Road Tripping with Your Dog: A Complete Guide

There’s something magical about hitting the open road with your best friend riding shotgun. The freedom to explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and share adventures with your dog creates memories that last a lifetime. But a successful road trip with your canine companion requires planning, preparation, and knowledge of best practices for keeping your pup safe and comfortable.

Pre-Trip Planning

Health and Safety Preparations

Before embarking on any road trip, schedule a vet visit to ensure your dog is healthy enough to travel.

Veterinary Checklist:

• Complete physical examination
• Up-to-date vaccinations (rabies, distemper, bordetella)
• Current heartworm and flea/tick prevention
• Health certificate (required for some state crossings)
• Prescription refills for any medications
• Microchip verification and registration update
• Discussion of motion sickness prevention if needed

Emergency Preparedness:

• Research emergency vets along your route
• Download VEG (Veterinary Emergency Group) or similar apps
• Create a pet first-aid kit
• Take a recent photo of your dog (in case they get lost)
• Ensure collar has updated ID tags with your cell phone
• Consider GPS collar or tracker for added security

Vehicle Safety Equipment

Your dog’s safety in the car is paramount. Never allow dogs to ride unrestrained.

Crash-Tested Safety Options:

1. Crate/Kennel (Safest)

• Center for Pet Safety certified crates
• Secured with ratchet straps or cargo barrier
• Provides familiar, den-like environment
• Protects dog in case of accident
• Best for dogs comfortable with crate training

Recommended Brands:

• Gunner Kennels (crash-tested, expensive but worth it)
• Ruffland Performance Kennels
• Impact Collapsible Crate (easier storage)

2. Harness and Seatbelt

• Crash-tested dog harness only
• Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness (crash-tested)
• Sleepypod Clickit Sport (crash-tested)
• Attaches to seatbelt system
• Allows some movement while securing dog
• Best for dogs who get anxious in crates

3. Cargo Barrier (For SUVs/Wagons)

• Prevents dog from entering passenger area
• Use WITH crate or harness in cargo area
• Doesn’t prevent injury but contains dog
• Good supplementary safety measure

Never Use:

• Car seats designed for small children
• Non-crash-tested harnesses
• Leash attached to collar (can cause neck injury)
• Driver’s lap (dangerous and illegal in many places)

Photo by PhotoMIX Company on Pexels

Packing Your Dog’s Essentials

Create a dedicated dog travel bag that lives in your car during the trip.

Must-Have Items:

Food and Water:

• 7-10 days of regular food (in case of delays)
• Portable food/water bowls
• Gallon jug of water from home (prevents stomach upset)
• Can opener if using canned food
• Food storage containers

Comfort Items:

• Favorite bed or blanket with familiar scent
• Favorite toys (2-3 to prevent boredom)
• Chew toys for rest stops
• Calming aids if needed (Adaptil spray, anxiety wrap)

Supplies:

• Leash (6-foot standard)
• Long line (30 feet for safe exercise)
• Extra collar with ID
• Waste bags (more than you think you’ll need)
• Paper towels and cleaning supplies for accidents
• Grooming wipes
• Towels for muddy paws or wet dog

Documents:

• Vaccination records
• Health certificate
• Vet contact information
• Emergency vet list along route
• Medication prescriptions
• Recent photo of your dog
• Microchip information

First Aid Kit:

• Gauze pads and rolls
• Adhesive tape
• Antiseptic wipes
• Hydrogen peroxide (for inducing vomiting if advised by vet)
• Digital thermometer
• Tweezers (for ticks or splinters)
• Antibiotic ointment
• Benadryl (ask vet for proper dosage)
• Any prescription medications
• Emergency vet contact card

Day-of-Travel Best Practices

Morning Routine

Start your travel day right with a good routine.

Pre-Departure:

• Wake up early for extended exercise (30-60 minutes)
• Feed breakfast 3-4 hours before departure if possible
• Smaller meal than usual to prevent car sickness
• Bathroom break immediately before loading up
• Quick grooming to remove excess fur
• Apply calming aids if using them

Managing Motion Sickness

Some dogs experience car sickness, especially on longer trips.

