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Road Trip 2000

Kyle: It's not cheating if you spread peanut butter on your balls and let your dog lick it off.

Kyle: Because it's your dog.

Rubin: Jesus Christ!

Kyle: You know, because it's YOUR dog, get it?

Rubin: Yeah, we've got it.

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HOME / BLOG / Travel Destinations 49 Places To See On A Pet Friendly American Road Trip

49 Places To See On A Pet Friendly American Road Trip

• By Amy at GoPetFriendly.com
• May 8, 2023

The American road trip … it’s iconic! And there’s no better way to see some of the most special places across the country. But what if you want to include your pet in the fun? Here are 49 breathtaking sights you’ll love exploring together on a pet friendly American road trip!

Road trip vacations are as American as apple pie. And yet, planning to see the “best” the United States has to offer can be overwhelming. Your trip could focus on cultural sites, national parks, state capitols, scenic landmarks, or sports venues.

But if you’re looking for a truly special experience, why not plan the best pet friendly American road trip? Visit the top pet friendly attraction in each state, and collect precious memories with your best friend along the way!

A Pet Friendly American Road Trip

The most difficult part of planning an epic road trip is choosing the stops. From beaches to mountain tops, bustling cities to secluded retreats, you want to see the very best places across the country.

We traveled full-time with our dogs for twelve years, spending time in all of the lower 48 states. And we’re happy to share what we’ve learned!

Whether you’re planning to see the whole country in one trip, or checking out one region at a time, the itinerary we’ve laid out for your pet friendly American road trip will give you a good feel for what each state is about. And very stop is guaranteed to be fun for you and your pet! Click on the name of each location for more details and photos.

READ MORE ⇒ How To Plan A Pet Friendly Road Trip

The Ultimate Pet Friendly American Road Trip

This itinerary covers nearly 15,000 miles and would take at least a couple of months to complete. If you can do it all at once, it’s absolutely the trip of a lifetime!

If you’re looking for shorter trips, choose one or two regions and do a deeper dive in each area. Any combination will make a fantastic pet friendly vacation.

The Northwest

We start this pet friendly American road trip in the northwestern United States. From Washington’s green isles to the heights of Beartooth Highway, this region has something for everyone!

READ MORE ⇒ Tips for Traveling Alone with a Pet

Washington – The San Juan Islands

In the far northwest corner of the contiguous United States, off the coast of Washington, lies a confetti of emerald jewels in the Salish Sea. Known as the San Juan Islands, the landscape is a patchwork of pine forests, stoney beaches, verdant pastures and fields, and sparkling lakes.

Each of the islands has its own charm, and no matter which you visit, you won’t be disappointed.

Oregon –  Portland’s Parks and Gardens

With eclectic neighborhoods, great eateries, and one of the most extensive urban park systems in the country, Portland, Oregon is a pet friendly playground!

Boasting 10,000 acres of natural areas and parks scattered around the city, there’s a treasure around every corner. And if your pup enjoys being social, don’t miss some of the 20+ off-leash areas!

Idaho –  Lake Coeur d’Alene

Among the rugged peaks of northern Idaho, where pine trees far outnumber people, lies one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Unfolding over 26 miles with more than 135 miles of shoreline, Lake Coeur d’Alene is a sparkling blue jewel.

From scenic boat tours to miles of pet friendly trails, there are as many ways to enjoy Lake Coeur d’Alene as your imagination allows.

Wyoming –  Bighorn National Forest – Medicine Wheel

You’ll find some of Wyoming’s most diverse terrain in the Bighorn Mountains. It would be easy to spend weeks hiking the 1,500 miles of pet friendly trails and enjoying the three scenic drives. But for us, nothing speaks to the timelessness and beauty of the Bighorns like a visit to Medicine Wheel.

Montana –  Beartooth Highway

For 68 miles, between Cooke City and Red Lodge, Montana, the Beartooth Highway winds through some of the most awe inspiring terrain in the United States. This road, one of the highest in the lower 48 states, passes 20 peaks that rise over 12,000 feet.

You’ll experience pristine mountain landscapes, lush forests, and alpine tundra – all within a few miles. And there are numerous places to park the car and hit a pet friendly trail with your furry travel buddy!

The Southwest

The southwest section of this pet friendly American road trip starts with a romp on Carmel’s spectacular dog beach. The next two stops at Red Rock Canyon and the Grand Canyon offer fantastic pet friendly hiking. And we top it off with a trip up Telluride’s gondola. You and your active pets are going to love this adventure!

California –  Carmel’s Dog Beach

Carmel’s crowning glory is its magnificent beach. This mile-long stretch of sand begins just steps from downtown and runs to just below the 9th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Course. And it’s all pet friendly!

Dogs are welcome to romp off-leash on the beach. Or visit Carmel River State Beach, just down the road, where leashed pets will find plenty to explore.

Nevada –  Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

It’s only 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, but Red Rock Canyon feels like a completely different world! From the 13-mile scenic loop road to the 30+ miles of pet friendly trails and picnic areas with great views, you’ll have a fantastic day here with your pet!

Arizona –  Grand Canyon National Park

Traveling to any national park is a wonderful experience, but seeing the Grand Canyon with your pet will make your vacation unforgettable!

The pet friendly South Rim Trail runs for 14 miles and is paved for easy walking. Make sure to allow plenty of time to take in the panoramic views!

Colorado –  Telluride Gondola to Mountain Village

Tucked high in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, the village of Telluride is ideal for a Rocky Mountain adventure with your pet. Offering spectacular scenery, miles of hiking trails, a pet friendly gondola, and a nice selection of eateries and lodging that welcome pets, it might be the highlight of your pet friendly American road trip!

Utah –  Dixie National Forest’s Red Canyon

Covering almost 2 million acres, every inch of Dixie National Forest is pet friendly! And with 1,600 miles of hiking, horseback riding, and bike trails, and hundreds of miles of scenic byways, backways, and drives, you and your pet could spend a lifetime exploring here.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out Bryce Canyon and Zion National parks. And don’t miss the chance to visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah !

READ MORE ⇒ Tips For RVing With Pets

The South Central

Bustling San Antonio is balanced by serene natural wonders on the South Central section of our pet friendly American road trip.

If you’re considering skipping the pet friendly paddle on the Buffalo National River … DON’T! We did it with Ty and Buster, and loved every minute. Though it was our dogs’ first time in a canoe, they did great. And now it’s one of our favorite memories with them.

New Mexico –  White Sands National Park

The name “White Sands” might be a little misleading, but that doesn’t make this pet friendly national park any less impressive! The shimmering dunes here are actually made of gypsum – not sand. And thanks to an ancient sea and some very fortunate geography,  it’s now the world’s largest dunefield!

You’ll find pet friendly trails and plenty to keep you busy at White Sands. And be sure to stay for sunset. It’s unlike any other you’ll see!

Texas –  San Antonio River Walk

Providing access to some of the city’s most precious historical and cultural sites, the 13-mile, pet friendly San Antonio River Walk is one of the most unique parks in the country!

It would be easy to spend several days exploring different sections of the River Walk, hopping on and off to visit all the connected neighborhoods.

Oklahoma –  Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

As if watching the grazing bison, elk, and white-tailed deer weren’t enough reason to visit Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, you and your pet will also find 18 pet friendly hiking trails and lakes for boating and paddling!

Arkansas –  Canoe the Buffalo National River

Canoeing the Buffalo National River with your pets is easier than you might think! Pet friendly canoe rentals are a cinch to find, and the calm water will put every paddler at ease.

When you’re back on solid ground, there are also miles of pet friendly trails to hike along the river’s course and in the nearby Ozark National Forest.

READ MORE ⇒ Tips for Canoeing or Kayaking with Dogs

Kansas –  Monument Rocks

Monument Rocks is what’s left of a sea floor that formed millions of years ago when water covered the continent from Montana and the Dakotas to Texas and Louisiana. The chalk spires, buttes, and arches that remain now stand 70 feet tall on the Kansas plains. And your pets are more than welcome to explore them with you!

The Plains – North

The Northern Plains section of this trip takes you through the heartland and reveals what America was like before Europeans arrived.

You’ll spend time appreciating the vastness of Lake Superior and the powerful Mississippi River. Then walk in the footsteps of the Native Americans who lived in Iowa and North Dakota.

Minnesota –  Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park sits on Lake Superior’s northern shore. Providing breathtaking views of one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country and 14.5 miles of pet friendly trails, it’s a great place to stretch your legs or camp on the beach.

READ MORE ⇒ Camping With Dogs – A Beginner’s Guide

Wisconsin –  Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge

Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge is located in the Mississippi River flyway, the migration route of about 40% of all waterfowl and shorebirds. The refuge serves as a “bed and breakfast” for the birds as they travel through and is home to the magnificent bald eagle.

In addition to some spectacular bird spotting, there are miles of pet friendly trails to explore.

Iowa –  Effigy Mounds National Monument

Standing atop the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, it’s easy to see why American Indians chose to make this breathtaking place their home. Covering 2,500 acres along the western bank of the Mississippi River, Effigy Mounds National Monument now protects 206 prehistoric earthen mounds built by Indigenous People, 31 of which are in the shape of animals.

You and your dogs are welcome to explore all the trails. But remember to be respectful and never walk on (or allow your pet on) the mounds.

North Dakota –  Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site

Interpretive plaques help you imagine what life was like at the Knife River Indian Villages. This is where Captains Lewis and Clark first met Sacagewea and her husband, Toussaint Charbonneau. Once a bustling community of nearly 400 people, this is now a quiet place to reflect and enjoy the scenery.

South Dakota –  Custer State Park

Custer State Park protects 71,000 acres of South Dakota’s most magnificent landscapes. It also provides habitats for a dazzling array of wildlife. Whether you prefer picturesque drives or multi-day hikes, wildlife viewing or kayaking, elegant dining or campfires under the stars, Custer has something to please traveler.

Nebraska –  Fort Robinson State Park

Fort Robinson State Park is a rare combination of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, a variety of recreational opportunities, and pet friendly accommodations. 

Spread over 22,000 acres, with rugged buttes as the backdrop, it’s a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the expansive wild prairies during the day and the star-filled skies at night.

The Great Lakes

Three of the five stops on this section of our pet friendly American road trip are on the Great Lakes! Absorb the energy of downtown Chicago at Navy Pier. Then contrast it with the leisurely atmosphere of Mackinac Island. You’ll enjoy both ends of the spectrum!

West Virginia –  Monongahela National Forest

The Monongahela National Forest covers more than 900,000 acres, preserving a rugged and wild paradise unlike any other. With an extensive backwoods road system, oodles of campgrounds, and 825 miles of pet friendly trails, you and your pet will find plenty to explore!

Ohio – Holden Arboretum

Holden Arboretum is evidence of the beauty that results when humans and Mother Nature work together. Encompassing 3,600 acres, it’s one of the largest arboreta and botanical gardens in the country and a fabulous place to explore with your pet.

Wander the garden paths or hit the miles of trails through native forests with your furry travel buddy!

Illinois –  Chicago Lakefront Trail & Navy Pier

Chicago’s pet friendly Lakefront Trail runs for 18 miles along the spectacular shore of Lake Michigan. Connecting vibrant neighborhoods, expansive parks, popular beaches, and famous attractions like Navy Pier, Buckingham Fountain, and Soldier Field, it’s fun to choose a section and spend a day exploring it with your pet!

READ MORE ⇒ Tips for a Cross-Country Road Trip with Pets

Indiana –  Indiana Dunes National Park

Caribbean blue waters and miles of pet friendly beaches await you at Indiana Dunes National Park. But the beaches are just the beginning!

This dynamic landscape also features dunes, ponds, marshes, creeks, prairie, and forests for your exploration. Whether you decided to hang out on the shore or hike the trails, you’re sure to have a great time.

Michigan –  Mackinac Island

Hop aboard the pet friendly ferry for a trip to Mackinac Island. Automobiles aren’t allowed, but you and your pet won’t have any trouble getting around!

Main Street is just steps from the ferry docks, pets are welcome on the horse-drawn carriages rides, and bikes with pet trailers are available for rent. So all of Mackinac’s most popular attractions are within easy reach!

The Plains – South

Road tripping pets are going to adore this route through the southern plains. Romp at the incredible off-leash dog park at Shelby Farms, then stiff along the 444-mile Natchez Trace! Finally, spend an afternoon relaxing in the shadow of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

Louisiana –  State Capitol Gardens in Baton Rouge

Standing 34 stories tall, Louisiana’s capitol in Baton Rouge is the tallest state capitol building in the United States. It’s surrounded by 27 acres of pet friendly grounds and gardens that offer picturesque views from every angle.

Stroll the paved paths under massive live oaks and palm trees or plan a picnic with your pet!

Mississippi –  The Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway stretches 444 miles, from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. It’s a blissfully quiet, billboard-free retreat from our fast-paced highways.

But a slower pace doesn’t mean you’ll be bored! There’s something to sniff around every bend with countless exhibits and 28 pet friendly trailheads along the route.

Tennessee –  Shelby Farms Park Off-Leash Area

Shelby Farms Park in Memphis is one of the country’s largest urban parks. With a massive off-leash dog area, 40 miles of pet friendly trails winding through 4,500 acres, a disc golf course, canoe, kayak, and paddle board rentals, and a lovely visitor center, you could easily spend an entire day here!

Kentucky –  Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park

President Abraham Lincoln’s life is an inspiration, and visiting his simple birthplace fosters an even deeper appreciation of his accomplishments.

Pets are welcome to join you on the grounds of the historic park. And together you can explore the trails there and at the Lincoln Boyhood Home at Knob Creek, just ten miles away.

Missouri –  Gateway Arch National Park

Leashed pets are welcome to explore the extensive grounds at St. Louis’ Gateway Arch National Park. Enjoy the Riverfront Trail, embark on a one-hour scenic riverboat cruise, and be sure to ask now your pet can become a BARK Ranger during your visit.

READ MORE ⇒ 60 National Parks Where Your Dog Can Be A BARK Ranger

New England

You can see a lot without traveling far in New England! Enjoy Central Park in the heart of Manhattan, then explore the trails in Acadia National Park. Finally, take a splash in the pond at Dog Mountain. From beginning to end, this section of our pet friendly American road trip is a pet’s dream come true.

New York –  Central Park

There’s no place like New York! Central Park is the third most visited attraction IN THE WORLD – and it’s even better with your pet. Whether you choose to lounge on a bench, enjoy the conservatory gardens, or explore the wooded trails in the Ramble, it will be a day to remember.

Connecticut –  Mystic Seaport

Spread over 19 spectacular acres on the banks of the Mystic River, Mystic Seaport is the largest maritime museum in the United States. You and your pet can view magnificent old boats and learn what life was like for seaport dwellers in this part of New England in the 1800s.

Rhode Island –  Newport Cliff Walk

Newport is known as the City by the Sea. And a stroll along the pet friendly Cliff Walk proves that she more than lives up to her nickname!

Winding for 3.5 miles with the rocky shoreline on one side and the lush gardens of historic mansions on the other, the Cliff Walk Trail provides you and your pet with unforgettable views.

Massachusetts –  The Freedom Trail

Boston’s Freedom Trail connects 16 of our country’s most significant historic landmarks – locations that played a pivotal role in America’s rebellious beginning.

The pet friendly 2.5-mile path starts in Boston Common where you can pick up a map. Here pups will also find two off-leash areas for sniffing and socializing in America’s oldest public park. Then follow the red brick path through the city at your own pace, taking in each site as you go.

Maine –  Acadia National Park

As one of the countries most pet friendly national parks, you and your pet will find plenty to love in Acadia. There are more than 100 miles of trails to sniff, carriage roads to explore, and pets are even welcome on the free shuttles that run throughout the park and around the island!

READ MORE ⇒ America’s Best Dog Friendly National Parks

New Hampshire –  Mount Washington

Visiting Mount Washington can be tricky. More than 100 days a year the wind at the summit exceeds hurricane force, the peak is enveloped in clouds 60% of the time, and snow can fall year round. But if you’re lucky enough to be there on a pleasant day, you and your pet will never forget the pet friendly trails and stunning views.

Vermont –  Dog Mountain

At Dog Mountain, pets aren’t just welcome – they’re cherished! This 150-acre former dairy farm is always open to the public and dogs are welcome to shed their leashes while they run, play, and swim in the pond.

There are also hiking trails, peaceful retreats, and a pet friendly chapel and art gallery.

The Mid-Atlantic

The theme of this section of the trip is early American history with a lot fun thrown in! Learn about the first Europeans to arrive in the New World in Colonial Williamsburg. Then stroll through Washington, DC, where history is made every day. Next enjoy a day on the Jersey shore before heading to the Pocono Mountains for a scenic train ride!

Virginia –  Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg welcomes you and your pets to step back in time. View historic homes, watch demonstrations at the trades shops, enjoy the fife and drum corps, and get a bite to eat at one of the taverns or restaurants.

Washington, DC –  The National Mall

There are few places in the America more inspiring than our National Mall & Memorial Gardens. And because this national park sits in the middle of a living city, it’s more pet friendly than you might expect!

From the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, you and your pet can view dozens of iconic sights all within walking distance.

Maryland –  Cruise on Chesapeake Bay

Explore the Chesapeake Bay with your travel buddy aboard a pet friendly cruise! Arrange a tour from Annapolis, Baltimore, or St. Michaels. Or contact one of the countless privately-operated charter boats available in harbors up and down the bay, most of whom are happy to welcome your pets.

READ MORE ⇒ 5 Questions To Ask BEFORE Taking A Dog On A Boat

Delaware –  Walking Tour of Historic New Castle

Do you love strolling with your pet along tree-lined streets? Would you like to admire beautiful examples of colonial Dutch and Federal architecture? And what if you could learning a bit about the early history of our country at the same time?

It sounds like a walking tour of New Castle will be right up your alley! Be sure to check the local calendar for pet friendly events when planning your trip.

New Jersey –  The Jersey Shore at Wildwood Dog Beach

New Jersey has many popular beaches, but Wildwood’s beach stands out. It’s lovely, spacious, family-friendly, and free to use. And the best part is that your pets can come along!

Dogs on leashes are welcome from dawn to dusk, every day on the Wildwood dog beach between Glenwood and Maple Avenues. Just look for the gigantic fire hydrant and enjoy a day of sand and surf together.

Pennsylvania –  Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

All aboard! The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway welcomes pets on their vintage coaches. Powered by diesel engines and departing from the old railroad station in historic downtown Jim Thorpe, the narrated trips lasts about 70 minutes and follow 16-mile route along the Lehigh River as it winds through the gorge.

The Southeast

Beautiful gardens await your arrival on this pet friendly road trip through the Southeast. Wander the paths through Rock City, where on a clear day you can view seven states! Then admire the last large-scale romantic-style garden at Magnolia Plantation. Finally, spend a day exploring the formal gardens and wooded trails of the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate.

Alabama –  Little River Canyon National Preserve

On a flat-top mountain in northeastern Alabama, Little River Canyon National Preserve protects 15,000+ rugged acres along the Little River.

Be prepared for stunning scenery and a taste of southern hospitality, because the preserve is incredibly pet friendly. Not only can your furry travel buddy join you on all the trails — he’s also welcome inside the visitor center, and the staff has dog treats!

Georgia –  Rock City Gardens

Visitors from around the world come to admire Rock City’s botanical and geological features. And your pet is welcome to join you on the trails. You can even have lunch together on the patio at Café 7, a seasonal restaurant with amazing views!

Florida –  Fort De Soto Dog Beach

Fort De Soto’s beaches are acclaimed for their white sand and clear blue waters. But the best part of this quarter-mile stretch of beach is that it’s dedicated to the dogs!

Pups can romp leash-free here and in the adjacent enclosed dog park. Then rent a kayak and paddle the 2.25-mile water trail, peddle the 7-mile bike trail, or hit the hiking trails to see more of the island.

South Carolina –  Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is America’s last large-scale Romantic-style garden. You and your pup are welcome to enjoy the trails, grounds, gardens. Plan accordingly to see your favorite flowers in bloom!

North Carolina –  Biltmore Estate Gardens and Grounds

At the Biltmore Estate, pets cannot tour the historic home. However, you and your pet can stroll the lush garden paths, or hit the 23 miles of hiking trails that criss-cross the 8,000-acre estate.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Antler Hill Village and choose a table on the patio at one of the pet friendly restaurants!

READ MORE ⇒ Training Your Dog To Be A Great Traveler

How long will it take and what will it cost?

In total, our entire pet friendly American road trip is 15,000 miles and will take at least two months. That’s assuming you have great luck with the weather and don’t mind driving about 8 hours a day.

The cost of the trip depends on how you travel. And where you are comfortable staying is a factor that has a big impact. Car camping or tenting will be least expensive. And staying at pet friendly hotels will cost more. Luckily, pets aren’t picky about where you sleep – as long as you’re together.

READ MORE ⇒ Car Camping With Pets: Prep The Car, What to Pack, and More

Most of the attractions we’ve recommended are fairly inexpensive (free – $20), with a few exceptions. So figure around $500 per person for all the admission fees.

Gas will cost another $1,500 to $2,000.

Then there’s food, which can also vary a lot. To save money, plan to spend time shopping and preparing your own meals rather than eating out. If you can eat for $15 per day, that adds about $900 per person for a two-month trip.

In total, this trip could be done by one person for around $4,500. Bring a buddy to split the lodging and gas costs and the cost is even less for you both.

So, there you have it – our Ultimate Pet Friendly American Road trip! Now all that’s left to do is pack the car, crank up the tunes, and hit the road. Waggin’ trails to you!

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Road Trip (2000)

Dj qualls: kyle.

• Photos (24)

Photos 

Quotes 

Kyle : It's not cheating if you spread peanut butter on your balls and let your dog lick it off.

[Josh, Rubin and E.L. are understandably repulsed] 

Kyle : Because it's your dog.

Rubin : Jesus Christ!

Kyle : You know, because it's YOUR dog, get it?

Rubin : Yeah, we've got it.

Frat member : [Holding up a white hood]  Are you in the Ku Klux Klan?

Josh : Whoa whoa, that isn't ours.

