The Ultimate Road Trip Guide for Traveling With Your Furry Best Friend

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road — windows down, fresh air drifting in, music blasting — with your dog in the backseat. In fact, we’ll go as far to say that taking a road trip with dogs can be one of the most exciting ways to explore new places, unwind, and create memories with your four-legged adventure buddy that will last a lifetime.

That said, it’s no secret that traveling with a pet comes with its own set of questions and concerns: How do I keep my dog comfortable during long drives? What should I pack? How do I find pet-friendly places along the way? Thankfully, with a little planning, you can easily turn your next pet-friendly road trip into an easy and fun escape for you both. 

From prep and packing to picking the perfect dog-friendly stops along the way, here’s our definitive guide to everything you need to learn about planning the perfect pet-friendly road trip that won’t have you (or your pup) absolutely dreading jumping back in the car.  

Preparing for the perfect pet-friendly road trip

Before you crank up the playlist and cruise out of town, it’s important that you take some time to prep for a smoother, safer trip. After all, everything you do before the trip is something you won’t have to do during your adventure — leaving more time for things you might actually enjoy more than, say … an emergency vet visit  or scrambling for forgotten supplies. 

1. Check in with your vet

First things first: make sure your pup is healthy and ready to handle the stress of being on the road and far away from the comforts of home. 

With this in mind, make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccines, flea/tick prevention, and general health. It’s also worth asking your vet for a copy of your dog’s records, since many hotels and parks appreciate owners having them on hand.

2. Make time for pet-friendly stops

No matter how well-behaved or easygoing your dog might be, the reality is that not every rest area or restaurant welcomes pets. That’s why planning ahead for dog-friendly road trip stops is hugely helpful. In most cases, you’ll want to look for:

• Dog-friendly hotels or rentals

• Parks and green spaces along your route

• Pet-welcoming cafés or breweries

• Safe places for long walks or bathroom breaks

Using a pet-friendly travel site or booking app can make this way easier, and you won’t be left scrambling to find a last-minute option once you’re already on the road.

3. Get your dog comfortable with the car

If your dog isn’t used to longer drives, take some time before your trip to help them feel relaxed and confident in the car. Start with short rides around the neighborhood or to a fun destination, like a nearby park, so the car becomes associated with something positive. From there, you can gradually extend the length of these trips as your dog starts to feel more at ease.

Additionally, it’s also a good idea to set up the back seat or cargo area with familiar items — think their favorite blanket, a well-loved toy, or even a worn T-shirt that smells like you. These comforting scents and textures help the car feel more like “their space,” which can also help reduce anxiety once your trip begins.

Finally, if your dog is especially nervous, consider practicing loading in and out of the car calmly, offering praise and treats along the way. A little prep goes a long way toward a stress-free road trip.

4. Pack helpful gear

When packing for a pet-friendly road trip, there are three main things you’ll want to think about: safety, comfort, and convenience. And your first trip is a great time to find and buy the essentials that will make your adventure easier and more enjoyable.

For starters, a crash-tested car harness or secure travel crate helps keep your dog safe while you drive. Along with this, a portable water bottle makes hydration simple during quick stops. And, as an added bonus, you might also want to consider comfort items like a cozy travel bed, a waterproof backseat cover to keep things clean, or a lightweight leash that’s easy to grab during spontaneous walkies.

Overall, these small pieces of gear add comfort and help prevent any mid-trip chaos, which means keeping everything running smoothly from the moment you pull out of the driveway.

Your road trip packing checklist

A smooth trip starts with smart packing. Here’s what you’ll want to make sure you pack before hitting the road:

• Food + collapsible travel bowls
  Keeping your dog’s diet consistent helps prevent tummy troubles on the road. Collapsible bowls save space and make it easy to offer food or water during quick stops.

• Treats (and maybe a few special “road trip only” snacks)
  Treats are perfect for rewarding good behavior, easing nerves, or simply making the ride more fun. A couple of “special occasion” snacks can also help keep your pup excited and engaged throughout the trip.

• A comfortable harness and sturdy leash
  You’ll likely be doing plenty of in-and-out-of-the-car walking, so reliable gear is essential. We recommend bringing a well-fitted harness that keeps your dog secure and reduces pulling in new, exciting environments.

• Waste bags
  Road trips mean lots of bathroom breaks, which means that having dog waste bags at hand is a non-negotiable. Keeping a few rolls around at all times ensures you’re being courteous wherever you stop.

