Here’s a handy road trip supply checklist that we at Dog On a Road Trip use before leaving town on vacation. You may find it helpful to print this list, then check off items before you leave home. We didn’t put “bring the dog” on the list, but if you have more than one, you might also do a quick “head count” before pulling out of the driveway!
(Note: Not all items on this list may apply to you and your dogs, or to the kind of trip that you’re taking.)
The Dog Travel Checklist
- Dog Food – Make sure to bring enough dog food for the length of your trip, plus a little extra. Pack food in a sealed container such as a Gamma2 Vittles Vault Outback. (See link below.)
- Dog Treats – A bag of dog treats is helpful for reducing anxiety in dogs on a road trip, and for reinforcing good behavior.
- Water and Feeding Bowls – Bring extra water in a sturdy, BPA-free, gallon (or larger) container. A collapsible water bowl and dog squeeze-water bottle with cup are good to have.
- Leashes and Collars – Make sure that pet tags are affixed to collars and feature your latest info and a rabies tag. Bring an extra leash in case yours breaks, or gets chewed up.
- Lighted Collars or Reflective Vest – A LED dog collar can make it easier for people to see you at night. Reflective dog vests are good to have as well.
- Dog Beds – Make sure to bring your dog’s favorite bed, or a lightweight travel version of it.
- Pet Jacket or Rain Gear – You may encounter all kinds of weather on your trip. A pet rain jacket and warm jacket may come in very handy.
- Dog Toys or Chews – Bring your dog’s favorite toy or chew to help reduce anxiety when staying in new places.
- GPS Dog Tracker – A GPS collar can help locate your pet if they become lost in an unfamiliar area.
- Medications – If your dog is on any medications, such as heart-worm preventative, etc., don’t forget these. Bring a small cooler to keep them in.
- Muzzle – If your dog requires a muzzle, don’t forget it. They can be very useful if your dog is injured, as even gentle dogs may “fear bite” if hurt.
- Blankets, Towels and Old Sheets – If staying at pet-friendly Airbnbs or hotels, use these to cover furniture.
- Lint Roller – A sticky lint roller can be very useful in cleaning dog hair from furniture in places you stay.
- Poop Bags and Sealed Container – Be sure to bring poop bags & a well sealed container to put full ones in.
- White Noise Machine – A white noise machine can help keep your dog calm in a new place by masking unfamiliar new sounds.
- Cleaning Supplies – Paper towels, cleaners, mop, and broom. Bring along a microfiber mop and cleaning cloths, along with some non-scented spray surface cleaner. Foam carpet cleaner can also help remove “pet accidents”.
- Vet Records – If your dog requires medical care while you are on a road trip, the veterinarian will need to see their most recent records. Print them out and bring them along.
- Your Vet’s Phone Number – Add your vet’s phone number to your contacts. This can save time in an emergency, if a new vet needs to speak to them.
- Pet First Aid Kit – A basic pet first aid kit, with gauze bandages, medical tape, antibiotic ointment, etc., is a must for traveling with dogs.
- Car Seat Belt Harnesses – This is an essential Item. Seat belt harnesses keep dogs from being thrown forward in an accident.
- Dog Shampoo and Grooming Brush – Your road tripping dog is probably going to get dirty and may need a bath at some point on your trip.
- Dog Friendly Travel Guide Book. – There are several good ones, including National Geographic’s “The Dog Lover’s Guide to Travel”. See our blog for some great places to travel with your dog: Dogonaroadtrip.com
Miscellaneous Things You May Need When Traveling With Dogs
- Car Seat Back Organizer – You can put many of the above items into the pockets of a seat-back organizer, where they’re easily accessible.
- Dog Lift Harness – For those with old or injured dogs, a lifting harness can help make lifting them into the car easier on both you and your dog.
- Portable Pet Gate – Use these to block off unused rooms – which may not have doors – to make cleaning up easier.
For additional dog travel safety tips you can visit the ASPCA’s Pet Travel Tips
Also, remember, never leave a dog unattended in a car! The temperature inside a car become lethal to pets in just a few minutes.
Download and Print a Condensed Version of The Checklist
