3 Helpful Tips for Traveling With Your Pets

The travel industry is huge, but you might be surprised to learn that $69.51 billion of the travel industry is spent on pets annually.

While most of this money goes towards boarding a pet or hiring a pet sitter, many people choose to bring their animals along for the trip with them. After calculating all the costs, it can actually be cheaper to buy your pup a plane ticket than to pay someone to watch them while you’re gone.

But if you’re new to the pet traveling world, you need to know that it’s not always an easy thing to handle. Keep reading for three main tips to keep in mind for the next time you travel with pets.

1. Visit the Vet First

Before you start worrying about how to travel with your pets, you need to book an appointment with the vet.

Inform the veterinarian of your travel plans and that you plan to take your pet. They will check the health of your animal to make sure that they are able to handle traveling, whether that means a long car ride or a flight. If your pet suffers from travel anxiety, they can prescribe medication to make the trip easier on them.

In addition, you’ll want to get an updated list of shots and vaccines from your vet to take with you. Some airlines, hotels, and other businesses require this proof before allowing your pet to enter certain buildings.

2. Pack for Success

When it comes to hacks for traveling with your pets, it’s all about packing for success.

Start by thinking about everything your pet needs on a normal day, including food, water, and medications. Then, add in any items that make your pet more comfortable, such as their favorite toys or bed. Finally, think of anything that they may need in an emergency, including a pet first aid kit.

Pack the pet items in a separate bag than your luggage. If you’re flying, make sure it’s a bag that can accompany your pet for the whole trip. If you’re driving, pack this bag last so all your pet supplies are easily accessible.

3. Take Frequent Breaks

Wondering how to travel with your pets by car? The secret formula includes a lot of breaks.

Both humans and pets need breaks while traveling to walk around, go to the bathroom, and to take a few deep breaths. Read more about the importance of breaks when it comes to your own health and motivation, here. Breaks are also a great time to play with your animal to tire them out so that they are more likely to sleep during the next leg of the trip.

If you’re looking for ways how to travel with your pets by airplane, breaks within the flight won’t be possible. Instead, limit your time in the airport, and opt for non-stop flights to shorten the trip.

Explore the World and Travel With Pets

It is possible to travel with pets, but it takes a lot more preparation than a solo trip.

Start by visiting the vet to make sure that your pet is healthy enough to travel and get proof that they are up to date with their shots. Then, pack for success by bringing every possible thing that will make the trip a little easier on your pet. Finally, plan for frequent breaks during transit to help your pet handle the trip.

Looking for more advice beyond tips for traveling with your pets? Head to the Travel section of this site for all the best tips and tricks to plan the best trip possible.