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Dog-Friendly Holiday Travel Tips: How to Prep for Long Road Trips

Two fluffy rough collie dogs sit in the open trunk of a red car. They look content. Background shows green bushes and a paved area.
Two fluffy Rough Collies enjoy a car ride, lounging comfortably in the back of an open trunk, ready for their adventure.

The Joy (and Chaos) of Holiday Travel with Dogs

The holidays are for family and for many of us, that includes our four-legged companions. But while the idea of your dog riding shotgun sounds heartwarming, traveling with dogs requires more than just a leash and a tank of gas.


From keeping your pup calm to packing the right gear, preparation is the difference between a joyful trip and a stressful one. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or hitting the road with your dog for the first time, these dog travel tips and our pet road trip checklist will help you plan a smooth, tail-wagging holiday adventure.


Man in red shorts pets a German Shepherd lying on cobblestone near wooden chairs and green plants. The dog appears relaxed.
A German Shepherd relaxes on a cobblestone patio, enjoying a gentle pat from its owner seated at a dog-friendly Café.

1. Plan Ahead: Research Pet-Friendly Stops


The most important dog travel tip is that before you even buckle your pup into the car, do some quick planning:

  • Pet-friendly accommodations: Confirm that your hotel or Airbnb allows dogs and ask about size/breed restrictions or extra fees. That's a super important step to take beforehand so you don't have any holiday hick-ups on your trip.


  • Rest stops: Plan to stop every 2–3 hours for potty breaks and stretching. Quick but might important tip is remember to keep your dog healthy and hydrated so prepack a bottle of water and water bowl for your pup and give him the opportunity to drink some water on your rest stop. Depending on how well your dog handles car rides, you can also give your pup some treats to keep their blood-sugar levels stable.


  • Emergency vets: Save contact info for animal hospitals along your route (just in case). Remember to bring their medications if your dog is on any necessary medicine, including constipation or loose stool medicine.


  • Use apps for dogs: Apps like BringFido and AllTrails help you find dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and parks! It is extremely helpful especially if you are travelling to new areas that you are not familiar with.


Two pugs sit in a car's backseat; one black, looking excited, and one fawn, appearing calm. Beige seats and a hand on the front headrest.
Two adorable pugs excitedly enjoy a car ride, peering over the back seat with charming curiosity.

2. Safety First: Dog Travel Tip To Secure Your Dog in the Car When Travelling


When travelling with your dog it's important to know that unrestrained dogs can distract drivers and get seriously injured in accidents. A good dog travelling tip is to choose the best option for your dog’s size and temperament when you travel with your dog:


  • Crash-tested harness: Keeps dogs safely buckled in the back seat.

  • Crate or carrier: Ideal for smaller dogs who feel secure in enclosed spaces.

  • Backseat barrier: Helps prevent dogs from jumping into the front.


Never let your dog ride in the front seat - airbags can be dangerous for them!


Person with plaid pants and a pug wearing clothes at a red car's open trunk. Greenery in the background, casual outdoor setting.
A woman and her excited pug prepare for an adventure, standing by the open trunk of a red car in a green, lush setting.

3. Pack Your Pet Road Trip Essentials for Dog Travel


Best dog tip for travelling is to use this pet road trip checklist to stay organized before you travel with your dog:


Dog Travel Checklist:

  1. Food and treats (pack extra for delays)

  2. Water and portable travel bowl

  3. Leash, harness, and ID tags

  4. Waste bags and cleaning wipes

  5. Blanket or bed for comfort

  6. Favorite toy or chew to reduce anxiety

  7. First-aid kit (with motion sickness meds if prescribed)

  8. Vet records and vaccination proof

  9. Grooming wipes or small towel for muddy paws.


Bonus Tip: Keep your dog’s supplies in a dedicated travel bag so you can easily find what you need mid-trip!


Labrador lying on a blue blanket in a car seat, looking out the window with a relaxed expression. A tennis ball is nearby.
A Labrador retriever relaxes on a blanket in the backseat of a vehicle, keeping watch with a tennis ball by its side.

4. Tips to Keep Your Dog Calm and Comfortable When Travelling


Even the most easygoing dogs can get stressed in a moving car. Try these dog travelling tips:


  • Exercise first: A tired dog is a calm traveler. Take a long walk before departure or play some fetch before the long car ride. If you try travelling with your dog before exercising you might have a very alert and energetic dog in the car which can be stressful in the long run.


  • Familiar scents: Bring your dog’s blanket or a worn T-shirt from home. Any scent that is familiar to them will be comforting in the car and help to keep them calmer.


