As we gear up for our upcoming trip, we’ve been asked by several people whether we’re bringing our dogs along. The answer is a resounding yes! Our dogs are an part of our family, and leaving them behind for 7 months is out of the question. Not only would boarding costs add up significantly, but RVing also provides the perfect opportunity to include our furry friends in our adventures.
From hiking trails to swimming in picturesque lakes, our dogs thrive in the great outdoors. They’ve been seasoned travelers since they were puppies, riding comfortably in the truck as we explore new destinations. Our two beagles, aged 3 and 16, have camped with us from the very beginning, and having them along adds an extra layer of joy to our RV lifestyle.
We have founding RV travel with dogs is pretty easy, most campgrounds have dog parks, dog walking areas and some KOA’s even have have private dog pens at your site! Here are some of our top tips when traveling with your pet:
Carry Rabies Certificate
Always have your pet's rabies certificate with you, as some campgrounds may request to see it upon check-in.
Bring Doggie Waste Bags
Make sure to pack plenty of doggie waste bags and always clean up after your pet to keep the campground clean for everyone, it is the worst when you accidentally step in some doggy doo!
Use Leashes Appropriately
Keep your pets on a leash unless you are in designated areas like dog parks where they can run freely. This helps keep them safe and complies with campground rules.
Monitor Pets While Away
Invest in a pet monitor, such as the Waggle Pet Monitor, to keep an eye on your pets' environment when you are away from the camper. This helps ensure they are safe and comfortable.
Create a Comfortable Space
Set up a cozy spot in your RV for your pets with their favorite bed, toys, and treats. This will help them feel secure and relaxed during the journey.
Campground Reccomendations
Our favorite pet-friendly campgrounds:
As our oldest dog, Bailey, is now 16, we cherish the memories of camping with him, knowing our time for adventures together may be limited. On our recent trip, Bailey was in his element—running and acting like a puppy, and taking long naps while we relaxed by the fire. Our dogs are part of the family, and we want them to share in our adventures. Our kids love having them along for the ride, from rock climbing in Acadia to hiking to waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains, they have enjoyed every minute of it! We hope this will inspire you to take your furry friend on your next adventure!