Planning a Pet-Friendly Holiday: A Complete Preparation Guide

A holiday with your dog can be one of the best things you do together, or an expensive week of stress. The difference is almost entirely down to preparation: choosing the right destination, arranging the practical details early, and being realistic about what your individual animal enjoys.

Is Your Pet Suited to Travelling?

Some animals travel well; others are far happier at home with a sitter. Consider your pet honestly: dogs who cope well with new environments, car travel and being left briefly in an unfamiliar place usually enjoy it. Most cats do not, and are better off at home.

Booking Accommodation

• Confirm the pet policy directly rather than relying on a listing badge
• Check the number and size of pets allowed and any extra charges
• Ask whether pets can be left alone in the room — many places do not allow it
• Check for enclosed outdoor space, and whether the garden is genuinely secure
• Ask about flooring and furniture rules, and bring a cover or blanket

Before You Travel

• Check vaccinations and parasite prevention are current
• Confirm your ID tag has a mobile number that will work at the destination
• Check the microchip registration details are up to date
• Find and save the nearest vet and out-of-hours emergency clinic to your destination
• Confirm your pet insurance covers you where you are going
• For international travel, start the paperwork months ahead — health certificates and rabies timing rules are strict

The Journey

• Secure your pet properly — a crash-tested harness, a fixed crate or a boot guard
• Feed at least two hours before setting off to reduce travel sickness
• Stop every two to three hours for dogs to toilet and stretch
• Never leave a pet in a parked car, even briefly
• Keep the lead attached before opening any door at a service station
• Carry water and a collapsible bowl within reach, not in the boot

What to Pack

• Enough of the usual food for the trip plus two days
• Bowls, lead, spare lead and a well-fitted harness
• Medication in original packaging with written instructions
• Familiar bedding and one favourite toy — do not wash the bedding first
• Towels, poo bags, and a basic first aid kit
• Vaccination records and your emergency information sheet

Settling In at the Destination

Walk your dog around the outside of the accommodation before going in, then let them explore the inside on lead. Set up the bed in a quiet corner straight away, and keep feeding and walk times as close to home routine as possible. Expect an unsettled first night — that is normal and usually resolves by the second.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I take my cat on holiday?

Usually not. Cats are strongly attached to territory and generally cope far better at home with a sitter visiting daily.

How often should I stop when driving with a dog?

Every two to three hours for a toilet break, water and a short stretch. Puppies and seniors need more frequent stops.

What if my dog gets travel sick?

Feed well before travelling, keep the car cool and well ventilated, and build up with short practice journeys. If it persists, speak to your vet — effective medication is available.