What to Pack When Taking Your Dog on Holiday
- Aubrey Oiller
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
Planning a getaway with your dog? Taking your dog on holiday can be a brilliant experience, but it does take a bit of extra preparation. I take my pugs with me all over the UK, and people often ask.. ''How do you mange that?'' . The secret? PREPARATION!
Beyond the usual food, leads and water bowls, it's important to think about their health and safety too.
When you’re away from home, unexpected things can happen—like insect bites, sore paws or an upset tummy. So while packing your dog’s bag, it’s well worth including some basic first aid essentials to help you deal with common issues calmly and confidently.
Here’s what I recommend packing to make sure your dog stays happy, healthy and safe while you're away.
The everyday essentials
Let’s start with the basics:
Enough food for the entire trip, plus a bit extra in case of delays.
Travel bowls and fresh water, especially for longer journeys.
Your dog’s regular lead and a spare, just in case.
Poo bags and towels for muddy paws or wet walks.
5 litre bottle of water (for traveling on warm days)
Bedding or a blanket that smells familiar to help them settle in.
A few favourite toys or chews for comfort.
It’s also a good idea to have a copy of their microchip number, vaccination records, and details of your usual vet.
Medications and health checks
If your dog takes regular medication, pack enough for the full trip—ideally with a couple of days’ spare. Don’t forget joint supplements or calming support if they usually take these. Going abroad? Ensure all paperwork is signed and completed by your vet.
Before travelling, make sure their flea, tick and worming treatments are up to date. Depending on where you're going, you might need to prepare for different risks.
First aid items worth packing
A compact pet first aid kit doesn’t take up much space but can be invaluable if something goes wrong. Here’s what I always suggest including:
A tick remover, especially if you’ll be walking through long grass or woodlands.
Saline pods to clean eyes or flush out dirt and debris.
Non-adhesive dressings and vet wrap to cover small cuts or grazes.
Oralade for if they get an upset tummy
Leucillin for cuts and scrapes
Blunt-ended scissors and tweezers for minor grooming or foreign body removal.
A soft muzzle—just in case you need to examine your dog when they’re in pain.
A list of emergency contacts, including your usual vet and the nearest vet at your destination.
It’s also helpful to know how to use these items. A pet first aid course can build your confidence and ensure you’re ready to respond in a calm, informed way.
Be prepared for changes in routine
Travel can affect your dog’s digestion and energy levels. A change in water, food or routine may cause a mild upset stomach, so it’s helpful to pack something like a Oralade or vet-recommended probiotic—especially if your dog is prone to sensitivities.
If you’re holidaying during warmer months, it’s important to watch for signs of heatstroke. Cooling mats, fresh water, and avoiding the hottest part of the day can make a big difference. Knowing the early signs—like heavy panting, red gums, or lethargy—can help you act quickly if needed.
You're all set!
Taking your dog on holiday should be enjoyable for both of you. With a bit of planning and the right kit, you’ll be ready to handle the unexpected and keep your dog safe and comfortable wherever you go.
If you’d like help putting together a pet first aid kit or would like to join a pet first aid course before your next trip, feel free to get in touch—I’m always happy to help.
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