A dog-friendly holiday is one of the best things you can do together — but a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you're heading to the coast, the countryside, or a city break, here are 10 essentials to pack to keep your pup safe, comfortable, and happy throughout the trip. 🐾
1. A Well-Fitted Harness
New environments come with new distractions — unfamiliar smells, other animals, busy streets. A well-fitted harness gives you more control than a collar alone and is much kinder on your dog's neck if they pull. Make sure it fits snugly but allows free movement, and check the fit before you travel.
2. A Sturdy Lead
Pack a lead you trust. It's worth having a standard lead for walks and potentially a longer training lead if you're heading somewhere with open space where your dog can explore more freely. Always keep them on a lead in unfamiliar areas until you're confident it's safe to let them off.
3. A Collar with Up-to-Date ID Tags
In the UK, dogs must wear a collar with an ID tag in public — it's a legal requirement. Before you travel, double-check that your dog's tag has your current phone number on it. It's also worth making sure their microchip details are up to date, just in case.
4. Poop Bags
Always pack more than you think you'll need! There's nothing worse than running out on a long walk. Keep a stash in your walking bag, car, and coat pocket so you're never caught short.
5. A Walking Bag or Bum Bag
A dedicated walking bag makes life so much easier on holiday. You'll want somewhere to keep treats, poop bags, your phone, keys, and a small water bottle — all within easy reach. A hands-free option is especially useful if your dog needs a bit of guidance on the lead.
6. A Waterproof Coat or Rain Jacket
If your dog feels the cold or has a short coat, a waterproof jacket is a holiday essential — especially in the UK! It keeps them warm and dry on wet walks and means less mud and damp in the car or cottage afterwards.
7. A Drying Towel or Drying Coat
After beach swims, muddy trails, or rainy walks, a good drying towel or microfibre drying coat is invaluable. It absorbs moisture quickly, keeps your dog comfortable, and protects your holiday accommodation from wet dog chaos.
8. Enrichment Toys
Holidays can be exciting but also overwhelming for dogs. Having a familiar toy or two — especially a snuffle or nose-work toy — gives them a way to decompress and settle in a new environment. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, particularly after a big day out.
9. Paw & Nose Balm
Long walks on sand, gravel, hot pavements, or rocky terrain can dry out and crack your dog's paw pads. A good paw balm soothes and protects them throughout the trip. It's also handy for dry or crusty noses, which can be common in warmer weather.
10. Their Usual Food & Any Medications
Changing your dog's food on holiday can upset their stomach — so always bring enough of their usual food for the whole trip, plus a little extra. If your dog takes any regular medication, flea treatment, or supplements, pack those too and keep them somewhere easy to access.
A Few Extra Tips
Beyond the packing list, a few things are worth thinking about before you go: research dog-friendly beaches, pubs, and walks in the area ahead of time; bring a familiar blanket or bed so your dog has something that smells like home; and plan in plenty of rest time — holidays can be tiring for dogs too!
Most importantly, enjoy it. Exploring somewhere new with your dog by your side is one of life's simple pleasures. 🐾