  • White noise: Soft and calm music or a fan can soothe nervous pups. Try classical music, music made for dogs on YouTube, Jazz or Bossa Nova (my GSD insists on listening to classical music on our drives -his favorite is Bach!)


  • Gradual training: If your dog isn’t used to long drives, start with short car trips a few weeks before your holiday journey. This is a very useful step to take. This way your dog will be familiar to what a car ride is and it will contribute to you having a easier car ride without having to stop every 30 mins on your travelling day.



A small black and tan dog is being fed by a person outdoors. The person wears a black jacket, and a white bowl is on the grass nearby.
A puppy receives a treat from a hand, sitting eagerly on the grass next to a water bowl.

5. Don’t Skip Mealtime or Hydration When Travelling with Your Dog


Just like humans, dogs need fuel and hydration but timing matters!


  • Feed your dog a few hours before leaving to avoid car sickness.


  • Offer water at every stop, but avoid overhydrating right before the trip, otherwise you might have to take a few extra potty breaks.


  • Bring their regular food, not something new, to prevent digestive issues. Don't make the mistake of trying new food on your travel. It's a very common mistake that many dog owners do and it can quickly turn into a mess -especially if they throw up in the car or do a number two by accident since it's new unfamiliar food and doesn't sit well in their tummy. Just pack the good-old trusty dog food in a zip-lock bag and take it with you and save yourself the risk!


A whippet Italian greyhound dog in a maroon coat with patterns sits on a snowy path in a winter forest, looking alert. Snow-covered trees line the background.
A graceful Italian Greyhound dog wearing a cozy red jacket sits elegantly on a snow-covered path, surrounded by a serene winter forest.

6. Be Mindful of Holiday Hazards When Travelling With your Dog


Traveling during the holidays adds unique risks:

  • Temperature changes: Keep the car warm but ventilated. Never leave your dog alone in a parked car -even in cold weather!


  • Winter clothes: Depending on your dogs breed and fur, you might have to pack a sweater, winter jacket, raincoat or winter shoes for your dog. All depends on where you're travelling to and what the climate is.


  • Toxic foods: Holiday snacks for humans like chocolate, grapes, and turkey bones are dangerous and toxic for dogs. Keep an eye on your dog and what he is eats, and also inform especially children or family members to not feed your dog anything.


  • Decorations: If you’re staying with family, make sure tinsel, real flammable candles, and ornaments, specially those mad of glass or small enough chocking hazards are out of reach for your dog.


Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Dog resting in a gray bed with a cozy blanket, surrounded by potted plants on a wooden floor. Room has a calm, inviting feel.
A happy Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dog relaxes in a cozy gray pet bed, surrounded by vibrant indoor plants, creating a warm and inviting home atmosphere.

7. Arrive and Unwind When Travelling With Your Dog


Once you reach your destination:

  • Take your dog for a walk right away to release pent-up energy. After a long trip your dog will likely feel restless and overstimulated. A walk allows them to stretch their legs, relieve themselves, and reset their senses. This initial outing helps your dog transition more peacefully into the new environment and reduces the chance of anxious behaviors like whining, pacing, or barking.


  • Introduce them to new spaces slowly. Instead of giving your dog access to the entire house, hotel, or rental right away, start with one or two rooms. Let them sniff, explore, and become comfortable at their own pace. Gradual exposure prevents sensory overload and helps your dog feel secure. As they relax and show calm behavior, you can expand their access to more areas.


  • Maintain familiar routines -same feeding times, same bed, same “goodnight” toy. Dogs thrive on consistency, especially in new environments. Sticking to your dog’s usual schedule provides structure and predictability, which is especially grounding in unfamiliar places. Bring their regular food, bowls, blankets, and toys so they have comforting reminders of home. Familiar routines signal that everything is safe and normal, even if the surroundings are new.



Two people walk a German Shepherd on a snowy path. The dog and humans wear winter attire. Snowflakes fall. Background: brick wall.
Two people and a German Shepherd take a snowy stroll, enjoying the fresh winter air.

Dogs thrive on consistency, especially in new environments.

Consistency builds trust and reduces anxiety. New sights, sounds, and smells can be overwhelming, but maintaining steady habits, from daily walks to bedtime rituals, helps your dog settle quickly. The more predictable their day feels, the faster they’ll adjust, relax, and enjoy the adventure with you.


A little planning goes a long way toward making your holiday road trip with your dog joyful and stress-free. With the right preparation, you’ll not only keep your pup safe and comfortable but you’ll also create lasting memories on the open road together.


So, grab your leash, pack that checklist, and get ready for a holiday adventure your dog will never forget!


Safe Travels & Happy Holidays,

K9 KRAY

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