• Medications
  Whether it’s daily prescriptions, supplements, or motion-sickness helpers, pack more than you think you’ll need. Just like with human medications and daily vitamins, having them organized in one place makes dosing easy on the go.

• A favorite blanket, bed, or toy
  Familiar scents help your dog settle into new spaces more quickly, so a favorite toy or blanket is always a must. No matter where you go, these comfort items can turn pretty much any car and hotel rooms into a cozy, reassuring environment.

• Car seat cover or hammock
  Let’s face it: when you’re traveling with a dog, things are bound to get  a little dirty. Having a waterproof car seat cover or hammock can protect your seats from fur, dirt, drool, and the occasional throw-up. In some cases, it’s also worth installing a car pet barrier that separates the front and back seat to create a defined space for your dog (and a safe driving environment for you).

• Grooming wipes
  Again, traveling anywhere with a dog means being prepared for a little dirt, a little drool, and a lot of love. Pet-friendly wipes are perfect for cleaning paws and snouts after rest stops or freshening up before heading into a pet-friendly hotel. They’re a small item that solves a lot of messy moments.

• Dog-safe first aid kit
  Accidents are rare, but having a vet-approved pet first aid kit with basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tick removers can give you some extra peace of mind. It’s one of those things you’ll be glad to have even if you never use it (and we hope you never have to use it!).

Pro tip: Keep a “quick access” pet travel bag within reach in the front seat filled with treats, wipes, and a water bottle to make every stop easier.

On-the-road tips for a happier pup

When it comes to actually being on the road, there are a few things to keep in mind that will ensure you and your dog have a much more comfortable and safe experience along the way. 

These seemingly small but ultra-important habits make a big difference in how smoothly your trip unfolds, and how well your pup adapts and actually enjoys your trip together. After all, one bad trip can leave your dog thinking road trips are something to dread rather than something to wag about.

1. Prioritize safety

We can’t emphasize enough the importance of safety. One sudden stop can mean serious injury, and putting your or your dog’s wellbeing at risk isn’t worth few seconds you might save properly securing your pet.

That said, dogs should always be secured in the back seat using either:

• A crash-tested dog seat belt: This keeps your dog safely in place while still allowing them to sit or lie comfortably. It’s one of the easiest ways to prevent sudden jolts or movement during sharp turns or stops.

• Or a secured travel crate: Crates create a cozy, contained space that can help anxious dogs feel grounded. They also prevent wandering, pacing, and unexpected leaps into the front seat.

Both options protect your dog and help reduce distracted driving, which makes them a win for everyone in the car.

2. Make stretch breaks a routine

Aim for a break every 2–3 hours. Even quick pit stops give your dog a chance to decompress, stretch, reset, and get any of the in-seat wiggles out. Sniffing the grass, exploring new scents, or doing a short walk around a rest area can make long car days easier on their body and mind. Plus, they also help tire your pup out — which means they’re more likely to nap while you finish up driving for the day.

If your dog tends to get restless, adding in a few training cues (like sit, shake, or touch) can provide mental engagement that helps burn off extra energy.

3. Keep the car cool & comfortable

Cars tend to warm up quickly, even in colder weather and especially when driving through sunny or humid regions. This means that staying ahead of any temperature changes is essential.

However, you can never rely on cracked windows alone. Instead, we recommend bringing along simple tools like:

• A pet-friendly cooling mat to help them regulate body temperature

• Portable fans to keep airflow moving

• Car window sun shades to block hot rays from the backseat and avoid them from overheating

At the end of the day, a comfortable dog is a calm dog, and making sure you can keep your car at a steady and cool temperature helps prevent heat stress and discomfort.

4. Offer enrichment along the way

Passengers and drivers alike know that long stretches of highway can get pretty boring. And with pets, boredom often leads to restlessness. That said, keeping your dog occupied with thoughtful enrichment can make the drive feel much, much shorter for both of you.

Long-lasting chews are great for helping your pup settle, while puzzle-style toys can offer just enough mental stimulation to keep them focused instead of fidgety. Even refillable frozen dog toys can keep them busy for longer periods and give them something positive to look forward to on the road. Rotating a few favorites throughout the trip helps keep things fresh and prevents the novelty from wearing off as the miles roll by.

5 pet-friendly road trip destinations anyone can enjoy

Itching to hit the road but not sure where to start? No matter where you’re based, there’s usually a pet-friendly adventure waiting just a short drive away. 

Whether you’re heading out for a weekend or just an afternoon escape, these five ideas make for easy, flexible road trip stops that can shake up your routine and give your pup a break from the same old neighborhood walk. 

