Traveling with Dogs: Your Guide to Stress-Free Roadtrips
Written by: Richard Rowlands
Camping, beach weekends, or cross-country trips down the interstate get a lot more interesting with a furry passenger along for the ride. Our dogs are the life of any adventure, but without the right preparation, what should be a fun journey can quickly become a stressful tangle of leashes, anxious pups, and long lists of things you forgot to bring.
From keeping your dog safe and comfortable in the car to tips for stress-free hotel stays, this guide covers the most important items you should pack and the key things to consider so you can travel confidently with your four-legged best friend.
Don’t Forget to Pack the Doggy Essentials
1. Collar with ID Tags: Safety First
Your dog may not need a passport to travel, but they definitely need identification. A secure, properly fitted collar is non-negotiable. ID tags are your pup’s lifeline if they slip out of sight, so make sure to include your phone number, your dog’s name, and your home address.
A properly sized collar should allow two fingers between your dog’s neck and the material. If you're looking for reliable options, check out durable adventure collars like Arcadia Trail Outdoor Gear or eco-friendly, machine-washable collars from West Paw Outings.
2. Leash Options for Every Scenario
A strong, dependable leash is essential for travel. Flat leashes, paracord ropes, hands-free styles, or retractables can all work as long as they’re durable and equipped with sturdy metal hardware. Reflective details add safety for nighttime walks.
A good leash also doubles as a management tool in busy or unfamiliar environments — rest stops, hotel lobbies, trailheads, or crowded sidewalks.
For more help, read our guide: How to Choose the Best Harness & Leash for Your Dog
3. Collapsible Bowls for Hydration on the Go
Dogs need regular water breaks, especially during warm-weather travel. Collapsible bowls fold flat, making them ideal for cars, planes, and hikes.
Top Picks:
- Ruffwear Quencher Bowls: Durable, machine-washable, made from recycled polyester.
- Arcadia Trail Collapsible Bowls: Lightweight, easy to pack, available in 8 oz and 16 oz sizes.
4. Natural Calming Aids for Stress-Free Travel
New environments and routines often make dogs anxious. Natural calming aids — like Only Natural Pet Just Relax chews, sprays, or tinctures — help soothe anxiety without sedation. Herbs like chamomile, valerian root, and L-theanine can take the edge off while keeping your dog alert and comfortable.
For a simple travel hack: lightly spray calming aromatherapy into your dog’s crate, car seat, or bed before you hit the road. Just test beforehand to make sure your dog doesn't react to the scent.
5. Treats and Treat Pouches for Rewards & Engagement
Treats are more than little snacks — they’re training tools, distractions, and morale boosters. Bring plenty of natural, healthy treats and stash them in a travel-friendly pouch with pockets, waterproofing, and built-in waste bag holders.
Jerky, freeze-dried bites, or single-ingredient treats work best for rewarding calm behavior during stressful travel moments.
Read More: Your Healthy Pet Treat Buying Guide
Pack Familiar Scents, Too
Your dog explores the world with their nose — and new environments can be overwhelming. Bring along familiar-smelling items like a blanket, bed, or even one of your worn T-shirts to make hotel rooms, crates, and car seats feel more like home.
Plan Plenty of Breaks
Dogs need opportunities to stretch, sniff, hydrate, and reset during long drives. Aim for stops every 2–3 hours. Choose calm, low-traffic areas where your dog can safely walk around. Keep your leash and poop bags in an easily accessible spot.
Review Car Safety Basics
A loose dog inside a moving vehicle is both dangerous and distracting. Use a crash-tested car harness, secured crate, or seat belt tether to protect your dog and everyone else in the vehicle.
- Never let your dog ride with their head out the window.
- Ensure the AC reaches the back seat.
- Secure bags and gear so they don’t shift during the trip.
If your dog gets carsick: Withhold food for 3–4 hours before driving and ask your vet about nausea-relief options.
Prepare for Hotel Life
Hotels come with unfamiliar sounds, smells, and activity. Before booking, always confirm the pet policy — weight limits, fees, and whether dogs can be left unattended.
Once you arrive, give your dog a safe, calm room tour to help them settle in.
Hotel Essentials to Pack
- A comfortable travel bed
- Food and water bowls
- Enough food stored in airtight containers
- Your dog’s favorite toys
- A white-noise app to block hallway sounds
- A natural calming aid, if needed
Ready to Hit the Road?
Traveling with your dog can be one of life’s greatest adventures — a chance to bond, explore new places, and create memories together. With the right planning, packing, and safety essentials, you can ensure each trip is enjoyable and stress-free for both of you.
Explore our full collection of natural dog travel gear to help your pup stay safe, comfortable, and happy wherever your next adventure takes you.
