You know, humans say they only get a few summer vacations to share with their pups… so why leave us at home? Traveling with your dog is like an adventure squared – you explore new places, and we get to sniff brand-new smells (which, for us, is about as exciting as you having dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant).

And trust me, once you know the tricks, it’s all smooth sailing. To make sure your trip is nothing but pawsitive vibes, I’ve put together a bunch of tips for you to read before you pack your suitcase… oh, and don’t forget the kibble!

1) Paperwork – Microchip, Passport, Vaccines

Without a passport and microchip, your pup isn’t going far. A rabies vaccine is a must, and some countries also ask for extras like a health certificate or tapeworm treatment. So before your trip, make a pit stop at the vet – better that than ending up at the border as “illegal immigrants.”

Besides the chip, it’s super handy to have a collar tag with your pup’s name and your phone number (in international format). Abroad, it’s often faster than waiting for someone to scan a microchip.

2) How Do We Actually Get There?

🚗 Car – the easiest option. Just buckle up with a doggy seatbelt or hop in a crate, and off you go.

🚌 Bus – depends on the company. Some welcome four-pawed travelers, others… not so much. Always check first.

🚆 Train – every company has its own rules (RegioJet, Leo Express, Czech and Slovak Railways, etc.). Sometimes a muzzle is required, other times a carrier. 🚆

✈️ Plane – expert level! Small pups can fly in the cabin (in a carrier, of course), but us bigger guys usually end up in the cargo hold. Always check your airline’s pet policy ahead of time—and pack strong nerves. These days, private pet airlines exist (like Bark Air or K9 Jets) where even big dogs can ride up front like celebrities… but the price tag? Let’s just say it’s ruff!

3) Accommodation – Watch Out for the “Fur Fee”

Dog-friendly places are popping up everywhere, but that usually means an extra “fur fee.” We mostly use Booking.com with the “pets allowed” filter. Super handy!

At breakfast, hotels usually try to find a solution – sometimes pups are welcome right in the restaurant, other times they’ll set you up with a table in the lobby or bar area. Either way, no one gets left out. 

4) Beach Time! But Careful…

Not all beaches are dog-friendly. Especially in summer, some places ban pups altogether. 

So before you pack your beach towel, check the local “dog beach” map – otherwise, you might end up sunbathing in the parking lot.

5) Can I Bring My Kibble?

Sounds weird, right? But in some countries (like the UK), there are bans on bringing certain meat products – including dog kibble.

So before you pack your pup’s favorite bag, double-check the current rules. Better safe than having to explain your snack stash at the border!

6) Insurance – For You and Your Pup

You never know when an accident, illness, or a twisted paw might happen. Travel insurance should be a no-brainer – for both of you. 

Because if something goes wrong, that vet bill abroad can easily be bigger than your entire vacation budget.

7) Your Pup’s Travel Backpack

Water bowl, bottle, collapsible bowls, treats, favorite toy, blanket with a familiar smell, bed, and poop bags. Yep – it might look like your dog packed a bigger suitcase than you did… but trust me, you’ll both be glad you brought it all.

8) Local Rules & Cultural Quirks

Some countries require dogs to wear a muzzle on public transport (think Austria, Italy, Czechia, Slovakia). In others, pups aren’t allowed in restaurants. And yep—reflective gear is even mandatory in a few places.

Sounds strict? Maybe. But hey, at least you’ll shine bright like a Christmas tree!

9) Weather & Terrain

Hot weather = sizzling asphalt (and dog paws aren’t made of steel). 
Cold and salted sidewalks = cracked paw pads. 

Think about doggy boots or a jacket – your pup might not love the fashion show, but their paws will totally thank you.

10) Emergency Vet

Before you travel, save the number of a local vet at your destination in your phone. In a stressful situation, you won’t have time to Google who’s open. Better safe than sorry!

11) Breaks & Comfort on the Road

🚗 Car: Don’t forget regular stops for potty breaks and water! 
🚆🚌 Train/Bus: Watch out for long stretches without breaks. 
✈️ Plane: A quick potty walk right before takeoff = the best insurance against any “oops” moments.

Final Woof

Traveling with your pup might take a little extra planning, but the reward is all those shared adventures you’d never experience otherwise. And remember – your dog’s world is only as big as the adventures you share together.