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Travel trailer roadtrip with your dog
Road trip in a Travel Trailer with your dog: our tips for a successful adventure
Traveling in a Travel Trailer is already a great adventure. But when you add a dog to the equation, everything becomes even more memorable and fun! After traveling the roads for three months with our Alto 2124 and our companion Whisky, a 5-year-old Labrador full of energy, we learned quite a few things we'd like to share with you. If you're planning a road trip with your dog, here are some simple and practical tips to make the experience as enjoyable for you as it is for him.
1. Familiarize your dog with travel
Before embarking on your adventure, remember to get your dog used to traveling. Some dogs, like our Whisky, adapt easily and remain calm during hours on the road, but this isn't always the case for all dogs. If your dog isn't used to long car rides, start with short trips so they can get accustomed to the movement.
Nice little tip: Bring along their favorite toys or blanket so they can find some familiar comfort and feel "at home" both in the vehicle and in the Travel Trailer. In our case, we had a Subaru Ascent SUV and had ample space in the back to accommodate the dog mat during trips. We made sure to move it into the Travel Trailer as needed for overnight stays. Whisky never really felt out of place.
2. Adapt the trip to your dog's temperament
Not all dogs react the same way when traveling, and it's important to adapt the road trip to their personality.
For calm dogs (like Whisky): long journeys are a breeze. Don't hesitate to plan slightly longer legs, but still make sure to take regular breaks so they can stretch their legs and relieve themselves.
For energetic dogs: plan frequent stops. Choose parks or rest areas where they can run, expend energy, and release their excess energy. Make sure they drink regularly.
For anxious dogs: routine is key. Maintain fixed schedules for meals and breaks; this will help calm their anxiety. Also consider anti-stress toys or certain sedatives prescribed by your veterinarian that will help relax your dog.
3. Choose "dog-friendly" campsites
Not all campsites accept dogs, so be sure to inquire before booking. However, some campsites offer spaces where your dog can run and play freely. During our trip through the American West, we chose campsites with large areas for Whisky to stretch his legs after a long day on the road. Many of these places were located on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands, which are popular government public lands in the United States. When it was very hot, we spent the night in campsites with services to use the air conditioning. The KOA campground network is interesting if you want services and spaces for dogs. We stayed there a few times.
Tip: Use apps like AllStays or RoverPass to find campsites where dogs are welcome. Another relevant app for the road is Ioverlander.
4. Set up a cozy corner in the Travel Trailer
Just as you need your own comfortable corner in the Travel Trailer, your dog also deserves their space. Whether your dog is calm or restless, set up a corner for them with their bed, blanket, or favorite toy so they feel good. As for us, our dear Whisky was a faithful companion to our 8-year-old son, with whom he shared his bed for a good part of the journey...
Tip: For dogs that are a bit more restless, a non-slip mat or a travel crate can make the trip safer and more comfortable.
5. Plan activities suited for your dog
A road trip in a Travel Trailer is the perfect opportunity to share many activities with your dog. Hikes, swims in rivers or lakes, park explorations: there are plenty of ways to have fun together. For active dogs, it's a must! During our road trip, mountain biking was a highlight in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana. Whisky was an outstanding partner!
Good to know: if your dog loves to be active, prioritize destinations with hiking trails or beaches where dogs are allowed. Note that US National Forests are often more permissive and flexible than large US National Parks, which have more restrictions regarding areas allowed for pets.
6. Take care of your dog's health on the road
A first-aid kit for your dog is essential. Don't forget their usual medications, and always have basic items like bandages, disinfectants, and, of course, their up-to-date health documents (veterinary health record and current vaccinations) readily available.
7. Watch out for the heat!
During the summer, temperatures inside a vehicle and a Travel Trailer can rise quickly. Whether your dog is calm like Whisky or more active, it's essential to maintain good ventilation and never leave your dog alone in the Travel Trailer if it's hot. If you're going out for an activity without your dog and are considering leaving them in the Travel Trailer, stay at a campground with services where you can activate the air conditioning. Very practical when spending time in Arizona and Nevada 😊.
Traveling in a Travel Trailer with a dog is a unique adventure, full of unforgettable moments. Whether your dog is a bundle of energy or a laid-back companion like Whisky, the important thing is to prepare your trip carefully. With these tips, you can hit the road with peace of mind and create magical memories with your best four-legged friend. Happy road trip!