trips beforehand to see how your dog reacts in the car,” advises Dr. Lisa Lippman, a veterinarian with Bond Vet, a veterinary clinic with locations in multiple cities. “Planning ahead is key, especially if you need to get medications for anxiety or motion sickness as those can take time to adjust.”

Pre-trip vet visit

Schedule a checkup with your veterinarian before departure. Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and has any necessary parasite prevention medication for the locations you’ll be visiting, especially wooded areas. Discuss with your vet any concerns about car sickness or anxiety, and get recommendations for remedies.

Lippman notes that there is an FDA-approved drug called Cerenia to treat motion sickness and vomiting in both dogs and cats, and there are other options your vet can recommend to you as well.

Hydration and nutrition

Offer your dog plenty of water throughout the journey. Refill a water bottle for your collapsible bowl at rest stops. You can also offer small, healthy snacks to keep your dog’s energy levels up and prevent car sickness. Stick to your dog’s regular feeding schedule and avoid overfeeding or introducing new foods that could upset their stomach.

And summer heat poses serious risks to dogs. Never leave your dog alone in a parked car, even with the windows cracked, as temperatures can quickly become life-threatening.

During rest stops, ensure your dog has ample shade and access to fresh water. Consider using a cooling vest or mat to help regulate their body temperature and prevent overheating.

“Overheating and dehydration can occur not only when it’s hot out, but when your dog is stressed and anxious. It’s a double whammy if your dog is experiencing these feelings in the heat,” Stangle says. “Keeping your dog calm and hydrated is the best way to beat the summer heat. Some of the symptoms of overheating to look out for are vomiting, diarrhea, collapsing, stumbling, muscle tremors, seizures, elevated body temperature, and unresponsiveness.”

First aid kit

Assemble a pet-specific first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any medications your dog requires. Include a pet-safe sunscreen for exposed areas like noses and ears. For more details, Dr. Lippman has assembled a downloadable guide to pet emergency kit essentials.

Two dogs looking out of car window at coastlineTwo dogs looking out of car window at coastline
You don’t want your pup to get too bored on a long ride. | Peter Cade/Stone/Getty Images

Cruising comfortably with your canine

Regular stops are essential for your dog’s well-being. Chart your route to include dog-friendly rest stops, parks, or trails where your pup can burn off energy and enjoy the scenery.

“When you’re on a road trip, AAA recommends that you stop every two hours to take a break and stretch your legs, and the same guidelines should apply to animals,” says Isabella Sawyer, manager for external communications at Hertz. “Pulling over for a break gives your pets a chance to release pent-up energy and freshens everyone for the rest of the journey. Plan to stop at a place where your pet can run around a bit, answer the call of nature, and have a drink.”

Entertainment

Keep your dog engaged during the drive with chew toys or puzzle toys. Consider playing calming music or audiobooks to help them relax. If your dog enjoys car rides, allow them to look out the window for mental stimulation, but make sure they are securely restrained.

“Keep a sense of normalcy by talking to them in a calm tone during the ride instead of blasting music or a podcast,” Stangle adds. “Make your car a clean and inviting space for your dog. Apply some of your dog’s favorite scents in the car, like lavender for calming or a t-shirt with your scent on it. Some dogs do best in crates, some do best in portable carriers, and some dogs prefer to be out in the open in the vehicle, it depends on the preference of you and most importantly, your dog.”

Renting a ride

Embarking on a cross-country road trip with your dog often involves renting a car, and fortunately, most major car rental companies in the United States are pet-friendly. However, it’s important to be aware of their specific policies and guidelines to ensure a streamlined rental experience.

Most car rental companies do not charge extra fees for bringing your dog, but they may impose cleaning fees if the vehicle is returned with excessive pet hair or damage. To avoid these charges, thoroughly clean the car before returning it, use seat covers or old sheets to protect the upholstery, and vacuum up any loose fur.

