Service
Basket
Menu
Weekend deal: Get 25% off Vetality in the Medpets app Read more
Weekend deal: Get 25% off Vetality in the Medpets app

Download the app and don’t miss out

Camping with your dog: the ultimate guide to a successful holiday

Written by Sjoerd |

Camping with Your Dog | Tips, Packing List & Holiday Guide

What to Know Before You Leave

  • Preparation is key: Make sure dogs are allowed at your campsite, especially if you’re staying in a rented accommodation like a static caravan. Also check the rules: is your dog allowed in the restaurant, or does it need to stay by the caravan?
  • Suitability of your dog: Consider whether your dog can handle new situations, such as other dogs and people. Be mindful of barking and off-leash behaviour to keep the holiday relaxing for everyone.
  • Documents and vaccinations: Ensure all your dog’s paperwork and vaccinations are up to date, especially when travelling abroad. Don’t forget about worming, flea and tick prevention. Each country has its own pet regulations. Check the rules for camping abroad with your dog here.

Camping gear for puppies and senior dogs

What to Consider When Camping with a Puppy

Puppies are sensitive to new impressions and need plenty of rest. Watch their paws: sharp objects and uncomfortable surfaces can be painful. Sand at the beach also doesn’t yet provide enough support for your pup’s joints. Consider a dog buggy for long walks or a bike trailer when cycling.

What to Consider When Camping with a Senior Dog

Make camping as comfortable as possible for your senior dog. Think of an extra-comfy orthopaedic dog pillow for dogs with arthritis and use a telescopic ramp to help them get in and out of the car easily.

Gadgets and innovations

Packing List: Camping Gear for Your Dog

When starting your journey to the campsite, safety comes first. Make sure your dog travels safely with:

Don’t forget to make regular stops for a short walk and a toilet break:

  • A travel water bowl is handy on the go so your dog always has something to drink.
  • Air out your car on hot summer days with a car cooler. It’s important your dog doesn’t become overheated.

At the campsite, give your dog a cosy spot to relax. Be sure to pack:

Create a secure area:

  • A mobile dog fence can help you set up a safe perimeter so your dog doesn’t wander off.
  • You can also keep your dog secured with a tie-out line.

For long walks through forests or along the beach:

Got everything? View our checklist here.

Dog toys

Keeping Your Dog Entertained on Holiday

Even on holiday, it’s important to keep your dog mentally and physically engaged. Think of:

  • Search games: Use a snuffle mat to hide treats and keep your dog entertained.
  • Tug games: Bring a tug toy for interactive play and to burn off energy.
  • Water fun: If you’re camping near water, let your dog enjoy it safely with a dog life jacket.

Seasonal Camping Tips

If you’re camping in the UK, keep the season in mind. On warm summer days, a cooling mat helps keep your dog refreshed. If the weather turns, a raincoat is a great addition to keep your dog dry and comfortable. Does your dog suffer from environmental allergies? These often flare up in spring, so be sure to pack the right medication and food.

Check out the Vetsend selection: travel and camping products for dogs and see what other dog owners have to say!

Read our other blogs too

dog hanging out of window

8 Useful tips to help your dog during hot weather

Summer is wonderful, but hot days can pose risks for your dog. Many owners wonder: when is it too hot to walk my dog? Or: how can I tell if my dog is too hot at home? In this article, we share practical tips to help you keep your dog cool and explain how to prevent heatstroke in dogs.

Dog

Checklist: Taking Your Dog or Cat on Holiday

Taking your dog or cat with you on holiday can be a wonderful experience. However, it requires more than just choosing a pet-friendly destination and packing your pet's essentials.
holiday-health-risks-dog

Going on Holiday with Your Dog: Avoid Unwanted Souvenirs

Taking your dog on holiday is, of course, great fun, but there are a number of important things to consider. Many holiday destinations have diseases that are spread by mosquitoes, ticks or flies, which don’t survive in the Dutch climate — but are common in the warmer regions of Europe. That’s why it’s essential to protect your dog against these parasites if they’re coming along on your trip.
More tips