How to Travel with Your Dog: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip

Whether you’re organising a day out, a holiday in the UK or abroad, travelling with our furry friends can be a joyous experience when planned carefully. Bringing your dog along adds a special kind of fun, but without the right preparations, the trip might become stressful for everyone involved.

Sometimes, taking your dog isn’t an option. In those cases, having a trustworthy pet sitter or boarding kennel is a lifeline. We recommend choosing local services based on personal recommendations—you can’t beat hearing about others’ experiences. Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are current, including kennel cough, before boarding. Also, don’t forget to inform carers of any dietary needs, medications, or unique behaviours your pet may have.

If your four-legged companion is travelling with you, preparation is key. Good planning will ensure your holiday runs smoothly, avoiding travel or accommodation complications and allowing you to focus on enjoying your time together.

Before heading off, check that your dog wears a well-fitted collar with up-to-date contact details, including your address, phone number, and your vet’s number. For longer holidays, vets often recommend an identity disc indicating your dog is on holiday, plus contact numbers of yourself or a responsible friend. Microchipping provides excellent additional security at a modest cost and is highly recommended. Coupling this with good training will help your dog behave their best, making the experience enjoyable for all.

Recently, pet-friendly holidays have become increasingly popular, especially with the rise of 'staycations' within Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Several resources can help you find the perfect destination for your family, including your canine pals. From camping to tailored dog-friendly trips, there’s something to fit every preference.

Camping with Your Dog

Camping remains a favourite for many dog owners. Most campsites welcome well-behaved dogs, and these locations typically offer great access to scenic walks and trails that you and your dog will love.

For a fantastic northern option, consider the Hadrian's Wall Camping, Caravan Site and Bunk Barn, near the border with Scotland. This site is known for being exceptionally dog and child-friendly, featuring level pitches and excellent amenities. The area boasts the historic Hadrian’s Wall path stretching 73 miles, offering walks tailored to your endurance and your dog’s energy levels.

Further south, the South West Coast Path is a spectacular option. Spanning approximately 630 miles from Somerset through Exmoor National Park to the stunning coasts of Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset, this route can be broken into manageable sections. Dogs can enjoy running on some of England's finest beaches—but always follow local rules about dog access, especially during busy seasons, and remember to clean up after your pet. Cliff-top walks provide breathtaking views, and dog lovers should keep their pets on leads or close control on the more exposed sections. The Namparra Campsite near the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall is a welcoming spot for pets with close access to beautiful beaches and coves.

Dog-Centric Holidays and Activities

Not everyone fancies camping. For those seeking a unique experience, dog-specific holidays combine fun and education. For example, the Royvon Dog Boarding and Training Centre in Wales offers three-day residential packages where both dogs and owners bond through training sessions, behaviour management workshops, leadership exercises, and invigorating hikes. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of your dog and enhance your connection.

Alternatively, consider a boating holiday along Britain’s canals and inland waterways. Companies like Shire Cruises specialise in canal and narrowboat trips winding through the lush Pennines and Yorkshire valleys. These journeys offer peaceful countryside exploration, and with many other dog walkers along the canal banks, your dog will have plenty of company. Trips can be planned as return journeys or one-way, with options for shorter breaks and day sails.

Feeling inspired? With so many options available, there’s bound to be a holiday that fits your needs and delights your dog. Be sure to research your chosen destination in advance to ensure it’s truly dog-friendly and that your furry companion will have a wonderful time.