Dog Road Trip Essentials
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What needs to be included in your packing list for dog road trip essentials?
We’ve driven over 10,000 miles with our two terriers. Sometimes we go on day trips or weekend getaways from Northern California where we live.
We’ve also been on a road trip across the entire United States. We had to think carefully about what the essentials were to bring with us. We also know how hard it can be to narrow down that list because everything can seem important.
We wrote the ultimate guide to taking your dog on a road trip and we have lots of tips for helping your pet to stay comfortable in the car as well in other posts. If you want the in-depth scoop, please click and read more.
This particular blog is a straight to the point packing list with a great video that can help you visualize how it all fits together.
Road Trip Packing List for Your Dog
We organize our gear into three categories. 1) things we use all the time, so it just stays right near the dog in a door cubby or footwell 2) things we use daily/nightly, we try to fit those all in one “overnight bag” 3) gear that is useful for longer stays, or used less often
If you want to see a brief talk through of our stuff, here’s a video I threw together (plus Denver cameo)
What to pack: what we need all the time
- Water bottle
- Leash
- Travel Harness/Crate
- Poop Bags
- Treats and Snacks
- Belly Band/Diapers (for Sam our senior dog)
What to pack: the daily/overnight bag
- Dog Food
- Medicine
- Blankets (Pawtect Waterproof is great!) and/or Dog Bed
- Dog Bowls for Water Food
- Towels/Rags for spills and paws
- Stain Remover for spills and accidents
- Collapsible Dog Crate – this one pops open like a tent (fast setup/teardown)
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
What to pack: important, but bulky or less frequent
- Collapsible Wire Dog Pen: outdoor use, for yards without fences, parks, etc
- Mr Peanuts Dog Packpack: for public transport or carrying dog on long outings
- Collapsible Soft Dog Pen: used inside as a sleeping area
- Grooming Kit
- Regular Dog Bed
- Refills on frequent items (poop bags, snacks, wipes, etc)
Final Thoughts: What to Pack for Your Dog on a Road Trip
The key to a successful road trip with your dog lies in thoughtful preparation and packing. From the essentials that keep them hydrated and secure, to the comforts of home like their favorite blanket or bed, every item on this list plays a role in ensuring a smooth journey.
By packing smart, you’re not just preparing for the needs of your canine companion, but you’re also paving the way for countless memories on the open road. Safe travels, and here’s to many more miles of adventure with your furry co-pilot by your side!
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