Kyle : That's not mine!

Josh : OK, hold on, th-there's obviously some explanation.

Frat member : There is. See your boy here's an evil bigot, and now he's gonna die.

Kyle : [faints] 

E.L. : Well, there are these rules that guys have, an understanding as to what exactly constitutes cheating. Take your situation for example: it's not cheating. It's never cheating when you're in a different area code, not to mention a different state.

Kyle : That makes no sense.

E.L. : Hey, don't look at me Kyle, OK, I didn't make up the rules.

Rubin : No no, this is legit, I- I've actually read an article about this. There's a whole bunch of them, it's like- they're like loopholes. Right, for argument's sake, let's say that you were sleeping with two girls at the same time, it- it wouldn't be cheating because they would cancel each other out.

E.L. : Exactly. Or if, uh, you're too wasted to remember- it is not cheating. Because if you can't really remember it, it never really took place.

Earl Edwards : Oh, bullcrap! This is ridiculous! Why didn't you tell us where you were?

Kyle : Because I knew you'd get mad! See, look how mad you are.

Earl Edwards : [angrily]  I'M NOT MAD!

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The Ultimate Guide to Taking a Road Trip With Your Dog

by Lavanya Sunkara

Updated on May 23, 2024

If you’ve ever wanted to take an epic road trip with your dog, there is no better time than the present. After being cooped up for months to prevent the spread of COVID-19, you are probably eager to hit the open road. 

Road trips allow the freedom to enjoy the great outdoors with all family members, without having to leave your pup behind. And your dog will be all the more happy to sniff new scents and frolic alongside you in new places. 

To help you prepare for a smooth and memorable dog-friendly road trip, here are tips to ensure that your pet stays safe, healthy, and happy on the road. 

Benefits of Road Trips : The Perfect Way to Travel With Dogs

Road trips are a wonderful way to travel with dogs and strengthen your human-canine connection. Best of all, there is no need to worry about getting on a plane during a pandemic, or researching an air carrier’s safety record or requirements. 

Traveling by car (or RV or van) means your furry friend doesn’t have to be boarded or left behind with a dogsitter. You can make the most of your vacation while practicing physical distancing and have a grand adventure with your pooch. 

One of the biggest benefits of a road trip with dogs is the flexibility it affords—stop whenever you want and select dog-friendly spots to experience. Bring along your pet’s favorite toys and treats as well as a bed or blankets in the trunk without having to worry about luggage limits.  

Dog Road Trip Basics: Essentials to Bring  

If you’re going to be hitting the road with your canine family member, there are a couple of essentials that you need to bring along. Here’s what you shouldn’t leave home without. 

Medical Records/Health Certificate

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country trip with your dog, book an appointment with your pet’s veterinarian to get your dog up-to-date on his vaccinations. Carry both electronic and paper copies of his medical record or a recently obtained health certificate from the veterinarian, especially when you are crossing state borders. A health certificate is valid for up to 30 days. Having medical documentation will also become crucial if you run into an emergency while on the road. 

Food and Medication

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Pack your dog’s food , medication, and supplements for the duration of the trip and bring an additional week’s worth of these items to be prepared for unexpected delays. Feed your dog at least three to four hours prior to leaving to avoid any accidents in the car. 

Johnna Devereaux, clinical pet nutritionist and the director of nutrition and wellness for Bow Wow Labs , recommends pet parents bring their dog’s own food on the road. “This will help avoid the potential for an upset stomach and the possibility of loose stool, especially if stores where you are going don’t carry the food you feed.” 

If your dog has a tendency to get motion sick in the car, Devereaux says ginger can assuage his tummy. “This potent plant helps with all forms of nausea and may make your trip easier on the whole family.” You can purchase pet-friendly ginger chews online or at your local pet store. 

Microchip, GPS Collar, and Identification

It’s one thing if your dog goes missing in your neighborhood…and another thing entirely if you and your pet get separated while road tripping in unfamiliar territory. To improve your odds of reuniting with a dog who’s taken an unplanned detour, at a bare minimum, ensure your contact information is clearly legible on your dog’s ID tag. And if your road-trip buddy hasn’t been microchipped, consider having one implanted prior to your departure.

But even if your dog is properly tagged, chipped, and your registry info is up-to-date, a location tracking device or collar, like the Tractive GPS Dog Tracker , can be a literal lifesaver on the road. With Tractive, there’s no need to wait and hope that someone finds your dog if they go missing. The waterproof, clip-on GPS tracker provides real-time tracking info to help you reunite with a lost pet quickly. Plus, you can also use the powerful location and activity monitoring features to keep tabs on your pup while on the beach, during hikes, and wherever you may roam.

Updated Pictures of Your Dog

No one wants to think about losing their pet while on vacation, but accidents can happen. Don’t leave home without some current pictures of your pup. Print a few out and have some on your phone in case you need to show local shelters or get flyers made. 

Dog First Aid Kit

Pack a pet first aid kit to treat minor nicks, remove ticks and foxtails, and wrap any injuries. Make a list of clinics and hospitals located along the way and at your final destination, and add the ASPCA Pet Poison Helpline number (888-426-4435) to the list in case your dog ingests a toxin. If you are concerned about a lack of access to veterinarians, sign up for telehealth services for healthcare advice and live triage support while on the road. 

Dog Road Trip Packing List  

In addition to the essentials listed above, make sure to pack items that will keep your dog comfortable, entertained, and happy along the way. We recommend you include the following items for road tripping with your canine bestie:

• Plenty of water for the car ride and rest stops
• Food and water bowls 
• Crash-tested safety harness seat belt
• Long and short leashes 
• Travel crate or carrier
• Bed and/or blanket (to offer a sense of home in unfamiliar situations) 
• Treat and puzzle toys, treats 
• Life jacket, if you are planning water activities 
• An extra collar with ID tags
• Booties, if you are visiting a destination with hot temperatures to provide protection from hot surfaces 
• Coat, if you are bound for cooler weather 
• Poop bags 
• Old towels and grooming supplies for cleaning 
• Calming aids and supplements (if needed)

Road Trip Safety for You and Your Dog

To ensure that you and your dog experience the pure joy of life on the road, it’s essential to follow safety protocols to protect your pet. Follow the below advice to make sure your dog stays safe. 

Keep Dogs Crated or Restrained While Driving

It’s pure joy seeing your tail-wagger enjoying fresh air and new scents from the open window, but an unsecured pooch can be dangerous in an accident, or during a hard turn or sudden stop. 

Michelle Belio, head trainer and owner at Pawsitively Waggin’ Academy LLC serving New York City and Long Island, recommends the use of a crate that has been crash tested for road trips. “If conditioned correctly, a crate could be a safe space for a dog, which is awesome for the road,” she says. “It also keeps our dogs safe and away from us, to pay attention to the road.” 

Travel crates come in different sizes and materials. Select a crate that’s big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in, and make sure it’s firmly attached to the vehicle floor or the back seat. 

For your anxiety-prone dog, use a crate designed for separation anxiety , or cover it with a blanket to provide a calming, den-like environment. If crating is not an option, secure your dog with a crash-tested safety harness and seat belt. The harness goes around the dog’s chest and the attached strap plugs into the seat belt buckle. 

For dogs who have trouble relaxing when restrained, use a guard attached to the floor in the trunk/boot of the car or install a back-seat barrier to create a safe section in the back of the car. A dog sling or hammock in the back provides added security and keeps any messes off of the seat. If you are driving an RV, make sure your pet is within your eyesight to ensure he’s still safely secured. 

Leash Rules

Remove your dog’s regular leash once in the car, so that he doesn’t get tangled or get whiplash from the collar. When letting the dog out of the car, leash him back up to prevent him from taking off on his own. “Never allow your pet to jump out of the car without a leash,” says Devereaux. “If something were to startle them, you would have no control over where they go.” 

Never Leave Your Dog Unattended in the Car  

Pets left in cars are at high risk of heat-related illnesses or even death. Temperatures inside vehicles can rise almost 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes, even with the windows cracked open. When driving in warm weather, keep your pet comfortable by using the air conditioner or have the fan running.  

Keep Safe Distance from Wildlife

When you are visiting areas brimming with wildlife, maintain a safe distance from animals and keep your dog on a leash or in a designated closed off area (or a collapsible pen) to prevent any stressful situations or encounters that could result in injuries or bites. If an attack happens, seek medical attention immediately. 

Practice Social Distancing and Follow CDC Guidelines

Keep at least six feet of distance from others at gas stations, campsites, and on hikes to prevent COVID-19. Avoid dog parks, as they tend to be highly frequented. Wear a cloth face covering if you can’t maintain distance in public and keep a supply bag with disinfectant, gloves, and wipes. Properly dispose of PPE after use. 

Dog Road Trip Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Journey

Road trips with your dog should be a fun experience, not a stressful event. To help the whole process go smoothly, follow along with these tips: 

Take Test Drives

If the only places your pet has been in the car include the clinic, groomer, or the local dog park, Belio recommends “bringing your dog on long car rides, increasing the amount of time they’re in the car each time.” Test driving ahead of time lets you address any issues your pet may have on longer rides. 

Train Your Dog To Love New Places 

If your dog isn’t used to visiting new places, Belio suggests bringing him to at least three new locations a week prior to embarking on your journey. “When you get there, bring out your dog’s favorite treats (or toy) and reward them every single time they interact with their environment,” she says. “This way, all of these new things form associations with the things they love.” 

Address Anxiety

Pet parents have a few options if their dogs show signs of discomfort or anxiety. “Desensitization, consulting your vet, and using supplements such as CBD oil could help,” says Belio. “For desensitization, work on your dog eating their meals in the car, playing in the car, and going in and out of the car using fun car games.” 

Take Frequent Breaks

If you are doing a long road trip with your dog, incorporate frequent breaks (every three to four hours) for pet relief, a short walk, and water. Puppies and senior pets need breaks more often. “I don’t find exercise to be overly important, as the car ride is stimulating enough,” says Belio. “A short walk (under 10 minutes) is enough for your breaks.” 

You don’t have to wait until you are ready for a pit stop to allow Fido to drink. Leave a no-spill water bowl by his side so he can drink whenever he’d like. 

Provide Stimulation

While you are focused on the drive, use a stuffed toy to keep your active dog stimulated, entertained, and to keep them from gnawing on seatbelts and other items. Belio recommends packing frozen Kongs and safe dog chews. During breaks, play a game of tug or fetch to add exercise to your dog’s day. 

Give Your Dog Space

No matter what type of four-wheeler you are using, give your pooch space of his own to be comfortable and decompress. Avoid stuffing items next to him in the back seat or cramming him in the back of the car without much room. 

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How To Road Trip With Your Dog: 15 Practical Tips

Want road trip with your dog? Here’s 15 practical tips I’ve learned traveling with two dogs.

Taking your dog on a road trip can be super enjoyable – and super stressful. When my boyfriend Ryan and I got our first dog, an Australian Shepard/Border Collie puppy named Charlie, it took a while for him to get adjusted to traveling with us. I remember one of the first nights we had him in my van, Charlie got scared and straight-up peed all over my lap.

Now, we travel with two dogs – Charlie and Gumbo – and never leave them behind. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your dog stays happy and comfortable in the car, and in this blog post, I share 15 tips for road trips with your dog.

Planning a trip with your dog? Here are 15 dog road trip tips to ensure a safe (and fun!) time.

Tips for Road Trips With Your Dog

1. have up-to-date dog tags.

Have you moved since you got your dog? Make sure your contact info on their dog tag is up-to-date in case your dog somehow gets away. The same goes for the contact information associated with their microchip.

2. Bring a copy of your dog’s vaccination record & pack a first aid kit

If you are on your road trip and your dog either gets sick or needs to be boarded for a day, you will need a copy of your dog’s vaccination records . Usually, a copy on your phone will suffice, but you can also keep a copy in your glove box for safekeeping.

I also recommend traveling with a dog first aid kit which includes an assortment of dressings, bandages, and tools like the splinter picker/tick remover to remove ticks, thorns, or those pesky fox tails from your dog’s paws and body.

3. Give them their own dedicated comfortable space in the car

Don’t pack your car to the brim to the point where you dog has to squeeze between luggage with barely enough room to lay down. Compare that to the middle seat on a 10 hour, oversold flight. No one wants that, and your dog doesn’t either. The more room and dedicated space they have, the better behaved they’ll be.

Bring a  dog bed , a yoga mat , a  blanket , or even a foam sleeping pad  that you can fold in half.

4. Use positive reinforcement & reward your dog with treats

A well-trained dog is going to be easier to road trip with than a dog that is constantly misbehaving. We’ve trained our dogs using the positive reinforcement technique . What that means is when they do what they are told, we reward them with a treat.

For example, when Charlie first jumps up in the van, he gets a treat which shows him that getting in the van without being coerced is what he’s supposed to do. Then if we stop at a gas station, and he goes to the bathroom, he gets a treat. Then when we call him back into the car, and he jumps in, he gets another treat. On the road, if we are eating lunch in the car, and he sits quietly in the back without begging, he gets a treat.

Over time, they learn to simply do that desired behavior, treat or not, but when you first begin to road trip with your dog, positive reinforcement with treats is a helpful tool.

5. Always give your dog access to water

Your dog shouldn’t have to wait until you stop for gas to get a drink of water. Get a small stable water bowl that you can put on the floor by your backseat and let them drink at their leisure.

6. Don’t ignore their bathroom needs on long drives

If you have to pee, your dog does too. Even if you are in a hurry to get to your destination, you need to take a few extra minutes whenever you stop to let your dog out to do their business. Just like humans need to get out and stretch their legs on long drives, so do dogs. Do a couple of quick laps around the parking lot with your dog to make sure they’re not just sitting in a car for hours.

7. Get toys that will last

Quality toys are an important thing to pack and this is a dog road trip tip that is often overlooked. Toys help keep your pup occupied and provides mental stimulation. Charlie destroys his toys pretty quickly. He loves ripping them apart and spreading the stuffing all over everything, leaving a mess for us to clean up. When we road trip, we try to bring toys that are more durable, so they don’t fall apart one day into our trip.

A few toys I like to keep on hand are a  frisbee ,  ball , or another toy (consider a  glow in the dark one  for nighttime stops). If your dog is into fetch, a quick way to get a lot of exercise is a chuck-it ball thrower . You’ll throw the ball much further than you can with your arm, meaning the dog runs a lot further in a shorter period of time. Plus with the chuck-it, you won’t have to touch that slobber-covered ball with your bare hands.

8. Find the local dog park

When you arrive in a new town, an easy way to blow off your dog’s steam is to stop by the local dog park . They will be bursting with energy, and it’s a good way to socialize them as well. Not sure where to go? This website has listings for nearly every town, and I’ve found them to be fairly accurate.

9. Camp rather than stay at hotels

Camping gives your pup more space to roam and can often be easier than finding pet-friendly hotels. While many campgrounds allow dogs on leashes, we prefer to dispersed camp so Gumbo and Charlie can be off-leash and have more freedom.

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10. Bring a collapsable crate for your hotel stays

For those times when you do stay at a hotel or Airbnb, a crate is a great tool to help your dog feel safe in a foreign environment. Even if you simply don’t trust your dog to not destroy your car when you are in a restaurant, then consider bringing a crate with you on the road trip. A collapsible crate is best because it won’t take up room in your car when you aren’t using it.

You’ll want to practice with the crate before your road trip (ideally when your dog is a puppy). The key is making the crate feel like their home. You can put an old sweatshirt that smells like you inside the crate, along with a few toys to make the dog feel more comfortable. Then use the positive reinforcement method mentioned above when they get into the crate, rewarding them with a treat.  Never use the crate to punish your dog or you will get the opposite result. Here’s a good resource if you are looking for more tips on how to crate train your dog.

11. Know your car is going to get dirty

Dogs are messy little creatures. Some shed, some slobber, and all of them get dirty. There’s no way around it and the best way to deal is to accept it. Don’t get mad at them for being dirty. Hopefully, the dirt means they were having a lot of fun, which is the entire point.

If you are worried about your car, seat covers and a portable car vacuum will go a long way. If your dog tends to roll around in poop or heavy mud, you can carry a short hose in your car and rinse the dog off at the nearest water hookup. Quick-dry towels are also convenient for drying dogs off when they get wet.

12. Know the regulations in your destination

Don’t show up somewhere assuming it’s dog-friendly. Most national parks, for example, have strict regulations about dogs. Pets aren’t allowed on most trails and must be kept on short leashes in campgrounds. If this doesn’t sound like the kind of vacation you want to have with your dog, go somewhere else . The bummer is when you don’t do the research ahead of time and show up after a long day of driving only to find out your dog isn’t allowed.

If you are dead set on a destination that isn’t dog-friendly, look on Yelp for highly-rated dog boarding services near the place you are visiting or find a local dog sitter on Rover. For example, during our ski vacation in Sun Valley, we dropped Charlie off at doggie daycare for the day while we skied, and it only cost us $20. We came home tired, and so did he.

13. Don’t leave your dog in the car on a hot day

The inside of your car gets hot when left in the sun on a summer day –   if it’s too hot in the car for you to be comfortable, it’s also too hot for your pet.  Be aware of this and don’t leave your dog sitting unattended for a long time in the heat . Use your common sense. Dogs can die in cars and you don’t want to lose your best friend to carelessness.

If you must leave them for a few minutes, crack the windows and you might even consider putting a portable battery-operated fan in your car to keep them cool. Reflective windshield covers also help keep the temperature down in your vehicle.

14. Pick up after your dog

Don’t be the jerk who doesn’t pick up after their dog. Not only is it gross to look at, or worse, step on, dog poop pollutes waterways. We like to keep a hearty supply of poop bags in the car so we are always prepared to pick up after our dogs.

15. Be aware of wildlife

We just got back from road tripping in Yellowstone, where it was very important to abide by leash laws at the campgrounds. Our campground host told us that bears and elk often strolled through camp, and the last thing we wanted was Charlie loose and barking at a bear. The point is you should know about the local wildlife and make smart choices so your dog doesn’t end up a bear’s next meal.

Are we missing any dog road trip tips? Or do you have questions? Share in the comments below !

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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17 Comments

I’ve been traveling with my dogs for most of my adult life, starting when my now 52 year old No. 1 Son was about 2 1/2. Your points are well taken.

On providing water, the best water bowl I’ve found is called a Water Hole Pet Dish. It’s probably available elsewhere, but I’ve bought several from Camping World, http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/water-hole-pet-dish/3496 . It can be kept full and doesn’t spill (unless it gets dumped upside down). Conveniently, it holds about the same amount of water as a Nalgene bottle.

On bathroom breaks, every dog I’ve had has been easy to train to “go piddle” on command. That’s the next step after house breaking. Whatever term one wants to use, like every other training word, it’s necessary to be consistent. It really helps to shorten the rest stops, by telling the dog what needs to be done, rather than just relying on the smells of the dog walk area.

We like to think that our dogs should just do what we want because they love us, and to an extent, that’s true, but I agree with you that most training is more successful if there’s a reward. My current best friend, Molly (13+ year old Golden Retriever), is so conditioned that as soon as she comes in from outside, she expects a biscuit and will stand by the biscuit jar for a long time if nobody reacts. Same in the car–as soon as she comes back in from doing anything we’ve asked, she expects a biscuit. It works. Although I’ve always had bigger dogs, I buy small biscuits, so that there aren’t too many calories coming just from biscuits.

I enjoy your emails and blogs.

Thanks for this, it’s very useful! Were currently planning a 2-week road trip with our one-year-old dog and a puppy. We’re used to doing 6-8hr trips with dogs but spending that long in a van with two pups will be interesting. I need all the tips I can get!

What an informative list of great suggestions for traveling with your dog! I train and take care of dogs every day and you came up with some suggestions that I wouldn’t have thought of. I will be sharing this information with one of my clients that’s planning a road trip with their dog. As a trainer, if you don’t mind me adding to your tip about using positive reinforcement, when you reward a dog with a treat you should always give verbal praise a second before delivering the treat. The praise will eventually elicit a conditioned response that will feel as good as getting the treat.

Thank You, Neville Mistri http://www.doglifepro.com

Thanks for the advice that it’s best to keep my dog’s vaccination record in hand in case he gets sick during a road trip. Since I just got him, I think I’ll take him to a professional to have his vaccines taken care of. I got him from a shelter last week, and since the people in the shelter are giving vaccinations for a fee, and I had no money that time for one, I had to postpone his injection in the meantime, so now I’m looking for a place where I can get some since I have the budget for it now.

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Thoughts on battery powered air conditioners when leaving dogs in the car?

Unfortunately, we don’t have any experience with battery-powered air conditioners.

Really great tips to keep mind to have a good time with the family now that summer is here! Thanks very much.

Excellent tips, especially about being aware of wildlife. We recently camped at Caprock Canyons State Park, where they have free roaming bison, and it was quite a shock to open the RV door and to take our dog out in the middle of the night, only to find that a herd of bison had bedded down just outside our trailer.

Troy and Melissa http://www.Woofthebeatenpath.com

That would make for an interesting middle-of-the-night experience!

I’m taking my Jack Russell with me on a 1200 drive to my parent’s house next week. Two things I would add here is: secure your dog in the car. I have a harness and short attachment lead so I can clip him to the seat. I don’t want him suddenly flying around the car if I have to hit the brakes. Also it will keep him safe when I stop, so he can’t rush out the door when I open it. He’s trained not to, but there are some moments where he can’t resist. Regarding leaving him the car while I hit a restroom or run in for food, I took my Subaru to the dealership the other day, and they set the car so it will keep running while I’m away from it with the fob. I will manually lock the door, flipping the door lock with my finger inside, and then get out. When I come back to the car, I’ll use the small key inside the fob to unlock the door. He can wait a few minutes in locked, air conditioned comfort while I take care of things.

i use a 50′ leash and i don’t pick up crap. Don’t like it, then lump it…

Great list but I would suggest the dogs ride in a well made crate for their safety. No , it might not be quite as much fun for them but it could save their life.

Hi Carolyn, thanks for the tip!

The only thing that I would add is to have a pet first aid kit easily available. You never know what you might need it.

