Story and Photos By Hannah Deadman-Arnst
Taking a road trip with your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience! It can also feel intimidating if you’re not sure where to start. While road-tripping with pets requires extra planning and a little more flexibility, it’s a great way to spend time together. Here are some key ways to ensure a memorable and safe pet-friendly road trip!
Packing the Bags
While planning your itinerary, do your research! Make a list of pet-friendly hotels, campsites, restaurants or bars, and experiences. BringFido is a great way to learn about the pet-friendly options your destination offers. You can also check out Google listings by searching for something like “pet-friendly breakfast places near me”. Or, search for a term like “dog friendly” to find specific reviews for a place you already have in mind. When it comes to restaurants, I always call ahead to confirm they’re still pet-friendly! PS: Breweries are usually a great choice.
As you create your packing list, include your pet’s supplies! Bring plenty of their favorite treats and toys, pack enough meals for the length of your trip (to be safe, I always bring an extra meal for my dogs), and don’t forget to bring extra litter or poop bags. You should also pack necessities for any specific outings your trip may include, such as a life vest, snow boots, a harness/backpack, and pet-safe tick spray for hikes.
Pro tip: Have a safety plan. Pack a pet first-aid kit (including but not limited to gauze, antiseptic, kwik stop gel, hydrogen peroxide, and Benadryl) and keep your pet’s vaccination papers or other medical info readily available. This way, you can easily share your pet’s records with a local vet in case of an emergency. I recommend keeping the files in a digital PDF on your phone.
Above: Buddy and Sapphire enjoy a stop at Starbucks
On the Road
Prepare your vehicle! Before you hit the road, make sure there are no dangerous or harmful items inside the car (like those old onion rings you accidentally dropped between the seats). Do not let them ride in the front seat—the safest place for them is in the back seat. Just make sure to leave enough room for your fur baby to safely and comfortably lie down. If you have a cat or a small dog, secure them in their carrier. If you have a larger dog breed, consider purchasing a special seat belt. We love our seat cover, too!
Now that your bags are packed, it’s almost time to hit the road. Before you go, make sure you fill up enough fresh water for yourself and your furry friend. And, always make sure they can access that water while in the car. Finally, place your supply of poop bags or litter in an easy-to-access location so you can grab them when it’s time for a bathroom break (more on that next).
Pro tip: Always carry a small towel that you can easily access in your car. This way, you can clean up any spills or wipe dirt and grime off your pet’s paws before they get back in the vehicle!
Rest Stops & Reservations
Just like people, pets need to relieve themselves often! During your road trip, take plenty of breaks along the way. Many Love’s Travel Stops have enclosed dog parks so your dog can stretch his legs, do his business, and get in some new smells. Don’t forget to scoop the poop! If you’re stopping for a bite to eat, you can also look for nearby dog parks. Starbucks locations continue to offer complimentary “pup cups”—making it a great place for you and your dog to recharge for a few.
Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. If you’re traveling alone and you must leave them for just a few minutes, check first that the car is cool. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet. If the temperature is OK, crack open some windows, park in the shade, and lock your doors. You can even consider making a simple paper sign for the car that says something like, “My mom/dad ran to the restroom and will be back by [TIME]. If you have any questions or concerns, please call [NUMBER]”.
Pro-tip: If you’re heading out on a multi-day road trip, don’t forget to look for pet-friendly accommodations. Red Roof Inn and Kimpton Hotels are both fantastic choices—pets stay free! Finally, if there’s a day-long or overnight experience you’ll be enjoying without your pet (for example, a national park or a guided tour), look for highly rated reputable daycare or boarding facilities nearby that can keep your pet safe and occupied.
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A creative thinker with a passion for storytelling, Hannah Deadman-Arnst is a full-time writer, communications professional and traveler. While she calls South Florida home, Hannah travels and works remotely in her camper with her husband, Ryan, and huskies, Buddy and Sapphire. She has explored 42 states, visited 36 national parks and, since 2021, has driven 20,000 miles with her RV. Born and raised in Chicagoland, her love for travel and the outdoors began at a young age—boating Lake Huron, exploring the woods, taking road trips, and having fun outside. She left her full time communications job in 2022 to pursue a freelance career and life on the road. With a background in journalism, arts & sciences communications, and tourism marketing, Hannah loves using stories to drive impact for people and organizations that enrich their communities. She is also a trained dancer and singer. When she’s not creating, she loves to photograph her travels, hike with her dogs, find really good coffee, and read. Follow her adventures at @hannaharnst!