How to Travel with Pets: Top Carriers, Travel Bowls & Safety Tips
Updated for 2025 – Safe, comfortable and stress-free travel for your furry companion
Introduction
Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience — but only if you're prepared. Whether you're heading on a weekend road trip or flying across the country, comfort, safety, and preparation are essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top-rated carriers, travel accessories, and expert-approved safety tips for pets on the go. Whether you’re traveling with a dog, cat, or small animal, this is your go-to checklist for stress-free adventures in 2025.
1. Choose the Right Travel Carrier
Your pet’s carrier should be secure, well-ventilated, and comfortable. It should also meet airline or car safety standards depending on your travel method.
Top features to look for:
- Airline-approved size and ventilation
- Soft padding or removable liner
- Secure zippers or locking mechanism
Top picks: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier (airline-approved), Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed (crash-tested for car travel)
ASPCA Tips on Choosing a Carrier
2. Use a Crash-Tested Car Harness or Carrier
If you're driving, using a car harness or crash-tested pet carrier can save lives in case of an accident. Never allow pets to roam freely inside a moving vehicle.
Top picks: Sleepypod Clickit Sport Dog Safety Harness, Gunner G1 Kennel (for larger dogs)
Tested by the Center for Pet Safety
3. Bring a Collapsible Travel Bowl and Fresh Water
Hydration is key, especially on long trips. A collapsible silicone bowl is lightweight, easy to store, and easy to clean.
Recommended items: Ruffwear Quencher Packable Dog Bowl, COMSUN Collapsible Pet Bowls (set of two)
Bonus Tip: Freeze water bottles the night before to keep your pet cool.
4. Never Leave Pets Alone in a Vehicle
Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can rise or drop rapidly, leading to heatstroke or hypothermia. Always bring your pet with you or have someone stay in the car with climate control running.
Fact: According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, it takes just 10 minutes for a car’s interior to reach dangerous heat levels.
5. Pack a Travel Pet First Aid Kit
Always have basic first aid supplies on hand, especially if you're hiking or far from a vet.
What to include:
- Tweezers
- Gauze pads
- Antiseptic wipes
- Digital thermometer
- Extra leash and ID tags
6. Keep Familiar Items Close
Pets find comfort in familiarity. Bringing a favorite toy, blanket, or even a t-shirt with your scent can reduce travel anxiety.
Also helpful: Pheromone calming sprays like Adaptil or Feliway for crates or carriers.
7. Use Microchips and Updated Tags
In case your pet gets lost during travel, updated ID tags and a registered microchip can make all the difference.
8. Plan for Pet-Friendly Stops and Stays
Research rest stops, hotels, and parks that are pet-friendly along your route. Apps like BringFido or AllTrails can help locate dog-friendly trails and lodging.
BringFido – Pet-Friendly Travel Guide
Conclusion
Traveling with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right gear, a little planning, and a lot of love, you can create safe, memorable experiences for both of you.
Browse our selection of crash-tested carriers, portable bowls, and pet-friendly travel accessories to prepare for your next adventure — whether by car, plane, or trail.
Comfort, safety, and freedom — make travel fun for your pet again.
