Whether you’re heading to the beach, visiting family, or planning a cross-country road trip, traveling with your dog can be a wonderful experience—if done with proper preparation. Dogs are loyal companions who love being with their humans, but travel can be stressful and even risky if their needs aren’t considered.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to travel safely with your dog, including car, plane, and hotel stays, offering tips to make the journey smooth, safe, and enjoyable for both of you.
1. Plan Ahead and Know Your Dog’s Travel Personality
Before you hit the road or book a flight, think about how your dog handles new environments. Some dogs are calm and adaptable, while others may become anxious or overstimulated.
✔ Has your dog traveled before?
✔ Do they get car sick or anxious in new places?
✔ Are they crate-trained and comfortable being confined?
✔ Do they have any medical conditions that require attention during travel?
Understanding your dog’s personality and needs helps you prepare the best travel plan—including destination, transportation, and accommodations.
2. Visit the Vet Before You Travel
A quick trip to the vet before a journey ensures your dog is healthy and ready to travel.
✔ Check that all vaccinations are up to date
✔ Ask about motion sickness or anti-anxiety medication, if needed
✔ Request a copy of your dog’s health records, especially for air travel or hotels that require proof of vaccines
✔ Make sure your dog is protected against fleas, ticks, and heartworms
If you’re traveling internationally or by air, check whether a health certificate is required—many airlines and countries demand this within a certain time frame before travel.
3. Pack a Travel Kit Just for Your Dog
Just like you, your dog needs their own suitcase! A well-stocked dog travel kit makes everything easier.
✔ Food and collapsible bowls
✔ Bottled water and portable water bowls
✔ Leash, harness, and poop bags
✔ A familiar blanket or bed
✔ Favorite toys or chews
✔ Medications and vet contact info
✔ Towel for muddy paws or unexpected messes
✔ Crate or carrier, if needed
Having all their essentials packed in one bag keeps your dog comfortable and secure, wherever you go.
4. Car Travel: Safety First
Traveling by car is one of the most common and flexible ways to bring your dog along—but safety is crucial.
✔ Never let your dog roam freely inside the car
✔ Use a crash-tested harness, car seat, or crate secured to the vehicle
✔ Avoid the front seat—airbags can be dangerous to dogs in case of an accident
✔ Never let your dog ride with their head out the window (despite how much they may enjoy it)
Frequent breaks are essential. Stop every 2–3 hours so your dog can stretch, relieve themselves, and hydrate. Keep the car well-ventilated and never leave your dog alone in a hot car, even for a few minutes.
5. Plane Travel: Is It Safe for Your Dog?
Flying with your dog requires careful planning and research, especially when it comes to breed, size, and airline policies.
✔ Small dogs may be allowed in the cabin in an airline-approved carrier
✔ Larger dogs usually travel in the cargo hold, which can be stressful and has risks
✔ Always check the airline’s pet policy, carrier requirements, and health documentation rules
✔ Avoid flights with layovers or extreme temperatures, and choose direct routes when possible
Some breeds, like brachycephalic dogs (Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus), may not be allowed to fly in cargo due to respiratory risks. If flying isn’t safe, consider ground travel or pet relocation services.
6. Crate Training for Stress-Free Travel
If your dog is traveling in a crate, either by car or plane, crate training ahead of time can reduce anxiety and make the trip more enjoyable.
✔ Introduce the crate gradually at home before the trip
✔ Place a favorite blanket or toy inside to create a sense of familiarity
✔ Feed your dog meals inside the crate to build a positive association
✔ Never use the crate as punishment
A well-trained dog who sees the crate as a safe space is much more likely to travel calmly and feel secure.
7. Book Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Not all hotels, Airbnbs, or vacation rentals accept pets—so do your research in advance.
✔ Use filters on travel platforms to find pet-friendly lodging
✔ Check for pet fees, size restrictions, and house rules
✔ Bring your own dog bed or blanket to make them feel at home
✔ Keep your dog supervised and quiet to respect other guests and avoid complaints
Always confirm with the property that they accept dogs, and avoid leaving your pet alone in unfamiliar places unless they’re crate-trained and comfortable.
8. Keep Identification Up to Date
One of the biggest risks during travel is losing your dog in an unfamiliar area. Make sure your dog is always wearing ID and is easily traceable.
✔ Use a collar with an updated ID tag that includes your phone number
✔ Have your dog microchipped, and double-check that the information is current
✔ Consider using a GPS tracker attached to the collar for added peace of mind
If your dog runs off or slips a leash, these tools greatly increase the chance of a safe and quick reunion.
9. Stick to a Familiar Routine When Possible
Dogs love structure. When traveling, try to keep your dog’s routine as close to normal as possible.
✔ Feed at the same times they’re used to
✔ Walks, playtime, and potty breaks should happen on a similar schedule
✔ Bring familiar items like their food, toys, and bedding
✔ Maintain training commands and boundaries
Sticking to their usual rhythm helps your dog feel secure and reduces travel-related stress.
10. Know When Travel May Not Be the Best Option
While many dogs enjoy travel, not all are suited for it. If your dog is elderly, has health problems, or struggles with anxiety, it might be kinder to leave them in a trusted pet sitter’s care or board them at a reputable facility.
✔ Look for sitters with good reviews and experience with dogs
✔ Visit the facility in advance, if boarding, and ask questions
✔ Make sure your dog has time to meet and get comfortable with the caregiver before the trip
A happy dog at home is better than a stressed dog on the road. Always consider what’s in your dog’s best interest.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with your dog can be an unforgettable bonding experience—but it requires thoughtful planning, safety precautions, and a deep understanding of your dog’s needs. Whether you’re road-tripping through the countryside or flying across the country, the key is to prioritize your dog’s comfort, security, and health every step of the way.
✔ Visit the vet and prepare essential documents
✔ Use proper restraints in the car or airline-approved carriers
✔ Keep your dog well-fed, hydrated, and entertained
✔ Choose pet-friendly accommodations
✔ Update identification and stick to familiar routines
With preparation and care, your adventures together will be safe, smooth, and filled with joyful tail wags.