Prevention Strategies:

• Face dog forward rather than sideways
• Crack windows for fresh air circulation
• Keep car cool (dogs overheat faster than humans)
• Avoid feeding large meals before travel
• Consider ginger snaps (natural anti-nausea)
• Try pressure-point bands designed for dogs

Medication Options:

• Cerenia (prescription, very effective)
• Dramamine (consult vet for dosage)
• CBD treats (if legal and vet-approved)
• Prescription anti-anxiety medication for severe cases

If Your Dog Gets Sick:

• Pull over safely as soon as possible
• Let them outside for fresh air
• Clean up accidents without scolding
• Wait 30+ minutes before resuming travel
• Reduce speed and avoid winding roads
• Consider shorter driving days

The Driving Day Schedule

Ideal Schedule for Most Dogs:

Every 2-3 Hours:

• Stop for bathroom break
• 10-15 minute walk for circulation
• Fresh water offered
• Quick health check (panting, energy level)

Mid-Day Break (Lunch):

• 30-60 minute stop
• Longer walk or light play session
• Meal if feeding mid-day
• Rest in shade if weather is hot
• Recheck safety equipment

Evening:

• Find accommodation early (by 5-6 PM)
• Long walk before settling for evening
• Feed dinner at normal time
• Extra-long bathroom break before bed

Temperature Safety

Heat is the number one danger for dogs in cars.

Hot Weather Guidelines:

• Never leave dog in parked car, even briefly
• Run AC continuously while driving
• Position crate/dog away from direct sunlight
• Offer water every stop
• Watch for excessive panting or drooling
• Feel their ears and paw pads (overheating signs)
• Plan driving during cooler morning/evening hours

Cold Weather Guidelines:

• Small/short-haired dogs may need sweater or coat
• Ensure crate has warm bedding
• Don’t blast heat directly on dog
• Check paws for ice ball formation between pads
• Wipe paws after walks (remove salt/chemicals)
• Never leave dog in unheated car

Photo by Sebastian Voortman on Pexels

Finding Dog-Friendly Stops

Rest Stop Strategies

Best Types of Rest Stops:

• Welcome centers (usually have large pet areas)
• Truck stops (less crowded than highway rest areas)
• Park and rides (open grass areas)
• Dog parks near highway (plan ahead)
• Quiet residential streets (emergency only)

Rest Stop Safety:

• Keep dog leashed at all times
• Walk away from parking areas
• Scan ground for food/trash before letting dog sniff
• Avoid areas where other dogs just were (prevent disease)
• Never let dog approach other dogs without permission
• Carry waste bags and use them

Apps for Finding Dog-Friendly Stops:

• BringFido (rest areas, restaurants, hotels)
• GasBuddy (includes pet amenity filters)
• iExit (rest stops and amenities by exit)
• AllStays (campgrounds and rest areas)

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

Many restaurants now welcome dogs on patios.

How to Find Them:

• BringFido app (most comprehensive)
• Call ahead to confirm
• Look for “dog-friendly patio” on Google Maps
• Check brewery/winery patios (often allow dogs)

Restaurant Etiquette:

• Dog must be well-behaved and calm
• Keep dog on short leash under table
• Bring mat or towel for dog to lie on
• Don’t let dog beg from other tables
• Clean up any accidents immediately
• Tip generously (servers often bring water bowls)

Best Restaurant Types for Dogs:

• Breweries and taprooms
• Outdoor cafes
• Ice cream shops with patios
• Fast-casual restaurants with outdoor seating
• Farmers markets

Overnight Accommodations

Hotel Stays with Dogs

We covered hotel chains in another article, but here are road-trip-specific tips:

Choosing the Right Hotel:

• Ground floor rooms (easier bathroom access)
• Near exit doors
• Away from pool/breakfast areas (less noise)
• Request pet relief area location at check-in

Hotel Room Setup:

• Place familiar bed/crate in room immediately
• Close curtains to reduce visual stimulation
• Turn on TV or white noise
• Remove breakables within tail-wagging height
• Check room for hazards (cleaning products, etc.)

Being a Good Guest:

• Never leave dog unattended unless crated
• Use “do not disturb” sign to prevent housekeeping surprises
• Take dog out before leaving room
• Clean up any accidents immediately
• Report damage honestly
• Tip housekeeping extra

Camping with Dogs

Camping offers incredible bonding experiences with your dog.

