Skip to content Summer is the perfect season to hit the road with your four-legged companion. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or a dog-friendly city, a well-planned trip makes all the difference. Since dogs thrive on routine, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping both of you relaxed and happy throughout the trip.
This guide walks you through everything you need to think about — from choosing the right destination to packing the right gear — so your summer vacation with your dog becomes one of your best trips yet.
Not every vacation spot welcomes dogs, so your first step is narrowing down locations that genuinely cater to pets. Many coastal towns, national forests, and state parks allow leashed dogs on trails and public areas. Before you book anything, check the pet policies of parks, beaches, and attractions you plan to visit.
Some cities stand out as particularly dog-welcoming. Asheville NC, Portland OR, and Austin TX have strong reputations for dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and shops. In contrast, many popular tourist destinations have strict no-pet rules, so it’s worth verifying in advance.
Once you’ve picked your destination, look for accommodation that specifically lists dogs as welcome guests — not just “pets allowed.” Many hotels charge pet fees, so factor those costs into your travel budget as well.
Road trips are often the best option for dog owners, since flying with a large dog can be stressful and expensive. That said, even a car ride requires planning. Dogs generally need a stop every two to three hours to stretch their legs, use the bathroom, and drink water.
Map out your route in advance to identify rest stops, dog parks, and pet-friendly areas along the way. Apps like BringFido and Google Maps can help you locate places where your dog can take a break safely. Try to avoid scheduling long driving stretches during the hottest part of the day, since parked cars heat up fast and dogs overheat faster than people.
If you’re flying, research airline pet policies carefully. Most airlines allow small dogs in cabin-approved carriers under the seat, while larger dogs typically travel as cargo. Always check breed restrictions, carrier size limits, and booking windows, since pet spots on flights fill up quickly.
Finding the right place to stay is one of the most important parts of traveling with a dog. Vacation rentals through platforms like Vrbo or Airbnb often offer more flexibility than hotels, especially if your dog is on the larger side. Look for properties with a fenced yard or easy access to green space.
When you book hotels, always call ahead even if the website says pets are allowed. Ask specifically about weight limits, breed restrictions, and any extra fees. Some hotels charge a nightly pet fee, while others charge a flat cleaning fee. A few high-end options even offer amenities like dog beds, bowls, and welcome treats.
Camping is another excellent option for dog-friendly summer travel. Many campgrounds across the country allow leashed dogs, and the outdoor setting means your dog gets plenty of stimulation and exercise. Just remember to research any wildlife concerns in the area before you go.
Packing for your dog deserves as much attention as packing for yourself. A forgotten item can turn a smooth trip into a stressful scramble. So, take the time to build a dedicated dog packing list before each trip.
Bring enough of your dog’s regular food for the entire trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Switching foods while traveling can upset a dog’s stomach, so stick to what they’re used to. Pack a collapsible water bowl, a travel water bottle, and enough water for the first leg of the journey. You can refill along the way, but having water on hand avoids panic stops.
Pack your dog’s vaccination records, any medications, flea and tick prevention, and your vet’s contact information. If you’re traveling out of state, some destinations may require a health certificate from your vet, so check requirements ahead of time. A basic pet first aid kit is also worth throwing into the bag.
Make sure your dog’s ID tags are up to date with a working phone number. A GPS pet tracker is a smart additional layer of security, especially in unfamiliar areas.
Dogs feel more secure in new environments when they have familiar smells around them. Bring their bed or a favorite blanket, a few toys, and anything else that helps them settle quickly. These small comforts can make a big difference in how well your dog sleeps and relaxes during the trip.
One thing many dog owners underpack for travel is waste cleanup supplies. Whether you’re hiking a trail, walking through a campground, or strolling a dog-friendly downtown, you’re expected to clean up after your dog — and rightfully so. Running out of bags mid-trip is a stressful, avoidable situation.
Before you leave, stock up on high-quality, reliable dog poop bags that won’t leak or tear at the wrong moment. GOGO Stik’s Heavy Dootie Bags are a popular choice for travelers because they’re thick, leak-proof, and come in convenient pack sizes that are easy to toss into a backpack or fanny pack.
If you prefer a hands-free cleanup option, a pooper scooper is ideal for campsite use or situations where bending down repeatedly isn’t practical. The GOGO Stik XP Pooper Scooper Set is lightweight and compact enough to clip to a bag, making it a great travel companion.
For campers doing site cleanup after multiple days, the Scooper and Hybrid Rake Set with 100 Heavy Dootie Bags handles larger messes quickly. It’s particularly useful for large dog owners who need an efficient cleanup solution without multiple trips back to camp.
For evening walks at the campground or resort, the GOGO Stik Fido USB Rechargeable LED Flashlight Scooper makes nighttime cleanups much easier. The built-in rechargeable light means you’re never caught in the dark, which is especially helpful on unlit campground paths.
The Catch N Go Hybrid Catcher Scooper with Genie Rechargeable LED Flashlights Kit combines a catcher, scooper, and rechargeable light into one convenient package. Pair it with Happy Dootie Bags with tie handles for a quick and clean experience on the go.