Hertz Car Rental, for example, does not impose an additional charge for adding housebroken pets—specifically dogs—to a reservation for one of its vehicles. Customers are only charged a fee if there’s damage or the rental requires special cleaning after the reservation.

When reserving your rental car, inform the company that you’ll be traveling with a dog. This allows them to ready the vehicle accordingly and provide any necessary information or recommendations. Upon pick-up, inspect the car for any existing damage and document it with the rental agent to avoid being held responsible for pre-existing issues.

Additionally, most companies require dogs to be kept in a crate or carrier while in the car, so be prepared to bring one along.

“The safest way to transport a pet is in the backseat in either a harness or a carrier attached to your vehicle’s seat belt,” says Sawyer. “If using a carrier, be sure it is well ventilated and large enough for your pet to sit, stand, lie down and turn around in. This is safer for the renter as it prevents distractions, and it protects your pet and the other passengers if you’re involved in a collision. We recommend customers bring their own pet seat belts or other restraints to ensure the pet’s safety throughout their journey.”

dog hotel amenitiesdog hotel amenities
Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston is one of many hotels catering specifically to its canine customers. | Photo by Zack Deus Photography

Finding dog-friendly lodging

One of the joys of a road trip is exploring new places, and that includes finding the perfect overnight accommodations for you and your dog. But when traveling with your dog, this is when you should absolutely research and book lodging reservations in advance versus choosing a motel at the end of the day.

Here’s some guidance at what to expect at hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. (Dr. Lippman adds it’s also a good idea to research and locate the nearest 24-hour veterinarian hospital to your accommodations when traveling in case of a sudden emergency.)

Hotels

Given how many people enjoy traveling with their pets more frequently, many hotels—large and small—have responded with new pet amenities and services to cater to these VIPs (and their humans). So it’s worth researching different hotels in the area you’re visiting with this in mind.

“When choosing a pet-friendly hotel, you must think about the essential needs of your dog and prioritize a property that offers the most conveniences to keep their daily routine easy,” says Lauren Soriano, director of public relations for Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston. “As a dog owner, what is non-negotiable for me is having ample grass for bathroom breaks accessible within a few steps of the hotel entrance. Also consider where dogs are welcome to roam within the hotel—beyond your guest room—so you can enjoy a full property experience. Before booking, check that pups are allowed to hang in lobby lounges and outdoor seated areas, like a courtyard or restaurant patio.”

Some hotels have even built out designated dog parks, but at the very least, your hotel concierge should be able to point out some good walking routes that are enjoyable for both you and your dog.

“It’s always fun to walk around a new city with your loyal companion. Exposing your dogs to new places is always good for training and their overall well-being,” says Claire Compton, the beverage and food manager for Aloft Providence Downtown in Providence, Rhode Island.

It’s important for dogs to be respectful of the hotel and its guests just as a human would, so your dog should be leashed in public areas.

“It’s important to remember, riding an elevator is not a normal occurrence for dogs and this is often the only way to access your room in a hotel. If unfamiliar, this can cause stress for many dogs,” says Jennifer Curtin, general manager at The Beatrice in Providence. “Ensure your dog reliably responds to basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it. This will help you manage your dog in various situations during your hotel stay.”

And when booking, be sure to inquire about pet fees or restrictions, as these can vary from hotel to hotel.
“Since I have a Great Dane, it’s always important to check weight restrictions,” says Lyon Porter, co-founder of Urban Cowboy Lodge, a boutique hotel group with locations in Nashville, Denver, and the Catskills in upstate New York. “We don’t have those at my hotels, but the many of the ‘pet friendly’ spots do have them, and if you have been driving all day and then get turned away, it’s a huge bummer for you and your pup.”

Finally, when you’re staying in a hotel, you might be inclined to leave your dog alone as you would at home. Some hotels allow this, but others require that pets be supervised at all times, so double check on that policy before you book your stay. And even beyond the policy, make sure your pet is comfortable being left alone in a new place too.