Campground Selection:

• Check pet policies (some limit breeds/sizes)
• Look for sites with nearby trails
• Avoid sites near busy roads
• Choose shaded spots in summer
• Check for water access

Camping Safety:

• Keep dog leashed (even in “off-leash” areas initially)
• Bring 30-50 foot tie-out for campsite time
• Never tie to tree and leave unattended
• Secure food (bears and other wildlife)
• Bring LED collar for nighttime visibility
• Know about local wildlife hazards

Camping Gear for Dogs:

• Dog sleeping bag or extra blanket
• Portable dog cot (gets them off cold ground)
• Collapsible bowls
• Long tie-out cable
• LED collar or light
• Extra towels for wet/muddy dog
• Paw protection balm (for rough terrain)

Epic Dog-Friendly Road Trip Routes

Pacific Coast Highway (California)

Distance: 600+ miles (Highway 1) Drive Time: 3-7 days depending on stops Best Season: April-October

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Carmel Beach (off-leash dog paradise)
• Dog-friendly wine tasting in Paso Robles
• Montana de Oro State Park trails
• Cambria’s Moonstone Beach (dogs welcome)
• Santa Barbara beaches with designated dog areas
• Numerous coastal trails and vista points

Accommodation Options:

• Carmel: Cypress Inn (owned by Doris Day, ultra pet-friendly)
• Big Sur: Ripplewood Resort (pet-friendly cabins)
• San Luis Obispo: La Quinta, Best Western
• Santa Barbara: Kimpton Canary Hotel

Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)

Distance: 469 miles Drive Time: 3-5 days minimum Best Season: May-June, September-October (avoid peak fall crowds)

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Hundreds of overlooks for photo ops
• Dog-friendly hiking trails every few miles
• Shenandoah National Park (dogs on trails under 6 feet)
• Great Smoky Mountains (limited dog access but beautiful)
• Charming mountain towns (Asheville very pet-friendly)
• Waterfalls with dog-accessible viewing

Accommodation Options:

• Waynesboro: Quality Inn (pet-friendly, parkway access)
• Asheville: Kimpton Hotel Arras, Aloft Asheville
• Boone: Holiday Inn Express, La Quinta
• Camping: Numerous campgrounds along parkway

Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)

Distance: 2,448 miles Drive Time: 2 weeks recommended Best Season: April-May, September-October

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Classic Americana pet-friendly motels
• Wide open spaces for exercise
• Petrified Forest National Park (dogs on paved trails)
• Dog-friendly Route 66 diners and attractions
• Desert landscapes for adventure photos
• Less crowded than interstate highways

Accommodation Options:

• Numerous vintage pet-friendly motels
• La Quinta and Motel 6 in most major stops
• Camping options throughout route
• Historic hotels in larger cities

Pacific Northwest Loop (Washington/Oregon)

Distance: 800+ miles Drive Time: 5-7 days Best Season: June-September

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Seattle’s off-leash dog parks (Magnuson, Marymoor)
• Olympic National Park (limited dog access but stunning)
• Cannon Beach, Oregon (off-leash heaven)
• Portland’s dog-friendly culture and restaurants
• Columbia River Gorge trails
• Mount Rainier viewpoints (dogs on some trails)

Accommodation Options:

• Seattle: Kimpton Hotel Monaco, Sheraton Grand
• Cannon Beach: Ocean Lodge, Hallmark Resort
• Portland: Kimpton RiverPlace, Aloft Portland
• Camping throughout region

Photo by Valdemaras D. on Pexels

Handling Common Road Trip Challenges

Anxiety and Stress

Some dogs find car travel stressful.

Signs of Stress:

• Excessive panting or drooling
• Whining or barking
• Pacing or restlessness
• Refusing food or water
• Digestive issues

Solutions:

• More frequent stops for breaks
• Calming music (classical or dog-specific)
• Adaptil spray or collar
• Covered crate to create den feeling
• CBD treats (where legal, vet-approved)
• Prescription anti-anxiety medication if needed
• Consider shorter driving days

Bathroom Accidents

Even well-trained dogs may have accidents.