Hi Gretchen, great suggestion. I just added that to our post – thank you!

The ultimate dog-friendly summer road trip guide

Not every dog mom or dad has an easy time leaving their pup behind (hi!). When it comes to summer road trips , why not bring Buddy along for the ride?

For pups that do well in the car (my Frenchie Jaxson loves soothing jams and good vibrations), road trips are a great way to include your canine companion in your adventures.

Unlike air travel, most vehicles provide plenty of room for your pooch. It also provides freedom and flexibility to plan and pivot as you see fit, along with increasingly appealing options when it comes to dog-friendly accommodations .

Still on the fence? We've broken down everything you need to know, prepare and pack so you can bring your favorite tail-wagger along on your next exciting road trip.

Buckle up Fido

The term "precious cargo" applies to more than just the little ones. Ensure your four-legged friend is safe and secure before you leave your driveway. Lucky for you, there's a plethora of options that cater to your dog's security while on the road.

Secure a seat belt

My personal preference is a dog-friendly seat belt, including an actual harness seat belt or seat belt restraints like the EZYDOG. If your dog does well cozied up on the actual seat of your car, this is a great choice. Make sure the seat belt is tightly fastened to the dog and that it properly clicks into the seat belt jack before you get moving.

Use a car seat or booster

Yes, doggy car seats are a thing. These typically also buckle into the seat belt and can be tethered to the dog's harness or collar for a second level of security. Or you can opt for a booster seat like the Kurgo , which also buckles in and offers a bit more space while keeping your doggo in place.

Fasten a hammock

Looking for a cool lounge vibe for your pup by creating a padded cradle to keep your dog contained? Strap up a hammock — also great for keeping dog hair and treat crumbs contained. However, this option is best paired with a dog seat belt because the hammock alone won't secure your pup.

Set up a crate

If you have a larger vehicle with plenty of breathing room and your dog does well crated, this may work for you. Keep in mind you will need to find a way to secure the soft crate so it stays in place. Consider a travel crate that is impact-safe. Note that crating may not be the best option for anxious pups.

Build a barrier

If you have a large dog and an even larger cargo area, you can secure a barrier made of netting or metal bars. This also works if you have more than one dog and a designated section of the vehicle reserved just for them. The cargo bars may keep the dogs from traveling within the vehicle, but they won't secure your dog, so use a seat belt.

Create a comfort zone

Dogs sleep an average of 14 hours per day, which means once safely fastened, your pooch needs a comfortable place to rest and relax while you're taking in the scenery. Make sure your dog has enough space to stand up, turn around and adjust as needed.

A good rule of thumb is to provide a space as large as their standard dog bed. In fact, taking your dog's actual bed is one easy solution. Don't want to take the regular dog bed on the road? Buy one for the trip and let your pup cuddle up in prep so they know exactly what to expect on departure day. Bonus: they'll have infused the bed with not only their scent but familiar ones from inside your home.

Help your dog feel cozy by adding a blanket or a few soft toys.

Breaking down the basics

With so much packing and planning, don't forget the bare necessities, as well as toys and chews that will keep your dog happy throughout your journey.

Necessary accessories

Typically, these include a collar/harness (with current ID tag) and leash, pet waste bags and food and water bowls. Collapsible silicone bowls are also handy and great for excursions.

Soft, plush toys are the safest for road travel. Consider soft toys your dog cannot tear into easily. Perhaps leave the squeaker toys at home, as well as rope toys – both are choking hazards, and no incessant squeaking may preserve your zen mode.

Bones and chews

Stock up on bones, chews, bully sticks and rawhides. However, make sure you stow them for long stops or once you are at your lodging accommodations – these are choking hazards, too. Fillable cones like rubber Kong toys also fall into this category.

Outdoor toys

If your pup loves playing fetch, make sure to pack tennis balls, frisbees and ball launchers for fenced stops and dog parks.

Related: A comprehensive guide to traveling with pets

Food, glorious dog food

Everybody's got to eat, including Bowser. Dogs consume two kinds of foods: dry and wet. The most convenient food is dry kibble. Many brands sell 5-pound bags, which makes it easy to grab one (don't forget the measuring cup) and keep it with you for a long haul. If you're taking a shorter trip, you can portion the food ahead of time into meals in reusable silicone bags.

In terms of wet food, it should be as easy to purchase the cans or packets you need. However, be cautious of temperature advisories. For example, if your pup takes wet food (or freeze-dried food) that should be stored at or below a certain temperature, you will need to make this accommodation. Pack a small cooler dedicated solely to your dog's food.

If you forget your dog's food, run out or thought you'd be able to purchase it when you arrived at your destination but can't find it, buy a food with a similar ingredient list and arm yourself with one secret ingredient: organic, canned pumpkin.

"The fiber in the pumpkin may help avoid any digestive disturbances the new food may cause," offers Johnna Devereaux, clinical pet nutritionist and director of nutrition and wellness for Bow Wow Labs.

Don't forget about dog treats. You should include these in your food inventory. Also, consider packing some extra to reward your pup for being a good boy or girl throughout the journey.

Additionally, make sure to pack your pup's vitamins and supplements. It's important to keep up with your dog's regular nutritional routine – the road is no exception. If your dog tends to have a nervous belly when traveling, consider ginger root as a solution. "Ginger root may help calm and unsettle stomach and is best given just before departure," Devereaux suggests.

TPG tip : Store the dog food and treats out of range from where your pup will be seated in your vehicle so they aren't tempted by the familiar scent.

Pack an emergency stash

Just like you packed yourself an emergency sustenance stash of protein bars and trail mix, you should the same for your loyal companion. There are a lot of unknowns associated with the open road. You could be delayed by weather or a car issue, and you will need to prepare extra dog food just in case. (I like to pack two additional days of food, at minimum.)

Splurge a little

Obviously, stopping for special treats and indulgent meals is one of the best parts of a road trip. When your pup accompanies you, they should be no exception to the rule. Once you've carved out your route and itinerary, do your due diligence to find some pitstops for Spot. (While the occasional Starbucks puppuccino can be fun, it's best not to make that a daily treat.)

Pet bakeries

For fresh gourmet treats, bookmark these bark-worthy bakeries with outlets nationwide:

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming: Not only will you find gourmet mix-and-match treats, but if your companion could use a refresh, jump into the grooming schedule. Founded in Florida, this barkery now has 200 locations in 18 states, from North Carolina to New Jersey and Colorado to Las Vegas.

Three Dog Bakery : Find fresh-baked treats from "collieflower pupcakes" to eggs-and-bacon-shaped cookies in Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri, Texas, Minnesota and other states.

The Dog Bakery : Want to celebrate your pup's birthday on the road? Order a celebration cake. Or, settle for delicious biscuits, jerky and assortment treat packs with locations across California.

Hotel pampering and doggy socials

Want to spoil your pup? Plan a hotel stay where you can treat your pup to a gourmet meal or just stop for a relaxing dinner at a doggy social club.

Loews Hotels : In addition to a check-in care package featuring treats, bowls, placemats and waste bags, there's a full gourmet room service menu for dogs developed by the hotels' executive chefs. Serve up bow wow tenderloin of beef, a mix of filet, eggs and rice, or chicken puppy bites, tender shredded chicken with carrots.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World : Once you're done devouring Mickey Mouse pops and jumbo turkey legs, order K-9 crudite, the hot diggity dog (scrambled eggs, rice and veal stock), and frozen peanut butter and banana bites for the doggy.

Lazy Dog Restaurants : In Florida, Virginia, Texas and Colorado, this casual dining chain services pup-friendly brown rice bowls with grilled hamburger or grilled chicken.

Boozehounds in Palm Springs , California : This restaurant features dog-friendly outdoor spaces, as well as a dedicated dog menu that includes teriyaki salmon bowls, gazpacho, loaded sweet potatoes and doggie TV dinners.

Pacific Hideaway in Huntington Beach, California : Inside the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort, Pacific Hideaway welcomes dogs on the outdoor patio where they can enjoy three savory menu items: chicken and white rice, fish and sweet potato, and beef and vegetable.

Bark Social in Bethesda and Baltimore, Maryland : This social club for dogs serves craft brews, nachos and pizza for you, and pupcakes, pupsicles and chicken strips for your doggo.

Don't forget the H2O

It goes without saying that water is a necessity for summer road-tripping dogs and humans alike. Even though you may have done your research about your trip ahead, it's likely you won't know much about the water quality at each stop.

According to Illinois-based veterinarian Dr. Allison Pepich, your dog needs a rough estimate of at least 1 ounce of water per 0.5-1 pound of body weight. For example, a 30-pound dog would need between 15-30 ounces of water per day at a minimum, but it could be more depending on their fluid losses throughout the day.

"If they will not drink water while in the car, giving them water at rest stops throughout the journey is recommended," Dr. Pepich said. "The more panting, activity, or just general fluid loss that your pet has, the more water they will need."

Always store a few extra gallons of water in your car — in a cooler is even better.

Avoiding the dehydration danger zone

As the weather warms up through the summer months, Dr. Pepich says dehydration and overheating could be a concern during extended car travel.

"If you feel that your pet is experiencing either, the safest option is to get them to the nearest veterinary clinic for evaluation," she said. "Pets can often mask signs that they are not feeling well, especially if they are already anxious from travel. Watch for signs of reduced energy, poor appetite, not drinking well, tacky mucus membranes (gums), or heavy panting."

A normal temperature for a dog is between 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit, and the most accurate way to check this is with a rectal thermometer – add this to your first-aid kit (more on that below), according to Dr. Pepich.

In order to avoid dehydration and overheating, Dr. Pepich says never to leave your pet alone in the car during travel. Also, keep the car at a comfortable temperature while traveling. If you spend time outdoors, make sure your pet has a cool, shady area to go to for rest. Dr. Pepich also recommends paying extra attention to breeds that may be at significant risk for heat stress. These are typically brachycephalic dogs like French bulldogs, pugs, shih tzus, boxers, Boston terriers and others.

Meds and first aid

Before you head out, make sure you have medication and first-aid options for your pup, too. The Red Cross offers a comprehensive list of what to pack , which includes many household items that will come in handy. Some include latex gloves, gauze, tweezers, a muzzle, rubbing alcohol, antibiotic ointment, a baby-dose syringe, 3% hydrogen peroxide, an emergency blanket, sterile saline wash, petroleum jelly, cotton swabs and needle-nose pliers. As mentioned above, make sure to pack a rectal thermometer for temperature checks.

De-stressing your doggo

Additionally, take extra precautions if your dog tends to get easily stressed.

"There are a few over-the-counter products that can be used for stress reduction during car trips," Dr. Pepich said. "My favorite products are Rescue Remedy and Adaptil pheromone products. You can also use CBD products, but I've found success varies considerably across different products."

If your dog gets carsick, Dr. Pepich recommends using an anti-nausea medication or one aimed at treating motion sickness may help calm their car-related anxiety. Before your trip, discuss prescription anxiety medications for car travel with your vet, "though the specific product prescribed may vary greatly depending on your dog's needs," according to Dr. Pepich.

For the record

Whether digitized or hard copies, keep your dog's latest vaccination records on hand. If your dog is microchipped, make sure you have the ID number and registration information before you leave. Confirm you also have a collar with an ID tag that displays your most up-to-date contact information for peace of mind.

TPG tip : Work in advance to help your dog get comfortable in the car. If there are signs of car-related anxiety, employ a trainer to help desensitize your pup to car trips.

Keep 'em clean

Grooming on the go can be a pain, so make sure your car is stocked with the essentials. You can very easily craft a handy DIY travel grooming kit with these necessities:

Shampoo : Whether your furry friend enjoys regular puppy spa appointments or bath time at home, it's important to pack a bottle of your pup's shampoo – just in case. If your hotel or lodging doesn't happen to have a bathtub or sink to refresh Sparky, opt for a dry shampoo. Test out any new products in advance so you aren't dealing with any unpleasant surprises like allergies or skin reactions.

Wipes : Pet wipes can be a lifesaver when traveling. They're great for muddy paws at a rest stop to avoid caking dirt onto your leather seats and a full wipe-down from outdoor dander, pollen and the elements. Try these out at home before the road trip and opt for scented or unscented based on what works best for the doggy.

Nail clippers : Either a manual tool or an electronic device, a set of dog-friendly nail clippers are handy. Just like human nails, dog nails and dewclaws (essentially the thumbs and big toes) can split while adventuring and be painful for your pup.

Toothbrush : It's important to stay up on your doggy's dental hygiene. Grab a small travel-size toothbrush for longer trips.

Scissors : While you may pack these for your own emergency kit, you can also use them to remove fur tangles on long-haired dogs.

Dog waste bags : Do the math on the length of your trip and how many times your dog does his or her business per day to determine how many poop bag rolls you need. Pack a couple of extra rolls for any surprise messes along the way.

Related: The 15 best dog-friendly hotels in the US you need to know about

Bottom line

Don't let hitting the road with your favorite furry friend intimidate you. There may be plenty of prep work, but once you're en route, it will be worth it.

Dogs make amazing summer road-trip companions, whether heading out solo, as a couple or even with the kids. With so many dog-friendly lodging, activity and dining accommodations, there's no reason to board your bestie or spend hundreds on a dog sitter this summer.

The best part about dog-friendly road trip travel is that you never need to "ruff" it because everything is accessible along the way. So, what are you waiting for? Rev up, hit the cruise and lift that sun "woof."

Related reading:

Top pet-friendly Marriott hotels for animal lovers World's top pet-friendly Hilton hotels for animal lovers 8 things to consider before flying with your pet Your pet travel primer: Answering questions about vaccination records, EU pet passports and how to find dog-friendly restaurants

Car Travel with Dogs: Plan the Perfect Road Trip!

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: March 28, 2024

Categories Traveling with Dogs , Gear and Clothing , Planning , Travel Tips

You’re planning a monumental road trip, and you’d love nothing more than to bring along your favorite canine companion to share in your adventures.

Should you do it? Will your dog cause problems, make your life miserable, and suffer from incredible boredom sitting in the car day after day?

Whether or not you should road trip with dogs depends totally on you, your dogs, and your lifestyle, but I promise that fabulous, inspiring road trips have been achieved with adventurous dogs since the invention of the automobile.

While I won’t be the one to tell you that car travel with dogs is easy, I will absolutely advocate for traveling with dogs in the right circumstances.

We have taken numerous road trips with our dogs over the years and currently travel with our two amazing black labs, Flynn and Malinda. They love riding in the car, exploring new places, and checking out the best restaurant patios.

Kind of like us!

For the most part, dogs love traveling, and there’s no doubt that your pup cherishes time with you above everything else, so let’s try to make it work.

First, let’s decide if car travel with dogs is right for you and your favorite companion.

You Should Absolutely Take a Road Trip With Your Dog if…

• You have room in your car, RV, or camper .
• Your dog enjoys traveling and doesn’t get car sick.
• Your pup is up-to-date on vaccinations.
• Your dog responds to basic commands and is socialized to people and other dogs.
• You are passionate about an active lifestyle.
• You are willing to do some research to find lodging and restaurants that will accommodate your dog.
• You are willing to skip over attractions and destinations that aren’t dog-friendly.
• You are able to make arrangements so that your dog does not have to sit in a hot car while you shop, eat, or explore.
• You’re planning on staying at campgrounds and doing a lot of hiking, swimming, and other activities that are just more fun with dogs.  

You Should Think Very Carefully About Car Travel with Dogs if…

• Your dog won’t have much room in your car, RV, or camper.
• You don’t think you’ll have time to give your dog the exercise and attention he needs.
• Your dog doesn’t respond to or follow basic commands.
• You plan to spend a lot of time in big cities, national parks, or other destinations that aren’t dog-friendly.
• Your dog gets car sick.
• Your dog loves being at home and you have someone who is willing to care for him.

You Should Definitely Not Travel with Your Dog if…

• Your dog is aggressive with people or other dogs.
• Your dog is not trained and hasn’t been socialized.
• Your dog suffers from anxiety or another illness that would make traveling painful for both of you.

Every dog is different, and it’s important to think carefully about logistics before planning a road trip with dogs. If your dog is up for the adventure, and you’re willing to plan your trip around your dog’s needs, I say go for it!

If the thought of adjusting every aspect of your trip around your dog makes you cringe, you may want to reconsider, but as far as I’m concerned, most road trips are simply better with dogs!

To plan a successful road trip with dogs, it’s important to consider your pup’s needs from the very beginning. We have had the best luck road-tripping with dogs on vacations that focus on outdoor activities, at least in part.

Outdoor vacations work for us because our whole family prefers being outside. That’s not to say that you can’t plan for other indoor-based activities while road-tripping with your dog, it will just take a little more work.

Here are some planning tips that will help you plan for a fabulous dog-friendly road trip. 

Where to Stay with Your Dog on Your Road Trip

The biggest piece to the road-tripping puzzle, whether you travel with dogs or not, is deciding where to stay.

If you’re road-tripping in the USA, you will be happy to know that hotels and other accommodations are becoming more and more dog-friendly. There are even hotel chains where pets always stay free.

Where you choose to spend the night with your dog on your road trip will depend a lot on the level of comfort you want and the price you’re willing to pay, but here are some great ideas for lodging with pets while traveling. 

Camp with Your Dog Inside Your RV or Camper at a Campground

If this is your situation, you’re in good shape. Your dog can have free run of the camper, can be left alone, provided that it’s not too hot, and will be able to frolic in the great outdoors with you by his side.

Taking an RV or camper on a road trip with your dog is a win-win for everyone involved, and will probably create the least hassle too.

Camp with Your dog Inside a Tent at a Campground

 Tent camping while on a road trip is an inexpensive way to see the country, and it’s probably our favorite way to road trip with dogs. We prefer car travel to RVs, and we often travel on a budget.

When tent camping, both dogs and people get plenty of exercise, which makes long days on the road much more tolerable. There are, however, a few downsides to tent camping with dogs.

Have you ever slept in a tent with a wet dog? I promise you, this won’t be high on your list of favorite activities !

The other thing to know is that most campgrounds don’t allow you to leave your dog unattended, which means, for better or worse, your furry friend will be by your side on every excursion you take.

Still, tent camping is our favorite way to stretch a dollar while road-tripping , whether we’re traveling with dogs or not. 

Camping may not come naturally to your dog, so I recommend doing some trial runs close to home before setting out on a camping road trip with your dog.

Also Read: The Complete Guide to Camping with Dogs

Stay with Your Dog in a Cabin at a Campground  

Cabin camping with dogs is an option well worth exploring, especially if tent camping seems a bit overwhelming. Many park cabins don’t permit dogs, but over the past few years, it’s been easier to find dog-friendly spots.

Be sure to do your research ahead of time, and you may find some great options for you and your pooch. 

Stay with Your Dog in a Dog-Friendly Hotel

 If you’re just passing through, any hotel or motel that allows dogs will serve its purpose, but some places go above and beyond, making your dog feel like the family member that he is.

Bringfido.com helps you search for dog-friendly lodging, and it’s available as a mobile app so you can find hotels on the fly.  

Our favorite dog-friendly hotel chain is Kimpton, where dogs always stay free, and there are no size or breed restrictions. Kimpton Hotels go above and beyond to make you and your dogs feel welcome. 100% worth paying a little extra!

When staying with dogs in a hotel, we always bring a crate and we always ask for a room on the ground floor so we can get in and out easily. 

Stay with Your Dog in a Vacation Rental

There are some real benefits to staying in vacation rentals (like Airbnb or VRBO ) when traveling with dogs, especially if you plan to spend more than a single night in the places you visit.

We love having a kitchen to cook our meals, and being able to occasionally leave our dogs behind so that we can go to museums, shopping, etc.

Dog-friendly vacation rentals make traveling a little bit easier, but the cost is often higher than staying in a hotel.

Bonus: staying in a vacation rental with your puppy is also a great learning opportunity that can help pups grow into confident, well-mannered dogs.

What to Pack for Car Travel with Dogs

Planning and packing for your dog-friendly road trip is part of the fun (at least for me it is). Here’s everything you need to keep your dog happy and healthy on the road.

• Dog food – Ask your dog, and he’ll tell you that his food is the most important thing for you to pack. If you’re taking your dog on a long trip, you may also want to buy a special dog kibble carrier, which will keep odors down and help you save room on your road trip. 
• Vaccination information – Many hotels and campgrounds require that you provide them with your dog’s most up-to-date vaccination records. Don’t leave home without them. You don’t need a hard copy, just take a photo of the records and keep them on your phone.

• Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention – No matter where you travel, there’s a good chance you’ll run into biting insects, and ticks that carry Lyme disease are now found in 49 states. Whatever method you use for prevention, be sure to pack it when you road trip with your dog. 
• A travel bed – If you have room in your vehicle, your dog’s regular bed from home will be just fine. If you’re short on space, check out this awesome dog travel bed from ChuckIt! , which comes with its own stuff sack. This bed is one of our best purchases. It’s cheap, water-resistant, and washable, and your dog will feel more comfortable knowing he has is own space when you stop for the night.

• Bones and toys – Bones are great for chewing in the car, and balls and toys can be useful when you reach your destination. What you buy will depend on what your dog enjoys, but our labs never outgrow their Nylabones and Benebones. 
• Food and water bowls – They don’t take up much space, but if every square inch counts, check out the Kurgo collapsible travel bowl . It’s totally packable and perfect for hiking and canoe trips too.
• Poop bags. For obvious reasons.

Tips for Car Travel with Dogs

Take some of the stress out of your road trip by planning for what to do if your dog gets sick or lost while traveling. Here are a few tips for car travel with dogs.