The Catch N Go Hybrid Catcher Scooper with Strap-On Roll Bag Dispenser includes 10 rolls of Happy Dootie Bags and attaches directly to your leash or bag for easy access. For large dog owners who want a completely hands-free system, the XP Pooper Scooper with 100-Count Heavy Dootie Bags keeps your hands clean every time.
You should also consider the Catch N Go Hybrid Catcher and Scooper with Genie Rechargeable LED Flashlights and Clip-On Holder for a full-featured cleanup kit that clips onto your gear. And for a lighter travel option, the standard Dootie Bags are a no-fuss, dependable choice that take up almost no room in your pack.
Finally, pack a supply of Heavy Dootie Pet Wipes for Paws and Butt for quick cleanups after muddy trails or beach visits. They’re citrus-scented and strong enough to handle real messes without irritating your dog’s skin.
Dogs can get restless during long periods of travel, so it helps to plan activities that give them a chance to run, sniff, and play. Look up dog parks near your route and destination before you leave. Even a 20-minute off-leash session can reset your dog’s energy level significantly, making the rest of the day smoother for both of you.
Hiking is one of the best vacation activities for dogs, provided the trail is dog-friendly and the weather is manageable. Stick to shaded trails on hot days, and bring more water than you think you’ll need. Signs of overheating include excessive panting, drooling, and slowing down — if you notice any of these, stop and rest in a cool spot right away.
Swimming is another activity many dogs love, especially in summer heat. Lakes, rivers, and dog-friendly beaches offer a great way to cool down and burn energy. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, so start in shallow water and never force them in. A dog life jacket is a good idea for open water, particularly if your dog is a smaller or flat-faced breed.
Summer travel with a dog requires constant awareness of temperature. Dogs regulate heat differently than humans — they rely almost entirely on panting and can overheat in conditions that feel comfortable to us.
Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked. On an 85°F day, a car’s interior can reach 102°F within 10 minutes. Beyond that, always have water available, limit exercise during peak heat hours (typically 11 AM to 3 PM), and watch for hot pavement, which can burn paw pads quickly. If the asphalt feels hot under the back of your hand for more than a few seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
If you’re camping, make sure your dog has access to shade throughout the day. A portable canopy or shade sail can make a big difference at a sunny campsite. Cooling mats designed for dogs are also worth packing — they use pressure-activated technology and don’t require freezing or wetting.
One of the quickest ways to make dog-friendly destinations less friendly for everyone is to ignore posted rules. Leash laws exist for good reasons — they protect your dog, other dogs, wildlife, and people who may not be comfortable around dogs. Always leash up unless you’re in a clearly designated off-leash area.
Clean up every time, without exception. Trails, parks, and beaches that become littered with dog waste often have pet access restricted or removed. Carrying enough citrus-scented dog poop bags means you never have an excuse for leaving messes behind. The Bio Blu Dootie Bags are also a solid pick for eco-conscious travelers — they’re designed for medium to large dogs and are an environmentally responsible option.
Beyond cleanup, keep noise in mind too. Excessive barking can disturb neighbors at campgrounds and hotels. If your dog tends to bark at night in unfamiliar places, a white noise machine or a calming supplement can help ease the adjustment.
If your dog has never traveled before, a little preparation before your departure date makes the trip much smoother. Start by taking short car rides to normalize the experience. Gradually increase duration so your dog associates car travel with something positive rather than stressful.
Visit your vet before any extended trip to make sure vaccinations are current and your dog is healthy enough for travel. This is especially important if you’re going somewhere with different climate conditions or new wildlife exposure risks. Your vet can also recommend anxiety treatments if your dog is particularly nervous in new situations.
Practice basic obedience commands before the trip too. A dog that reliably responds to “come,” “sit,” and “stay” is significantly easier to manage in busy or unfamiliar environments. If recall is inconsistent, invest a few weeks in training before travel season starts.
The best dog-friendly vacations strike a balance between what you want to do and what your dog can handle. Dogs generally don’t need elaborate itineraries — they thrive on quality time with their owners, new smells, and physical activity. The trip doesn’t need to be built entirely around your dog, but factoring their needs into each day makes the whole experience better.
Take photos, try new trails together, and let your dog lead the way on a morning sniff walk. These moments often become the most memorable parts of the trip. Dogs have a way of slowing travel down in the best possible sense — they notice things you’d normally walk right past.
Planning a summer vacation with your dog takes more effort than traveling solo, but the reward is a travel companion who’s genuinely thrilled to be included. With the right destination, solid logistics, and the proper gear — including reliable waste cleanup tools from GOGO Stik — you and your dog can have a fantastic summer together.
Start planning early, pack thoughtfully, and above all, stay flexible. Dogs have a talent for turning unexpected detours into the best part of the day.
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Summer is the perfect season to hit the road with your four-legged companion. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or a dog-friendly city, a well-planned trip makes all the difference. Since dogs thrive on routine, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping both of you relaxed
