How to Plan an Amazing Vacation with Your Pet

Having a fun vacation with (or without) your pet(s) is much easier when you’ve already planned for everything. While narrowing down your vacation details, be sure to pay attention to these guidelines to ensure your pet(s) stay safe and happy.

Pet-Friendly Destinations

You need a place for your pet to play and have fun with the family. Narrow your decisions to three places you want to go. You need at least one backup option before you make your final decision. You never know what could come up. Search online for pet-friendly activities and places in your ideal destinations. Don’t assume anything about rules or allowed pets. Ask customer service or an official about taking your pet with you.

Tell them about your pet. Tell them the species, breed, and size. Answer any questions they have calmly. If they reject you, just remember there are other places to have fun.

Traveling with your pet is also an important part of vacation planning. Make sure your pet is accustomed to the type of travel. If your pet gets nervous in a car, be prepared for it. Let a family member or toys distract them while they’re secure. Likewise, your pet needs to be crate trained so they can ride in the airplane if they’re too large to sit with you.

They need to be up to date on their immunizations. Bring extra medications if your pet takes any.

Pet-Friendly Lodgings

A website may say a hotel or other lodgings accept your type of pet. However, you need to be sure. Contact your desired location to ask if they allow your pet based on the size, species, and breed. Some places limit the type of pets you’re allowed to bring. Meanwhile, others charge a premium based on the pet’s size.

Pet-Friendly Activities

Choose activities based on your pet’s temperament, health, and age. Make sure it’s something your pet will enjoy along with your family.

You know your pet better than anyone else does. If your pet likes to be active, look for locations with open parks and other areas to explore. Natural environments are always a great place to go as long as they allow your type of pet. Meanwhile, if your pet likes to relax, think about quieter pet-friendly places. Some locations have pet spas and activity centers.

Look for local activities just for pet owners. Some places have special events and discounts for pet owners. You can search for the name of the city and “pet-friendly.” You can also try adding the name of the city and “pet activities.” If you really want to know more, search for pet blogs in your desired location.

With a well-planned trip, you can be sure to enjoy an amazing vacation with your pet.

Do you have any pet vacation tips or questions? Leave them in the comments and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Burlingtina Vines, Guest Writer

Burlingtina Vines is a lifelong pet owner and pet sitter. She’s also a freelance writer. Burlingtina has had fish, dogs, and rabbits as family members. She’s also taken care of all of the above, lizards, cats, and hamsters.

To learn more about her freelance writing click here.

Burlingtina can also be contacted regarding her writing services via her Simbi profile.