Choose Overnight Stops Before You Leave
Road trips become much easier when the pet-friendly hotel is already confirmed. Save the hotel's address and current pet policy, then keep a backup property in the same city in case weather or traffic changes the schedule.
Build Breaks Into the Route
Plan regular stops for water, movement and bathroom breaks. A dog that normally handles a long drive may need more frequent stops in hot weather or on mountain routes.
Never Rely on a Parked Car
Vehicle temperatures can become dangerous quickly. Arrange the trip so one person can stay with the pet when necessary, or choose pet-friendly stops instead of leaving an animal in the car.
Pack a Road Kit
- Food and water in easy-to-reach containers
- Medication and health information
- Leash, harness, towel and cleanup supplies
- Crate, seat-belt harness or other appropriate restraint
- Portable bed or blanket that smells like home
For destination ideas, browse our pet-friendly U.S. city guides.