“It’s a good idea to plan your trip so you don’t have to leave your dog immediately after arriving. Take your dog for a walk and spend the first night together before leaving them alone,” says Greta Kipp, chief operating officer at Main Street Hospitality, a boutique hotel group with locations across New England and Ontario, Canada. “This helps them get comfortable in the new place, reducing the chances of barking or causing a disturbance. Once they’re settled, go out for a short breakfast, and come back after a few minutes. These little steps help them understand that when you go out, you’ll always come back.”

And if your dog is extra anxious (or maybe you’re extra anxious), Mona Sabau, marketing manager at the 21c Museum Hotel in St. Louis, suggests looking for a daycare in the area ahead of time.

“Schedule a 15-minute sniff-around test to see how your dog does with the space, other dogs, and the caregivers,” Sabau says. “This can be a lifesaver if you need to leave them for a longer period. Plus, most daycares offer a free first day, which is a nice bonus. Also, get them used to being in a crate or travel carrier, especially if the hotel requires it when you’re not in the room.”

happy dog on balcony vacationhappy dog on balcony vacation
The author’s beloved Dash, splooting in ecstasy at The Lake House on Canandaigua. | Photo by Rachel King

Vacation rentals

For a more personalized experience, consider booking a dog-friendly Airbnb, Vrbo, or similar homestay rental. These rentals often offer unique features like fenced yards, dog doors, and proximity to dog parks or hiking trails. Be sure to read reviews carefully and communicate with the host beforehand to confirm any pet-related rules or expectations.

“Taking your dog to new places where there are other people, pets and noises is a good start. This way they have already been exposed to much of which they’ll see at a hotel,” says Porter. “If you test it out before committing, you can take them to a friend’s house and see how they react to being left alone in a new space.”

Campgrounds

For an adventurous and budget-friendly option, consider camping with your dog during your summer road trip. The US boasts a wealth of dog-friendly campgrounds, from national parks to private campgrounds, catering to all types of campers.

“I love visiting national parks with my dogs, but it’s important to note that most national parks don’t allow dogs on trails and have specific, often limited, pet friendly areas. This varies park by park so be sure to do research before your trip,” Ellis advises. “The heat may bring out other animals and reptiles in some areas that can be dangerous to your dog, like rattlesnakes, and we are in their area so be cautious on your adventures.”

And some parks get extremely hot during the summer and can reach dangerous levels for pups.
“Ensure where you are going is pet friendly and the ground isn’t too hot for your dog’s paws (dog booties may be essential) and that you have plenty of water for both you and your dog,” Ellis says. “If you’re visiting a national park that’s not pet friendly or is too hot for your dog, consider finding a nearby sitter on Rover.com to care for your pet while you visit the park.”

If you’re planning to spend the night outdoors, research dog-friendly campgrounds along your route. Ensure your dog has a safe and comfortable place to sleep, either inside a tent with you or tethered securely outside. Bring extra blankets or a sleeping bag for your dog, especially if camping in cooler temperatures.

“Every park has different pet policies, so research those beforehand,” Dr. Lippman says. “Always keep your dog on a leash for safety, and be mindful of hydration, shade, ticks, poisonous plants, and extreme weather. Take your first aid kit with you. It’s always good to be prepared.”

Many campgrounds have specific rules and regulations regarding pets, including designated pet-friendly areas, leash requirements, and waste disposal guidelines. Be mindful of other campers and inquire about these regulations beforehand to avoid any potential conflicts.

“Making your dog comfortable in a new place is all about good management, so be prepared with solutions to manage their needs and sensitivities while away from home,” says Soriano. “Instead of thinking about all the ways a stay could go wrong, reframe it as a special bonding experience with your best friend that will give you unforgettable memories. Spoiling your dog is fun, so order that fancy room service or pack matching PJs to take photos in—you’re on vacation, after all.”

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Rachel King is a writer and photographer based in New York City, with two decades of editorial experience covering travel, drinks, and tech. She has also written for Forbes, Observer, Robb Report, Cool Hunting, Fortune, Fast Company, Insider, CNET, and CBS News.


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