The ultimate guide to traveling with a dog
Last Updated on August 15, 2025
Traveling with your dog is one of the most fun things to do! You get to explore new places with your best friend by your side, share unforgettable experiences, and never feel lonely on the road. But as fun as it sounds, it also comes with unique challenges. From paperwork and packing to choosing the right accommodation and keeping your pup safe along the way.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before setting off, including:
- Why dogs make the best travel buddies (hint: unconditional love and zero complaints)
- The paperwork you’ll need for stress-free border crossings or flights
- Handy gadgets that make travel easier and more comfortable for your dog
- How to prepare your dog for travel so they’re confident and calm
- Tips to keep your dog safe while flying
- How to choose truly dog-friendly accommodation wherever you go
By the end, you’ll be ready to plan an adventure where both you and your furry companion can explore the world together: safely, happily, and with plenty of tail wags. Enjoy!
Why I think dogs make the best travel buddies️
Let’s be honest: dogs are often better travel companions than humans. Sure, they need extra prep and paperwork, but they’ll never complain about your choice of destination, playlist, or hotel. They’re just happy to be by your side.
Here’s why I think traveling with a dog is amazing:
- Zero drama: no grumpy moods, no “are we there yet?” just tail wags and happy sniffs.
- Instant friend-maker: a dog is the best ice-breaker when meeting locals, and somehow they always lead you to the best street food stalls.
- Blend in with the locals: people don’t expect tourists to travel with dogs, so you avoid the usual tourist traps.
- Pure comfort: nothing beats having your loyal companion with you, ready to give unconditional love (and maybe steal a bite of your sandwich).
The paperwork you’ll need
Nothing kills a trip faster than realizing you’re missing the documents your dog needs to fly. Each country has its own rules, but here are the most common ones:
- Pet Passport: your dog’s all-in-one ID for international travel.
- Acclimation certificate: states your dog can handle certain temperatures (important for extreme hot or cold destinations).
- Health certificate: signed by your vet, confirming your dog is healthy and disease-free. Usually valid for a short time, so check the expiry date.
- Rabies vaccination proof: some places need this to be recent (Hawaii has especially strict rules).
- Other forms: like feeding confirmation, live animal checklist, and tranquilizer consent forms if needed.
Tip: always double-check the requirements with your airline and the country you’re visiting.
Handy gadgets for traveling with dogs
Packing for your dog is almost as important as packing for yourself. Here are a few must-haves:
- Folding water and food bowls: these bowls are lightweight and space-saving.
- Flea & tick treatment prevention collar: hassle-free, non-greasy, easy-to-use flea and tick protection.
- Dog booties: a must-have! Protect paws from hot pavements, icy streets, or rough trails.
- ID tags with up-to-date info: essential in case your dog wanders off.
- Absorbent microfiber towel: a multi-functional towel ideal for wet paws, muddy fur, or post-swim drying.
- LED collar or clip-on light: keeps them visible during evening walks.
- Small first-aid kit for dogs: another must-have when traveling with dogs! Mostly includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, and sprains.
- Favorite toys: comfort and entertainment while you work or travel.
- Collapsible crate or soft carrier: handy to give your dog a familiar, safe space anywhere.
- Poop bags (lots!): because… well, you know.
- Portable water bottle with dispenser: great water bottle for hikes or long walks.
- Dog water bottle with food container: can also include food. Another great choice!
- Cooling mat: helps keep your dog comfortable in warm climates.
- Extra leash and collar: in case one gets lost or damaged.
- Quality dog food: travel can upset stomachs, so stick to something safe and familiar (brands like Royal Canin can be ordered online).
- Grooming brush: for post-adventure clean-up and reducing shedding in your accommodation.
- Blanket: familiar scent = instant comfort during flights or car rides. Make sure to bring a lightweight variant.
- Sweater or jacket: especially for short-haired dogs or cooler destinations.
Tip: click on the image below to see all my favorite handy gadgets for traveling with dogs!
Preparing your dog for travel
Before you hit the road, it’s important to make sure your dog is comfortable with the idea of travel. A little preparation goes a long way in reducing stress for both of you:
- Get them used to their carrier or crate: leave it open at home for a few weeks before your trip. Add their favorite blanket or toy so it feels safe and familiar.
- Take short practice trips: start with local car rides or train journeys so your dog can get used to new environments and sounds.
- Work on basic commands: commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” are especially helpful in busy airports or crowded places.
- Build up their stamina: if your trip involves lots of walking, increase daily activity in the weeks before departure.
- Schedule a vet check-up: confirm vaccinations are up-to-date, discuss any travel health risks, and ask about motion sickness or anxiety remedies.
Tips to keep your dog safer while flying
Traveling with a dog is wonderful, but it’s not without challenges. Flying can be stressful for animals. There are loud noises, changing air pressure and fluctuating temperatures. Airlines often treat pets as cargo, which can be risky. Here are some tips to keep your dog safer while flying:
- Book direct flights when possible.
- Try to get a spot for your dog in the passenger cabin.
- Visit the vet before you book.
- Ask other travelers about their experiences with your chosen airline.
Tip: some airlines and countries require proof of crate training for pets in cargo. So starting early can save you stress later. If your dog gets anxious while flying, talk to your vet about calming aids, pheromone sprays, or safe medication options.
Choosing dog-friendly accommodations
Finding a great place to stay is key when traveling with a dog. Look for:
- Pet-friendly policies: check for weight or breed restrictions.
- Outdoor areas: a garden, terrace, or nearby park is a huge bonus.
- Flooring: hardwood or tile is easier to clean than carpet.
- Proximity to pet services: vet clinics, pet stores, and grooming salons nearby.
- Pet fees: some places charge extra per night or per stay for pets.
Tip: read reviews from other pet owners before booking. They’ll give you the real scoop on how “pet-friendly” a place truly is.
Final woof of wisdom
Having a dog is already a joy, but I think that traveling and working remotely with them takes life to a whole new level. You’ll share new places, make unforgettable memories, and never feel lonely on the road.
If you have any questions about the above mentioned information, please let me know in the comment section below. I’m happy to help you. Safe travels!
Author: Daphne
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3 Comments
Francesca Murray
I didn’t realize there was so much involved in traveling or living abroad with a pet! I did notice my friend had a passport for her doggy. I didn’t know there were health requirements as well!
Candy
I wish I had a pet to travel with. Getting all the necessary documents ready may be a little tedious but well worth the trouble if I really wanted to travel with my pet. I wish airlines would make a separate family-friendly cargo for pets. I feel so bad for them in the cargo 😦
Girlswanderlust
Yes, I think all the preparations are worth it and I totally agree with your point on putting pets in cargo. I personally prefer not to fly with pets, but travel over land or by ship with them.