1. Find a scenic dog-friendly hike

Mountains, forests, local nature reserves, or national parks often have trails that welcome dogs — you just need to know what to look for. A few key indicators that your pup is welcome on the trail include things like:

• Clear signage about leash rules: Dog-friendly hikes typically have signposts outlining whether dogs must stay on-leash, where off-leash areas begin, and standard clean-up expectations. Knowing the rules before you set out helps you avoid surprises and keeps both your dog and local wildlife safe.

• Water access or shaded areas: In some cases, trails might offer streams, ponds, or tree-covered sections that are perfect for cooling off and taking breaks on warm, sunny days.

• What other dog owners are doing: When in doubt, look around. If you see other dog owners comfortably walking their pups, chances are you’re in a dog-friendly zone.

That said, not every pup is ready for steep inclines and long, challenging terrain. Ideally, you’ll want to start with something manageable and dog-friendly, especially if your pet is new to hiking. Always watch out for signs that your dog isn’t handling the trail well, like excessive panting, slowing down, seeking shade, lagging behind, refusing to continue, or their paws feeling hot from warm ground. These are all indications that it’s time for a break or time to turn back.

As previously mentioned, a breathable harness and portable water bottle make these adventures more comfortable without requiring much extra packing.

2. Explore a dog-friendly beach

Many coastlines — whether by the ocean, lakes, or rivers — have designated dog beaches where pups can truly let loose. These spots are perfect for burning off energy, since nothing tires a dog out quite like sprinting across soft sand. And if your dog loves the water, shallow waves offer a safe place to splash, cool off, and build confidence in new environments. 

Better yet, dog beaches also tend to attract friendly, like-minded pet owners, which makes them a great place for your pup to socialize a bit.

For beach trips, packing is incredibly simple: bring a towel for drying off, a long-line leash for safer roaming, and a few eco-friendly waste bags. With just those basics, you’re set up for an easy, sun-soaked outing.

3. Visit a local park or nature path

A great pet-friendly road trip doesn’t need dramatic views or a long drive. Sometimes, the simplest spots offer the biggest payoff. Enter: parks!

A nearby urban park with walking loops can give your dog the perfect blend of structure and exploration; peaceful and scenic, they often have quiet stretches where you and your pup can unwind away from busy roads. If your dog loves to run, open fields provide plenty of space for fetch or sniffing around, while shaded picnic areas make for relaxed breaks where you can share a snack or just enjoy the fresh air together.

These easy, low-pressure stops break up the drive beautifully and give your dog a refreshing change of scenery without much planning.

4. Grab a bite at a dog-friendly patio

If you’re craving a break from driving, or if you’re testing how well your pup behaves in the car, finding a dog-friendly patio is one of the easiest — and most enjoyable — ways to shake things up and hit the road. Nowadays, many cafés, breweries, and restaurants welcome pups in their outdoor seating areas, which gives you a chance to enjoy a good meal or drink while your dog relaxes at your feet. These spots are perfect for soaking in the atmosphere, striking up a conversation with someone new, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with your furry co-pilot. 

And for your dog, it’s prime people-watching time — a surprisingly enriching activity for dogs who love staying engaged with the world around them. A water bowl and a few treats for encouragement are usually all you need.

5. Book a pet-friendly stay

If you’re turning your road trip into an overnight getaway, finding a pet-friendly place to stay can make the experience feel seamless. Lots of hotels, lodges, and rental properties welcome dogs, and many offer thoughtful perks that make life on the road much easier. This includes things like easy access to grassy areas, ground-floor rooms, or even small welcome treats. As a warning, though, it’s always worth checking for pet fees in advance so there are no surprises when you arrive.

To help your dog settle in, make sure to bring along a few familiar comforts, like their blanket or a favorite toy. As mentioned earlier, items like a travel crate or portable pet gate can also give your dog a sense of security in a new environment, helping everyone get a better night’s sleep.

A four-legged adventure awaits!

As you can see, taking a pet-friendly road trip doesn’t have to be complicated. In fac, with a little planning, the right gear, and an openness to explore, you and your pup can turn even the simplest outing into something truly memorable. Whether you’re wandering along a new hiking trail, discovering a charming small-town patio, or just taking the scenic route home, every shared moment becomes part of a much larger adventure: your life together.

So pack the essentials, cue up your favorite playlist, and hit the road with your furry best friend. The journey ahead is full of new smells, new sights, and plenty of tail wags — and it’s all waiting for you just beyond the driveway.