Whether you're traveling for the holidays or just planning your next adventure, this packing list for traveling with your dog will ensure you're prepared anytime you leave home with your pooch in tow—whether by land, sea, or sky. Packing can be stressful and it can be easy to forget to bring everything for yourself, let alone your dog, when you go on vacation.
Traveling can be especially tough on our furry friends because we can’t explain to them what's going on. Being prepared with all of the items on your dog travel checklist will help both you and your pup stay calm during your journey and once you get to your destination.
Dog travel checklist
1. Leash, collar & tags
This might seem like kind of a "duh," but be sure to bring your dog's leash, collar, harness, and tags with you when you travel. It's wise to bring a few different types of leashes and harnesses for different purposes, and in case you lose one, you'll have extra. In addition, make sure you have up-to-date tags with correct contact information in case your dog gets separated from you.
Wild One Dog Collar$38
This stylish all-weather dog collar is made with a super strong flex-poly strap, making it odor-resistant and easy to clean. It comes in eight equally cute hues so your dog can find their perfect color.
2. Water & food bowls
It goes without saying, but having a water and food bowl on your packing list when you travel with your dog is essential! This helps ensure that your pup stays well hydrated and has a clean, safe bowl to eat from.
Alfie Pet Collapsible Travel Dog Bowl$20
The Alfie Pet Collapsible water bowl is one of our favorites. It's made of non-skid silicone, is collapsible, and comes in bright colors. The loop allows you to clip it to the outside of your bag for easy access.
3. Food
Make sure you bring plenty of your pet’s food when you travel. If you run out of food and are forced to switch quickly, your pet might get an upset stomach, which is not fun for any party involved. Bring more than you think you need—a few extra days worth is ideal.
4. ThunderShirt
While not every pup will benefit from this, ThunderShirts are great for keeping your pet calm when you're traveling. They have many different models to suit your pet’s active (or not-so-active) lifestyle.
ThunderShirt Anxiety & Calming Aid for Dogs$40-$60
Here is a solid example of the classic grey ThunderShirt we all know and love. The ThunderShirt uses a gentle "hugging" pressure to calm your dog down.
If your pet is anxious, be sure to consult one of our online Vet Pros for other suggestions for how to keep them calm. ThunderShirts, toys, and treats are a great place to start.
5. Weather-appropriate attire
Be sure to consider the weather at your destination and include a wide range of options from your dog's wardrobe for the possible conditions. There's nothing worse than getting to your campsite and realizing you forgot your dog's floaty. In all seriousness, consider if your dog will need coats, sweaters, booties, or even goggles.
Max-Bone Talon Raincoat$65
This water-repellent dog coat snaps under your dog's belly and has a removable hood, mesh lining, and two small pockets. Staying dry has never looked more stylish.
6. Crate
Depending on your mode of travel, you may or may not need a dog travel carrier. Be sure to bring whatever you need to keep your pup safe and secure while you're traveling. It's also important to plan for where your pet will sleep when you arrive at your destination. If your pet feels comfortable in a crate, we recommend a pop-up folding crate since they're portable and cozy.
You & Me Stow & Go Portable Canvas Dog Crate$80-$125
For larger dogs, a pop-up travel crate can be an excellent option. This crate folds easily and has a lightweight metal frame to make traveling a breeze.
7. Medications
Before you embark, double check your calendar to see if your pet's flea & tick or heartworm meds are due while you're traveling. If so, be sure to add one or two to your list!
NexGard Chewable, 10.1-24 lbs, (Blue Box), Rx$30
If you qualify for Pawp prescriptions, you can get your pet’s monthly flea & tick Rx for $30/mo. plus 24/7 on-demand vet care.
If your pet needs any other medications, be sure to bring those as well—in a quantity that is slightly more than the number of days they'll need them should you run into travel hiccups. In addition, having a small first aid kit is also a great idea to handle unexpected situations.
8. Poop bags
You can never have too many poop bags on your dog packing list. Ever. And then when you think you’ve packed enough, pack some more.
PET N PET Compostable Dog Poop Bags$15
Buy a few packs of these biodegradable poop bags — you, your dog, and the planet will thank us later.
9. Rabies tag/vaccination records
Depending on where you're going and your method of travel, you'll need to ensure you have the proper documentation. You should always have your pet’s rabies tags on hand, as well as your pet’s vaccination records. Be sure to check with your destination as well as mode of transport to make sure you have everything you need.
10. Brush
If your dog has a thick coat and you'll be gone for more than a couple days, it might be a good idea to add your dog's brush or comb to your packing list. Staying ahead on grooming your dog is important, as having to catch up can be an uncomfortable and timely ordeal for the both of you.
WetBrush PetBrush Detangler Dog Brush$14
Detangle any knots and mattes with painless ease. Using its Intelliflex bristles, this dog brush cuts down on grooming time (and makes sure your dog doesn't hate it).
11. Treats & toys
Be sure to add lots of items to your dog packing list that let your pooch know that he or she is a very good boy/girl. Some dogs love the car, but for others, traveling is stressful and they'll need plenty of distractions and even more rewards for behaving. Plus, once you reach your destination, your pet will appreciate having a piece (and taste) of home to help them settle in. Read more about quality dog food nutrition and treats here.
KONG Extreme Dog Toy$9-$26
Kong is a classic when it comes to dog toys, and the extreme version is no different. Built for dogs of all sizes, it's available in small to XX-large. Made with Kong's all natural rubber formula, the toy can be stuffed with treats and will bounce erratically to keep your dog interested.
Have questions about traveling with your dog?
Pawp's Vet Pros are here to chat 24/7. Whether you have questions about travel, behavior, health, or nutrition, we can help point you and your pup in the right direction.