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Tips for taking your dog on a road trip

Safety, insurance and travel tips

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By Susan Meyer Info icon
Updated October 9, 2024
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Susan Meyer

Senior Editorial Manager

Susan is a licensed insurance agent and has worked as a writer and editor for over 10 years across a number of industries. She has worked at The Zebr…

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  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
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Ross Martin

Insurance Writer

Ross joined The Zebra as a writer and researcher in 2019. He specializes in writing insurance content to help shoppers make informed decisions.

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  • 5+ years in the Insurance Industry
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  1. Keeping your dog safe on a road trip
  2. Tips for rest stops with dogs
  3. Where to stay on a dog-friendly road trip
  4. Overall tips

If you’re planning to take to the open road, taking a furry friend with you can make for rewarding memories. But it can also add a few extra considerations to your trip planning list. 

In this article, we’ve compiled a few things to ensure your pet’s safety, comfort and enjoyment as you explore the country with your dog. This includes considerations for making the journey as smooth as possible, including safety tips during the drive, strategies for stops, ideas for places to stay and overall tips for traveling with a dog.

Keeping your dog safe on a road trip

Road trips can be fun for both those with two legs and those with four. But there are some extra things you need to do to make sure your dog is safe and comfortable throughout the journey. 

  1. Use secure restraints: Much like you and the other human passengers need seat belts, so too do dogs need to be safely restrained in the vehicle. Dogs should never roam freely inside a moving vehicle. It’s essential to use a dog seat belt, a pet car seat or a crate. These restraints help protect your dog in case of sudden stops or accidents and prevent distractions for the driver.
  2. Never leave your dog alone in the vehicle: Even if you’re making a quick stop, temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly, especially in hot weather. In cold weather, the car can become too cold for your pet. Always bring your dog with you, or have someone stay with them.
  3. Provide hydration and ventilation: Make sure your dog has access to fresh water throughout the trip. Keep the car well-ventilated but avoid having them stick their heads out the window, as it can lead to injuries or ear infections.
  4. Microchip and ID tags: Ensure your dog has up-to-date identification, such as a collar with tags and a microchip. If your pet were to escape or get lost during the trip, this makes it easier for them to be safely returned to your car.
  5. Familiar items: Bring along your dog’s favorite blanket, toys and bed. Familiar smells can help reduce anxiety and make them feel more comfortable during the drive.

Tips for rest stops with dogs

When traveling with dogs, you will need to make frequent stops. Dogs need to stretch, relieve themselves and burn off energy during long car rides. Plan to stop every 2-3 hours at dog-friendly rest areas or parks to let your pet exercise and take bathroom breaks.

  1. Leash at all times: Even if your dog is well trained, you should always make sure to attach the leash before exiting the vehicle. Unfamiliar surroundings, loud noises, strange smells or wildlife could cause them to bolt unexpectedly. Depending on your dog’s energy levels and training, consider bringing a long leash so your dog can get the zoomies out while still safely tethered. 
  2. Pet-friendly rest stops: Before heading out, research pet-friendly rest stops or roadside parks where you could take a quick walk to get out some energy. Some rest areas even have designated dog parks or enclosed spaces where your dog can run off-leash safely.
  3. Pack essentials: Make sure to have poop bags (bring even more than you think you’ll need!), a portable water bowl, extra food, treats and a first-aid kit handy. You’ll want to be able to access these items at stops.

Where to stay on a dog-friendly road trip

If you’re doing more than just a day trip, you will need to figure out a pet-friendly option for sleeping. The good news is there are plenty of options out there, but you will likely need to do a little research before the trip to plan stops on your route. 

  1. Pet-friendly hotels and motels: Many hotel chains now welcome dogs. When booking accommodations, look for pet-friendly hotels that offer amenities like dog beds, water bowls and nearby walking areas. Some well-known chains like La Quinta and Kimpton are known for their pet-friendly policies.
  2. Vacation rentals: Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo allow you to filter for pet-friendly properties. These can offer more space and comfort for both you and your dog, as well as fenced outdoor areas where they can roam freely.
  3. Camping and glamping: If you’re open to more outdoor adventures, many campgrounds allow dogs. Just make sure to check the rules in advance, as some parks may require dogs to be on a leash at all times. Glamping sites often combine the rustic feel of camping with the amenities of home, which can be a fun alternative for pet owners.
  4. Staying in your vehicle: If you have access to an RV or campervan, this can be one of the most comfortable ways to travel with a dog. It allows your dog more freedom to move around during stops, and you can have their familiar items on hand the whole time. However, it’s possible to camp in a regular car as well, provided you park only in places you’re legally allowed to stay overnight.

Overall tips for a successful road trip with a dog

Adapting your plans to make them pet friendly will make sure all members of your party have a great trip. 

  1. Plan dog-friendly activities: Research destinations and stops that are dog-friendly. Many national and state parks, beaches and hiking trails welcome dogs, but they may have specific rules, such as leash requirements. Dog-friendly restaurants or cafes with outdoor seating are also great to find along the way.
  2. Routine and comfort: Try to stick to your dog’s regular feeding, walking and sleeping schedule as much as possible to reduce stress. Keeping a consistent routine helps them stay comfortable, even in new environments.
  3. Health check-up: Before embarking on a long trip, schedule a vet visit to ensure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. If your dog suffers from motion sickness or anxiety, ask your vet for recommendations or medications that can help make the trip easier.
  4. Use navigation for pet stops: Apps like BringFido or AllTrails can help you find dog-friendly hotels, parks, trails, and activities along your route. This makes it easier to plan a seamless trip without having to worry about finding a place where your dog is welcome.
  5. Emergency plan: Know the location of emergency vet clinics along your route and at your final destination. Having an emergency plan in place will give you peace of mind in case your dog becomes ill or injured.

Does your pet insurance travel with you?

It does! If you have pet insurance, it’s a little different than human health insurance where you usually have a network of providers you have to use. With pet insurance, you are able to use any licensed veterinarian, emergency hospital or specialist in the United States to help with a covered condition. If your road trip is taking you internationally, know that your coverage restrictions will depend on your provider. Some cover pets in the US, Puerto Rico and Canada or even worldwide.

Wrapping up

Taking a road trip with your dog can be a great way to create memories and bond with your pet, but it requires thoughtful planning. By ensuring your dog’s safety in the car, making frequent and enjoyable stops, choosing dog-friendly accommodations, and keeping their routine in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure together!