Plan a vacation for the whole family (pets included!)

March 15, 2024 • 4 min read

Our pets are a beloved part of our families, so why leave them at home when going on vacation? If you’re a pet owner who wants to travel with a dog (or… cat?), we’ve got you covered with all the tips and advice you need to take the pet-friendly vacation you’ve been dreaming of.

Points of interest

Update your pet’s immunization records before you leave
Snacks help distract and soothe your pet if they get anxious
Pet-proof your accommodation when you arrive to avoid damage

A little girl pets a tiny black pug while sitting on a sunny bed.

Preparing for the perfect pet-away

Travel options for your four-legged family member are more flexible than ever — nearly one in four vacation rentals now offer pet-friendly accommodations! But before you jet set or jump into the car, there are a few things to consider about your pet to prepare them (and you) for the journey ahead.

Does your pet get stressed? Not every pet is up for a journey, especially those prone to anxiety, feelings of abandonment, or ones that are ill-at-ease in new situations. Consult your pet’s veterinarian if you’re unsure about how best to travel with your pet. They may be able to prescribe anti-anxiety medications to make the trip more comfortable.

Do they have up to date tags? Traveling with a dog comes with the risk that they might escape their leash or yard and run off. In addition to the traditional tag with your name and phone number, you may consider adding a tag or masking tape with the address of your vacation rental. Be sure your dog’s collar also indicates they’re protected from rabies and consider having them microchipped with these details.

Have they had all their shots? If you’re traveling outside of the country, ensure your pet’s immunizations align with the requirements in your destination(s). Bring a copy (and keep a photo on your phone) of these records in case you need to show a veterinarian or local official. Most airlines require recent certification of your pet’s health, too.

Are they able to go on the go? Animals are creatures of habit, including when it comes to their potty business. Before you go, make sure they can as well. Conditioning your furry friend to go potty on a variety of unfamiliar surfaces — such as gravel, pavement, mulch, and sand — ensures they can perform in a pinch between flights or during roadside pit stops.

Farm stay in Joshua Tree, California

Making reservations for your pet

Your pet will require advance notice and/or a separate ticket for their travel and accommodation. Be sure to be prepared with the required documentation and information before you leave.

Booking airline reservations. Did you know you have to reserve a place for your pet on your flight, even if they are in a carry-on? Generally, the number of pets aboard any given flight are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reach out with your request early, and abide by any restrictions and requirements. Usually, if your dog is over 20 pounds, or their travel crate will not fit under the seat in front of you, they will have to travel to your destination in the cargo hold.

Finding accommodations. Pet-friendly vacation rentals are a great option, as they have more room for everyone to be comfortable, and often include convenient amenities such as a fenced-in yard and pet accessories. Ensure your intended vacation accommodations are pet-friendly, find out what the pet fee will add to the cost, and be sure to clarify if there are any limitations to the kind of pet you’d like to bring (ie, only dogs, only small dogs, etc.).

What to pack for a pet-friendly vacation

Our pets have packing needs as well! Don’t leave home without this gear.

Travel crate/bag. Necessary for air travel and useful at your accommodation. They can provide your pet a sense of familiarity in an unfamiliar setting.
Treats and toys. Favorite toys and treats can help relieve anxiety and boredom.
Collapsible bowls. Feeding your pet mid-journey is much easier with collapsible pet dishes for food and water.
Waste bags. Essential for all legs of your journey — be sure to stash a supply in your travel bag.
Leash. Local bylaws in your destination (and enroute) may dictate that pets need to be leashed in public.

Two men chase a golden retriever happily playing with some sticks.

Pet-proof your accommodation

Once you arrive, the real work begins. Regardless of your accommodation’s “pet-friendly” billing, it’s a good idea to ask yourself “Is there anything that my pet can get into that will either harm them or damage my accommodations?” Scour your stay for low-lying dangers such as the following:

house plants
wires
fragile or tippy items
cleaners and other chemical products
potpourri
other choking or chewing hazards

Above all, enjoy your time away with your furry family member! Vacation activities with your pet might start as simply as taking them for a walk to explore your new surroundings. As your pet (and family) settle in, search for local off-leash parks, dog beaches, or pet-friendly restaurants and start making some memories together.