• Make sure your dog wears his tags . The tag should include your name, address, and phone number. Don’t forget to include your cell phone number in case your dog is lost on the road.
• Keep your dog leashed or under your voice command at all times. Traveling can be a stressful experience for your dog, and even dogs that stay close to you at home may wander when traveling. That’s why it’s extremely important to keep your dog leashed at all times. Well-trained dogs that respond immediately to your voice command will earn more freedom, just use your best judgment.
• Get your pooch microchipped. According to Petfinder , only 22% of lost dogs that entered animal shelters found their way home to their families, while 58% of microchipped dogs were reunited with their loved ones. A microchip is no bigger than a grain of rice, but it could save you and your dog a lot of heartache at home and on the road.
• Prevent car sickness. Did you know that mild cases of nausea and car sickness can be prevented with ginger snaps? This was news to me, but our shepherd puppy just couldn’t deal with the long, winding roads that we love. Someone recommended ginger snaps before long car rides, and our pup has been fine ever since. I recommend one a half hour before travel, and another when you get in the car.
• Keep your dog safe while driving. According to the Whole Dog Journal , the safest way to travel with a dog in the car is by securing them in a dog travel crate.  in the car for your dog is within a secure crate or a harness restraint in the back seat. If you have room for a crate in your car, this is definitely what we’d recommend. Here are some dog travel crates to choose from for your next road trip.
• Don’t have room for a crate? Use a seat belt harness – We travel in a small car, so we have never had room for a large travel crate. Instead, we use a seatbelt harness with our dogs, which keeps them restrained while we’re driving. 
• Get plenty of exercise. This will make long trips bearable for you and your dog. Start each morning with a brisk walk, jog, swim, or hike together. Take shorter walks throughout the day, and another vigorous romp before bed.
• Chew toys make car rides a lot more fun. Dogs are like toddlers sometimes — they can get bored and antsy in the back seat. Protect your sanity, and perhaps your seat cushions, by investing in a stash of chew toys for the trip. Whether your dog loves real bones, Nylabones, or Kongs stuffed with peanut butter, you can keep a stash of his favorites hidden away. When things start to get dicey, break out the goods. Everyone will be happier for it .

For Those Times When You Need a Break from Your Dog

Depending on the nature of your road trip, there’s a good chance you’re going to encounter places that just aren’t dog-friendly.

National parks come to mind, although we’ve visited several of them successfully with dogs. Dogs aren’t welcome in most amusement parks, zoos, shopping centers, museums, and many other places.

Big cities can be hard to navigate with dogs too. Does this mean you have to forgo all these potentially exciting destinations or leave your dog at home? Of course not.

You can easily make use of pet sitters along the way. Rover is the Airbnb of the canine world. Their network includes more than 15,000 sitters across the United States. To make use of this incredible resource, simply create an account before you hit the road, and search by zip code when you need a sitter.

Whether you’re heading to Disneyland for a weekend or just a day in the big city, Rover will match you with the perfect dog sitter at prices that are often cheaper than traditional kennels.

Final Thoughts on Car Travel with Dogs

Embarking on a road trip with your dog is a truly rewarding experience, provided you’ve planned ahead. The important thing is to make accommodations that reflect your pup’s needs.

A trip that focuses on outdoor adventure will probably garner the most tail-wagging, but when it comes down to it, your dog just wants to be by your side.

Read more tips for adventuring with dogs:

• The Complete Guide to Canoeing and Kayaking with Dogs
• Everything You Need to Know About Camping with Dogs
• Our Best Tips for Snowshoeing and Skiing with Dogs
• Summer Adventures are Better with Dogs

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Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

Monday 30th of May 2022

I'm glad you mentioned to think about of where you're going will be good for your dog. I love to take my dogs everywhere but last year went on a trip to see wild horses in Northern Colorado and left my dog at home. Having a dog while approaching wild horses wouldn't have been smart. The ground had a lot of small cacti which would have been horrible in her feet. I had no regrets leaving her home. I spent a year trying to figure out how I wanted to roadtrip with my dog.

9 Dog Friendly U.S Road trips

Explore the top 9 dog-friendly U.S road trips with your furry friend! Tips on accommodation, parks, and keeping your pup happy on the go. Perfect for pet-loving travelers.

Your dog is your companion, your friend and boy do they love a good road trip! There head out the window with the wind in their hair, most dogs love a great road trip across the U.S.A.

However, it can be difficult finding the most "Dog friendly hotels" & dog friendly parks in the U.S.A, many simply will say no to your pooch. Also, it's good to know some tips to stop you from going barking mad along the way!

Can you take a dog on a road trip?

Lots of dogs suffer from car sickness, so a top tip is to  feed your dog  a few hours before you set of on your road trip! Then take your dog your a nice, long walk so he/she is tired & relaxed ready to hit the road.

Dog friendly Road Trip USA

On the road trip try and remain as consistent as you would at home with walk/mealtimes, it will keep your dog in a better pattern, ready to travel.

What can I give my dog on a road trip?

Before setting off, put your dog in the back seat or cargo area. Pet them, praise them and  give them treats  if they look nervous. Make it fun & not forced.

Should I sedate/Drug my dog before setting off?

Sedating/drugging your dog/pet is not necessary, some choose to do this if they are flying with there dog...but precautions should be taken either way. According to the  American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA ) , "sedating dogs or cat during air travel may increase the risk of heart and respiratory problems.

Except in unusual circumstances, veterinarians should not dispense sedatives for animals that are to be transported. Speak to your veterinarian before hand.

Dog Friendly Road Trip USA

Which type of Road Trip should I take my dog on?

Shorter road trips, with lots of scenic nature around are the ideal road trips to take your dog on.

These are great as you can pull up anytime and take a wonderful walk through a national or state park! I would prefer to stay away from big cities to be honest, but it can be done!

Top 9 Road Trips with your dog:

9. montana road trip:.

Montana is heaven for Dogs! With plenty of nature & breath taking scenery its the ideal place to hop out of the car for some hiking with your dog!

A. Missoula

Begin your road trip in  Missoula,  a college town with a heap of dog friendly accommodation & restaurant patios.

Afterwards take the drive 50 miles north to the  National Bison Range  in  Dixon,  MT. Here your and your doggie friend can take the 2 hour loop through scenic meadows & hills.

Jack Dykinga | Wiki

This is the ideal place to do some wildlife watching. You & your pooch can spot birds, bison and even the odd bear!

Dog Road Trip Tip:

While driving through the National Bison range there are plenty of place to park up and enjoy a walking trail where your dog can go to the toilet. (Dog must stay on its leash)

C. Big Fork,Montana

Nearby to Dixon is the town of Big Fork MT, located on the northeastern edge of Flathead lake. Here you can enjoy some fine dining (dog patios), camping & canoeing around the lake. There is also some great hikes through  Flathead National Forest.

D. Glacier National Park

Finish of your road trip with a drive north to Glacier national Park and take the epic  Going to the Sun Road  which runs for 50 miles.

pray-lake-Glacier National Park

Insider Tip:

Going to the Sun Road  opens when the snow has melted, which sometimes doesn't happen till late july so aim for road trip later in the summer.

Dog Road Trip:

Dogs aren’t allowed off-leash at Glacier National Park, but you’ll see the best scenery in the park from the comfort of your car.

8. Great Lakes Road Trip: Chicago, Michigan

There are some epic great lakes loop tours, but I would recommended starting in dog friendly Chicago before driving up the eastern shore in Lake Michigan and then looping through Indiana before reaching the  dog hiking trails  of Michigan. This is a great midwest road trip where you will get to see most of the great lakes!

There is also plenty of  State Parks within 1 hour of Detroit.

The Haunted Tunnel of trees Michigan, is a ghostly drive.

Round Barn Winery, Distiller & Brewery

As you drive over the state border between Indiana and Michigan, be sure to stop by   Round Barn Winery, Distiller, and Brewery  for some drink tasting.

Dogs are allowed to explore the area on a leash.

As you drive father north, check out   Sleeping Bear Dunes  close to the town of Glen Arbor. At this state park, you & your dog can enjoy some nature walks, with view of lake Michigan.

7.  Chicago to Iowa Road Trip : Wicked Mid West!

Another great Midwest road trip you can combine with the above is from Chicago to Iowa. This will take you to the following stops along the way.

• Iowa City, Iowa
• Bonus: Amana Colonies

Dog Friendly highlights:

For Hiking on a series of historic & scenic trails at the  Mines of Spain state Recreation area.

dog road trip usa

Davenport (Dog Road Trip Heaven!)

Drive South on a scenic drive along the Mississippi River to reach Davenport City. Davenport was founded in 1836 and is known as a very green city with  pleathora of 50 local parks! These are great for walking your Dog!

Credit Island:

Credit Island is a island on the Mississippi to the south west of Davenport. This was an historic native american trading area and spans 420 acres!

These days it’s a vibrant community park which offers its own golf course including rugby, soccer and softball areas.

Credit Island-Davenport Iowa

Vander Veer Botanical Park

Vander Veer Botanical Park is a lush 33-acre botanical garden. It was established in 1885 and features a range of displays.

Location:  215 W Central Park Ave, Davenport.

Terry Trueblood Recreation Area (Iowa City)

A 5,870 square foot  recreation area   great for dog walking and it even has a large lake great for Kayaking & paddle boarding.

Map of Chicago to Iowa Road Trip (Dog Friendly)

6. dog friendly new england road trip.

New England is perfect road trip area for your dog! Here you will find plenty of states with short driving distances in between and plenty of dog friendly attractions along the way!

• Portland, Maine
• Dog Mountain, Vermont.
• Newport, RI
• Martha Vineyard, MA
• New Haven, CT

A. Portland, Maine:

Begin your road trip in Portland Maine, where you and your dog and hop on a  ferry  to explore all the nearby islands.

Afterwards head northwest to New Hampshire before stopping at the  White Mountain National Forest  for some dog-friendly  hiking  (on leash) and camping.

B. Dog Mountain, Vermont

Afterwards continue driving towards Vermont before stopping at the world renowned  Dog Mountain   this is a farm and art galley in St Johnsbury with plenty of scenic trials, ponds, sculptures and even a Dog Chapel!

Alan Sandercock | Wiki Commons

Many choose to leave a note for a previous dog which has passed away & is in doggie heaven.  The entire area is DOG FRIENDLY all year round!

Dog Friendly Lodging?

For one of the most Dog friendly lodges you will ever see head to the  Paw House Inn , a farm country inn which catering to dogs and their owners

Fun Fact:  Paw House actually charges a $10 fee to anyone staying  without  a dog!

Afterwards, take the drive to Boston and head to its most famous food halls,  Quincy Market,.  Here you will find which houses nearly 40 gourmet food vendors. Just 10 mins walk from there is Faneuil Hall, in Bostons little Italy district.

Dog Friendly Road trip usa

D. Newport, Rhode Island

Take the drive down to Newport road island to the Dog friendly Brenton Point State Park. Here you and your pooch can sit back and watch the  kite flyers.

E. Marthas Vineyard

Take the drive to beautiful Marthas Vineyard here you can check out dog friendly activities in Edgartown:

• Edgartown  Lighthouse.
• Norton Point Beach.
• Manuel F. Correllus State Forest.
• South Beach State Park.
• Kalmus Beach. Barnstable, MA.
• Craigville Beach. Centerville, MA.
• Island Queen Ferry. Falmouth, MA.
• Black  Dog  Tavern.  Vineyard  Haven, MA.

Brando | Wiki Commons

F. New Haven

East rock park.

You & your pooch can check out the epic views of New Haven from East Rock Park. You can drive right up to the summit and take in the breath taking scenery. This is especially beautiful during the fall.

Map of Dog Friendly New England Road Trip:

5. route 66: with your dog.

We can't have any road trip post without including Route 66!  There is a section of the route which still exists this will take you from Chicago southwest to Los Angeles. The southwest is the most memorable part!

It can really hot in the South so DON'T leave your Dog unattended in the Car and its even recommended you take your road trip during the cooler month.

Enroute be sure to check out the dog friendly  Big Texan  in Amarillo, Texas. A retro restaurant (great steaks!) with an adjacent motel. they welcome well behaved pets.

Route 66 is the number one most Iconic American road and Historic Legend.[/caption]

Also enroute be sure to check out  Petrified Forest State Park , where leashed dogs are welcome to explore the trails and backcountry with their owners. Remember to bring lots of water!

For more on Route 66, check out:  25 Most Epic Driving Roads in the U.S.A: Road Trip Ideas!

4.  New York to Niagara falls Road trip

If you fancy exploring New York State with your Dog I would recommended a road trip to Niagara Falls.

I would avoid New York city though! They recently introduced a law where if you wish to take your dog on the subway it must fit inside a bag! Classic New Yorkers saw this as a challenge so started to cut holes in giant bags for very big dogs!

A. Gilbertsville (Otsego County)

Enroute to Niagara be sure to drive through Gilbertsville (Otsego County) and head down to  Wagner Farm State Forest  offers with over 450 acres to stroll through.

However, be aware that  hunting & trapping allowed during appropriate seasons in designated areas, so keep your dog on a lease if your unsure or ask the visitors centre/warden.

B. Milford ( Otsego County )

Just nine miles south of Cooperstown and just a 20 minute drive from Oneonta, NY, you will find Milford. You and your pooch should head down to  Middlefield Orchard , for some Raspberry, strawberry and apple picking!

C. Coopers town  ( Otsego County )

Cooperstown  in Ostego County is a quaint village area which packs a big punch in New York state. Baseball fans will know the town as home of  National Baseball Hall of Fame  which celebrates the legendary players & managers from yesteryear.

The best place for dogs is  Glimmerglass State Park ,  a 593 acre park which offers year round activities including swimming and camping on the wood lined shores.

D. Fly Creek:

Fly Creeks lies just 4 miles (6 min) drive north west of Coopers town. The town was founded by Dutch traders who harnessed the power of the fast moving creeks by building 8 mills in the 19th century.

Be sure to check out  Fly Creek Cider Mill,   which is 163 years old and still open to visitors today. There is also the Cooperstown Beverage Trail and variety of tasty restaurants.

E. Richfield Springs ( Otsego County )

As you drive out of Coopers town or cherry valley be sure to take the drive to  Canadarago Lake  which is just one mile south of the village,  this is known as the second cleanest lake in NYS, and is 7 miles long/2 miles wide.

Unknown | Wiki

Insider Tip:   Head to  Deowongo Island  in the center of the lake for a picnic & some exploring.

F. Worcester, NY

Small town Worcester offers a indoor flea market, quilt zoo and quaint 1 screen theatre (Wieting Theater).  Decatur State Forest  spanning 582 acres and is the perfect place for hunting, bike rides and picnics.

G. Go wild at Seneca County

Drive west into New York’s Seneca County, and be sure to check out  Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge  an area which offers of 10,000 acres of swampland and has been a national landmark since 1973.

H. Finger Lakes

Take the short drive to the Finger Lakes Regions where I suggest you spend a few days.

Fun Fact:  The name “ Finger Lakes ” comes from the finger shape of two lakes Seneca and Cayuga, which are some of the deepest in the US.

I. Niagara Falls

You & your dog have now made it to the wonderful Niagara Falls!

• Niagara Falls is over  15,000 years old,  formed just the last  Ice age
• The  Largest Fall (Horse shoe falls)  is on the Canadian side 176 feet / 53.6 meters high.
• 600,000 U.S. gallons / 2,271,247 litres per second  flow over Horse shoe falls.

Are Dogs allowed at Niagara Falls?

Yes, Dogs are allowed at Niagara Falls, however there are a couple of conditions. Dogs need to be leashed and rabies vaccinated. You can walk your dog along the footpaths & green spaces.

3. Western National Parks Road Trip

On the West Coast of the U.S.A, are some of the most epic National Parks which stretch from Sequoia National Park and Yosemite National Park in the south west, to Olympic National Park & Mt Rainer National Park in the north west.

Cost Saving  Tip:

If you plan on traveling to alot of National Parks then I suggest purchasing a “America the Beautiful Pass” which renews annual for $80. This pass will get you into every national parks and also into any federal lands which charge fees.

You could explore any of americas western National park for an eternity with your dog! Here are some ideas below!

A. Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

With over 6.38 million visitors in 2018, Grand Canyon National Park is the MOST popular National Park in the U.S.A.

Aerial Photo over horseshoe river at the Grand Canyon. Awe-inspiring!

Are dogs allowed at the Grand canyon National Park?

According to the  NPS :  Pets  must be leashed (up to 6 feet) at all times. On the South Rim, leashed  pets  are allowed on trails above the rim, Mather Campground, Desert View Campground, Trailer Village, and throughout developed areas.  Yavapai Lodge  is the only in-park lodge that has pet friendly rooms.

B. Yosemite National Park – California

Yosemite National Park is a real west coast highlight, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, it is best known for it’s massive sequoia trees and the granite cliffs of El Captain & half dome! Head up to the famed cliffs and you will find an incredible glacier valley with majestic waterfalls.

Yosemite-National-Park-[/caption]

Are dogs allowed in Yosemite National Park?

Dogs are allowed in Yosemite National Park. However, there are some restrictions & regulations, dogs are allowed on fully paved trails and roads, on a leash 6 feet or shorter, and cannot be left unattended.

C. Crater Lake National Park – Oregon

Crater Lake National Park, is Oregons only National Park and they are so proud of it! Highlights include the deepest lake in the United States (Crater Lake) (1,949 feet) which is also the ninth deepest lake in the world!

"Phantom Ship" rises above the surface of Crater Lake. | By Glenn Scofield Williams, via Wikimedia Commons.

Are dogs allowed at Crater lake National Park?

According to the  NPS  dogs are welcome at Crater Lake National Park, but only in certain areas. Pets are not allowed on other park trails or off-trail. They are also not allowed inside park buildings, including Crater Lake Lodge and The Cabins at Mazama Village.

D. Olympic National Park/National Forest – Washington

As we drive further up the north west we enter the Olympic National Park. One of the most diverse in the United States. Here you can find everything from glacier clad mountains such as Mt Olympus to vast expanses of wilderness, rainforests and even secluded beaches!

Are Dogs Allowed at Olympic National Park?

Though much of the peninsula is pet friendly, the trails in the Hoh Rain Forest  do  not allow  dogs!  However, you should head to the  Dog Friendly Olympic National Forest , where dogs on a leash are welcome!

E. Mt Rainier National Park – Washington

We’ve left the biggest till last at 14,410 feet above Sea level Mount Rainier is one the  tallest peaks in the United States. ..it is also an ACTIVE volcano.  Mount Rainier National Park offers the most glaciated peak in Contiguous U.S.A. In addition to wildflower meadows, five meandering rivers, ancient forests and an abundance of wildlife.

Mount-Rainier-National-Park. Source: the great ww.beyondthetent.com[/caption]

Are dogs allowed at Mount rainier National Park?

Dogs are not allowed on trails, or in any buildings. However dogs on a leash are allowed on the Pacific Crest Trail near the park's eastern boundary.

2. California State Park Road Trips

State Parks are generally more relaxed when it comes to dogs compared with National parks. However, alot of them tend to state "Dogs on leash" and "Paved Road Only" just so your aware. However, often there is dog friendly areas very close by to these great parks. Here are some of the most Dog Friendly state parks.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Julian Pfeiffer Burns is probably the biggest bang for buck State park in California. After just a short 1/2 mile round trip along  Waterfall Overlook trai l, you will find a fantastic oceanfront views and jaw dropping views of the cascading McWay Falls. The water falls over 80 feet from the granite peak to the bottom.

julia-pfeiffer-burns-state-park-California

Are Dogs allowed at Julian Pfeiffer Burns state park?

At Pfeiffer Big Sur SP (four miles south on Highway 1),  dogs are allowed on leash  in the developed  campground  and  day use areas . Dogs are also allowed on United States Forest Service (USFS) property, including Pfeiffer Beach.  Source

Salt Point State Park

A great fusion between the land and sea, Salt Point State Park offers 6000 acres of wave carved cliffs & headlands stretching along the Sonoma Coast, 95 miles north of San Francisco.

Are dogs allowed at Salt Point state park?

Dogs of all sizes are allowed at the campgrounds  and in any of the developed areas. Dogs are not allowed on the trails or on the beaches, and they must be inside at night. There is no additional pet fee.

1. Road trip to  Woofstock!

This has to be the most Dog Friendly Festival in North America! Its designed to celebrate all things great about your pooch, so a road trip here, is the ideal place to go.

Dubbed as one of the best festivals in Canada and winner of numerous awards, Woofstock is a barking mad, fun packed event which draws thousands from all over North America.

Over 200,000 people from all over the U.S and Canada ascend upon Woodbine Park in Toronto for this annual two day event with their furry friends!

Peace and Love at Woof stock Dog Festival!

According to Melissa Granite, from Woofstock:

“Woof stock is to celebrate dogs as companions in our lives and, as well, bring together a community of people who are passionate about dog ownership and looking for the best dog products”

Activities/Events at Woofstock:

There are so many crazy events at Woofstock, from dog fashion shows to dog concert and even a Mr. and Mrs. Canine Canada Pageant!! Other events include:

• Running of the Pugs!
• Best Costume Contest
• Dog Racing Arena
• On-Stage Competitions
• Celebrity Dog Show
• and many more!

For more info check out our ultimate guide to  Woofstock: Largest Dog Festival in North America!

Want a great Car rental deal?

For the best rental car deal for your road trip be sure to check out:

Ultimate Car Rental Travel Hacks!

car rental travel hacks

Have you got everything you need??

Check out our   Travel Essentials .   (Things You can’t travel without!)

• Recommended  Backpacks
• Recommended  Camping Gear
• Recommended  Hiking Boots.
• Recommended  Photography Gear  (Capture Instagrammable photos!)

A high quality Backpack is essential to any traveling trip![/caption]

Wish to Book a trip?

To get the best hotel prices check out:   Hotel Deal Secrets!

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Woof Whiskers

Road trip with a dog: essential tips for a paw-some adventure.

Last Updated: April 15, 2024 by Lisa Melillo

There’s nothing like the road stretching endlessly before you, your favorite tunes playing, and your furry best friend in the passenger seat, head out the window, ears flapping in the breeze. It’s heartwarming too see your dog equally excited for every pit stop and new scent.

But as every seasoned traveler knows, a great journey with your pet requires some savvy preparation. It’s not just about packing your bags—it’s about ensuring your companion is as comfortable and secure as you are. Preparing means thinking of everything from their favorite chew toy to their snug safety harness.

So, ready to learn how to road trip with a dog? Stick with me as I guide you through creating the perfect travel experience for you and your pup. Let’s make sure your next road trip is unforgettable, filled with fun, fur, and plenty of paw-friendly pit stops!

