Packing for any trip involves planning and that can be challenging enough when it’s just you, but if you decide to bring your dog, it becomes even more complicated. Your pup needs more than just food, treats, and water to have a safe and comfortable trip. To help you get started, whether you’re headed to the beach, the mountains, or a snowy escape, we’ve put together a list of essential gear that makes all the difference.

The Beach Getaway

There’s nothing like a sunny beach day with your pup splashing in the waves. But before you head out, make sure you bring along these items:

• Portable shade: A pop-up tent or umbrella gives you and your pet a cool resting spot.
• Cooling gear: A lightweight cooling vest or portable cooling mat helps prevent overheating under the sun.
• Waterproof collar and leash: Leave your nylon, leather or metal collar at home! Saltwater can damage these collars, so go for waterproof and rust-resistant collars like this Ruffwear Confluence™ Waterproof & Stink-Proof Dog Collar. 
• Floating toys: Buoyant toys like the Pidan Water Wave Ball Dog Toy adds fun to water play while keeping it safe.
• Rinse supplies: A gentle pet-safe shampoo to help wash off sand and salt before heading back. 
• Plenty of fresh water: Drinking seawater will make your dogs sick! Always pack fresh water and a collapsible bowl or a travel water bottle when you go to the beach with your pooch.  

Outdoor Hiking and Camping

For nature-loving pets and owners, hiking trails and campsites are a dream come true. But outdoor adventures need a bit more prep. You’ll want to bring along the following:

• Adjustable harness: Offers better control and safety on uneven terrain. Harness with handle like the Ruffwear Flagline™ Lightweight & Multi-Use Dog Harness with Padded Handle allows for balanced and comfortable lifting with padded handle. It also comes with six points of adjustment for an optimal fit, and a load-dispersing chest/belly panel.
• Collapsible water bowl: Lightweight and easy to carry in your backpack for meal times. 
• Protective paw wear: For outdoor trail walking or running, protect your dog’s paws with the Ruffwear Hi & Light™ Trail Dog Shoes. For more rugged terrain with hot rocks and sharp gravel, the Ruffwear Grip Trex™ All-Terrain Dog Boots comes highly recommended. 
• Insect and tick protection: Essential for wooded or grassy areas. A repellant spray or a lightweight Insect Shield Flea & Tick Cooling Tank For Cats & Dogs should do the trick.
• Reflective gear and LED beacon light: Helps you keep an eye on your pet at night or in the water. 
• Portable first aid kit: Include essentials like antiseptic wipes, bandages, and tweezers for splinters or ticks. 
• Rain jacket: Protect against rain. Check out the Ruffwear Sun Shower™ Reflective Lightweight Dog Raincoat. It’s designed with an extended vest to cover the hips and thighs, and an oversized storm collar folds up for additional weather protection. 
• Life jacket if boating, kayaking or swimming. We like the Ruffwear Float Coat™ Dog Life Jacket that comes with safety features like a strong handle optimally positioned to lift dogs out of the water, and reflective trim to boost visibility in low-light conditions.

Pro tip: Always check trail rules because not all parks or camping sites allow pets.

Snow and Winter Trips

Cold weather can be fun, but your pet will need extra warmth and care. Here are some essentials for a winter holiday.

• Insulated jacket: Keeps short-haired or small breeds warm during outdoor walks.
• Socks and snow booties: Prevent frostbite and protect paws from road salt and ice. We’d recommend that you check out the Ruffwear Bark'n Boot™ Quick Dry Dog Socks and Ruffwear Summit Trex™ All-Season Paw Protection Dog Boots. They’ll be a perfect set for walking in the snow. 
• Moisturizing paw balm: Helps avoid cracked or dry paw pads. Try the Be:Loved Be:Safe Pet Paw & Nose Balm (First Aid & Ache). It’s a natural balm formulated with a natural blend of essential oils and moisturising Vitamin E to soothe minor injuries, like scratches and grazes, and alleviate the discomfort from stings and bites. 
• Heated travel blanket or bed: Ideal for car rides or cozy nights in a cabin.
• Bright or reflective outerwear: Improves visibility in snow or low light. If you’re getting Ruffwear accessories, all of them have reflective properties except for the Ruffwear Front Range™.
• Lightweight, microfibre Towel: In cold weather, it’s best to dry your dog thoroughly after playtime as damp fur can quickly chill them.

Road Trips and Other Travels

For city escapes, staycations, or road trips, comfort and safety during transit are key. Here are some items that you’ll need:

• Crash-tested car harness or carrier: Keeps pets safe and secure in the car with the Ruffwear Load Up™ Safety Dog Car Harness. This is one of the few dog harnesses that has been designed to withstand the rigors of a vehicle crash test. Built with strength-rated hardware and components, easy to put on, and comfortable over long hauls. 
• Seat cover or hammock: Protects your car interior and gives your pet a comfy ride with this Ruffwear Dirtbag™ Machine Washable Car Seat Cover. Waterproof, machine-washable vehicle seat cover can be installed in a bench or hammock configuration. 
• IATA approved dog carrier: The Stefanplast Gulliver 7 IATA Approved Dog Carrier (Large, Wheels Excluded) for flights. 
• Travel water bottle: Designed for spill-free hydration on the go like the Field and Wander 2-in-1 Stainless Steel Travel Bottle For Dogs & Cats (With Bowl & Carabiner) which comes as a water bottle and water bowl combo.
• ID tag and microchip: Always double-check that your contact info is up to date.
• Travel-friendly treats and chews: Keep your pet occupied and calm during the journey.

Pro tip: Take regular breaks for bathroom time and short walks to prevent restlessness.

When vacationing with your pet, planning ahead makes all the difference. Choose accessories that match the weather, destination, and your pet’s comfort level. After all, every adventure is better when shared, especially with your four-legged companion by your side.

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.