It's undeniable: dogs are part of the family. Which means that when we go on vacation , it's with them, or not at all!

However, traveling with your dog isn't just a matter of deciding to do it. There are a whole host of things to keep in mind, prepare , and anticipate … not only for your stay at your destination, but also for transportation. Because when you travel with your dog, the journey is part of the trip!

So, whether it's summer or any other time of year, what should you plan for when travelling with your dog?

Traveling with your dog: what should you pack?

A trip requires preparation. And the same goes for your dog!

When he leaves home for a few days, he needs familiar landmarks and objects to feel comfortable .

Download our checklist of things to prepare before travelling with your dog!

1 – His usual kibble

The first thing to bring with you: your dog's usual food . Changing brands of kibble for a few weeks is out of the question! It could upset your dog, or even cause digestive problems.

So bring along their usual food, enough for the whole stay. This applies to both dry and wet food!

BFPetfood's tip :

Don't forget to pack your dog's favorite treats before you travel. Changing environments can be quite stressful for dogs. You can reassure them with their favorite dried meat strips or other tasty treats .

2 – His water and food bowls

Likewise, don't forget his food and water bowls ! Anything that reminds him of home will be welcome, to ensure he feels completely at ease. Provide one bowl for water and another for kibble or wet food , as well as a water bottle for walks.

This is a particularly important point when you go on a trip with your little one in the summer: they must always have access to fresh water to avoid heatstroke!

3 – His favorite basket

Even on vacation, your dog needs a place of its own. Preferably a place it knows, that carries its scent and that of home.

Don't forget to pack his favorite cushion , basket , or blanket in your suitcase . These familiar items will help him feel secure, especially in a new environment.

And don't forget that for your dog too, it's a holiday: comfortable naps in the shade of the umbrella pines are his!

4 – His favorite toys

Whether at home or on vacation, your dog will always need to expend energy and play . And for that, what could be better than his favorite toys ?

Pack his rope and his bone-shaped cuddly toy in your suitcase so he feels as comfortable as he does at home. This will help him manage his stress and keep him occupied during quiet times.

5 – The essential care and health supplies for your pet

Of course, when going on a trip, a first aid kit adapted for dogs is essential: disinfectant, tick tweezers, paw pad care , small bandages…

Grooming products can make all the difference when it comes to minor injuries. This is especially important if you're going to the beach or the mountains : the dry, hot environment can hurt your dog's paw pads.

BFPetfood's tip :

Don't forget your anti-parasitic shampoo and mosquito repellent spray , especially if you're going to an area with ticks or mosquitoes!

6 – His harness and leash

During your vacation, you're bound to go for walks. By the sea , in the forest , in the mountains , in the city… To ensure your walks go smoothly, remember to bring your dog's harness and leash .

And why not use a lead rope , to give him a little freedom while he frolics by your side?

7 – The accessories you need for transport

Finally, remember that if your dog travels by car, it must be restrained for its own safety. Harness, special seatbelt, or suitable carrier: the choice is yours! But don't forget to pack these travel accessories.

Traveling with your dog: preparation depends on the destination!

You now know the list of items to pack in your dog's suitcase. But in reality, your preparation will depend on where you're going on vacation.

You don't pack your dog's things the same way whether you're going to the beach, the mountains, or skiing. Each environment has its own specific needs, and your companion deserves to have everything thought of: BFPetfood lists all the essentials depending on the destination!

1 – Going to the seaside with your little one

Beach holidays can be a real joy for dogs: frisbee in the sand, swimming, wide open spaces… But they require some precautions .

Hot sand and pebbles can burn your dog's paw pads, so it's best to plan outings for early morning or late afternoon. Also, don't forget your healing cream for minor cuts during long walks.

Pay close attention to your dog's behavior on the beach : make sure to create a shaded area , protected from UV rays to avoid sunburn .

Place his water bowl nearby: he must not drink seawater, which may cause digestive problems.

Finally, after returning from the beach, rinse your pet with clean water ( especially around the paws ) to prevent their pads from drying out.

2 – Going to the mountains with your dog

In the mountains, the air is pure, the hikes are long, and the scenery is magnificent. Your dog will love coming along!

But again, stay vigilant. During your walks, take regular breaks and give him water. Make sure he can spend some time in the shade , and carefully check the condition of his paw pads after each outing to avoid unnecessary injuries.

3 – Go skiing with your dog

Finally, the last destination where you can travel with your dog is skiing. Mountains, snow, cold, wind… Make sure your dog can tolerate the cold well, and above all, that it is well dressed to avoid getting sick.

Indeed, small breeds or short-haired dogs may need a warm coat.

After each walk, dry your dog thoroughly to prevent frostbite . And check with the ski resorts: not all of them are dog-friendly.

How to travel with your dog depending on the mode of transport?

