Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience, but it takes planning, preparation, and the right destinations to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Whether you're heading out for a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, here's everything you need to know about how to travel with your dog, including tips on transportation, accommodations, and where to stop along the way.

Prepare Before You Go

• Vet Check: Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and has a recent health check-up. Ask your vet for a copy of your dog’s medical records in case of emergency.
• ID and Microchip: Your dog should wear a collar with an up-to-date ID tag at all times. A microchip adds an extra layer of safety in case they get lost.

Packing List:

• Food and water (plus travel bowls) - I'm obsessed with this interlocking set from KindTail
• Leash and harness
• Bed or blanket
• Toys and chews
• Waste bags
• Medications, if needed
• Health and vaccination records

Find Pet-Friendly Hotels

Not every hotel welcomes pets, but many nationwide chains offer pet-friendly accommodations. Always confirm individual property policies before booking.

Reliable Pet-Friendly Hotel Brands:

• Kimpton Hotels – No pet fee or size restrictions; many locations provide extras like treats and beds.
• La Quinta by Wyndham – Most locations allow pets with minimal or no fees.
• Best Western – Over 1,600 pet-friendly locations in North America.
• Motel 6 – Pets stay free at all properties.
• Red Roof Inn – Pet-friendly with no fee at many locations.
• Marriott Brands (Residence Inn, Element, TownePlace Suites) – Policies vary by location.

Consider Campgrounds

For a more outdoor-focused trip, staying at pet-friendly campgrounds or a spot like Silver Wind RV Park can offer more space and flexibility than hotels, and give you and your dog the chance to spend more time outdoors.

Features to Look For:

• Fenced dog parks
• On-site trails
• Pet-wash stations
• Shade and water access

Always check campground rules about leash use and breed restrictions before booking.

Flying with Your Dog

If you're flying with your dog, planning ahead is critical. Airlines have different policies, and not every dog will be able to fly safely.

What to Know:

• Cabin vs. Cargo: Small dogs under 20 lbs can often fly in the cabin in an airline-approved carrier. Larger dogs typically must fly in the cargo hold - it is not recommended to fly dogs in cargo unless absolutely necessary, like for a permanent move. 
• Health Certificate: Most airlines require a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
• Carrier Requirements: Make sure your dog's crate or carrier meets the airline’s size, ventilation, and labeling guidelines. Everyone I know LOVES the carrier from Wild One, which folds down into a travel bed and has a shoulder strap that doubles as a leash.
• Direct Flights: Always book direct when possible to reduce stress and risks for your pet.
• Know the Breed Restrictions: Many airlines restrict brachycephalic breeds (like bulldogs or pugs) due to higher health risks during flight (as they do in life).

Roadtripping with Dogs: Safety in the Car

• Restraint Is Essential: Use a crash-tested seatbelt harness, or even better, a strapped in carseat to keep your dog secure in the back seat. Carseats let small dogs get a better view, keep they much safer in case of a crash, and greatly reduce car sickness in dogs, my puppy loves this one.
• No Heads Out the Window: While it might look fun, it's dangerous. Road debris and sudden stops can cause serious injuries.
• Never Leave Your Dog Alone in the Car: Temperatures can rise or drop quickly, making it unsafe.
• Frequent Breaks: Stop every 2-3 hours to let your dog stretch, go to the bathroom, and hydrate.

Where to Stop: Pet-Friendly Attractions

• Off-Leash Parks: Research local dog parks along your route.
• Trails and Nature Areas: Many national forests and state parks allow dogs on leash.
• Outdoor Cafés and Markets: Opt for places with patios and outdoor seating, which often welcome dogs.

Additional Tips

• Keep a Routine: Stick to your dog’s regular feeding and bathroom schedule.
• Know Local Laws: Leash laws and pet policies vary by state and city.
• Use Pet Travel Apps: Tools like BringFido, AllTrails, and Roadtrippers can help you find dog-friendly stops, hotels, and restaurants.
• Hidden Gems: Look for unique, lesser-known stops that cater to both people and pets - like a lavender farm that offers dog biscuit tastings during bloom season or a roadside vineyard with shaded picnic tables, off-leash space, and homemade treats tucked behind the counter.. These quirky, off-the-map stops make for great breaks and even better photos.

Because you only have so many years with your dog, they deserve to come along sometimes!