10 Road-Trip Essentials for Traveling With Pets

Heading out on a road trip with your furry friend can be a great adventure. However, it’s something that requires a lot of preparation. You want to make sure that you and your pet are safe in order to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Luckily, it’s relatively easy to get started. You just need to think ahead and remember to pack all of the right essentials.

Below we are going to talk about ten road-trip items that you should take with you if you plan on traveling with pets.

Sound interesting? Then keep on reading!

The right vehicle

Obviously, the first thing you need for any successful road trip is the right vehicle. Just like when you have children, you’ll want to make sure that there is enough space for your pup to be comfortable.

You don’t want to start packing, only to realize that you can’t fit everything that you need in the trunk. It’s important to take a sturdy and reliable vehicle so that you can reach each destination efficiently and safely. Check out these land rover dealers in az to get started.

A waterproof mat

Pets require regular bathroom breaks, so pulling over every two hours is something that you will have to prepare for. However, even with frequent stops, you can never guarantee that your pet won’t get the urge to go.

It’s better to play it safe and invest in a waterproof mat or disposable pad so that your car is protected. Trust us when we say it’s one of the most important essentials on this list.

A travel crate or safety restraint

To ensure that your pet is secure during your travels, it’s crucial to have the appropriate restraint. This way, you can keep your eyes concentrated on the road and will know that they are safe if an accident does occur.

There are a few different options to choose from, but what you pick will depend on their size and breed. Some types you may wish to check out include:

– Harnesses and seat belts

– Booster seats

– Travel crates

– Dog guard/back seat barrier

A collapsible food and water bowl

Along the way, your pet may get thirsty or hungry, so it’s essential to have something nearby that they have access to (or that you can fill quickly). While there are a lot of different bowls that you can use, collapsible ones are a great choice.

This is because they can save space and can be used just about anywhere. If you want to go one step further, you may also be able to find a splash-proof design to prevent any mess.

A good quality toy

Another vital item that you will want to take on your road trip is a couple of good-quality toys. The last thing you want is for your pup to get bored and start chewing on your car’s interior.

Alongside this, having a few items from home can help them feel more comfortable and relaxed along the way. This is especially crucial if they haven’t been in a car for long distances before.

Medical records and vaccination certificates

If you plan on visiting a few different sites and staying in accommodation, there may come a time when your pet will need to be put in a boarding facility for a few days. This way, you don’t have to worry about leaving them alone while you explore your destination.

In order to do this, you need to make sure that you have all of their necessary medical records and vaccination certificates. It can also be worth keeping a copy on your phone just in case you misplace them.

A collar and leash

Another one of the more obvious things you will need when road tripping with your pet is a good quality collar and leash. Your pet must be secure, even if they are well trained. Not every place allows dogs to be on their own.

Don’t forget; you’ll also want to double-check that their tag contains all of your contact information. This way, if they do happen to get lost, someone will be able to contact you.

Poop bags

Whether you’re planning to camp at sites, parking on the side of the road, or staying in accommodation, you can never have too many poop bags. Keeping a tidy environment is vital for all pet owners, and you don’t want any accidents stinking up your car.

Opt for biodegradable plastic ones that can be stored in a container for easy dispensing. They really will be a lifesaver.

Treats and their usual food

It’s also a good idea to get a few treats to reward them for their good behavior. This will keep them happy and make the entire process go more smoothly. You might also want to consider getting them used to nutritional supplements like Nutra Thrive for Dogs a few weeks before the trip, so that you can carry these for added nutrition during travel.

It’s also a good idea to get a few treats to reward them for their good behavior. This will keep them happy and make the entire process go more smoothly.

Grooming kit

Finally, the last essential to keep with you is a grooming kit. It might seem like an irritating thing to bring along, but you’ll be much happier having a clean-smelling pooch in your car.

You’ll never know when they decide to take a dip in a muddy pond or roll in something they shouldn’t. Investing in some shampoo, nail clippers, a brush, and shower head attachment will be worth it.

Final words

And that’s it! Once you check off the list above, you’ll be able to head out on your exciting journey with your pet. It may seem like a lot, but being prepared is critical for any road trip.

Don’t forget to download some apps too. The BringFidoapp is an excellent choice if you’re looking for all the dog-friendly restaurants, beaches, and parks in a particular area, and VetFinder can help you locate the nearest clinic in case of an emergency.

Good luck and have fun!