Taking your pet along on holiday can turn a good trip into a truly memorable one. There’s something comforting about sharing new experiences with your furry companion, whether you’re off to a quiet coastal village or exploring a new city. But travelling with an animal, while rewarding, does require a little extra thought. Pets have their own needs and routines, and if you want the journey to go smoothly, you’ll need to keep those in mind from the very start.
Look for places that truly welcome pets
It’s easy enough to find places that say they accept pets, but that doesn’t always mean they’re properly set up for them. Some hotels or rentals are happy to have animals staying but make it awkward once you arrive, limiting access to certain areas or charging unexpectedly high cleaning fees. Others go the extra mile, offering water bowls, dog beds, or even a patch of private garden for late-night walks.
Before you book, take the time to read reviews, especially those written by other pet owners. You’ll often get a much clearer picture that way. Try to get a feel for the area too. Are there places nearby to stretch their legs? Is the space calm and quiet, or in the middle of busy streets? A quick call or email to the host can also help. You’ll often be able to tell right away whether they’re happy to have animals around or merely tolerate them.
Stick to what your pet knows, when you can
Holidays naturally shake up our daily routine, different bedtimes, new foods, unplanned adventures. While we usually adapt to it quite easily, animals sometimes find it harder. If your dog or cat is used to being fed at certain times or walking a familiar route, the change can leave them a little unsettled at first.
Try to keep a few things consistent. Bring their usual food, their regular bowl, and maybe a blanket or toy that smells like home. Even if everything around them is different, those little touches give them something to hold onto. If you can, work in their usual walk or playtime to keep a sense of familiarity. You’ll probably find they settle in more quickly that way, and you’ll both enjoy yourselves more as a result.
Know where the nearest vet is before you go
It’s not something you want to think about on a relaxing trip, but accidents can happen. Whether it’s a minor scratch or something more serious, you’ll want to know where the nearest vet is just in case. Take a few minutes before you leave to look up a practice near where you’re staying. Make a note of their number, address and opening hours, and keep it handy.
If your pet has a medical condition or is on regular medication, you could also call ahead and ask if the clinic would be able to help if anything came up. It’s a small bit of preparation, but one that can make a big difference if you suddenly need it.
Learn to build the trip around your pet
When it comes to making your trip truly pet-friendly, learning how to plan a tour around your animal’s needs makes all the difference. It’s not just about where you stay, it’s about how each day is shaped. If you’re visiting museums or shops all day where pets aren’t allowed, your four-legged friend could be stuck waiting for hours. On the other hand, a little planning can lead to the kind of trip where both of you feel included.
Start by finding places that allow pets inside, whether it’s cafés, parks, or galleries. Think about the weather too, especially in summer. If your dog overheats easily, long walks in the afternoon might not be ideal. Some people create loose itineraries that include rest spots, shaded paths or even beaches that welcome dogs. There’s no one way to do it, you’ll learn what works best by trying it out and adjusting as you go. Over time, you’ll find your rhythm, and planning holidays with your pet will start to feel second nature.