Pre-Trip Preparations: A Tail-Wagging Start to Your Journey

Planning a road trip with your dog isn’t just about mapping your route—it’s also about ensuring your furry companion is as road-ready as you are. Let’s dive into some essential preparations that can make the trip smoother for both of you.

Health Check: The Vet Visit

Before you even think of packing, a trip to the veterinarian is a must. This isn’t just about a routine check-up; it’s about making sure your dog is fit for the journey ahead.

Last year, before a road trip to the mountains, I learned the hard way that my dog needed a tick prevention treatment after finding a tick nestled in her fur—something I’d have missed without a vet’s keen eye.

Discuss vaccinations that might be necessary depending on your destination—like Lyme disease in wooded areas or Bordetella for those frequent rest stop interactions.

Getting Microchipped: A Safety Net on the Road

Microchipping your dog can be a game-changer, especially when traveling. It’s a simple procedure where a tiny chip, about the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under your dog’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades.

This chip carries a unique ID number that can be read by a scanner at most animal shelters and veterinary offices. If your dog ever gets lost, a quick scan can help identify them and bring them safely back to you. It’s a small step that offers a big peace of mind.

After your dog is microchipped, the crucial next step is registering the chip with your current contact information and regularly updating it if anything changes. Many pet owners overlook this, but it’s essential for the microchip to serve its purpose.

Documentation: Keeping It All in Check

I keep a pet travel folder—yes, just like an important documents folder for humans. This includes health records, a recent photo of my dog, and copies of her registration and microchip numbers. It’s like her passport, proving invaluable at dog-friendly hotels or in case of a veterinary emergency far from home.

Desensitization: The Practice Runs

If your dog isn’t used to car travel, start with short jaunts to fun places—think a local park or a new hiking trail. It’s about making the car a gateway to fun, not just a moving box that leads to the vet.

On one of our first short trips, my dog was visibly anxious, pacing in the back seat. Over time, she learned that car rides often end in exciting walks and new smells, which helped her settle down.

Comfort: Their Home on the Road

The right setup is crucial for a calm trip. Test different arrangements to find what makes your dog most comfortable. Is it a crate filled with their favorite cushions, or a seat cover that allows them to look out the window safely? Whichever you choose, ensure it’s secure. Nothing spoils a trip faster than a loose crate sliding at every turn.

Dog Road Trip Essentials: Packing With Purpose and a Pinch of Fun

Heading out on a road trip with your dog isn’t just about tossing a bag and a leash into the backseat. Nope, it’s more like preparing for a furry, four-legged toddler.

From snacks to snooze setups, here’s how to ensure your dog is as well-packed as you are, making the journey enjoyable for everyone involved.

Don’t Skimp on the Snacks and Slumber

• Food and Water : I’ve learned that my dog, like most, can be a bit of a diva about her diet on the road. So, we bring along her regular food plus some canned pumpkin—it’s great for digestion and helps keep any travel-related tummy troubles at bay. Don’t forget a portable water dispenser; hydration is key, especially on those hot travel days.
• Bedding : Just like us, dogs appreciate a comfy place to crash. Whether it’s their favorite fluffy bed from home or a special travel mat, make sure they have a cozy spot to unwind after a day of adventures.

Safety First: Securing Your Sidekick

• Leash and Harness : Always have a sturdy leash and a well-fitted harness . I prefer a reflective or glow in the dark leash for extra visibility when those inevitable late evening or early morning pit stops happen.
• Crate or Safety Restraint : Safety restraints are non-negotiable. A crash-tested crate or a safety belt that clips into your car’s seatbelt system can make all the difference in an unexpected driving situation. Plus, it helps keep your dog from becoming a lap navigator!

Health Kit and Clean-Up Crew

• First-Aid Kit : Accidents happen, so having a first-aid kit for your dog is crucial. Mine includes the basics like bandages and antiseptic, plus a tick removal tool—essential for those impromptu nature walks.
• Grooming Supplies : A brush, eco-friendly poop bags, and a few old towels for muddy paws can make your car a cleaner, more pleasant space. Trust me, nothing’s worse than the smell of wet dog marinating in car upholstery.

Comfort and Entertainment: Happy Dog, Happy Drive

• Toys and Chews : A few well-chosen toys can prevent your dog from getting bored and chewing on, say, your car seats or travel bags. Last trip, we brought a new puzzle toy, and it was a hit—kept her busy and out of trouble.
• Calming Aids : For the more anxious pooch, calming supplements or a pheromone collar can be a game changer. They help soothe travel nerves, making the drive smoother for everyone.

Documentation: Cover Your Bases

• Medical Records and ID : Keep your dog’s medical records and a recent photo on hand in case of emergencies. Make sure their microchip information is up-to-date—this is the lifeline if they ever get lost.

Staying Safe on the Road

Traveling with your dog can transform a simple road trip into an unforgettable adventure. But as every pet owner knows, it also introduces a new layer of responsibility—ensuring the safety of your furry co-pilot.

Ensuring Safe Confinement

Securing your dog in the vehicle is one of the most important safety measures. From personal experience, a properly fitted crate has been a game-changer. It keeps my dog safe from abrupt stops and gives him a private space to feel secure. The crate should be large enough for him to stand, turn around, and lie comfortably.

On the other hand, a dog seatbelt harness offers more flexibility for him to look out the windows, which he loves, while ensuring he’s strapped in safely during the drive.

Many times, choosing between a crate and a harness depends on your dog’s temperament and your travel needs. For longer trips, I lean towards the crate because it allows for the inclusion of familiar bedding and toys, making it a cozy den on the go. For shorter trips, a harness connected to the car’s seatbelt system works well, ensuring he’s safe but also part of the action.

Window Safety

When it comes to windows, the rule of thumb is safety first. Letting a dog hang its head out the window is a popular image, but in reality, it can be quite dangerous. Road debris can cause injury, and the high winds can dry out their eyes or even lead to respiratory issues. I keep the windows only slightly open to ensure fresh air circulation without letting my dog stick his head out.

It’s also important to use child locks or window locks if available, to prevent your dog from accidentally opening the window wider with their paws. This measure helps maintain control over the environment inside the car and prevents any unexpected escapes or accidents.

Routine Stops and Supervision

Planning for routine stops is essential for a road trip with a dog. These breaks are not just for bathroom needs but also provide a crucial opportunity for your dog to stretch and decompress from the journey.

I aim for a stop every two to three hours, which keeps my dog from getting too restless or uncomfortable. During these stops, it’s a good chance to offer water and a small snack, check for any signs of stress or discomfort, and just let him enjoy a little playtime.

Never leave your dog unattended in the car during these breaks. Even with mild outside temperatures, the inside of a car can heat up rapidly, leading to dangerous conditions.

Managing the Environment

Keeping the car environment controlled and comfortable is key to a successful road trip with your dog. This includes maintaining a steady temperature and ensuring good ventilation. Overheating in cars is a serious risk, even on days that aren’t particularly hot. I always make sure the air conditioning or heating is adjusted so that it’s comfortable for all passengers, especially my furry friend.

Additionally, managing noise levels can help reduce stress. I find that playing soft music or even a podcast can soothe my dog during longer drives. It’s also beneficial to keep any sharp noises to a minimum, as these can startle and unsettle your pet.

Finding Dog-Friendly Locations and Accommodations

Planning a road trip with your furry friend in tow means ensuring every stop and stay caters to both your needs. Here’s how to make sure every step of your journey is pet-friendly.

Researching Dog-Friendly Spots

Before you hit the road, a bit of research can ensure you and your pup are welcome wherever you stop. I use apps like BringFido and websites like DogFriendly to scout ahead for pet-welcoming establishments. These tools have been invaluable, helping me find everything from cafes and parks to beaches that welcome wagging tails.

Here’s what I usually look for:

• User Reviews : They can reveal the true nature of how dog-friendly a place is.
• Amenities for Pets : Like complimentary dog bowls and dog treats.
• Surrounding Area : I look for nearby parks or trails for quick walks.

Last year, we stumbled upon a great little diner that offered a special menu just for dogs. It wasn’t just the novelty that made it memorable, but also how the staff went out of their way to accommodate us. It made our stop a refreshing break on a long drive.

Booking Accommodations

Finding the right place to stay with your dog requires more than just ticking the ‘pet-friendly’ box. Here’s a quick checklist for booking accommodations:

• Pet Policies : Always confirm the specifics as some places have restrictions on size, breed, or number of pets.
• Pet Fees : Check for additional charges so you’re not caught off guard.
• Facilities for Pets : Look for places with special pet areas or services.

On our last road trip, I booked a place through a popular travel site known for its pet-friendly filters. However, calling ahead saved us from a potential mix-up regarding their newly implemented pet weight restrictions.

Handling Emergencies and Other Potential Situations During Road Trips With a Dog 

No matter how well you plan, traveling with your dog can sometimes throw you a curveball. From health scares to unexpected detours, being prepared can make handling these situations less stressful.

Preparing for Health Emergencies

Even the healthiest pets can face sudden illnesses or injuries. Carrying a well-stocked pet first-aid kit has been a lifesaver on more than one occasion. Beyond the basics like bandages and antiseptics, I include items specifically for my dog, like styptic powder for nail injuries and a spare tick remover.

Before we leave, I always make sure to locate the nearest veterinary hospitals along our route and save their contact information in my phone.

It’s also a good idea to have a basic understanding of pet first-aid procedures—I’ve attended a couple of workshops, and the knowledge has given me much more confidence on our trips.

Once, my dog began acting lethargically after a hike; thankfully, I was able to quickly contact a vet for advice using the numbers I had saved. It turned out he was just dehydrated, but knowing I could get help fast made all the difference.

Navigating Non-Medical Emergencies

Not all road trip snags are health-related. Here are some examples of what you should prepare for:

• Extreme Weather Conditions : Dogs can be particularly sensitive to extreme temperatures. For instance, very hot or very cold weather can pose significant health risks to your dog if not managed properly. Ensuring your dog has a comfortable and safe environment, such as adequate cooling or heating in the car, is crucial.
• Car Breakdowns : If your vehicle breaks down, the stress and danger of being stranded on the roadside are heightened when you have a dog with you. It’s important to keep your dog restrained and calm while waiting for help, and ensure they have shade and water if you’re stuck for a prolonged period.
• Getting Lost : Losing your way can be more problematic when your dog needs regular stops for exercise and bathroom breaks. Delays caused by detours or getting lost can disrupt your dog’s routine and cause anxiety or discomfort.
• Traffic Delays : Unexpected delays due to heavy traffic or accidents can extend the time your dog is confined in the car, which might lead to discomfort or distress. Planning for frequent breaks and having water and snacks accessible can help manage this.
• Running Out of Supplies : Especially on long trips, you might find yourself running out of essential supplies like dog food , water, or medication. This can be a significant issue if these items aren’t readily available on your route.
• Encounters with Wildlife or Stray Animals : If you’re stopping or staying in rural areas, the presence of wildlife or stray animals can pose unexpected threats to your dog. Ensuring your dog is on a leash and monitored at all times during breaks can prevent dangerous interactions.

Tips for Protecting Your Car on a Road Trip With a Dog

Taking your dog on a road trip can be a blast, but it can also be tough on your car. Here’s how to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape while accommodating your furry friend.

Use Seat Covers or Blankets

One of the simplest ways to protect your car’s upholstery is to use durable seat covers or blankets specifically designed for pets. These covers prevent scratches, dirt, and fur from getting embedded in your car seats and are usually waterproof, which helps in any accidents or spills.

Invest in a Pet Hammock

A pet hammock not only provides a safe and comfortable space for your dog in the backseat but also protects the floor and back of your front seats. It creates a barrier that stops your dog from climbing into the front seat, which can be distracting and dangerous while driving.

Keep Windows Scratch-Free

Dogs often get excited and may paw at windows, which can leave scratches. Consider using a protective film on the windows that your dog can reach. These films are clear, so they won’t obstruct your view and will keep your windows looking pristine.

Regular Cleaning Routine

Even with all the right equipment, your car will likely get dirtier than usual. Establish a routine to vacuum your car regularly, focusing on removing pet hair and any dirt tracked in during the trip. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to pick up any lingering fur or mud.

Air Fresheners and Odor Eliminators

Dogs can bring all sorts of smells into a car, especially on long trips. Use air fresheners or odor eliminators designed for pet odors to keep your car smelling fresh. Some products can be placed under seats or in cup holders to continuously combat odors without overwhelming the cabin with strong scents.

FAQs on How to Road Trip With a Dog

How long can a dog go on a road trip.

The length of time a dog can comfortably spend on a road trip varies depending on the dog’s age, breed, and health. Generally, it’s recommended to stop every 2-3 hours to let your dog stretch, use the restroom, and drink water. This not only helps to keep them comfortable but also reduces stress and anxiety.

How do I keep my dog calm on a road trip?

To keep your dog calm during a road trip, consider using calming aids such as a pheromone diffuser or calming treats. Make sure their travel space is comfortable with familiar blankets or toys. Regular exercise before and during the trip can also help reduce anxiety and keep your dog more relaxed.

Should I feed my dog before a long car ride?

It’s best to feed your dog a light meal 3 to 4 hours before departing on a long car ride. Feeding your dog right before leaving can cause motion sickness. Always provide access to water and consider packing snacks, especially for longer journeys.

Do dogs get tired from long car rides?

Yes, dogs can get tired from long car rides, similar to humans. The constant motion can lead to fatigue. Ensuring that your dog has a comfortable space to rest, taking regular breaks, and keeping the car well-ventilated helps minimize tiredness and keeps your dog comfortable throughout the journey.

Where should a dog sit in a car?

The safest place for your dog in a car is in the back seat, secured with a crash-tested safety harness or in a travel crate that is anchored. This setup protects both your dog and passengers in the car by minimizing distractions for the driver and securing the dog in case of sudden stops or accidents.

Make Every Mile Count 

Heading out on a road trip with your dog? It’s all about making sure you’ve got everything packed, knowing your dog’s needs, and being ready for anything that might come up. It’s not just about seeing new sights; it’s about creating fun and happy memories with your furry friend right beside you.

Honestly, there’s nothing quite like sharing the adventure of a road trip with your dog. Just remember to keep things safe and comfy for them, and you’re set for an amazing time. Here’s to smooth roads and tail wags, making every mile count on your journey together!

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How to Road Trip With Your Dog

Going on a road trip with a dog is not as easy as it sounds. The road-tripping experience can be a fun adventure both for you and your dog, but you need to know and prepare for challenges you might experience along the way. Keep reading to learn more!

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Important Things to Consider When Planning a Road Trip With Your Dog

There are things that your dog will need during the road trip. For instance, you will need to stop for a while whenever your dog needs to take a potty break or stretch his legs. You will also need to take care of your dog’s stress level, hunger, and medication during the long drive.

Here are some challenges you might experience when bringing your dog on a road trip:

• Regular exercising . When staying at home, your dog needs exercise every day. During a road trip, your dog will also need some exercise, so you will need to make a stop once in a while to play and stretch.
• Potty breaks . Potty breaks are important during your road trip, even more so if you are bringing your dog with you. Taking regular potty breaks will ease the stress level of your dog, so he can feel comfortable throughout the drive.
• Health problems . Your dog might have some health problems that you need to tend to from time to time. It’s important to pay even more attention to your dog’s health during your road trip, including bringing essential medications for your dog if necessary.
• Safety precautions . You need to pay special attention to your dog’s safety during the road trip. It’s best to put your dog in the back seat with a safety dog sling or hammock to keep your dog feeling comfortable during the trip. When possible, always use a seatbelt for your dog. Keep your dog in its seat when you need to take a quick break at the gas station. Never let your dog out of the car without a leash.

Checklist to Prepare Your Dog for a Road Trip

It’s important to prepare for your road trip ahead of time to ensure that there won’t be problems you need to deal with during the long drive. A fun road trip can be ruined for you and your dog if you haven’t made the appropriate preparations for your and your dog’s comfort and safety.

• Supplements . If your dog takes supplements (for joint support, anxiety, etc.) it’s important to bring them along to prevent stress and discomfort.
• Blankets . Your dog needs to feel safe and comfortable during the road trip, and bringing along the blankets your dog often uses at home will help your pet feel more comfortable. They can also keep your dog warm during the night.
• Exercise toys . You will need to stop and rest from time to time, and this is a great opportunity for you to exercise your dog. Thus, you should prepare some exercise toys for your dog so your pet can stay active during the road trip.
• Hammock or car seat . Installing a hammock or other safety device in the back seat can help your dog feel relaxed during the long trip ahead. By using a hammock in the car, you will also make it easier to clean the back seat after your trip.
• Pet care essentials . You will need to bring various pet care essentials to keep your dog comfortable during the trip. This will include food, cleaning kits, water, medicine, toys, etc. These are the tools you can use to keep your dog feeling comfortable during the long journey.

Important Tips for a Smooth Road Trip With Your Dog

Your road trip can become a very frustrating experience if you don’t do the necessary things to keep your dog feeling comfortable throughout the journey. Please note that dogs have distinct personalities. Some dogs might enjoy road tripping with you, and they might feel happy throughout the journey. However, some dogs might feel annoyed and anxious when their owner is taking them on a road trip. So, how can you ensure a smooth road trip experience?

• Monitor your dog’s stress level . Your dog can become anxious during the trip, which will lead to stress for you both. When your dog is stressed, it can cause many problems during the long drive. You need to monitor your dog’s stress level and keep your dog relaxed and comfortable during the trip.
• Take frequent breaks . You should have frequent breaks during your road trip, as it can help you refresh your mind from time to time. Having frequent breaks also means that you have plenty of time to play with your dog during the trip. It will also give your dog enough time to eat, drink, and relieve himself.
• Ask your vet for advice . You should ask your vet whether your dog is healthy enough for a road trip. If your dog has medical problems, it can add more stress to their journey. Make sure your vet can give them the all-clear before you plan your trip.
• Practice road-tripping ahead of time . You should practice taking your dog for some simple drives before the actual road trip. You can take your dog on some quick trips a few weeks before the actual road trip. This way you can learn what makes your dog feel comfortable during the journey.
• Use a route your dog will love . There are plenty of pet-friendly routes you can take during your road trip. Road tripping with your dog is best when you pick the route that your dog will love. By driving along pet-friendly routes, you can stop at pet-friendly places, which will make road tripping with your dog a fun experience.

Road Tripping with Your Dog: Frequently Asked Questions

• How long can a dog be in a car for a road trip? You should stop at least every few hours when you have your dog with you during a road trip. This strategy will keep your dog feeling comfortable during the trip, and you can also take some breaks during your long driving session.
• Are long road trips bad for dogs? Most dogs tolerate travel very well, but it depends on your dog’s condition. Long drives can be bad for your dog if he has certain medical conditions. It’s best to ask your vet for advice if you have concerns.
• How often should you stop on a road trip with a dog? You should take frequent breaks when traveling with your dog. Stop at pet-friendly rest areas throughout your trip. It’s also good for you to take a break every few hours as well.

Road tripping with your dog can be a challenge, but by following the tips in this guide, some of that stress just might be eliminated. The most important thing is that you keep your dog feeling relaxed and comfortable during the long journey. Have a wonderful road trip!

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14 Tips for Road Tripping With Dogs

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This article lists invaluable tips for road tripping with dogs.

Dogs are “man’s best friend” – and it’s no wonder why. They provide companionship, comfort, and love.  Dogs also offer a sense of security in times of need. They can even be trained to do all sorts of things to help people with disabilities or special needs. It’s easy to see why road tripping with dogs sounds like a great idea.

It’s not always so straightforward, unfortunately. Dogs can become anxious in unfamiliar situations. There are also different rules to know about, depending on if you’re in a rental car or taking a different mode of travel.

The good news is there are some easy ways to prevent anxiety and stress when road tripping with dogs – for both you and them!

Here are 14 invaluable tips for taking a road trip with a dog.

[Taking a road trip with the family? Don’t forget your Family Road Trip Packing List !]

Bring Plenty of Water and Food

Keep your pets tags updated, use a leash, travel with anti-anxiety treatments, keep your furry friend close, take them out before the trip starts, make sure your pup is vaccinated, keep your road trip with dog short, take familiar items on your road trip with dog, make frequent stops.

• Don't Forget the Disposable Bags

Use Your Common Sense

Stay positive, compile your resources, tips for road tripping with dogs [taking a road trip with dog].

It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to feeding your pet during a road trip with dog. It may turn out that you can’t find a meal or water station and it’s not worth the risk of your dog becoming dehydrated or suffering from low blood sugar. Bringing extra water and food is the top tip for road tripping with dogs.

When road tripping with dogs, be sure your pet is wearing appropriate identification at all times. Nothing runs a road trip with dog faster than losing your furry friend. Have up-to-date tags with both your contact information and their microchip ID. Also, consider using a temporary pet tag displaying any important information just in case their regular tag gets lost.

Your furry friend should always be kept on a leash during your road trip with your dog – especially in public places. They are more likely to bolt in an unfamiliar place and, because it is a new scene, get lost. Help avoid this while road tripping with dogs by always using a leash. If your dog is constantly straining against the leash or trying to break free from you, try using a harness instead.

If your dog gets anxious around new people, places, or animals, consider packing a dose of anti-anxiety medication [ex. Xanax for dogs]. Please don’t attempt to sedate your pet without first consulting with their vet. Their guidance is imperative to make sure you’re administering it safely and responsibly. They’ll be able to tell you exactly when and how to use the medication.

It’s also important that you’re aware of any potential side effects before doing it on a road trip with dog. Tammy Hunter, DVM, advises: “Be sure to provide a dose at home as a “dry run” ahead of your trip in order to know how your dog will react to the medication.”

More natural options are available too! Try using herbal calming treats that are made with hemp. [Again, please run this by your vet before feeding this to your four-legged family member.]

Dogs love running off ahead of their owners, chasing after squirrels, and exploring everything they can get their paws on at every turn. Even more so during a road trip with dog! However, it’s best to keep your pet close to you at all times while traveling. It may be difficult for your dog to adjust to new environments and situations if he’s allowed to dawdle around, sniff every single corner of a place or dart off after another animal.

