Embarking on a road trip with your furry friend can be an adventure filled with wagging tails and memorable moments. However, ensuring a smooth journey requires careful planning and packing. Here’s my comprehensive packing list that you can use to ensure your dog’s comfort and safety on the road:
- Soft Luggage
I always pack my things as well as my pups travel necessities in soft luggage, like a messenger bag or backpack that can easily fit behind a car seat leaving more room for my pooch. - Extra Leash and Harness
Always have backups for safety and security. - Harness and Seat Belt Clip for Car Travel
Keep your dog safely restrained during car rides to prevent accidents. - Seat Protector
Protect your dog from hot seats and your car from fur and dirt with a waterproof seat protector. - Windex Wipes
Handy for cleaning nose prints off rental car windows. - Lifejacket
Essential for water activities to keep your dog safe. - Safety Vest or Bright Orange Handkerchief
Increase visibility, especially during hikes or walks in the wilderness. - Food Kit
Pack enough food and treats for the trip, considering any dietary restrictions or regulations at your destination. - Prescription Medications
Ensure you have an ample supply of any necessary medications your dog may need. - Toys
Keep your dog entertained with their favorite toys, such as a Frisbee or a dog interactive soccer ball. - Travel Crate
Provide a safe and familiar space for your dog to rest during the journey. - Pet Bed
Pack your dog’s own bed or mat, ensuring they have a cozy spot to sleep. Depending on where you’re going, you can make it a cooling or heating bed. - Travel Towel
Clean up messes on the go. - Bedsheets
Protect hotel furniture from pet hair and dirt. - Travel Bowl
Keep your dog hydrated on the road. - Poop Bags
Always clean up after your dog, whether on the road or at your destination. - Flashlight or Headlamp
Essential for nighttime walks and emergencies. - Dog-Walking Fanny Pack
Keep essentials like treats and poop bags easily accessible during walks. - Cleaning Solution, Paper Towels, Lint Roller
Cleanup essentials for accidents or messes. - Grooming Supplies
Maintain your dog’s hygiene with grooming essentials. - Local Dog-Friendly Guidebook(s)
Discover dog-friendly attractions and amenities at your destination. - First Aid Kit
Be prepared for any minor injuries or emergencies on the road.
By packing these essentials, you’ll ensure a paw-some and stress-free road trip for both you and your beloved canine companion. Woof!
If you love swapping stories and tips about life with dogs, I’d love to have you join me over on my Substack, BlissDog, where I share heart-centered essays, dog-inspired rituals, and behind-the-scenes stories from life with Seven and Paige Turner. Come sit, stay, and read with us — your dog-loving heart will be in good company.
More Paws on the Go Posts . . .
(Our site may contain links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links.)