Travelling With Dogs in a Motorhome: What to Consider

Travelling With Dogs in a Motorhome: What to Consider

For many motorhome owners, a getaway just wouldn’t be complete without the family dog!

One of the great things about motorhome travel is the freedom to explore new places together, but travelling with a dog does require a little extra planning. From keeping them safe on the road to finding dog-friendly campsites, a few simple preparations can help make your trip enjoyable for everyone.

Meet Coco – AEG Motorhomes’ Dog!

If anyone at AEG Motorhomes knows a thing or two about being part of the family, it’s Coco! Our office dog is a familiar face around the dealership, so we know just how important it is to make sure our four-legged friends are considered when planning a motorhome adventure.

From having enough space to settle down comfortably to making sure there’s plenty of room for all those essentials, travelling with a dog can add a few extra considerations when choosing and using a motorhome. So, with a little help from Coco, here are some things to think about before setting off on your next adventure.

Travelling Safely

Your dog’s safety should always come first when your motorhome is on the move. Dogs should be properly secured while travelling, whether that means using a suitable travel harness or a secure travel crate. Avoid allowing your dog to move freely around the habitation area while the vehicle is moving.

It is also important to plan regular stops so your dog can stretch their legs, have some water and get some fresh air.

🐾 Coco’s Tip: Make sure your dog is secure before setting off and plan regular breaks. A little leg stretch can make a long journey much more enjoyable!

Think About Sleeping Arrangements

Before setting off, consider where your dog will sleep. Some dogs will happily settle on their own bed, while others may prefer to sleep close to their owners. Make sure there is enough room for everyone to sleep comfortably without blocking access to important areas of the motorhome. Bringing a familiar bed or blanket from home can also help your dog settle into their new surroundings.

🐾 Coco’s Tip: A familiar blanket or bed can make a new motorhome feel much more like home!

Keep Your Motorhome Well Ventilated

Good ventilation is particularly important when travelling with pets. Never leave your dog unattended inside a motorhome on a hot day. Temperatures can rise quickly, even when it doesn’t feel particularly warm outside. Make sure your motorhome’s ventilation systems are working correctly and always consider the weather conditions before leaving your dog inside.

Don’t Forget Water

It’s easy to focus on food and treats and forget just how important fresh water is. Take enough water for the journey and your stay, particularly if you’re travelling somewhere where access to fresh drinking water may be limited. A portable water bowl can also make stops much easier.

It is worth keeping a dedicated dog travel kit containing bowls, food, treats, leads, waste bags, a towel and anything else your dog may need.

Find Dog-Friendly Campsites

Not every campsite has the same rules when it comes to dogs, so always check before you book. Look for campsites that welcome dogs and, ideally, offer convenient access to walking routes, open spaces or nearby attractions where dogs are allowed. Checking the campsite’s rules in advance can save you from an unwelcome surprise when you arrive.

🐾 Coco’s Tip: Always check the campsite’s dog rules before booking. Nobody wants to arrive and discover that their four-legged friend isn’t on the guest list!

Make the Most of Your Storage

Travelling with a dog can mean bringing more equipment than you might expect! Food, bowls, leads, toys, bedding, towels and outdoor equipment all need somewhere to go. When choosing a motorhome, think about how much storage you’ll realistically need for both your belongings and your four-legged passenger.

A generous rear garage or external storage compartment can be particularly useful for keeping muddy boots, outdoor equipment and dog accessories separate from the main living area.

Keeping Your Motorhome Clean

Dogs and muddy walks don’t always make the perfect combination for a spotless motorhome! Keep a towel by the entrance for wiping muddy paws and consider using washable blankets or covers on your dog’s favourite sleeping area. Regularly cleaning the floors and upholstery will also help keep the habitation area fresh. A small handheld vacuum can be particularly useful for dealing with those inevitable hairs and bits of dirt picked up on your travels.

🐾 Coco’s Tip: Keep a towel near the door. Muddy paws have a habit of finding their way everywhere!

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

With a little preparation, there is no reason your four-legged friend can’t enjoy the adventure just as much as you do. From choosing the right motorhome and layout to finding dog-friendly destinations, planning ahead means you can concentrate on enjoying the journey together. And as Coco knows, the best motorhome adventures are the ones where the whole family gets to come along!

At AEG Motorhomes, we have a wide range of new and used motorhomes and campervans to suit different lifestyles, layouts and budgets.

Ready to find your next adventure? Explore our latest motorhomes and campervans or get in touch with our friendly team today.