6 Summer Travel Tips For You And Your Dog

Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or a relaxing getaway, traveling with your dog takes a little extra preparation. Creating a travel plan ahead of time can help ensure a stress-free experience for both you and your furry companion.

If your dog isn’t a big fan of traveling, you might encounter some challenges along the way. But vacation shouldn’t be stressful—for you or your pet! With the right planning, you can help your dog feel comfortable, safe, and relaxed no matter where the road (or sky) takes you.

Here are six essential summer travel tips to help you and your dog have a fun and worry-free adventure!

1. Research Pet-Friendly Destinations

Before you book anything, do your research to make sure your entire trip is pet-friendly.

Check if the airline you’re flying with allows pets (many have size and weight restrictions, especially for in-cabin travel). Most airlines allow dogs under 20 pounds to fly in the cabin as long as they fit comfortably in an under-seat carrier. Keep in mind that traveling with a pet usually involves an additional fee.

Helpful tip: Pets That Travel offers a pet airline guide that makes it easy to find pet-friendly airlines.

Also, double-check that your hotel, Airbnb, or campsite welcomes pets—and if they charge extra fees or have breed or size restrictions.

2. Visit Your Veterinarian Before Traveling

Some airlines require a certificate of health from your veterinarian within 10 days of travel. Even if you’re driving, it's smart to schedule a quick vet visit before your trip.

Use the opportunity to:

• Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations

• Stock up on any medications or supplements they need

• Get personalized travel tips from your vet based on your dog’s age, breed, and health history

3. Pack All the Essentials for Your Dog

Packing for your dog is just as important as packing for yourself! Bring familiar items from home to keep your dog feeling comfortable during the journey.

Here's a checklist of dog travel essentials:

• Dog food and collapsible food/water bowls

• Treats and chews

• Supplements and medications

• Dog bed or travel mat

• Travel-Size Grooming supplies (especially if you're swimming or hiking)

• Topical balm (for allergies, itchy skin, or minor irritations)

• Toys and a favorite blanket

• Leash, collar, and updated ID tags with current contact information

Just like us humans like to pack all of our road trip snacks, make sure to have your pups covered as well with their fave chews!

4. Exercise Your Dog Before You Hit the Road

Before a long road trip or flight, make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise.

Play fetch, take a long walk, or head to the dog park before leaving. A tired dog is a calmer, happier traveler—and it increases the chances they'll nap during your journey instead of feeling restless.

5. Use CBD to Support Calmness and Relaxation

Traveling can be stressful for pets, even if they're used to car rides or flights. CBD for dogs can help promote calmness and relaxation before and during your trip.

How to use CBD for travel:

• Give CBD about an hour before you start your journey to allow it time to take effect.

• CBD has a 9-hour half-life, so if you're on a long road trip, you may want to administer a second round of CBD around the 8-hour mark.

Pet Releaf’s CBD products are specially formulated for pets and can support a stress-free, more enjoyable travel experience. (Not sure which product is right? Try our Product Quiz to get personalized recommendations based on your dog’s age, weight, and stress levels—plus, enjoy 15% off your first purchase when you complete the quiz!

6. Have a Plan if You’re Not Bringing Your Dog

Sometimes, it’s not practical—or best—for your dog to join your trip, especially if it’s a long or high-stress journey. And that’s okay! You have great options to keep them safe and happy while you’re away.

Dog Sitter or Trusted Family/Friend

If you have someone your dog already knows and trusts, that’s often the least stressful option while you’re away. Whether it’s a close friend, family member, or a reliable pet sitter, it's ideal to have them stay at your house, where your dog will feel most comfortable in their familiar environment.

Doggy Daycare or Boarding

Doggy daycares and boarding facilities are excellent alternatives, especially for social dogs who love playing with others. Many facilities even offer live webcams so you can check in on your pup while you’re away!

Helpful tip: Use our Store Locator to find a Pet Releaf partner that carries our calming CBD products for pets!

Whichever option you choose: Pack your dog's essentials and write a quick care routine to make things easy for your sitter or boarding team.

Stress-Free Adventures Await You and Your Dog!

Whether you’re road-tripping with your pup or leaving them in loving hands while you travel, a little planning goes a long way. Research pet-friendly options, pack wisely, support their calmness with CBD, and you’ll be setting both you and your best friend up for an unforgettable (and stress-free) summer adventure. Happy travels! ✈️🐾