Ready, Set, Woof! Your Dog Travel Packing Guide

Travel Tips
Written By Pamela Schulz

Dog-Friendly Travel Packing Checklist

Traveling with your pup is one of life’s greatest joys, but packing for a dog-friendly trip takes some planning. From food and water to safety gear and comfort items, having everything ready ensures a smooth adventure for both you and your furry friend.

1. Food & Treats

  • Dry kibble

  • Single-meal wet food packs (Story: I feed my dogs homemade food at home, but when traveling I bring dry kibble and small wet packs to avoid spoilage.)

  • Freeze-dried treats (liver, lamb, etc.)

  • Other favorite snacks for hikes, long drives, or rest stops

  • Collapsible bowls or portable snack containers

Tip: Portion treats ahead of time. Small food toppers add variety if your pup is picky.

2. Water & Travel Bowls

  • Sturdy water bottle

  • Collapsible travel bowl (Foldable silicone bowls save space.)

  • Extra water for hikes or long drives

  • Food bowls (plastic or metal)

  • Licking mats for mealtime (Lightweight and helps keep pups busy.)

Tip: Bring an extra bowl in case one gets dirty. A water bottle with a built-in bowl is handy for quick hydration.

3. Leash, Harness & Collar

  • Strong leash and comfortable harness

  • 20–30 foot leash for trails or open spaces (Great for dog-friendly beaches or swimming areas—freedom safely.)

  • Confirm your dog’s ID tag is on

Tip: Pack a backup leash or collar. Consider reflective gear for low-light conditions.

4. Toys, Comfort Items & Bed

  • Favorite toy for familiarity

  • Blanket or small bed (Story: Makes new accommodations feel like home.)

  • Chew toys to burn energy and reduce stress

Tip: Soft toys are ideal for hotels. Rotate toys to keep your dog engaged.

5. Health & Safety Kit

  • Medications or supplements your dog needs

  • First-aid essentials: bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, thermometer

  • Vaccination records (photos or printed copies)

Tip: Keep first-aid items in a waterproof pouch. Take a photo of your dog’s microchip ID for quick access.

6. Travel Gear

  • Crates or carriers for safe transport

  • Car seat covers (Story: I learned the hard way—one muddy beach trip left my seats a mess before I started using a cover consistently!)

  • Car harness or seatbelt attachments

  • Small towel or mat for muddy paws or resting stops

Tip: Lightweight, collapsible crates save space. Keep a towel handy for unexpected water stops.

7. Clean-Up Supplies

  • Poop bags bring extra!

  • Pet wipes for quick clean-ups

  • Small towel to dry off after water activities or messy walks

Tip: Store bags and wipes in an accessible pouch. Biodegradable poop bags are eco-friendly.

8. Optional Extras

  • Life jacket for water-loving pups

  • Travel-friendly gate or playpen for hotels or vacation rentals

Tip: Gates or playpens define a safe space in unfamiliar accommodations. Life jackets are essential for swimming in open water.

Pamela Schulz
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Colonial Beach & Virginia’s Northern Neck