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Hitting the road with your dog: how to prepare for a safe and stress-free trip

A successful road trip with your dog starts with good preparation, including ensuring they are comfortable with car travel, properly identified, healthy, and safely restrained. Regular breaks, access to water, and packing essential supplies will help keep your dog comfortable, while planning ahead for pet-friendly accommodation and veterinary care can make the journey safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

RSPCA Australia
Friday, 28 August 2026

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Travelling with your dog can be a rewarding experience, but it does require some preparation. Taking the time to plan ahead will help ensure your road trip is comfortable, safe and enjoyable for both you and your dog, no matter the distance you’re travelling.

Preparing your dog for car travel

Before you hit the road, consider how your dog feels about travelling in the car. Dogs who are already comfortable with car trips tend to settle more easily, but those who are anxious or unfamiliar with car travel will need extra preparation. This should begin well before your departure date. Using reward-based training, gradually introduce your dog to the car in a calm and positive way, allowing them to progress at their own pace. When planning a road trip, it’s important to factor this preparation period into your timeline.

Identification and legal requirements

Making sure your dog can be identified if they become lost is essential when travelling so make sure they are microchipped. Make sure your current contact details recorded on a registry that is recognised nationally. Attaching an ID tag with your contact details to your dog’s collar provides an additional layer of security, and any required state or territory registration should be kept up to date.

It’s also important to familiarise yourself with the laws that apply to transporting dogs by road in each state you’ll be travelling through. Checking the relevant Road Traffic Authority road rules before you leave can help you avoid any issues while on the road.

Health checks before you go

Your dog should be healthy and ready to travel before setting off. Ensure all vaccinations, worming and flea treatments are current. If your dog takes prescription medication, pack enough to last the entire trip and carry a copy of the prescription with you. Speaking with your veterinarian before travelling is recommended, particularly if you’re heading to an area that may require additional preventative care such as paralysis tick or heartworm prevention.

Keeping your dog safe and comfortable in the car

Once you’re on the road, your dog’s safety is a top priority. Dogs should always be securely restrained in the vehicle to protect both them and the people travelling with them. Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, even for a short time, as dogs can quickly suffer from heat stress, even in mild weather. Keep the vehicle well ventilated and at a comfortable temperature throughout the journey.

To help your dog cope with being in the car, make sure they have had an opportunity for exercise and play before travelling. Avoid feeding your dog for a couple of hours before departure to reduce the risk of nausea. If your dog experiences car sickness, consult your veterinarian well in advance to put an appropriate plan in place.

Breaks, exercise and staying alert

Regular breaks are important on any road trip. Plan to stop frequently so your dog can toilet, stretch their legs and enjoy some on-leash exercise in a safe, secure area. In unfamiliar environments, always keep your dog on a leash, as unexpected sights or sounds may cause them to startle and run.

If possible, have the contact details for veterinary clinics at your destination and along your route, particularly for longer trips, in case you need assistance or emergency care.

Packing essentials for your dog

Packing the right items will help keep your dog comfortable while you’re away. Essentials include your dog’s regular food and treats, bedding (a travel crate if your dog is comfortable using a crate as a safe space to rest), food and water bowls, plenty of fresh drinking water, a collar or harness with leash, favourite toys, grooming items and a towel, poo bags, any required medications and a basic first aid kit.

When it comes to accommodation, researching pet-friendly places online before you leave is the easiest way to find suitable options for you and your dog.

With preparation and planning, travelling with your dog can be a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

For more information, visit the RSPCA Knowledgebase.

This piece was originally published in Australian Community Media newspapers.

Knowledgebase • Offsite

What do I need to know about taking my dog on a road trip with my family?

Take some time to prepare for your road trip with your dog so that your holiday is as safe and relaxed as possible for everyone.

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Hitting the road with your dog: how to prepare for a safe and stress-free trip

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