10 Must-Have Dog Travel Essentials

10 Must-Have Dog Travel Essentials

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Do you want to share all of your life experiences with your fur baby?

Dogs live on average 10-13 years, but their love is infinite. They miss you when you leave and are just excited when you return, no matter how long you have been out of sight.

Golden Retriever is ready to go to the pool

Dogs deserve to be a part of they family. Everyone has their own interpretation of how much a dog should be treated like a family member.

That doesn’t negate the point that dogs are family members. It is our responsibility to show them much of the world!

When it comes to pet travel, you want to make the car ride journey as easy and safe as possible! Making sure you have all of the best must-have dog travel items can make everyone’s trip more enjoyable. It can also make planning your trip a bit easier.

Our Dog’s First Trip

The first time we traveled by car with our dog, Woody, was crazy. He wanted to be the co-pilot in the front seat. He was restless and would pace from window to window.

The good news is: He loves to ride in cars and does not experience getting car sick.

From our travel experiences, I have compiled a list of my recommended pet gear to help you enjoy a relaxing trip with your fur baby!

Dog Travel Essentials For You Next Vacay

1. Car Hammock or Car Seat Booster

The car hammock is great for big dogs! Our dog, Woody, loves his backseat car hammock. While he is still able to sneak his way onto the middle console, he’s learned that the back seat is his area.

  • Protects your car seats from dog hair
  • Keeps your car seats clean from dirt and scratches
  • Gives your dog plenty of room to lounge
  • Confines your dog to the backseat

On the other hand, the car seat booster is great for smaller dogs. While I don’t have a small dog to try this on, I think it is adorable!! It also has fantastic reviews on Amazon.

2. Travel Crate or Carrier

I think crate training is such a great thing. Dogs are pack animals and feel safe in small, confined spaces. Training dogs to feel comfortable in his/her crate can make traveling way less stressful!

Woody loves his Folding Metal Crate, especially when a treat is involved!

3. Comfortable Dog Bed

A dog bed is an essential component of travel!

  • Provides your fur baby with a familiar and comfortable space
  • It offers a sense of security and stability
  • Helps alleviate any anxiety or stress your dog may experience in new environments

If your dog is hot-natured, the Elevated Travel Pet Bed with Cooling Mesh is a great dog bed! Some dogs require training or extra coaxing to use these beds because they can be hesitant to stand on elevated, mesh-like surfaces.

4. Portable Dog Bowls

  • Collapsible bowls can be hooked onto book bags for quick access and easy transport during travel, hiking, etc.
  • Another way to carry water for your dog is by using this portable dog water bowl. It’s basically a 2-in-1 because it holds the water and then will dispense the water into a bowl at the click of a button!

5. Dog Entertainment (Aka Dog Toys & Chews)

Chewing is a form of stress-relief for dogs. Travel can be a stressful experience for some dogs. We’ve found that car rides go smoother for Woody if we give him a bone to chew on during the ride or some kind of toy to help keep him occupied.

Our favorite bones:

  1. The Benebone: The Benebone is meant to be long lasting. Because it is not digestible, it doesn’t upset the GI system.
  2. Kong Bone: An alternative to a bone is this Kong Quiet Play Toy. If you don’t want to hear obnoxious squeaking noises during the entire car ride, then this is a great kong toy designed for quiet play. It crackles when played with to encourage continued chewing.

6. Yummy Treats

Treats can be used as rewards for good behavior, helping to reinforce positive training and obedience while on the go. They serve as a valuable tool for maintaining discipline and ensuring your dog follows commands in unfamiliar surroundings.

Treats can be used to alleviate anxiety or stress. The act of giving a treat provides a moment of comfort and distraction, helping to keep your dog calm and content throughout the journey.

We like to feed Wood treats with minimal ingredients. This way we feel comfortable knowing what he is eating and digesting.

7. Leash or Harness

When you’re away from home, it’s crucial to have your dog on a leash or harness.

  • Prevents your dog from wandering off
  • Minimizes the risk of accidents or encounters with unfamiliar animals or hazards
  • Many public spaces require dogs to be on leash

We use a front clip harness on Woody due to his size and tendency to pull. Yes, I know the harness won’t prevent him from pulling, but I feel more in control.

Choose what works best for you and your furry companion!

8. Calming Supplements

Calming supplements can be an essential part of travel for dogs, especially those prone to anxiety or stress in unfamiliar environments. Travel can be overwhelming for dogs, with new sights, sounds, and routines that can trigger anxiety or nervousness.

Calming supplements, such as natural remedies or veterinarian-prescribed options, can help alleviate these stressors and promote a sense of calmness during the journey.

9. Dog Waste Bags

Dog waste bags are an essential part of travel due to their importance in maintaining cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental responsibility.

When you’re on the go with your dog, it’s important to clean up after them and properly dispose of their waste. Many cities and communities have strict laws and regulations regarding dog waste cleanup, and failure to comply can result in fines.

10. Updated Vaccination Record

Updated records serve as proof that your dog is up to date on their vaccinations. Many travel destinations, such as boarding facilities, hotels, and international borders, require proof of vaccinations before allowing dogs to enter.

By having updated vaccination records readily available, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

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What should I bring in my car with a dog?

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  1. Prepare the car so your dog is safe using a non-slip hammock designed for dogs.
  2. Make sure your dog has enough water to stay hydrated.
  3. Bring toys to entertain your dog.
  4. Don’t forget the leash and other essentials!

How do you prepare a dog for a long car ride?

Start small to see how your dog tolerates riding in a car. Slowly increase the distance. Make sure you have the right equipment to make the car ride comfortable and safe for your dog. During the long car ride, remember to take potty breaks every couple of hours.

What are your favorite things to bring when traveling with your dog?!

And please do me a little favor and share this article with others, for there’s a good chance that it will help them with their travels!

Sara & Josh

While Sara and Josh may be new to the travel blogging world, that doesn't mean they lack knowledge or experience in booking bougie vacations. With a talent for finding travel deals, Sara and Josh are here to teach YOU some of their tricks to traveling "bougie on a budget." Learn more about their story and please reach out with any questions or comments via e-mail at: [email protected].

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