Traveling with your pet can turn an ordinary trip into an extraordinary adventure. Whether it’s a road trip, a weekend getaway, or an extended vacation, finding destinations that welcome your furry friend is essential. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top pet-friendly travel destinations and provide key considerations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and your pet.
Top Pet-Friendly Travel Destinations
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Asheville, North Carolina
- Why It’s Pet-Friendly: Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene and stunning natural beauty. The city offers numerous pet-friendly hiking trails, parks, and even breweries that welcome dogs.
- Must-Visit Spots: Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit the North Carolina Arboretum, and enjoy a meal at one of the many pet-friendly outdoor cafes.
- Pet-Friendly Hotel Recommendation: Aloft Asheville Downtown. This hotel offers pet-friendly accommodations with no additional fees and provides amenities such as pet beds and bowls.
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Portland, Oregon
- Why It’s Pet-Friendly: Portland is a haven for pet lovers with its plethora of dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants, and scenic trails. The city’s laid-back vibe makes it an ideal destination for traveling with pets.
- Must-Visit Spots: Spend time at the off-leash areas in Forest Park, take a walk along the Willamette River, and grab a bite at Tin Shed Garden Cafe.
- Pet-Friendly Hotel Recommendation: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Portland. This boutique hotel welcomes pets with no additional fees and offers pet beds, bowls, and a list of nearby pet-friendly attractions.
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Austin, Texas
- Why It’s Pet-Friendly: Austin is famous for its live music scene, outdoor activities, and welcoming atmosphere for pets. The city boasts several pet-friendly parks and dining options.
- Must-Visit Spots: Visit Zilker Park, swim at Barton Springs Pool, and enjoy a meal at Yard Bar, a restaurant with an off-leash dog park.
- Pet-Friendly Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Ella. This historic hotel offers pet-friendly rooms and provides amenities such as pet beds, bowls, and a welcome treat.
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San Diego, California
- Why It’s Pet-Friendly: San Diego offers beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and a range of pet-friendly activities. The city’s laid-back lifestyle is perfect for pet owners.
- Must-Visit Spots: Play at Dog Beach in Ocean Beach, hike the trails at Fiesta Island, and dine at the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar.
- Pet-Friendly Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter. This hotel welcomes pets with no additional fees and offers pet beds, bowls, and a rooftop bar where pets are welcome.
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Bar Harbor, Maine
- Why It’s Pet-Friendly: Bar Harbor, with its picturesque landscapes and outdoor adventures, is a great spot for pets. The area is home to Acadia National Park, which is exceptionally pet-friendly.
- Must-Visit Spots: Explore Acadia National Park’s pet-friendly trails, enjoy a scenic drive on Park Loop Road, and take a pet-friendly boat tour.
- Pet-Friendly Hotel Recommendation: Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center. This hotel offers pet-friendly rooms and provides amenities such as pet beds, bowls, and easy access to pet-friendly outdoor areas.
Things to Consider When Traveling with Your Pet
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Health and Safety
- Veterinary Care: Ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and carries a health certificate if required. Unsure if a health certificate is needed? Our pet travel assistant can help you quickly and easily navigate the requirements specific to your pet type and destination. Preparation can also help in case of an emergency. Research veterinary clinics near your destination to have peace of mind in case anything goes wrong with your pet once you arrive.
- Travel Gear: Invest in a sturdy, comfortable carrier or crate. Bring a pet first aid kit and any medications your pet may need.
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Accommodation
- Pet-Friendly Lodging: Book accommodations that welcome pets. Many hotels, vacation rentals, and even campgrounds are pet-friendly, but always confirm policies in advance. We have suggested a few options above, but there tend to be many options to accommodate different preferences or price ranges.
- Amenities: While knowing if your accommodation allows pets is the first step, some extra touches go a long way. Look for places that offer pet amenities, such as pet beds, bowls, and designated play areas.
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Transportation
- Car Travel: Ensure your pet is secure in a carrier or with a seatbelt harness. Make frequent stops for exercise and bathroom breaks.
- Air Travel: Check airline policies for pet travel. Choose direct flights when possible and ensure your pet meets size and health requirements for cabin or cargo travel. The Flywithmypet.com blog offers lots of resources with tips and tricks for traveling with your pet, including a guide to traveling with pets on major airlines.
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Activities
- Pet-Friendly Attractions: Research activities and attractions that welcome pets. Parks, beaches, and outdoor events often allow pets.
- Exercise: Plan for regular exercise and bathroom breaks. Familiarize yourself with local leash laws and pet etiquette.
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Packing Essentials
- Food and Water: Bring enough food and water for the trip. Portable bowls and water bottles are handy.
- Comfort Items: Pack your pet’s favorite toys, bedding, and treats to help them feel comfortable in new environments. For more packing tips, check out our 5 crucial items to pack when traveling with your pet.
Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, creating lasting memories for both of you. By choosing pet-friendly destinations like Asheville, Portland, Austin, San Diego, and Bar Harbor and considering important factors like health, accommodation, transportation, activities, and packing essentials, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
For more travel tips and pet-friendly destination guides, check out our seasonal travel guides with more location recommendations for spring, summer, fall and winter.
Happy travels and wagging tails!