How to Take a Road Trip with Your Dog: Practical Tips, Safety Advice & Packing List

There’s nothing quite like setting off on the open road with your dog as co-pilot. The windows down, the promise of new sights and smells, and that quiet happiness of sharing the journey together. But a road trip with your dog isn’t something to leave to chance. A bit of preparation and packing the right gear can make the difference between a relaxing adventure and a stressful drive.

Here’s your complete guide to planning ahead, travelling well, and what to pack for a road trip your dog will enjoy as much as you.

Also read: 19 Best Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Singapore

Pre-trip planning

Book a vet check before you go

A quick visit to your vet is more than routine: it helps you travel with peace of mind. Confirm that your dog is healthy enough for long car journeys and ask if your dog might benefit from motion sickness tablets or mild calming aids, especially if they’re prone to restlessness or anxiety on the road.

Make sure vaccinations and parasite treatments (like tick and flea prevention) are up to date, and carry a copy of vaccination records, handy if you need to visit a vet while away.

Line your car doors

If your dog loves to stick their nose out of the window or lean against the door, those door panels can quickly get scratched or muddy. Lining them with an old towel, fitted car door protectors or washable covers saves your car interior and makes post-trip cleaning far easier. It’s a small step that makes a big difference, especially on wet days or after walks in muddy fields.

Plan your route with your dog in mind

When planning your journey, factor in breaks every 2 to 3 hours so your dog can stretch, explore and relieve themselves. Research dog-friendly service stations, parks or quieter lay-bys where your dog can safely walk on lead.

If you’re staying overnight, check hotel policies carefully. Even ‘pet-friendly’ places sometimes limit size or number of dogs. Having a few café patios or picnic spots mapped out keeps things flexible if traffic or weather changes your plans.

Keep your dog’s routine

Even away from home, sticking to your dog’s regular meal times and walk times helps them feel grounded. Pack enough of their usual food to last the trip to avoid sudden dietary changes that might upset their stomach. If your dog is used to a morning walk before breakfast, try to keep that habit, even if it means just a quick stroll.

Teach a car cue in advance

Practice at home or during short local drives by teaching your dog to only get in and out of the car on your command, such as “OK!” or “In!” This can prevent dangerous dashes when you open the door near traffic, busy car parks or service stations. Start with parked-car sessions, rewarding calm behaviour, and gradually add real stops into your practice runs.

Also read: The 8 Longest and Most Epic Road Trips in the World

On the road

Use proper safety restraints

A loose dog in the car is a danger to themselves and the driver. Use a crash-tested harness that attaches securely to the seatbelt, a travel crate large enough for your dog to sit, stand and turn comfortably, or a dog seatbelt attachment. Make sure any restraint fits properly and is introduced during short trips before your big journey so your dog is used to it.

Bring familiar comforts

Pack your dog’s favourite blanket, bed or a toy they love. Familiar smells help reduce anxiety, especially during long drives or overnight stays in new places.

If space allows, use their usual bed on the back seat or in the boot (secured safely) so it feels like a piece of home travels with them.

Keep the car climate comfortable

Dogs are more sensitive to heat than humans, so keep the car cool with air-conditioning and avoid direct sun. On sunny days, window shades or UV screens protect your dog’s eyes and skin and help keep the interior temperature down.

Plan walks during cooler parts of the day if you’re travelling in summer. And of course, never leave your dog unattended in a parked car as temperatures can rise dangerously fast.

Keep towels and wet wipes within reach

Rather than packing them deep in the boot, store a few old towels and pet-safe wet wipes in a door pocket or behind the driver’s seat. They’re invaluable for wiping muddy paws before your dog hops back in, drying wet fur after unexpected rain, or cleaning accidental spills. A quick clean makes the rest of your journey more comfortable for everyone.

Carry spare leads and harnesses

Even well-made gear can break or get soaked and muddy. Bringing a spare lead and an extra harness or slip-on collar ensures you’re not stuck if something snaps or is too dirty to use. They don’t take much space, but can save your trip from turning stressful.

Use calming sprays or pheromone collars if needed

For dogs who get nervous in cars or when away from home, calming sprays or pheromone collars designed for pets can help. They work by releasing comforting scents that mimic a dog’s natural calming pheromones. Talk to your vet about which product suits your dog and test it on shorter journeys before relying on it for a long trip.

The packing list

• Crash-tested harness, seatbelt clip or travel crate

• Dog seat cover or protective blanket

• Collapsible water and food bowls

• Enough food and treats for the whole trip

• Extra lead and spare harness or slip-on collar

• Dog waste bags

• Old towels and pet-safe wet wipes

• Cooling mat or dog booties for hot weather

• Pet first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, tick remover)

• Health documents and vaccination records

• Window shades or UV screens

• Pet-safe calming spray or pheromone collar

Enjoy your time with your furry best friend

Travelling with your dog by car can be one of the best ways to explore somewhere new. With a bit of thoughtful planning, some clever training, and the right gear, you can make sure your dog is as comfortable and relaxed as you are. That way, the journey itself becomes part of the adventure.