Travelling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, but preparation is key to ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable pet-friendly holiday trip for you and your furry friend.
Here is an expanded guide packed with practical advice to help you plan the perfect pet-friendly holidays. Check them out below!
1. Choose the Right Destination
Not all destinations are pet-friendly, so selecting the right one is essential. Look for places that offer pet-friendly accommodations, parks, and activities.
You can consider these factors, such as:
1. Accommodations
Research hotels, vacation rentals, or campsites that welcome pets. Check if they provide pet amenities like beds, bowls, and treats. Websites like TripAdvisor or BringFido or Airbnb’s pet-friendly filter can help you to find what suits you the most.
2. Outdoor Spaces
Destinations with dog-friendly beaches, hiking trails, or parks are ideal. Some cities even have pet-friendly shopping areas and cafes.
3. Climate Considerations
Avoid destinations with extreme weather conditions unsuitable for your pet.
2. Pack Smart for Your Pet
Packing thoughtfully can prevent many hiccups during the trip, include:
Essentials: Leash, harness, waste bags, travel bowls, and pet food.
Comfort Items: A favourite toy, blanket, or bed to provide familiarity.
Health Needs: Bring a pet first-aid kit, any medications, flea/tick preventatives, and vaccination records (especially for international travel).
Identification: Ensure your pet is microchipped and wears a collar with up-to-date ID tags, including your contact information. Check out our best product here.
3. Plan for Safe Travel
How you travel matters, especially for your pet’s safety and comfort. Considering these types of transportations can help you reduce the unnecessary stress during your trip.
1. By Car
Use a pet seatbelt, harness, or carrier to keep them secure.
Avoid leaving your furry friends in the car, especially in hot or cold weather.
Schedule breaks every 2–3 hours for walks and bathroom breaks.
2. By Plane
Check airline policies on pet travel. Some allow small pets in the cabin and larger pets may need to travel in the cargo hold.
Use an IATA-compliant carrier and make sure your pet is acclimatised to it before the journey. Check out our IATA-compliant crate here.
Arrive early to handle check-in procedures smoothly.
3. By Train or Boat (If Necessary)
Confirm if pets are allowed using this transportation, and check any restrictions on pet sizes or breeds to prevent any hick-ups.
4. Check Pet Policies in Advance
Do your homework to avoid unpleasant surprises, for example:
1. Transport Policies
Remember, different airlines, trains, and buses have varying rules. Some require reservations for pets, and others have weight or size restrictions.
2. Accommodation Rules
Confirm if there are additional pet fees or restrictions on where your pet can roam within the property. This is important for you!
3. International Travel
If travelling abroad, you have to review the destination country’s pet import regulations. Many require specific vaccinations, health certificates, or quarantine periods.
Avoid surprises by checking pet policies in advance. Let Global Paws handle all the details, from transport to international regulations, so you and your pet can enjoy a seamless, stress-free journey.
Contact us today to start planning your next adventure!
5. Prioritise Comfort and Routine
Pets thrive on routine, so try to maintain their normal schedule during your trip. Here is what you can do for them during your pet-friendly holidays:
Stick to your pet’s usual meal and walk times to reduce stress.
Create a dedicated spot for your pet to relax, especially if they are in a new environment.
If your pet is not used to crowds or unfamiliar settings, ease them into new experiences gradually.
6. Plan Activities Together
A pet-friendly holidays should include activities that both you and your pet can enjoy, like:
Visiting pet-friendly beaches or parks.
Joining pet-friendly tours or events.
Dining at cafes or restaurants with outdoor seating that allow pets.
7. Know Emergency Contacts
Prepare for the unexpected by keeping a list of these:
Local veterinarians or emergency clinics at your destination.
A 24-hour pet poison hotline if travelling to areas with unfamiliar plants or substances.
Contact details for pet boarding or daycare facilities, in case you need them temporarily.
8. Train Your Pet Before Travelling
Get your pet travel-ready by making the basics a breeze! Help them feel comfy in their carrier, get used to wearing a leash, and enjoy car rides.
Start introducing them to their travel crate or carrier weeks ahead. You can trust our expertise to make the trip a lot smoother (for both of you)!
9. Keep Your Pet Entertained
Long journeys can be boring for pets, so pack interactive toys, chews, or treat-dispensing puzzles to keep them occupied.
When it comes to travelling with your pet to France, Global Paws has you covered. From travel documents to pet-friendly tips, we handle all the details.
Let us take the stress out of your trip. Visit Global Paws to get started!
A well-planned pet-friendly holiday is a joy for you and your furry companion. By choosing the right destination, packing thoughtfully, and ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety, you can create lasting memories together.
For more travel tips and support, don’t hesitate to contact Global Paws and let the tail-wagging fun begin! Get a FREE quote here NOW!
About Global Paws:
Global Paws is a family-owned business with over 20 years of experience in pet travel and relocation. We know your pets are part of your family, and we care for them like they are part of ours. As proud members of the International Pet & Animal Transport Association (IPATA) and certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR), we’re committed to making sure they travel safely and comfortably.
What sets us apart is the extra care we provide. Every pet is treated like family, and we make sure their journey is safe and stress-free, no matter where they are headed.
We believe every pet deserves a first-class experience, and we are here to make sure they are comfortable from start to finish. Our experience, backed by IPATA and IATA, gives you peace of mind knowing your pet’s journey is in safe, loving hands.
Then, are you ready to give VIP treatment for your furry friend? Visit our website to book your pet’s dream vacation today!
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