Are you ready to unleash travel adventures with your dog?

Lisa Wells | Associated Press

Bringing your dog along on your travel adventures can be a blast, but how do you make sure the trip is fun and stress-free for you both? Taking advantage of these dog-friendly options and travel tips can help you plan a getaway for you and your four-legged friend.

Traveling with pets has become increasingly popular in recent years. In response, the travel industry has expanded their offerings for vacationers who bring their dogs along. Pet-friendly stays, activities and transportation are making it easier and more fun to travel with dogs.

For many pet owners, their dog is their best friend. Having them along as a companion can provide welcome company. Among 34 to 54 year olds, the number of people who prefer to bring their pets on vacation has increased to 40% per data from Allianz. Bringing your dog on vacation also eliminates the need to find pet care while you are out of town.

Although many places will welcome your dog, trying to go somewhere that dogs are not allowed can interrupt your trip or add extra stress. Before you book hotels and pack your bags, choose the right itinerary to ensure a great trip for you and your pup.

Best pet-friendly destinations for your next trip

Many cities are dog-friendly for both residents and visitors. By choosing one of these cities to visit, you’ll have a better chance of finding accommodations and activities for your dog. Fortunately, many of these cities are also exciting travel destinations.

Key West, Florida

For a pup-friendly beach escape, head to Key West in Florida. Beaches in South Florida offer beautiful stretches of sand and sparkling water. You and your dog can relax in the sun, splash in the waves and explore the city. Head to the Key West Dog Beach for off-leash fun. Dogs are also welcome on Lazy Dog Kayak Eco-Tours.

Sacramento, California

Forbes chose Sacramento as the most dog-friendly city in the U.S. based on available accommodations and activities. Sacramento is highly walkable and has dozens of dog parks, restaurants with dog-friendly patios and accommodations that take pets. Nature trails and the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains provide plenty of hiking. For relaxing, Sacramento is known as the Farm to Fork Capital and has a burgeoning wine culture.

Edisto Island, South Carolina

Edisto Island is a South Carolina barrier island less than an hour away from Charleston. It is a quiet beach destination for a laid-back, pet-friendly escape. Edisto Beach welcomes dogs to the four-and-a-half-mile shoreline and Edisto Beach State Park has trails for hiking. You can also bring your dog along on a nature tour by Botany Bay Ecotours.

Navigating hotels, restaurants and attractions with your dog

It’s beneficial to map out the experience for you and your dog before you depart. Start by picking a dog-friendly hotel. Hotel brands at all price points have rooms that accommodate dogs. Some even provide extras, like dog treats or water bowls, on check in.

When booking, LaDell Carter, founder of Royal Expression Travels, notes, “Some hotels might advertise as pet-friendly but impose restrictions such as weight limits or prohibitions against leaving pets unattended in rooms. To avoid any unwelcome surprises, it’s crucial to verify these details beforehand.”

Pet-friendly restaurants and activities

Restaurants with outdoor seating will often accept well-behaved dogs. In Hilton Head Island, for instance, Skull Creek Boathouse offers shade, fans and water bowls for dogs on their patios, letting you and your dog enjoy brunch in Hilton Head together.

When planning what to do on vacation, focus on outdoor activities as those are most likely to be dog-friendly. Hikes, lakes, local parks, beaches and national seashores are ideal places to hang out with your dog. Individual businesses may also permit dogs. Check out city tourism sites, online forums and local business websites for more ideas.

Planning transportation with a dog

While there are many dog-friendly vacation destinations, getting your dog there can be a challenge. Consider how you want to travel and what your dog is comfortable with when planning your trip. You’ll also want to check what requirements your transport method and destination have for dogs. Vaccination records, health certificates and microchips are often required, especially for international travel. Also, keep in mind that new rules for entering the U.S. will start in August 2024.

Plane travel with a dog

In their survey, Forbes found that about 33% of dog owners travel by plane with their pup. To meet demand, airlines are providing more options for dogs that fly. Several major airlines permit small pets to travel in the cabin as long as they are in a carrier that will fit under the seat in front of you. According to NerdWallet, Alaskan Airlines, Frontier, Delta, Southwest, United and others permit pets for an extra fee. On major carriers that permit larger dogs, the dog must be kenneled and travel in cargo.

Some boutique airlines like BARK Air are offering another option. Aboard smaller planes, dogs get to sit wherever they like and move about the cabin. These airlines prioritize a relaxing flight for dogs. Dave Stangle, VP of Brand Marketing at BARK notes, “All furry passengers have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling earmuffs and calming jackets to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable flight.” Dog-first airlines may offer complimentary options like meals for the pups and the humans.

Bringing the dogs on road trips

If your destination is within driving distance, road trips can be a great way to travel with pets. Most dogs like car rides, and the familiar environment is often less stressful for both of you. Traveling by car also makes it easy to stop for stretch and potty breaks.

Whenever you are driving with your dog along as a passenger, make sure your pup is secured and won’t cause a distraction. Travel crates are a good way to secure your dog both in the car and at your destination. Dog seat belts and backseat hammocks can also keep you and your dog safe and comfortable while road tripping. If your dog isn’t often in the car, do a few practice rides before setting off on your trip.

Plan your next adventure with your dog

As more cities, hotels and airlines add pet-friendly accommodations, it has never been easier to travel with your furry friends. Join the trend of traveling with your dog and enjoy vacation in an entirely new way.

Lisa Wells is a travel, food and lifestyle writer and photographer who has traveled across 37 countries. As the founder of Coastal Wandering, she shares her love for laid-back beach living with stories, recipes and tips for a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Originally Published: August 26, 2024 at 2:22 p.m.