Before heading out on a long trip, or even a short one, take your pup for a quick walk so they can relieve themselves and have some fun outside. Getting rid of excess energy before departing will help reduce the risk of motion sickness as well as accidents during transportation. No one wants an unexpected mess!

You should also allow plenty of time between getting ready and leaving. It can take your dog a while to get comfortable with the interior of a vehicle, especially if they’ve never experienced riding one before.

Dogs should be kept current on all necessary vaccinations before travel. This means having your dog’s rabies vaccine up to date as well as making certain his other vaccines are good for the period you’ll be gone. Some dogs will also need their anti-tick and/or anti-flea medication administered, depending on where you’re headed. Don’t forget to bring proof of their vaccination on your road trip with dog too!

While taking an extended vacation may sound like fun for you and Fido, try limiting your trips to 2-3 days at most. At least initially while getting used to road trips. It takes dogs several hours to adjust themselves to a new environment, and the longer you stay with them the more stressed out they’ll become. Once your pup and you are experts at road tripping with dogs, you can stretch your travel to longer durations.

Road tripping with dogs life hack: pack multiple copies of your dog’s favorite toys along with a plush bed or small blanket that smells like home to help them feel comfortable during their trip. You may also want to have something of yours on hand for him, such as an old T-shirt or sweatshirt so he can sleep with it at night in case your sleeping arrangements are separate. It will help calm them while you’re away.

Stop for potty breaks every couple of hours at a minimum. If you’re stopping more frequently than is needed, you’re probably making the right amount of stops. Bonus points if you can take your dogs for walks or playtime during the trip too before getting back on the road! It will help with their rest and reduce restlessness and upset.

Don’t Forget the Disposable Bags

Disposable bags have all kinds of uses when you’re taking a road trip with a dog. Need to scoop poop? Disposable bag. Doggie have an “upheaval” in the car? Disposable bag. Need to store all the toys and treats? Disposable bag. They can really come in handy during your road trip so be sure to pack them in the car.

If there are specific rules set out by your destination that prohibit certain breeds of dogs from entering, don’t try smuggling Fido in. Chances are they’ll be turned away at the door. If it’s incredibly hot and you’re at risk for dehydration, then your dog is too. Same for extremely cold weather. Just be prepared to make decisions on your dog’s behalf that are for their benefit by using your common sense.

Your pup will take a lot of cues from you and will follow your lead. The more calm and collected you are, the less stressed they are likely to be.

Don’t go on your road trip with dog unprepared! Make a list of contact numbers for pet care facilities in the area you’ll be visiting ahead of time so you can quickly find someone who can assist if needed. Make note of emergency vets, local dog parks, and pet boarding facilities.

Road tripping with dogs doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Follow these invaluable tips for your road trip with dog to make the most of your trip. Whether you are just taking them out for an afternoon or if they are coming along for an extended vacation, these tips will help keep Fido feeling safe and loved no matter where he goes!

Photo by Jimmy Conover on Unsplash

Montoya (Monty) Hudson is the founder and primary voice behind The Spring Break Family. She has created informative travel content for families since 2018 by providing practical advice, easy to follow itineraries, and addressing the real challenges of family travel. Since the creation of her family travel blog, she's inspired thousands of families to travel the world with their kids.

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Ideas for dog friendly road trips

By Roadtrippers

The open road beckons us, just like wide open spaces beckon our furry friends to roam free. That’s why we’re gearing up for dog-friendly road trips this year. 

There are many travel options for dog-friendly road trips, but they demand careful planning to ensure you sleep in pet-friendly spots, walk where Fido (or Freya) can join you, and ensure safety over the road.

Let’s dig into dog-friendly road trips — how they work, the best trips to take, and ways to keep everyone safe. Note: This article focuses on dogs because most pet travelers have canine companions, but the majority of these tips will also apply to #AdventureCats. Heck, even pet iguanas, micropigs, ferrets, and many other animal kingdom members can road trip with these planning tips. 

Things to think about for dog-friendly road trips

The key to a successful pet-friendly road trip is to properly plan for safety, stays, and stops . Let’s see how to do that:

Safety first

It’s never a good idea to let pets roam free in a moving car. Snag a crate or a pet safety harness to protect your pets from trouble along the road. 

Don’t leave pets unattended in your car, and tote lots of water to keep fur friends hydrated on your journey. 

And we know you’ve seen tons of photos of doggo hanging their head out the car window, but don’t let yours do that. It’s dangerous and dries out their eyes. 

Car time management

Your pet has more legs to stretch than you do. Plan extra stops to get them running around. Also, don’t leave furball unattended in your car. 

Pack snacks for all living creatures on your road trip to keep everyone happy and energized.

Plan out dog-friendly hotels and restaurants

Autopilot™ is our pet-friendly road trip planner that can help you map out these stops. If you tell Autopilot™ that you’re traveling with pets, it’ll use data from over 38 million real-life road trips to find pet-friendly recommendations along your route.

It’s important to gather information ahead of time about any pet fees or other pet restrictions at lodging and camping along your route. Many hotels won’t let you leave pets unattended while you’re out for the day, so be sure to check that too. 

Restaurants can also be tricky due to health codes. Search for grub spots with outdoor patios, and always double-check if pets are allowed.

Veterinary needs

Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date before the trip. Bring the vaccination card with you, as authorities may ask for it. 

Save your Vet’s number in case anything happens along the way, and scope out animal clinics anytime you stay in one spot for more than a few days.

Ideas for dog-friendly road trips

Road trips are (usually) more fun when every living creature under your roof tags along. Here are some of the best ideas we’ve found for pet-friendly road trips:

Pet-friendly national park adventures

National park pet rules vary widely from park to park. Parks like Glacier have to protect their native species and guard against bear encounters, so pets are generally prohibited there. On the other paw, Maine’s Acadia National Park is widely regarded as one of America’s most dog-friendly national parks, featuring over 100 miles of trails you can walk with your fur ranger.   

This all boils down to national park road trips being great for pets if you pick the right parks to visit. That’s why we put together this guide for enjoying dog-friendly national parks .

And here’s a road trip we built featuring all dog-friendly national parks:

Pet-friendly state park scampering

Pet-friendly state parks are excellent options for road trips that roam closer to home. Like national parks, pet rules vary from park to park on state lands. 

Here’s a road trip we put together with some of our favorite pet-friendly state parks:

Also, check out this guide on the best state parks in America to find a pet-friendly option near you.

Pet-friendly campgrounds

Where you stay can be one of the best parts of the journey, especially if you park at pet-friendly campgrounds that offer dog parks, nature trails, and more. Campgrounds and RV parks like these can enhance your road trip as you build lasting memories along the dog trails and around the campfire.

Our pals over at BringFido built this guide to campgrounds in every state that offer fur-friendly amenities . 

Autopilot™ by Roadtrippers can also help you build a circuit that features the best pet-friendly stays along the way. 

Dog-friendly hiking and backpacking

Road trips and the outdoors go hand in hand. Tackling the trail with doggo in tow enhances the experience of reconnecting with nature. That’s why road trips with pet-friendly trail excursions are a fun bet. Here’s how to safely hike with pets , and check out AllTrails’ list of the 10 best dog-friendly trails in the U.S.  

Dog-friendly car museums

For a slightly wacky (but fitting) road trip idea, check out these dog-friendly car museums along your route . We can think of no better way to celebrate road-tripping than to make a pit stop at these spots honoring the bygone days of muscle cars, the adrenaline-pumping history of drag racing, and the origins of the automobile itself. 

And here’s another trip we put together featuring the coolest car museums in the U.S. (give these ones a call to check on dog-friendliness):

Dog-friendly small towns

If you’re road-tripping from the city, small towns are a splendid escape for you and your animal pals. The right picks feature fun history, spacious parks, cool culture, and dog-friendly vibes. 

Check out these guides we put together for small-town road trips in every region of the country. 

Autopilot™ , our pet-friendly AI trip planner, can help with this too. 

Dog-friendly island hopping

America has a surprising number of inland and seaside islands. While you’ll usually have to ditch the car to head to the island itself (although some islands offer car ferries), road trips and island jumping make for a fun combination. 

Spots like Blennerhasset Island and Mackinac Island are inland lands that are nonetheless surrounded by water on all four sides. 

Blennerhasset is uber dog friendly, featuring fun trails, the dog-friendly Blennerhasset Hotel , and the pet-friendly Parkersburg Brewing Company.  

Mackinac Island is the iconic Great Lakes island where cars can’t roam, but dogs can. 

Seaside islands like Jekyll Island, GA , Block Island, RI, and the San Juan Islands in Washington are well-known dog-friendly trotting grounds. 

Dog-friendly road trips are a breeze with proper planning. Pet-friendly trip planners like Autopilot™ can help take the guesswork out of this process by using info from real-life trips taken by real-life pet owners. We hope the tips above help you take a tail-wagging journey very soon.

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Road Tripping With Your Dog: 15 Vet-Approved Essentials

Image Credit: Jimmy Conover, Unsplash

Last Updated on June 19, 2024 by Dogster Team

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When you think of road trips, you may have the image of a pup sticking their head out of a car window and enjoying the breeze. Many dogs love car rides, and they often make the best travel companions. They usually would love nothing more than to spend all day on the road with their favorite people.

Road trips can be fun and memorable experiences for both canines and humans, but they do require extra planning when pets are involved. To make the process easier for you, we compiled a list of the essential supplies that you’ll need to enjoy a safe and stress-free road trip with your dog.

The 15 Essential Road Tripping Supplies

Food & feeding supplies, 1. portable food bowls.

• Our Pick: Dexas Popware for Pets

Having a set of durable travel food bowls makes all the difference when road-tripping with dogs. These types of food bowls are easy to clean and are often collapsible, so they don’t take up too much space in your car.

We recommend the Dexas Popware for Pets food bowl  set because it keeps your dog’s food and water bowls all in one place. The set is just 0.2 inches thick when collapsed and is dishwasher safe. So, it’s easy to clean, and you don’t have to worry about keeping track of multiple bowls while you’re traveling.

2. Dog Water Bottle

• Our Pick: Highwave AutoDogMug Portable Dog Water Bottle & Bowl

It’s important to keep your dog well-hydrated during your travels. A dog water bottle ensures that your pet has easy access to water, whether you’re on the road, camping, or taking a break at a rest stop.

The Highwave AutoDogMug Portable Dog Water Bottle can hold up to 20 ounces of water. It comes with a water bowl that attaches to the top of the bottle. When you squeeze the bottle, water will gather in the bowl, and your dog can drink from it easily. This bottle also comes with a convenient strap that enables you to clip it to bags or carabiners.

3. Portable Mini Fridge

• Our Pick: AstroAI Mini Fridge

A portable mini fridge is a must if your dog eats wet or fresh dog food. It’ll ensure that your dog’s food stays fresh while you are on the road and significantly reduce the risk of food poisoning. Mini fridges come in several different sizes, but most should be able to hold a few days’ worth of dog food.

The AstroAI Mini Fridge is an excellent choice for road trips. It has a compact design and comes with a car adapter so that it can continue to run while you are driving.

Treats & Toys

4. dog treats.

• Our Pick: Full Moon Natural Cuts Slicked Chicken Jerky

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Part of the fun of road trips is snacking while you drive. So, make sure to pack your dog’s favorite treats so they can join in on the fun. Dog treats can help turn road trips into positive experiences for your pet and can be used to keep them near you while you’re out exploring new areas.

Full Moon Natural Cuts Slicked Chicken Jerky is the perfect road trip treat for dogs. It is made with all-natural ingredients and contains limited ingredients. Your dog won’t even give your snacks a second glance when they’re munching on these tasty treats.

5. Plush Toy

• Our Pick: KONG Cozie Baily the Blue Dog Toy

Road trips are often easy for dogs because they can spend up to 50% of their day sleeping and 30% of their day loafing around. It’s usually not that difficult to have your pet keep still inside your car if they’ve gotten exercise beforehand.

Still, your dog may appreciate having a plush toy as a travel companion. They can snuggle with the toy or play with the squeaker if they are bored. The KONG Cozie Baily the Blue Dog Toy is a great travel companion, as it’s both extremely soft and durable. It’s the best playtime and napping buddy.

6. Calming Chews

• Our Pick: Zesty Paws Hemp Calming Bites

Some dogs may feel a little anxious on their first road trip because it’s a brand-new experience for them. Calming chews can help them stay relaxed as they get used to driving for longer distances.

Zesty Paws is a reputable brand known for making all kinds of supplements. These calming chews contain natural ingredients that have calming effects, such as ashwagandha and suntheanine. It also comes in a tasty peanut butter flavor that dogs enjoy eating.

7. Nausea Medicine

• Our Pick: Pet OTC NausX Medication for Motion Sickness

Some dogs may feel motion sickness if they’re in the car for too long, so it’s helpful to bring nausea medicine with you on road trips. Just make sure to consult your veterinarian before giving it to your dog, as it can interfere with other types of medication or have side effects.

NausX is one of the most common nausea medications for dogs. It has fast-acting ingredients and can help prevent nausea when taken 30 minutes before driving. It can also provide up to 6 hours of comfort and has an odor-free formula.

Travel Safety Supplies

8. car seat belt.

• Our Pick: SunGrow Cat & Dog Car Leash Elastic Seat Belt & Restraint

Car seat belts are essential for long road trips. You never know what type of terrain your car will drive over, and seat belts will ensure your dog stays safe in their seat. They’ll also reduce distractions for you while you’re driving so you can focus on the road and get to your destination safely.

We recommend the SunGrow Cat & Dog Car Leash Elastic Seat Belt & Restraint because it’s extremely durable and comfortable for dogs to wear. It has adjustable nylon straps that fit most small to medium-sized dogs. It also has an elastic bungee that absorbs shock and allows your pet to shift from sitting to lying down with ease.

9. Car Seat

• Our Pick: HDP Deluxe Lookout Dog Booster Car Seat

Car seats are beneficial for small to medium-sized dogs. They keep them in a safe enclosure and prevent them from falling off their seats. Dog car seats come in several different designs. Some are made with mesh, while others have more cushion and are made with softer material.

The HDP Deluxe Lookout Dog Booster Car Seat is a safe choice for most dogs because it has a see-through design that gives dogs a clear view of their surroundings. It has a sturdy metal frame and plush mesh padding that will keep your pet both safe and comfortable. It also has a safety strap that attaches to any type of harness or collar.

10. Dog Travel Bag

• Our Pick: Mobile Dog Gear Week Away Tote Pet Travel Bag

While dog travel bags can be expensive, they’re definitely worth the investment if you plan to travel with your dog frequently. They keep all your dog’s travel supplies in one place so you don’t have to worry about losing any items while you’re on the road.

The Mobile Dog Gear Week Away Tote Pet Travel Bag  is a great example of a high-quality dog travel bag. It has space for two food bowls and lined carriers that you can use to store food and treats. There’s also plenty of extra room for water, toys, and other pet supplies.

11. Poop Bags

• Our Pick: The Original Poop Bags Compostable Dog Poop Bags

It’s important to bring a few rolls of doggy poop bags on your road trip. Along with picking up after your dog, they can serve as last-minute storage bags or disposable bags for any trash that accumulates in your car.

Since poop bags get used up so frequently, we recommend choosing eco-friendly varieties that are made with recycled materials or are biodegradable. The Original Poop Bags Compostable Dog Poop Bags are an excellent eco-friendly choice. These large, durable bags are made with plant-based material and have handles that make tying easy.

12. First Aid Kit

• Our Pick: KURGO First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats

As the old saying goes, “Always be prepared,” and that goes double when it comes to safety. You wouldn’t take a road trip without your medications and a basic first aid kit, and that should apply to your dog too. You can create your own kit, or there are numerous ready-made kits available to buy. KURGO First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats is a great basic first aid kit that won’t take up a lot of room in your bag or car. If you plan to take your dog on numerous adventurous trips and long hikes, it might be worth investing in a kit with a wider range of materials, but this one is a good starting point.

Just make sure you always have a supply of any medications your pet is on, your vet’s contact information, and the numbers to poison advice hotlines.

If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet . It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

Grooming & Cleaning Supplies

13. paw wipes.

• Our Pick: Hepper Wash Wipes

You never know what kind of mess your dog may get into during a road trip. So, it’s worth bringing a pack of paw wipes on your road trip. These will help your car stay clean and free of any dirt or mud that gets stuck on your dog’s feet.

We recommend the Hepper Wash Wipes because they can be used to spot-clean any part of your dog that gets dirty. They’re made with a soft and durable material that picks up dirt from your dog’s paws easily. The formula is also made with moisturizing ingredients to prevent dry skin and irritation.

14. Dry Shampoo

• Our Pick: Hepper Waterless No Rinse Pet Shampoo

It’s unlikely you’ll have quick access to a bathtub when you’re on the road, so it’s important to bring dry dog shampoo with you. While it won’t deep clean your dog, it can help keep odors at bay, especially if they’ve rolled in something smelly.

The Hepper Waterless No Rinse Pet Shampoo  has a powerful yet gentle formula that deodorizes and freshens up your dog’s coat without irritating it. It’s free of harsh chemicals and has a pH-balanced formula that moisturizes and nourishes the skin and coat.

15. Hairbrush

• Our Pick: Boshel 2-in-1 Dog Brush & Hair Remover

Bringing a hairbrush will prevent mats and tangles in your dog’s coat and remove any dirt and debris. Brushing your dog during a road trip will also reduce the amount of hair that gets stuck in your car seats.

When traveling, you can save space by bringing a two-in-one brush. The Boshel 2-in-1 brush has a pin brush on one side and a rubber surface on the other side, which has nubs that can pick up loose dog hair from car seats and clothes.

Investing in high-quality dog travel supplies will make a huge difference on your road trip with your pup. They make traveling much easier, and the best kinds of travel supplies will help you save space while keeping your dog safe. Being as prepared as possible will help reduce stress and allow you to be in the moment to create fun memories with your pet. So, make sure you set aside time to plan with gathering your essential dog road trip supplies so you and your dog can enjoy many happy days on the road together .

• See Also:  What to Pack for a Dog on a Road Trip

Featured Image Credit: Jimmy Conover, Unsplash

About the Author

Jessica Kim

Jessica is a freelance writer who spends bigger part of her day researching and writing while her furry companion Cavapoo , Nora, snoozes beside her. She loves dogs, pets and animals because there’s so much to learn from them, and they do so much for us. As a dog mom, she understands the strong connection that pet parents have with their pets. So, she loves sharing helpful information that pet owners can use to better understand their beloved pets. When she isn't writing, you may find her walking dogs, tending to her plants, or drinking her nth cup of coffee.

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Road Tripping with Your Dog: The Ultimate Guide

The easiest way to travel with your dog is to go on a road trip together. But if you haven’t yet taken a road trip with your dog, it can still be quite daunting. How do you keep your dog secure and what can you do if your dog gets car sick? I take through all the tips you need to have a fun and enjoyable dog-friendly road trip.

Choosing a Vehicle for Your Road Trip

The easiest vehicle to take on your road trip with your dog is your own vehicle. Your dog will already be familiar with the vehicle, and so will you! But what if you don’t have a car or your vehicle isn’t suitable for a road trip?

You might instead consider hiring a vehicle for your road trip. If you are hiring a car and plan to take your dog in it, double check in advance that the car rental company allows pets in their vehicles. Depending on where you are in the world, not all do. For instance, many car hire companies in Australia don’t allow pets in their vehicles .

Alternatively, you might be interested in hiring a campervan or RV for your road trip. There are many advantages to having your own RV, including having your own accommodation, with no need to find pet-friendly hotels! Find out more about RVing with your dog and tips on hiring a pet-friendly campervan in Australia .

Make sure you carefully look after your rental vehicle. Ideally use a bed, blanket or car seat for your dog to sit on and protect the seat upholstery. Clean the vehicle of any dog hair before returning it.

Where to Stay on Your Dog-Friendly Road Trip

Most commonly when travelling with a dog, you’ll hunt down pet-friendly hotels to stay in. However, on a road trip with your own wheels, you have a lot more flexibility.

One of the best options for a dog-friendly road trip is camping , whether in your own campervan, in a tent or staying in pet-friendly cabins. Caravan parks are much more likely to be dog-friendly than other forms of accommodation, especially if you have your own tent or caravan.

Another option is to stay at pet-friendly Airbnbs . Not relying on public transport opens up a lot more Airbnb options, whether it’s a spare bedroom in a suburban house or a cabin in the woods.

Depending on your form of accommodation, it may or may not be necessary to book in advance. In general, I advise booking accommodation when travelling with a dog in advance, due to the limited number of pet-friendly options. This applies in particular if you are staying in hotels or cabins, or travelling during peak periods.

However, if you’ve got your own campervan or tent, and are travelling outside of peak periods, you can usually get away without booking in advance. I’ve done this on road trips through Scandinavia and when travelling around Australia. It’s liberating to have the flexibility of deciding each day where to set up camp!

Keeping Your Dog Secure In Your Vehicle

It’s important to keep your dog safe and secure in your vehicle. As well as preventing your dog from being injured or causing injury to others in your vehicle, it’s also a road rule of many countries and states.

For instance, in the United Kingdom, Rule 57 of the UK Highway Code  says dogs should be suitably restrained when travelling. In Australia, the rules differ by state . In general, it’s prohibited to ride with your dog on your lap or in a situation that causes the driver to be distracted. Across the United States, rules are set by individual states and municipalities and differ widely.

There’s multiple options available to safely restrain your dog in your vehicle. One of the most popular options is to buy a dog car seat. There are a wide variety of car seats for different sizes of dogs, that can be attached in different ways – check out the options available.

Another easy option is to buy a seatbelt attachment for your dog’s harness, available in most pet shops. You might consider investing in a special harness for your dog that has been specially designed for use in the car and crash-tested.

Alternatively, consider securing your dog in a carrier or crate, that is then secured to the car. For larger dogs, you’ll probably need to place them in the boot area in their crate. A mesh divider for the rear of the vehicle is another great option for big dogs.

