Traveling with your dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences—but only if you're well-prepared. Whether you're heading out for a weekend road trip or a cross-country flight, your dog’s comfort, safety, and well-being should come first.
This ultimate dog travel checklist breaks down all the essentials so you’re never caught off guard.
✅ Bookmark this post, download our free printable Dog Travel Checklist PDF, and pack with confidence! You can see a list of all the items we've linked here.
Before you even pack, do these:
✅ Make sure your dog’s vaccinations and microchip information are up to date
✅ Print and carry vet records and emergency contact cards
✅ Research dog-friendly hotels using BringFido or PetFriendly
✅ Pack travel-friendly dog ID tags with your temporary contact info
✅ If flying, check your airline’s pet policy and carrier requirements (Delta Pet Travel Policy)
✅ Travel Crate or Carrier (airline-approved if flying)
Small Dog Breeds under 18 pounds – crash-tested and airline-friendly
✅ Dog Bed or compact travel blanket
✅ Car Seat Belt Harness or crate for safe driving (Simple Seat Tie)
✅ Familiar toy or soft item with your scent
Tip: Introducing your dog to the travel crate at least 2 weeks in advance reduces anxiety.
✅ Enough dog food for the entire trip + 2 days extra
✅ Collapsible food and water bowls (Nite Ize RadDog Collapsible)
✅ Bottled water or water from home to avoid upset stomachs
✅ Travel-sized treat pouch
Tip: Don’t forget high-value treats for training and comfort! Try GivePet's Bison Treats
✅ Waste bags (biodegradable options like Edipets)
✅ Dog wipes for muddy paws and in-car messes
✅ Quick Dry Towel for rain or unexpected swims
✅ Flea/tick prevention and any daily meds
✅ Copy of vaccination records
✅ Small first aid kit for dogs (Recommended List)
✅ Muzzle (especially for public spaces or rescues)
Need guidance? Check out our suggestions: Basket Muzzles for Large Breeds
✅ 6-ft leash AND long line (for hikes or decompression time)
✅ Backup collar with updated tags
✅ Treat pouch and clicker if clicker training
✅ Crate or x-pen if your dog needs to be safely contained
✅ Pee pads or washable mat for hotel stays
✅ Chew or calming toy like a Kong with frozen peanut butter
✅ Dog backpack for hikes (check out the rugged Ruffwear's Palisades)
✅ Cooling vest or water-safe life jacket
✅ Booties for rough terrain (look at Ruffwear Grip Trex)
✅ Portable shade tent for beach days
✅ GPS tracker like Link GPS Tracker for peace of mind
Flying with your dog? In addition to the above:
✅ Approved soft-sided carrier
✅ Absorbent pee pads inside carrier
✅ Pre-labeled bag of treats and collapsible water bowl
✅ Extra leash, collar, and ID tag in carry-on
Traveling isn’t just physical—it’s emotional for dogs. Start prepping 2–4 weeks in advance:
Practice crate time during the day
If flying, take the dog to the arrivals Baggage Claim area to let them experience the smells, commotion, and sounds of an airport
Reward calm behavior in cars or new places
Reinforce the crate or car as a safe place, not punishment
Want personalized training tips? Join one of our free monthly workshops or book a 1-on-1 session with us.
Need a handy printable version of this checklist?
➡️ Click here to download your Dog Travel Checklist PDF and get packing in minutes!
Tell us in the comments or share your travel setup on Instagram using #SocialDogsOnTour. We LOVE featuring real rescue stories and road-trip setups from our community!