National Dog Day is August 26 – during peak summer travel. Nearly three-quarters of pet parents travel with their furry friends every year on domestic and international trips, and there’s still time to plan your next getaway this season.

No matter how you’re traveling, bringing along Fido means extra steps to make sure your dog – and you – enjoy a relaxed, healthy vacation. And for many of us, those extra efforts to travel with our pet are worth it rather than the challenges and stress – on both ends of the leash – of leaving your dog behind!

Here are some of the top tips to make your trip safe, happy and healthy for you and Fido!

1. Plan Pet-Friendly Destinations

Not all destinations are equally welcoming to four-legged travelers. Look for cities, regions, or nature escapes with dog-friendly hotels, trails, and dining spots, like off-leash zones and public welcome of pets.

Especially if you’re crossing international borders, verify your vet check up, vaccination, and documentation obligations to avoid being turned back or worse – having your dog go through mandatory quarantine.

Last year, we shared new policies for all dogs entering the US, whether visiting from outside the country, or returning home to the US after a trip abroad. Make sure you meet all requirements for any destination!

2. Check Pet Policies in Advance

Before booking transportation or accommodation, confirm their pet rules – and any extra fees you’ll incur. Airlines and trains often have weight limits, carrier requirements, and paperwork for travel. Hotels may have size restrictions or additional cleaning fees—better to know in advance than face surprises.

3. Pack a Dog Travel Kit

Bring the essentials: food, treats, collapsible bowls, leash, waste bags, favorite toys, bedding, grooming supplies, and any medications. A portable water bottle with a built-in bowl is a lifesaver.

Make sure you check with your vet and airline rules about whether you should – or are permitted to – give your dog medication to calm/ sedate them during transportation.

4. Prioritize Comfort and Safety

Even in a car, use a secured harness or travel crate to prevent injury during sudden stops. On flights, make sure your pet carrier meets airline regulations and gives your dog enough room to turn around comfortably.

Special Tips for Air Travel with Your Dog

Air travel requires more preparation than other pet journeys and can be more stressful for owner and dog.

Not all airlines are equal in their care for man’s best friend. If you have choices in airline on your route, check the pet policies of each airline before assuming they will all treat Fido the same.

Cabin vs. Cargo: If your dog is small enough to travel in-cabin, book early—space is limited. Larger dogs often have to travel in the cargo hold. Make sure they will be in a pressurized, temperature-controlled area – ideally with human supervision during the flight. Some airlines promise that level of cargo care for your dog and you wouldn’t want anything less.
Choose Direct Flights: Minimize layovers and transfer stress for your dog. Morning or evening flights can help avoid heat extremes.
Get Vet Clearance: Many airlines require a health certificate dated within a specific window of time before travel. Discuss with your vet whether sedation is appropriate (it usually isn’t recommended).
Carrier Comfort: Line the carrier with an absorbent pad and include a familiar blanket or soft toy. Your dog should be able to stand, turn, and lie comfortably. Traveling with two dogs? Some airlines will permit them to travel in a shared crate – if it’s big enough – to provide comfort to each other.
Exercise Before Boarding: A good walk or play session before check-in can help your dog relax during the flight.
Hydration Strategy: Offer water before and after the flight. Avoid heavy feeding right before travel to reduce motion discomfort.
Know Airport Pet Relief Areas: Many airports now have designated spaces—map them in advance, especially if you have a layover.

5. Maintain Their Routine and Exercise

Dogs thrive on familiarity. Try to keep feeding, exercise, and sleep times close to their home schedule. Familiar blankets or toys can help them feel secure in new environments.

Plan rest stops on road trips every 2–3 hours for bathroom breaks and a stretch.

6. Mind the Weather

Extreme heat or cold can be dangerous for dogs. Avoid midday walks in hot climates, provide shade and water, and pack a jacket or sweater if you’re traveling to chilly destinations. That’s also why, if you’re traveling by air, it’s vital to ensure dogs traveling in a climate-controlled area of cargo.

7. Keep ID and Documents Handy

Make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date, and that they’re wearing a collar with your contact information. If crossing borders, bring vaccination records—rabies certificates are often mandatory and insufficient proof can lead to mandatory quarantine.

8. Introduce New Experiences Gradually

If your dog has never been on a long trip, start with short journeys to build their confidence. Gradual exposure helps reduce anxiety during bigger adventures.

9. Respect Local Pup-iquette

Pick up after your dog, follow leash laws, and be mindful of others in shared spaces. Good manners make it more likely you—and other pet travelers—will be welcome back.

10. Include Fido in your Travel Insurance Preparations

But what happens if your travel plans with your furry friend get… derailed? As part of your planning, ask your travel advisor about premier travel insurance that gives you trip delay insurance covering extra accommodation and food costs, even rebooking if you’re delayed returning home. And a pet kennel insurance benefit can even cover additional boarding costs as a result of a delay.

Traveling with your dog can open the door to new kinds of adventures. With thoughtful preparation, your pup will be wagging their tail from departure to homecoming.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

Top Tips for Traveling with Your Dog