Packing for a trip is always a bit stressful, even for seasoned travelers!

It’s easy to forget a few things, and those last-minute replacements can add up fast. When you’re traveling with your dog, packing gets even more complicated. You want to make sure your furry friend has everything they need to stay happy, healthy, and safe during your summer vacation.

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a month-long road trip, having a complete dog travel checklist can make all the difference. Here’s your must-have summer dog packing list to ensure smooth travels with your pup!

5 Summer Dog Packing List Must-Haves

Every dog is unique, so you’ll want to tailor the list to suit your family and travel plans. Most of what you’ll need will fall into one of these categories. 

1️⃣ Dog Food and Water Supplies: Don’t Leave Home Without Them

Start with the basics: your dog’s food and water. Always pack enough dog food for the entire trip, plus a little extra in case of travel delays. This is especially important if your dog has dietary restrictions or eats a specific brand that may not be available at your destination.

👉 Pro Tip: Portable, collapsible food and water bowls are perfect for road trips, hiking adventures, or hotel stays. They take up minimal space and make mealtime on-the-go much easier.

2️⃣ Collar, Leash, and Dog ID Tags: Keep Your Dog Safe

Your dog should always wear a secure collar with up-to-date identification tags that include your name and cell phone number. If you’re traveling out of town, consider adding your travel destination address temporarily. It’s also a good time to double-check that your dog’s microchip information is current, just in case they get lost while you’re away.

3️⃣ Bedding, Comfort Items & Familiar Toys: Create a Home Away from Home

Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity. Packing your dog’s favorite bed, blanket, or crate mat can help reduce stress and make them feel more secure while in a new environment.

👉 Items to consider:

• Their usual bed or crate bedding

• A shirt or blanket that smells like home

• Favorite toys or chew items to keep them entertained

This can be especially helpful if you’re staying in hotels, Airbnbs, or with family and friends.

4️⃣ Medications, Medical Records & Emergency Info: Be Prepared for Anything

Medical preparedness is a crucial part of any dog travel checklist. Here’s what you should include:

5️⃣ Travel Crate or Safety Restraints: Keep Your Dog Secure on the Road

Safety should always come first when traveling with pets. For road trips, consider a travel crate, pet barrier, or a safety harness designed for car travel. These options help prevent injuries in case of sudden stops or accidents.

👉 If you’re using a crate, ensure:

• Proper ventilation

• Enough room for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably

Even though it’s cute to see your pup with their head out the window, it’s safer (and healthier) to keep them secured inside the vehicle.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Treats!

Travel is full of exciting new sights, sounds, and smells for your dog, so reward them for their good behavior along the way!

Our Snacker Pack Teeny Tiny Mini Bones are perfect for summer travel. Available in Peanut Butter & Blueberries and Sweet Potatoes & Honey, these healthy, low-calorie treats are easy to pack and perfect for on-the-go rewards.

Your dog will think they’re delicious and we love them because they’re nutritious!