Prevention:

• Frequent bathroom breaks
• Don’t offer too much water while driving
• Feed at consistent times
• Watch for “signals” and stop immediately

Managing Accidents:

• Don’t punish (creates more anxiety)
• Clean thoroughly with enzyme cleaner
• Increase stop frequency
• Consider belly band for male dogs
• Waterproof car seat covers

Boredom During Long Drives

Boredom Solutions:

• Frozen Kong with peanut butter
• Long-lasting chews (bully sticks, etc.)
• Window hammock so they can see
• Rotate toys throughout trip
• Longer exercise breaks
• Interactive puzzle toys for rest stops

Lost Pet Prevention

Before the Trip:

• Update microchip registration
• New ID tag with cell phone number
• Recent, clear photos
• Consider GPS collar/tracker

If Your Dog Goes Missing:

• Search immediate area thoroughly
• Alert hotel/campground staff
• Post on local lost pet Facebook groups
• File report with local animal control
• Contact nearby veterinary clinics
• Use apps like Finding Rover or PawBoost

Making Memories: Photography Tips

Great Road Trip Dog Photos:

In the Car:

• Dog with head out window (safely secured!)
• Dog wearing goggles or bandana
• Sleeping dog mid-journey
• Dog “driving” (parked car only)

At Destinations:

• Dog at iconic roadside attractions
• Dog on beach or mountain vista
• Dog at state line signs
• Dog with local wildlife (safely distanced)

Photography Tips:

• Get down to dog’s eye level
• Use portrait mode for background blur
• Golden hour lighting (sunrise/sunset)
• Include environmental context
• Capture candid moments over posed shots
• Use treats/toys to get attention

Road Trip Etiquette

Being a Respectful Dog Owner:

• Always clean up waste (carry extra bags)
• Keep dog leashed unless in designated off-leash areas
• Don’t let dog approach strangers without permission
• Control barking in hotels and restaurants
• Respect “no dogs” signs and areas
• Leave natural areas cleaner than you found them
• Follow all local leash laws
• Keep dog quiet during hotel quiet hours

Budget Planning

Typical Road Trip Costs with Dog:

Accommodation: $60-150/night

• Budget chains: $60-80 + $0-20 pet fee
• Mid-range: $100-150 + $25-50 pet fee
• Camping: $20-50 (usually $5-10 pet fee)

Food: $5-15/day (dog food)

• Bring from home to save money
• Budget for potential vet-recommended diet

Additional Costs:

• Emergency vet visits: $100-500+ (budget for possibility)
• Extra gas for frequent stops
• Dog-friendly attraction fees
• Restaurant patio dining (often more expensive)
• Replacement toys/supplies

Money-Saving Tips:

• Pack dog food from home
• Use free pet amenities at rest stops
• Choose hotels with free pet stays
• Camp when possible
• Prepare dog meals rather than buying treats on road
• Use apps to find free dog parks along route

When NOT to Road Trip with Your Dog

Consider Leaving Dog Home If:

• Dog has severe car anxiety despite training
• Destination is extremely hot/cold
• Trip involves activities unsuitable for dogs
• Dog is elderly or has health issues
• Puppies under 4 months (too young)
• Recent surgery or illness
• You can’t accommodate frequent stops
• Destination isn’t truly dog-friendly

Good Alternatives:

• Professional pet sitter in your home
• Trusted friend or family member
• Reputable boarding facility
• Rover.com sitters
• Veterinary boarding (for medical needs)

Final Thoughts: Making It Memorable

The best road trips with dogs aren’t about hitting every landmark or driving the most miles. They’re about the moments: your dog’s pure joy sticking their head out the window, the shared sunrise hike, the lazy afternoon nap at a scenic overlook, the new trail you discovered together.

Build in flexibility. If you find an amazing dog beach, stay an extra day. If your dog is exhausted, cut a driving day short. The beauty of road tripping is the freedom to adapt to what works best for both of you.

Take lots of photos, but also put the phone down and be present. Notice how your dog experiences new smells, sights, and environments. Watch them make new four-legged friends at rest stops. See the world through their eyes of wonder and excitement.

Most importantly, prioritize your dog’s safety and comfort above hitting destinations. A happy, healthy dog makes for a happy, memorable trip. The specific places matter less than the shared experience and bonding that happens when you and your best friend explore the world together.

The open road is waiting. Pack up, buckle up (safely!), and create some incredible memories with your furry copilot. The world is full of dog-friendly adventures, and there’s no better traveling companion than the one who’s always excited to go wherever you’re going and loves you unconditionally along the way.

Happy travels, and may your road trip be filled with tail wags, slobbery kisses, and unforgettable moments with your four-legged best friend!