It’s best to avoid travelling with your dog on the front passenger. Although it is tempting and many dogs love to travel in this spot, dogs are at risk of injury if the air bag goes off, even for a minor rear-ender.

For more tips, check out this guide to keeping your pet safe in your car .

What If My Dog Gets Car Sick?

Unfortunately, some dogs are prone to car sickness. This is especially common in puppies, with many dogs growing out of it once they are fully grown. But some dogs need additional help or suffer from motion sickness for life.

Before going on a road trip with your dog, it helps to know if your dog suffers from travel sickness. Make sure you’ve taken your dog for some shorter trips close to home. Acclimatising your dog with short car trips at first can also help some dogs grow out of car sickness.

There are many treatments to try to help your dog overcome car sickness. For instance, make them comfortable, by bring along their bed or buying them a car booster seat. Open a window to provide them with a cool breeze. Don’t feed your dog immediately before hopping in the car, or consider giving them ginger or a calming product to help calm their nerves and stomach.

For more information, check out my complete guide on the best remedies for dog travel sickness .

What to Pack for Your Dog on a Road Trip

It helps to have a packing list of all the things that you’ll need to pack for your dog on a road trip. Consider bringing along the following.

Whether it’s for sleeping in your accommodation at night or just keeping comfortable on the back seat of your car, your dog will greatly appreciate having their own bed while you’re driving from place to place.

Food and Water Bowls

Some accommodation might provide bowls for your pup, but it’s always best to bring along your own. Luckily there’s plenty of room in a car!

In particular, make sure you’ve got something for your dog to drink from during the day. Collapsible water bowls are easy to pack or put a spill-proof water bowl in your car or campervan. In Australia, the K9 cruiser bowl is a well regarded spill-proof bowl.

Bring along water bottles with water for both yourself and your pups. Consider freezing one the night before so it stays nice and cool even during hot weather. Try to pack enough dog food for the entire trip.

Dog Car Seat, Harness or Crate

As I mentioned above, it’s important to make sure that your dog is secure in your vehicle. There’s a wide range of options to choose from. Either a dog car seat, car harness (or seat beat attachment for a regular harness) or a crate may be suitable.

A wide range of dog car seats tailored to suit the specific needs of different dog parents and different size dogs is available from Jubilee’s, a small business specializing in pet travel supplies. All products come with a lifetime warranty, a 30-day free return policy and free shipping to a range of countries.

A crate may also be handy when you get to your destination. Many dogs feel more secure when inside their crate. Also, if you are leaving your dog behind in a hotel room, if permitted, you might be required to crate your dog.

Vaccination and Registration Records

It’s a must to bring along your dog’s vaccination and registration records when on a road trip with your dog. Some caravan parks and hotels might require proof when checking in with a pet.

Also, if you are leaving your dog at a kennel while visiting a non-dog-friendly attraction, they generally require proof of vaccines.

Collar with ID and Leash

The easiest way for your dog to be re-united with you if they go missing is by attaching an ID tag to your dog’s collar. Make sure it is inscribed with the number of a mobile phone you’ll be travelling with.

Keeping your dog on a leash will generally be required when travelling, except in designated off-leash areas. Most caravan parks and accommodation will require dogs to be leashed when in public areas. Be responsible and keep your dog leashed when asked.

Tick Prevention Treatment

If you’re heading into the countryside where ticks are an issue, make sure your dog is up-to-date on their tick treatment and bring along more if required. Also consider bringing along a dog insect repellant to keep away other biting insects.

In Australia, paralysis ticks are an issue along the east coast, while there has recently been an outbreak of Ehrlichiosis, transmitted on brown dog ticks, in northern WA, the NT and northern SA. Find out more about keeping your dog safe while travelling in Australia .

In the United States, be aware of Lyme disease. While in Europe, see my tips on keeping your dog safe from Leishmaniasis , transmitted by sand flies, that are also usually repelled by tick treatments.

Other Things to Pack

Some other things that you might consider packing, depending on your dog and your plans, include:

• Motion sickness treatment, if required
• Muzzle, to keep your dog safe from 1080 poison in Australia or if taking your dog on trains in parts of Europe
• Fencing or an extra long lead for use at a campsite
• Your dog’s favourite toys
• Old towels, for drying your dog or putting down on furniture
• Plenty of dog poop bags!

For more tips, see my recommended dog travel packing list , with suggested purchases.

Planning Your Road Trip with Your Dog

When road tripping with your dog, you also need to keep in mind the needs of your dog. It’s similar to taking a road trip with children for the first time .

It’s important to stop for regular breaks, generally every two hours. This will give your dog (plus everyone else) a chance to stretch their legs and toilet. If you’re travelling with an energetic dog, also try and enjoy some short walks or even a game of fetch. Look for dog parks or interesting sites to stop at along the way.

You’ll also need to consider where you stop for lunch. As not all restaurants are dog-friendly, make sure you stop somewhere where your dog is allowed. Consider stopping for a picnic (especially if you have a fridge in your vehicle and can bring along plenty of supplies). Or stop somewhere with an outdoor dining area.

Dogs should never be left inside a warm vehicle, even with the windows opened. Plan in advance to make sure you don’t endanger your dog by leaving them in your car.

Ideas for Dog-Friendly Road Trips

There’s no shortage of ideas for dog-friendly road trips, it’s only limited by your imagination! These are some of my favourite road trips that I’ve taken with my dog.

Dog-Friendly Road Trips in Europe

One of my favourite road trips with my dog was in Scandinavia. We spent a month driving north through Sweden , as far north as above the Arctic Circle, then heading back south through Norway . We bought a tent just for this road trip, and camped along the way at the many dog-friendly camp grounds.

Alternatively, another favourite road trip was driving around Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. After taking a dog-friendly ferry over from Great Britain, we drove north to the Causeway Coast, then around the coastline of the Republic of Ireland . A highlight was the Ring of Kerry.

Dog-Friendly Road Trips in United States

Visit one of the many dog-friendly national parks in the United States on a road trip with your pup. An easy road trip from Los Angeles is to head east to Palm Springs and drive through Joshua Tree National Park. While dogs have restricted access in the park, they’re still allowed along the roads and at picnic grounds, plus in the camp ground.

Alternatively, head further afield to the Grand Canyon and the other wonders of Arizona. Drive through Monument Valley with your pup, or stop off at Horseshoe Bend and take a dog-friendly hike through a slot canyon.

Dog-Friendly Road Trips in Australia

When taking your dog on a road trip in Australia, it’s best to avoid the national parks, where dogs are generally prohibited. However, there’s still plenty of dog-friendly road trips, and many pet owners bring along their dogs on a lap around Australia.

For a shorter road trip, if you’re in Victoria, I’ve put together this guide for driving the Great Ocean Road with a dog , including where dogs are and aren’t permitted.

In New South Wales, I recommend taking a road trip along the North or South Coast, or both. Along the way, make sure you tick off some of the beautiful dog-friendly beaches in NSW .

Looking for tips for surviving some of the long, boring drives in Australia? Check out my guide to driving the Hume from Sydney to Melbourne with a dog , or driving across the Nullarbor .

You May Also Like

• 9 Best Remedies for Dog Travel Sickness
• RVing with Your Dog

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

Inspired? Pin this to your Pinterest board!

1 thought on “Road Tripping with Your Dog: The Ultimate Guide”

Great article! Excellent advice for keeping my dog entertained on our car journeys. Thanks.

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27 Dog Road Trip Tips and Travel Hacks

If you’re like most people, you enjoy traveling with your dog. They provide a sense of adventure and excitement that can be hard to find elsewhere. Unfortunately, unlike taking your dog on a plane , road tripping with a dog takes a lot of planning and forethought.

In this post, we’re going to share 27 dog road trip tips and hacks that will make your trip easier and more enjoyable for both you and your dog. So, whether you’re just starting to plan your journey or you’re already on the road, read on for some helpful advice!

How do I take my dog on a road trip? Tips and travel hacks

Before setting out on a trip with your dog, you’ll need to collect all the important documents, make the necessary appointments, and get your dog accustomed to sitting in a car. And that’s just for starters.

Let’s have a look at some of the best road trip tips for dog owners. They will ensure both of you have a fun and memorable time on the road to your final destination.

ⓘ TIP: To keep your dog comfortable and safe, you can find a lot of excellent pet safety gear on Amazon.

Planning and preparation: Important documents you’ll need

No matter whether we’re going on an epic road trip or a weekend getaway, we all want a hassle-free trip. There are dozens of things to prepare before traveling , and that goes for a dog as well.

1. Be sure to carry all the valid documentation that proves you keep your pet healthy. Ask your veterinarian for copies of vaccine and health records, medication prescriptions, and healthcare certificates.

2. Before you book a hotel room, call and ask about their animal policy.

How to get your dog used to riding in a car

3. Some dogs love long car rides, while others can’t even handle short trips. If you want to travel long distance with your dog and need to get your pup used to car travel, try taking him for short rides around town first and gradually increasing the distance. Start with a few miles, take frequent breaks, and see how it goes.

4. If your dog tends to get carsick, give him a window seat. Dogs love being able to look outside and feel the wind on their face.

Dog road trip essentials

Different dogs have different requirements. You must make a list of all the important dog supplies, food items, and other essential items you may need on the trip. (A local pet store can help with that, or you can buy everything on Amazon .)

Here’s a checklist of road trip essentials for dogs:

5. Remember the toilet accessories ― disposable dog poop bags , towels, and dog diapers.

6. Pack a pet pram or dog sling ― you’ll need safety gear in case you decide to get out of your car and roam around.

7. Keep a leash and extra collar or harness handy ― for bathroom breaks.

8. Food and water gear is essential ― a travel water bowl and spill-proof food bowl will keep messes to a minimum.

9. Bring a few toys or treats that they don’t usually get.

10. Bring a familiar blanket in case your pet needs security or it gets cold.

Food and treats

11. Bring regular food and other treats that they are used to.

12. You can also surprise your travel buddy with a favorite treat as a reward for good behavior during the journey.

13. If you do not have the time or money to purchase exclusive doggie snacks and food items, don’t worry about that. There are plenty of human foods that dogs can eat . That way, both of you can share.

ⓘ PRO TIP: Beef jerky is a great snack to bring on a road trip. It has a lot of protein, is easy to transport, doesn’t spoil, and is completely natural. It’s also safe for your dog to eat. Old Trapper is a high-quality choice and is widely available.

Use a pet ramp

14. Dogs love to go for rides. Most will happily get into any vehicle going anywhere. But puppies, seniors, and pets who have health issues, pain in the joints, or injuries can benefit a lot from a pet ramp.

Pets are at the risk of falling off and injuring themselves while hopping into and out of a car. With a pet ramp installed, your travel buddy can easily get into and out of a vehicle without assistance.

Keep a first aid kit

15. Keeping a first-aid kit handy can protect you from the perils of a sick dog. Yes, there are first aid kits just for dogs ! Some of the important first aid kits essentials include:

• cotton balls for the application of medicines and cleaning up of wounds
• bandages and adhesive tapes for injuries
• a pill box of all the vital medicines, and
• antiseptic wipes.

16. Traveling in a car for long hours can make anyone motion sick , including your pup. Motion sickness is as common among animals as it is among humans. If he seems a little queasy, open the window for some fresh air, or sit him in front of the air conditioner vent.

Keep your pet entertained and calm

It is very common for dogs to get stressed and anxious while traveling from comfort to a new, unknown location.

17. Help Fido get familiar with the car’s interior before setting out. When your pup is comfortable with the peculiar smell of your vehicle, it is more likely to help keep your dog happy, relaxed, calm and composed throughout the ride.

18. Bring along some favorite toys . Kongs, tennis balls, and chew toys can all keep your best friend occupied for hours.

Finding dog-friendly destinations

Taking trips with your dog is a great way to see the country. And there are plenty of dog-friendly destinations to choose from.

19. Before setting out, check to see if the destination you’re planning to visit is pet friendly. Some parks, such as Lake Tahoe National Park in California and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee, have strict regulations and specific areas are off-limits to pets. But most national parks welcome well-behaved dogs on their hiking trails and campgrounds.

20. If your dog isn’t accustomed to long hikes on trails, it’s worth taking him for a few training walks around your neighborhood before you set out.

21. It’s always a good idea to carry water for both you and your pet, so bring along his bowl and a few bottles of water. Don’t forget some snacks, too!

Save these dog road trip hacks for later!

Pin this to your favorite Pinterest travel board.

How to keep your dog safe on a road trip

22. First and foremost, it goes without saying that you should never leave a dog in a hot car. If you have to make a quick stop, get your dog out of the car and give him plenty of water.

23. Your dog needs to be able to pant and cool down, so don’t use a muzzle unless absolutely necessary. If you do use one, it should be for a very brief period of time.

24. To keep your furry friend safe, either (a) buckle him into a safety harness in the back seat or (b) keep him in a sturdy crate or carrier that won’t slide around.

25. If you want your dog to wear a safety harness on the road trip, make sure you have one in the right size before leaving home.

26. If you let your dog roam free in the car, consider installing a gate between the front and back seats. It will help keep him from being thrown around in case of an accident.

27. Look for rest stops with a dog park so you can take your pet off leash. Fido will appreciate frequent stops so he can stretch his legs, get some fresh air, and relieve himself.

ⓘ TIP: Love’s Travel Stops has begun adding dog parks to every one of its highway gas stations.

Pros and cons of road tripping with a dog

Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog’s face, it gets mad at you? but when you take it in a car, it sticks its head out the window!

There are both advantages and drawbacks to driving with a dog in a car . If you have a trip planned, keep a note of the following pros and cons to make the most out of your trip.

• Dogs are great company. They will keep you awake, entertained, and in good spirits through their positive demeanor and exuberance.
• You won’t have to worry about your pet being left alone. Instead of calling back every hour to check on him, you can have an exciting outing together.
• You will enjoy pleasant social situations and interactions with people you meet along the way because of your dog. Especially at local dog parks
• It will give you the opportunity to bond with your four-legged friend, understand his likes and dislikes, and build a strong connection with him.
• Some dogs can get nervous and eventually fall sick after traveling in a car for long hours at a stretch. If your dog isn’t used to traveling too often, it can be quite stressful.
• If you are off for an overnight trip, you will need additional luggage for the dog essentials. This will require extra car space.
• In some areas, it can be hard to find pet friendly accommodations.

FAQs about road-tripping with a dog

Are road trips bad for dogs.

The answer depends on a variety of factors, such as the age and health of the dog, the length and type of road trip, and the dog’s temperament. It’s important to pay attention to your dog’s behavior because some dogs love road trips and others can get carsick. If your furry friend seems uncomfortable, pull over and take a break.

How often should you stop on a road trip with a dog?

It’s best to take breaks every two hours when traveling with dogs. This will allow them to relieve themselves and get some exercise.

How long of a road trip can a dog handle?

Dogs can generally handle road trips of up to about 10 hours, but it depends on the dog’s age, size, and personality. Younger dogs or those who are more active will be able to handle longer trips, while older or more sedentary dogs might need shorter trips or potty breaks more often.

Where can I find a list of pet friendly hotels?

You can find a list of dog friendly hotels on BringFido.com and PetsWelcome.com . You can also call the hotel directly and ask if they allow pets.

Are dogs allowed in national parks?

Yes, dogs are allowed in national parks as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not allowed in certain areas of the park, such as in buildings or on trails. Regulations can vary, so be sure to check the park’s regulations before you go.

You don’t have to fret going down the road with your dog. By following all the tips we’ve mentioned, there is very little possibility of experiencing hiccups while roving around the world.

Stick to the hacks mentioned above, click plenty of pictures, and we’re sure you’ll both have a paw-some time!

Additional resources

• It’s wise to be aware of towing services costs prior to a road trip to be fully prepared
• 7 day Cyprus road trip itinerary
• How to prepare your vehicle for an epic road trip  

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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Denver To Mount Rushmore: Your Ultimate Road Trip Guide For 2024

Are you looking to go on a road trip from denver to mount rushmore.

Searching for the ultimate road trip guide from Denver to Mount Rushmore? Look no further!

One of our all time favorite road trips that we have embarked on from Denver, Colorado was to Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

We embarked on our road trip over a long holiday weekend and had the most incredible time and cannot recommend it enough.

Check out all the details about our trip below!

Before diving into our road trip, we wanted to answer some common questions for you all to help you plan your road trip from Denver to Mount Rushmore!

What Is The Best Route From Denver To Mount Rushmore?

Check out the map below for the best route from Denver to Mount Rushmore!

What Is There To See Between Denver And Mount Rushmore?

Two of the biggest towns that you will pass through on your road trip from Denver to Mount Rushmore are Cheyenne, Wyoming and Custer, South Dakota .

Cheyenne is Wyoming’s state capitol and full of countless restaurants, shops, and bars.

On the contrary, Custer, South Dakota is known for their free range bison!

Not only will you pass through these two towns but you’ll pass through many others along the way too.

There is endless scenery to take in and the horizon is beautiful as you venture on your road trip from Denver to Mount Rushmore.

What Is The Distance From Denver To Mount Rushmore?

It is about 370 miles between Denver and Mount Rushmore.

How Long Is The Drive From Denver To Mount Rushmore?

The drive takes right around 6 hours to get from downtown Denver to Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

What Are The Best Places To Stop Between Denver And Mount Rushmore?

We believe the best place to stop on a road trip from Denver to Mount Rushmore is Cheyenne, Wyoming .

Due to Cheyenne being the capitol of Wyoming, there are endless restaurants, shops, and accommodation options to choose from!

For those looking to spend the night in Cheyenne, we recommend staying at the Staybridge Suites Cheyenne . This hotel is in a great location and offers a delicious breakfast.

Book your stay at the Staybridge Suites Cheyenne here!

Is It Worth Driving To Mount Rushmore?

It is totally worth driving to Mount Rushmore. The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is one of the most famous memorial’s in the United States and is an incredible site to see in real life.

What City Do You Fly Into To See Mt. Rushmore?

Rapid City Regional Airport is the best airport to fly into for those looking to explore Mt. Rushmore.

How Long Should You Spend At Mount Rushmore?

You should spend at least an hour or a few hours at Mount Rushmore.

It’s a phenomenal site to take in and take photos of. Additionally, there are countless plaques surrounding the memorial that are informational about the history of Mount Rushmore.

We believe you only need a few hours at Mount Rushmore but it’s definitely worth it.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To See Mount Rushmore?

We believe the best time to see Mount Rushmore is during the summer months .

We spent Fourth of July weekend in South Dakota and had a blast seeing Mount Rushmore and spending time in the surrounding areas.

However, we truly believe there is never a bad time to visit Mount Rushmore as long as you are checking the weather!

How Much Does It Coast To Go To Mount Rushmore?

It is free to enter the Mount Rushmore National Memorial. However, you will have to pay a parking fee of $10.

Can You Bring Your Dog To Mt Rushmore?

Mt. Rushmore is not pet friendly so you are not able to bring your dog with you inside of the main gate to the memorial.

However, there are designated walking areas for your furry friend outside of the main entrance.

What Is The Best Mount Rushmore Tour?

The best Mount Rushmore tour is the Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Bus Tour with Live Commentary !

This tour is an excellent way to learn more about the memorial and the Black Hills area of South Dakota.

One of the best parts about this tour is that the entrance fees and round-trip transfers are included in the price!

For an unbelievable experience and to learn more about Mount Rushmore and the surrounding areas, this tour must be on your bucket list of things to do when visiting the area!

Check rates and availability for the Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Bus Tour with Live Commentary here!

Denver To Mount Rushmore Itinerary

We had been planning this trip for a few weeks beforehand so we had a pretty good idea of what we wanted it to look like. We left Friday as soon as we both got off work.

Friday was mainly spent finishing up the work week and on the road to South Dakota. We grabbed a bite to eat on the road and kept trudging along.

From Denver the drive took about 6 hours and 30 minutes. (Keep in mind we left Friday after work on a holiday weekend!)

Although the drive is fairly long, there were endless gorgeous views along the way. We went north towards Fort Collins and continued our journey up through Cheyenne, Wyoming .

Once we crossed into the Black Hills of South Dakota, the views had us both swooning. We never realized that South Dakota had some pretty large mountains that consisted of endless greenery and rock formations, it was such a great surprise. 

Camping Near Mount Rushmore:

We personally love dispersed camping so we found a road (rt 356 – make sure to enter from the 244 side) that had several spots and great reviews on Dyrt. We loved that the spot was only 10 minutes away from Mount Rushmore.

We pulled into our spot right around midnight and used our lanterns, headlamps, and best flashlights for hiking and camping to put up our tent for hot weather camping .

We quickly put on our layers and hopped into our sleeping bags so that we could grab some rest and get ready for all the wonderful things that the weekend had to offer.

Hotels Near Mount Rushmore:

If you would rather stay in a hotel near Mount Rushmore, we totally understand.

We recommend that you check out the K Bar S Lodge , Ascend Hotel Collection .

This hotel is in an awesome location and is super close to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Click here to book your stay at the K Bar S Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection !

We woke up bright and early as the sun was coming up. We were so excited to wake up and see mountains in the distance and greenery all around us.

We grabbed our camping stove and cooler and made a delicious breakfast to start our day! From there, we hopped in our car and headed over to Mount Rushmore. 

We absolutely loved that you didn’t have to pay an entrance fee or book a timed entry spot. Instead, you can show up whenever you like! (Although you do have to pay $10 for parking.)

We arrived at the monument just before 8:00 AM. This was super nice because the temperatures were still moderate outside and the monument wasn’t packed with people yet. 

From there, we walked up to the monument and took in the views as well as read some plaques. Mount Rushmore truly is a stunning site to see in person.

It blew our minds that people were able to carve the figures of our Founding Fathers so intimately and in such detail.

It was so intriguing to see even the little details carved out from their pupils to their shirts and so on. It makes you realize how talented people are!

Also, we really enjoyed the experience because the figures are carved into rocks and the greenery and surrounding environment around the monument is just breathtaking.

We highly recommend that you check out Mount Rushmore in person! 

Hiking in Custer State Park :

After leaving the monument we made our way to our hike. The hike that we did was in Custer State Park, just a short drive away.

