Driving safely with pets
Oct 24, 2025
Considering a road trip with your pet? Here’s your Travel Guide
It’s THAT time of the year when it's festive, there are holidays and you’re probably planning some vacations or brief getaways for the next 3 months.
Whether you're a first timer or even a repeat traveller, and debating a road trip with your Pet…look no further! One of the few things I’ve accomplished in my life is the ability to plan & execute road trips with my pet dog, Leo. :)))
So here goes, some personal insights from me, tested & tried on Leo.
PRACTICAL road trip DO’s & DON’Ts.
Before You Hit the Road:
Plan Pet-Friendly Stops:
Map out rest areas for your journey and/or pet-friendly cafés where your furry friend can stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.Visit the Vet:
Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date and carry these health records (soft or hard copies- whatever is convenient). Some pets are also prone to motion sickness, so consult the vet and take necessary precautions.Pack a Pet Travel Kit:
Include food, water, bowls, leash, poop bags, wipes, toys, sheet/blanket, and any medications.Pet ID Tags:
Ensure your pet has an ID tag with your contact information. This is super important, just in case your pet decides to sprint off in excitement!Comfort in the Car:
If you’re driving in your car, do create a comfortable space with soft bedding, sheets and pillows/cushions for your pet to lie down or sit on. It should be safe yet sturdy as the road trips would mean a fair bit of motion.
During the Drive:
Use a Pet Seat Belt or soft crate:
Use a longer seat belt that allows your pet to move freely yet in a secure way.This also prevents distractions while driving in case your pet wants to lunge forward!Maintain Ventilation & Temperature:
Avoid completely open windows. However it’s critical to manage comfortable airflow, by partially rolling down car windows or maintaining the Aircon in the car. Decide depending on the weather & outside temperature of course. Also keep an eye on your pet panting excessively, as this usually means discomfort.Keep Heads Inside: While it might look cute, letting pets stick their heads out of the window can cause eye or ear injuries or even fatal accidents (something crashing against them or them leaping out). AVOID!
Frequent Breaks:
Depending on how long the drive to your destination is, do stop every 2–3 hours for walks, water, and bathroom breaks.No Loose Food Bowls:
Offer small and light meals and avoid feeding right before departure to prevent nausea. Somethings that work wonderfully are curd/yoghurt, banana, boiled eggs - in small portions.
At Your Destination
Pet-Friendly Stay:
Do confirm well in advance that the hotel or resort is pet friendly, read the policies in advance. Some places allow pets of a certain breed/size only while some don’t allow access to restaurants and common areas. Best to know early, so you can plan as per your pet’s needs & personality. Ensure that you bring your pet’s bed or blanket or sheet for comfort, as it would be a new place for them. Many pet-friendly places provide a bed, but something from their own bed always makes them feel safe.Maintain Routine:
Stick to their regular feeding and walking schedule to reduce anxiety. Some change & anticipation & excitement is expected, but best to stick to basic routines so they don’t feel overwhelmed.Hydration & Shade:
Keep fresh water available at all times—especially in warm weather.
Bonus Tip
Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. Temperatures can rise dangerously fast. Even in colder weather it could make them claustrophobic.
Before you take your pet on a long (6+ hours) journey by road, get them used to short trips of 2-3 hours. That’s the best way to assess your pet’s comfort or discomfort and also ease them into it.
Animals adapt beautifully and they quite enjoy new sights & smells. So personally I’d recommend that when possible, let your pets join you so they can enjoy new adventures as you do!