As mentioned, when traveling with your dog, the journey is part of the trip. This means you need to prepare according to the mode of transport you will be using.

Indeed, you don't travel the same way with a dog in a car as you do in a plane !

Traveling by car with your dog

The car remains the most practical way to travel with your dog, as it offers a certain degree of freedom .

For its safety, secure it with its harness or place it comfortably in its carrier.

Plan regular breaks so he can stretch his legs, drink, and relieve himself . Don't feed him just before leaving to avoid motion sickness.

And most importantly: never leave him alone in the car, especially in summer. Dogs can easily suffer from heatstroke , and it can be fatal. Don't take that risk.

Preparing for a train journey with your dog

Dogs are allowed on most trains, provided certain rules are followed. First, you must remember to buy your dog a ticket : it is considered a passenger.

Don't forget your pet's identification papers , and above all, check with the transport companies to find out their regulations. These can vary depending on your pet's weight and breed !

Traveling by plane with your dog

Finally, to travel with your dog , you can also take a plane. However, this is probably the mode of transport that requires the most organization.

Depending on its weight and the airline chosen, it will travel in the cabin , in the hold , or with an animal transport company.

In all cases, you must have an approved carrier that is the right size for your dog. Make sure you get your dog used to the carrier before the trip, and consider investing in calming dog biscuits to prevent excessive stress .

Of course, regulations vary depending on the dog and the airline : take the time to find out before buying your ticket and your dog's ticket!

What documents do you need to travel with your dog?

To travel with your dog without any problems, you also need to think about identification documents. Whether in France or abroad, make sure you always have your dog's health record and European passport .

It must be up to date, with mandatory vaccinations, including rabies if you are crossing a border.

Your dog must also be identified, either by tattoo or by electronic chip, which has been mandatory in France since 2011.

If you are travelling abroad, check the requirements of your destination country : some require health certificates or proof of parasite treatment administered a few days before entry. Also, remember to note your pet insurance policy number if you have one.

It's better to be overprepared than underprepared!

In addition to the suitcase, prepare your dog for the trip!

Traveling with your dog is a chance to experience a wonderful adventure together. Between walks and discovering a new environment, your dog will love this trip with you!

But just like for humans, change can be a source of stress for dogs. To prevent this from happening, remember to prepare your dog yourself!

Before leaving, take the time to talk to him, to involve him . Let him smell his suitcase, show him the carrier , gently get him used to new environments.

Emotionally prepared for the change, your little one will adapt much better to this new rhythm. Offer them security , stability , but also love and attention, wherever you go!

And remember: a happy dog ​​is a companion that makes every trip even more beautiful.

The checklist: preparing your trip with your little one

Because you don't go on holiday with your dog like you pack your suitcase alone, here's a checklist to make sure you don't forget anything… And to go on holiday with your dog with peace of mind!

A few weeks before departure

• Check that your pet is microchipped or tattooed (this is mandatory, no matter where you go)
• Make sure that his vaccinations are up to date, especially the rabies vaccination if you are leaving France.
• If you are travelling abroad: ask your vet for a European pet passport.
• Schedule a check-up with the vet before you leave.
• Treat your pet against fleas, ticks and worms (especially if you are going into the countryside)
• Check local regulations: dog-friendly beaches, dog-friendly accommodations, entry requirements for certain countries…
• Inform the transport company (train, plane, etc.) of your dog's presence and reserve its place
• Start getting him used to his carrier, the car, or anything else that will change his habits.
• Do a quick training session on basic commands if needed (recall, sit, stay…)

What you need to pack in his suitcase

• Bring along his usual food (kibble and wet food), in sufficient quantity
• Pack some tasty and/or calming treats to reward him during the journey
• Remember to bring his bowls (water and food) + a water bottle for walks
• Take his usual bed to create a reassuring corner for him.
• Don't forget his favorite toys!
• Bring a special first aid kit for dogs (disinfectant, tick tweezers, bandage, paw pad cream, etc.)
• Pack a towel for his paws (or to dry him after swimming), a few poop bags, and a spare leash.
• Bring a medal with your contact information (and perhaps a GPS tracker if you're going hiking).
• If you are travelling by car: safety harness, appropriate seatbelt or approved carrier
• For train or plane travel: an approved carrier bag or crate, depending on the size of your dog.

Documents you absolutely must not forget

• Health record with up-to-date vaccinations
• European passport if you are leaving France
• Proof of identification (microchip or tattoo)
• Depending on the destination: veterinary certificate, documented antiparasitic treatment…
• Your pet insurance or mutual insurance number, if you have one.

And most importantly: prepare your dog for departure too!

• Talk to him, show him that something great is coming.
• Let him see his suitcase, smell his belongings, associate the preparations with something positive.
• Reduce sources of stress by maintaining your daily routines before departure
• Offer him patience, gentleness, and lots of love.

Have a wonderful holiday, you and your four-legged friend!