Unfortunately, we did not realize that you had to pay a fee to get into the park.

We pulled up and saw signs along with various park staff that helped us with this.

The fee was $20 which may seem like a significant amount for a hike but it gives you 7 days of access and it was totally worth it in our opinion!

Along with several hiking trails and designated campgrounds, there are also five different lakes where you can swim and fish in!

Once we got into the park and made our way to a parking lot just across from the trailhead, we began our hike.

The hike that we did was just over 7 miles long and is called the Black Elk Peak Loop: South Dakota Highpoint .

The hike was moderate, I definitely would not say it is an “easy” hike but OH MY WORD. The views were INCREDIBLE.

The hike consistently had uphills and downhills but the first half of the hike was the majority of uphill as you made your way to the highpoint.

There were countless lookouts and spots where you could take in the tall rock formations throughout Custer State Park.

Additionally, there was a decent amount of shade which we greatly appreciated and Clover, our lab, thoroughly enjoyed.

As you made your way to the top, there were a few stairs that you had to walk up in order to get to the fire tower. Our pup was a little skeptical but made it up like a champ!

At the top, there are several lookout points to take in the various views. You can even walk through the fire tower and look out of the windows!

After taking in the views, drinking plenty of water, and catching our breath, we made our way back down the hike.

We both still cannot stop talking about how beautiful the hike was and how much fun we had.

After we finished the hike, we made our way to Sylvan Lake where we saw a small dirt path and let Clover swim for a few minutes. She absolutely loved it!

Finally, we made our way to our car where we took out some chairs and our camping stove to make a delicious lunch before heading back to our campsite!

Once we arrived at our campsite, we took a small nap to refresh after our hike. We played some bocce ball, listened to some good music, cooked some dinner and relaxed.

It was such an amazing day filled with so many of our favorite things. 

We woke up Sunday morning and had a slow start to our day! We cooked an amazing breakfast filled with coffee, eggs, bacon, and pancakes.

We enjoyed a morning game of bocce ball and played some ball with our Clover girl. Then we packed up all our camping gear and headed towards Deadwood, South Dakota ! 

We had heard great things about the small town of Deadwood and we knew that they didn’t have any fireworks over the 4th of July weekend (we didn’t want our Clover girl to be scared while we were away for a few hours)!

The town was so unique, it was full of old timey bars, saloons, and restaurants.

The downtown area doesn’t have open container laws, so a few places had bars outside selling to-go drinks!

The people were incredibly nice and uber dog friendly too! They even had a small walking trail near the visitor’s center that goes along the river.

Where to Stay in Deadwood, South Dakota:

We stayed at the Hampton Inn at Tin Lizzie Gaming which was attached to a nice casino that was really fun! 

We cannot recommend this hotel enough. The location was fantastic and they offer breakfast as well.

Book your stay at the Hampton Inn at Tin Lizzie Gaming here!

We were only in Deadwood for about 24 hours but man we loved it!

If you visit the area, we highly recommend you stop by Saloon No. 10 for a drink or two.

It had the quintessential “cowboy vibe” with sawdust on the floors, country music playing, and various pictures of outlaws throughout the bar. 

Once we settled into our room and cleaned up a little after being in the wilderness for two nights, we got ready and headed out to a rodeo at the Black Hills Roundup !

We had been hearing good things about the rodeo along with its firework show for the 4th of July so we had to check it out.

It was about 30 minutes up the road from Deadwood and was a super local event. It was Sam and I’s first real rodeo that we’ve ever experienced and coming from the south, it reminded us of home!

We had an absolute blast watching all the competitions and the food and drink prices weren’t bad either.

After the rodeo was over, they had the biggest firework show in the area! It was such a great experience and both the rodeo and the fireworks stood up to the hype.

From there, we headed back to our hotel for the night to check on our pup and get some sleep!

The next morning we woke up and did our typical morning routine; we fed and walked Clover, ate breakfast ourselves, and got ready for the day!

After walking around the town a bit more, we packed up our things and loaded up the car to head back home.

The journey back to Denver took about 6 hours and 30 minutes again but this time we took a different route home through Nebraska!

We had never been to the state before and figured now would be a good time. We found a little burger and ice cream restaurant on the side of the highway for lunch and then kept trucking back to Denver. 

Final Thoughts On A Road Trip From Denver To Mount Rushmore

Ultimately, the weekend was slammed between our various activities and the long car rides but we wouldn’t have changed it any other way!

We absolutely adored Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.

The dispersed camping spot we stayed at was lovely and its location could not have been beat.

Additionally, we had a blast exploring the town of Deadwood and visiting our first rodeo.

Plus, we had no idea how dog friendly the state of South Dakota was (at least the parts we visited). This made it so enjoyable for us and for Clover!

It was a trip that we won’t forget and we highly recommend anyone wanting to go on a road trip from Denver to Mount Rushmore check it out for a change of pace and scenery!

For more similar posts on road trips, be sure to check out our Ultimate Road Trip from Denver to Moab . Happy Exploring!

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4 ways to keep track of your tech on a family road trip

“where’s my phone” is the new “are we there yet” on family road trips. these expert tips can help you keep track of all the devices when you’re on vacation..

2. Identify a home base for each device. This is a matter of establishing a spot where each item lives when it’s not being used. “If you put your belongings in the same place every time, then you never have to waste time looking for them,” says White. “That’s one of the time management skills I try to instill in my kids while traveling—they know to put their devices back in a certain bag and then to put the bag in a particular spot where they always know they can find it.”

Try this: Designate a drop spot. According to Dr. Emily King , a licensed child psychologist who specializes in working with neurodivergent kids, establishing a home base for tech devices shouldn’t be limited to the car on a family road trip. “I call it having a drop spot—the place where you’re ‘dropping’ a particular item such as your shoes, backpack or tech,” she says. “On a trip, it’s important to define where that drop spot is in each hotel room, condo or wherever you’re staying overnight.”

3. Choose attention-grabbing accessories. With the right tech accessories, your family will be better prepared for incidents where a device moves away from its designated spot. For example, a brightly colored case , especially one you can attach to a wristlet , can make a smartphone or tablet easier to locate and harder to leave behind.

Try this: Get corded headphones. When it comes to listening in the car on a family road trip, Dr. Emily says wireless headphones may not be the best choice for every kid. “It might be easier to keep track of headphones that are attached to the device with a cord, as opposed to earbuds that can be left anywhere,” she says. “Plus, corded headphones don’t need to be charged.” No headphone jack? Just use a headphone jack adapter.

4. Enable tracking for your devices. Apps that help you find your device and other tools like Apple AirTags can be configured to send you an alert every time it appears that a device has been left behind. And by setting up Verizon’s Smart Family before the start of the trip, you can help everyone keep track of their tech while maintaining important parental controls, such as blocking certain apps from being downloaded.

Try this: Check for software updates before the trip. “I always encourage parents to keep up with the latest software and app updates,” says Dr. Emily. This means making sure updates are complete before you hit the road, and also making sure you know how to use the latest features. “When we get a new phone or update software, we may not notice right away what new tools and strategies are available.”

As with all the processes involved in a family road trip, keeping track of tech devices is a skill kids can learn—especially with lots of practice.

“It can be frustrating when your child loses a device, but it doesn’t mean they aren’t responsible or that they don’t care about the item,” says Dr. Emily. “It just means that they need more practice and support around keeping up with those devices. As parents, we often have to model those strategies until kids can enact them independently.”

Keep an eye on their phones at home and on the road with Smart Family .

Audrey Smith is a multimedia journalist, public media producer and former high school English teacher whose writing focuses on tech, AI and digital literacy for kids.

The author has been compensated by Verizon for this article.

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7 of the most spectacular road trips in Switzerland

May 24, 2024 • 8 min read

There are picturesque landscapes at every turn in Switzerland © ake1150sb / Getty Images

Switzerland might look tiny on paper, but with most of its land gobbled up by the Alps, this little European nation packs in a lot of elevated space.

Wherever you go, you’re in for one hell of a drive: roads unfurl along the shores of great lakes and glaciers, mountain passes corkscrew up to fairy-tale medieval castles, and on the high roads, every glorious bend makes you want to screech to a halt and yodel in delight.

Neatly wrapping it all up is the big one – the 1,643km (1,021-mile) Grand Tour of Switzerland – an epic, efficiently signposted lap of the country that links 12 UNESCO World Heritage sites and shows off the Alpine nation from its most flattering angles.

Short on time? Don’t worry – here are seven alternative road trips in Switzerland to give you a head start.

1. Furka Pass

Best road trip for glaciers and mountain peaks Obergoms–Andermatt; 35km (22 miles)

The wows never leave your lips, and the Alps never leave your rear-view mirror on this astonishingly steep, snaking, stop-the-car-and-grab-the-camera drive from the remote valley of the Goms in Valais to mountain-encrusted Andermatt in Uri.

If you begin to feel rather Bond-like behind the wheel, it’s no coincidence: this road starred in the car chase scene in the 1964 movie Goldfinger and brings out the 007 in everyone.

Swerving precariously around switchbacks, it tops out at the 2,429m (7,969ft) Furka Pass, where you can peer across the lunar rockscape of a wind-battered plateau and park to see the deeply crevassed Rhône Glacier and its ice grotto before the long, sweeping descent to Andermatt.

Planning tip: Drive the Furka Pass west to east for full-on, hairpin-riddled drama and views of austere peaks and glaciers that will draw constant gasps. Open roughly from June to October, the best time to go is the summer, as the road closes when the snow arrives. Check conditions before heading out.

2. The Appenzell rural route

Best road trip for rural Switzerland Appenzell–St Moritz; 200km (124 miles)

Switzerland’s rural, folksy heart beats loudest in the Appenzell region, snuggling up to Liechtenstein in the country’s northeast. It’s a terrifically unsung region for a road trip, with rolling dairy country giving way to lavishly frescoed towns. A week? Doable. Two weeks? Now you’re talking…

The route passes Säntis mountain (at the summit of which you can see six countries), the seven wavy limestone peaks of the Churfirsten range and the pretty medieval hamlet of Werdenberg before crossing little-but-lovely Liechtenstein, with an essential stop-off at its castle-topped capital, Vaduz .

The mountains soar ever higher as you cruise south to vine-rimmed Maienfeld – the setting of the beloved Swiss children’s book Heidi – and the gorge-spanning Salginatobel Bridge, a feat of engineering described as a work of art. 

Storybook Engadine villages with fountains and frescoed houses like Guarda and Zernez entice you into the nature-gone-wild Swiss National Park before your drive south to St Moritz , where sky-high peaks are ripe for Alpine adventures.

Planning tip: Factor in time to break from the wheel and stretch your legs with a properly wild hike in the Swiss National Park. The national park visitor centre in Zernez can hook you up with rangers. 

3. Southern Switzerland's peaks 

Best road trip for mountain scenery Lugano–Zermatt; 264km (164 miles)

The Alps are your constant companion on this ravishing drive through the high mountains of southern Switzerland, which takes in both the Gotthard and Furka passes. You'll want to allow at least a week to do it justice. 

Begin at the route’s end in lakeside Lugano , which shoulders up to Italy and delivers a shot of la dolce vita in its cafe-rimmed piazzas and palm-fringed parks. From here, the road cruises north to Locarno – another beauty with its botanical gardens and palazzo-filled Renaissance Old Town – and UNESCO World Heritage Bellinzona with its trio of hilltop medieval fortresses.

The language flicks from Italian to German as you power north into the Alps proper and Airolo at the foot of the Gotthard Pass. This drive is simply too good to rush, so factor in time for a break in Andermatt, where big wilderness, high-elevation hikes and sensational Alpine scenery await.

Just west of here, the heart-quickening, hairpin-bend-riddled Furka Pass leads you up and over into the glacier-encrusted mountains of Valais. The final stretch of the trip encompasses Bettmeralp, the epic Aletsch Glacier and Brig, with its whimsical Stockalper Palace, building to a crescendo in Zermatt , where the mighty Matterhorn holds you in its thrall.

Planning tip: This route is seasonal, with both the Furka and the Gotthard Passes closing over winter. Check the Alpine Passes website for details on opening dates and current snow and road conditions.

4. Gotthard Pass

Best road trip for gorges and canyons Andermatt–Airolo; 26.5km (16.5 miles)

Sure, you could take the tunnel (one of the world’s longest) through the St-Gotthard Massif, but where’s the fun in that?

If it’s Alpine highs you’re after, the old road over the 2,108m (6,196ft) Gotthard Pass enthralls. Buckle up, roll down the window and prepare for a feast of wild, lonely, bleakly beautiful mountain scenery on this serpentine road linking the Italian-speaking Swiss region of Ticino to the German-speaking region of Uri. If the curvy road seems a challenge today, just think of the poor souls that once made the arduous journey on foot and with pack animals.

In a former customs house at the top of the pass, the seasonal Museo Nazionale San Gottardo gives insight into the history and culture of the pass, but it’s the heart-quickening views you’ll remember most.

Even the Romans shied away from the Gotthard, and it wasn’t until the Devil’s Bridge was built in the 1300s that the pass became properly accessible. The bridge straddles the Schöllenen Gorge, where walls of sheer granite plunge to the raging Reuss River far below. On the south side of the Gotthard Pass, the cobblestone Tremola is a tour de force of 37 switchbacks that send you pinballing down to Airolo.

Planning tip: The road is weather-dependent – it's usually open from May to November.

5. Julier Pass

Best road trip for getting off the beaten track Chur–St Moritz; 157km (98 miles)

Scenery like this should come with a drumroll. Unfurling through the otherworldly gray, jagged, moraine-streaked Alps of Graubünden , the 2,284m (7,494ft) Julier Pass is the icing on the cake of a lovely, long, winding drive that connects the Alpine city of Chur to St Moritz in the Engadine Valley.

Little-trafficked and thrillingly wild, the pass has been used since Roman times, and remains of a Roman temple are still visible. The road dives deep into the heart of the Albula Alps, ticking off pristine mountain landscapes like Parc Ela , Switzerland’s biggest nature park, where you might be tempted to temporarily swap the open road for a hiking trail or two. 

Unspooling like a ribbon, the Julier Pass frequently tops polls of Switzerland’s most beautiful drives, and for good reason: its remote, far-away-from-everywhere feel adds to its appeal tenfold.

Planning tip: While the drive is technically open year-round, take care with snow and ice. You’ll need winter tires and snow chains in the cold months.

6. Wheel through Western Switzerland

Best road trip for lakes and forests Geneva–Neuchâtel; 190km (118 miles)

The Alps get a lot of love, but sidling up to France in Switzerland’s not-so-wild west, the deliciously off-the-radar Jura region has its own quiet, unexpected beauty with lakes and vineyards rolling to châteaux and pine forest-cloaked hills. 

Begin with a powerful hit of culture in worldly Geneva , reclining gracefully on the shores of its croissant-shaped lake. From here, the route tiptoes off the beaten track north into the Jura Vaudois Nature Park for hikes with lake views and tastings of Gruyère cheese at rural Alpine huts.

Devote at least a couple of days to the second half of the drive as you cruise north to serene Lac de Joux, with its watchmaking heritage, and Vallorbe, where Switzerland’s most astounding limestone caves reveal a wonderland of subterranean rivers, waterfalls and rock formations.

Near Lac de Neuchâtel, you’ll find the lushly rolling Val-de-Travers, birthplace of the “green fairy” (absinthe) and the great crescent-moon canyon of Creux du Van . The drive ends with a metaphorical bang at Neuchâtel , topped off by a turreted fantasy of a medieval castle.

Planning tip: The drive is part of the well-signposted and mapped Grand Tour of Switzerland . See the website for details on stages and route highlights.

7. Switzerland's top cities

Best road trip for nature amidst urban Switzerland Zürich–Bern; 315km (196 miles)

Bookended by Switzerland’s de facto capital Bern and the country's largest city Zürich (commonly mistaken for the capital), this sensationally varied road trip leaps joyously from the urban to the outdoors, winging you from culture-crammed cities to great abbeys, medieval castles, lakes and mountains of myth.

Bidding Zürich’s big-hitting museums and cool waterfront bars a reluctant adieu, the drive swings south along the shores of Lake Zürich with tantalizing views of the Alps on cloudless days. Stop off at ludicrously pretty towns, such as vine-ribbed, castle-topped Rapperswil, before heading south to Einsiedeln and its whopping Benedictine abbey.

Lucerne hits the cultural sweet spot with its perfect-looking Old Town and galleries. Detour to fjord-like, exquisitely turquoise Lake Uri for a taste of the country’s geographical and spiritual heartland. Squeeze in dairy tours and meadow strolls in mellow Emmental as you ease your way southwest to Bern, the city of Einstein, elegant arcades and wild swims in the Aare River.

Planning tip: Aim for at least a week behind the wheel – preferably more.

Ready to plan your trip to Switzerland? Here are your next steps:

• Save these top places to visit to your profile
• Start crafting your budget with these tips
• Traveling with kids? They'll love these activities
• And here's everything you need to know before you go

This article was first published Dec 16, 2020 and updated May 24, 2024.

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5 Cheapest Places To Buy Tires for Your Car Before Your Summer Road Trip

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One of the headaches that comes with being a car owner is the need to get new tires. Let’s be honest, not only is it a hassle and takes time — but buying tires can be quite pricey .

While you may opt to go to the dealer where you bought your vehicle, there are several other options. Here’s a look at five of the cheapest places to buy tires before your summer road trip.

1. Local Tire Shops

It may not be the absolute cheapest option, but maybe you live in a place where local tire shops offer excellent service and good deals. If you’re a fan of small businesses, your local shop can help you find good tires for your vehicle.

According to U.S. News & World Report , “Though you’ll likely pay a higher price than a warehouse club or online, the customer service may be worth it.”

Speaking of warehouse clubs, you might want to check out Costco next time you’re in the market for tires. They’re known to be among the cheapest places you can go for them.

Let’s say you live around Indianapolis, drive a 2023 Honda Accord EX and want a set of four Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires. At Costco , it currently might cost you around $816 for the set of four.

3. Sam’s Club

Just like with Costco, you can find good deals on tires while you’re also shopping for groceries at Sam’s Club. If you’re a member, in addition to cheaper prices on tires, you may find great extras that come with the tires such as free flat repair.

Going back to our example with Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires, you’ll currently pay about $653 for a set of four at Sam’s Club . That includes a current sale going on.

Being a member at places like Sam’s Club and BJ’s can pay off in many ways. That holds true when it comes to getting deals on tires. 

According to MSN , “Check the offers on the BJ’s website to see if there are options available for you and find additional discounts you may not be able to get at other retailers.”

For our comparison with the Michelin set of four tires, we found them for about $792 at BJ’s . That included a special discount going on.

5. Online Sellers

If you know exactly what you want and perhaps need more uncommon tires, check out online sellers. You may be able to find even better prices than at local warehouse clubs.

However, with online shopping for tires, you may face hassles if they arrive damaged or you need to make returns for other reasons. According to U.S. News & World Report, “The downsides of buying online include the time and expense that it takes to get the tires delivered to you or a local installer.”

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Celebrate Juneteenth at these Maine events

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Westbrook Middle School students Bella Zollarcoffer, Priscila Nzolameso and Sarikong Oak held tables educating and informing the community on Black hair history at Westbrook’s Juneteenth celebration last year. Cullen McIntyre/Staff Photographer

Juneteenth, which became both a federal and state holiday in 2021 , celebrates the anniversary of federal troops’ arrival in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to ensure all enslaved people had been freed. This year, the holiday falls on Wednesday, but celebrations are happening over the next two weeks.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. –  Indigo Arts Alliance presents The Welcome Table, an intergenerational symposium celebrating global cultural and culinary histories. Activities include art, movement and meditation workshops led by activists and cultural workers. 60 Cove St., Portland.  indigoartsalliance.me

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. –  Victoria Mansion is hosting a community day with free admission and a recitation of the Emancipation Proclamation by local actors. 109 Danforth St. Portland.  victoriamansion.org

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. –  Space and the Tate House Museum are putting on a Juneteenth community day with free admission and tours of Ashley Page’s “Imagining Freedom” exhibit at the museum. The historical art piece puts viewers into the shoes of an enslaved woman named Bet. 1267 Westbrook St., Portland.  space538.org Advertisement

1-6:30 p.m. –  The first event of “The City that Carries Us: Pain, Streets, and Heartbeats” will take place at the Public Theatre in Lewiston. The celebration will have a parade and a block party with performances, as well as scheduled activities and rituals throughout the day. It is hosted by the organization Maine Inside Out. 31 Maple St., Lewiston, maineinsideout.org

2-3 p.m. –  Through “Poems of Reckoning and Resilience,” the Portland Museum of Art and Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance seek to honor the legacy of Black Americans. Featured poet Nathan McClain will join local poets in the Great Hall at the museum to celebrate Black liberation and creativity. The museum is also offering free admission Saturday through Monday, in celebration of both Juneteenth and Pride Month. 7 Congress Square, Portland.  mainewriters.org

11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. –  The fifth annual Juneteenth Celebration on House Island in Casco Bay will focus on Black joy, as well as nature, health and economic opportunity. Guests can stay for one or two days, and partake in activities like camping, hiking, yoga and games, all led by BIPOC leaders. Fortland, House Island, Portland.  eventbrite.com

4:30-7 p.m. –  The Community Organizing Alliance is putting on an event with speakers, live performances, poetry readings, a voter registration drive and catering by Bab’s Table. There will also be opportunities to get involved in the racial justice movement. The Atrium at Bates Mill, 36 Chestnut St., Lewiston.  eventbrite.com

1-3 p.m. –  Riverbank Park in Westbrook will host a community event with art, poetry, music and guest speakers. There will also be a barbecue picnic, a student fashion show, hair braiding, pick-up soccer and more activities sponsored by the city. 667 Main St., Westbrook.  On Facebook.

7-8 p.m. –  The Portland Yoga Project is putting on a class called “Liberated Breath: A Juneteenth Yoga Experience” that seeks to reflect on the holiday through yoga. The class is free for BIPOC community members and is sponsored by the Portland Public Library. 7 Bedford St., Portland, allevents.in

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