For many of us, adventures just aren’t the same without a furry or even feathered friend riding shotgun. A loyal dog bounding down trails. A curious cat watching the world from the dashboard. Or a chatty bird chiming in from their perch. Traveling with pets brings a whole new level of joy to life on the road.
Especially as summer heats up, though, keeping your pets cool, safe, and comfortable becomes a top priority. Here’s what every pet-loving RVer needs to know to help their companions thrive on the go. From must-have gear to temperature safety tips and stress-free solo stays in the rig, we’ve got you (and your best bud) covered.
Getting Ready to Roll
Before your pet sets a paw, claw, or talon inside your rig, taking the time to prepare them is essential. Just like us, animals feel more confident when they know what to expect. Particularly if that includes winding roads, new smells, and ever-changing scenery.
Before you hit the road, schedule a check-up to ensure your pet is road-ready. This is important if you’re crossing state lines and especially if you’re crossing into Canada or Mexico. Proof of up-to-date rabies shots and other vaccinations are often required. So, schedule with your vet to refill medications and stock extra (just in case), get necessary prevention in place (e.g., heartworm), and ask about motion sickness or anxiety remedies if needed.
It’s also important to keep a printed and digital folder with your pet’s vaccination records, medical history, prescriptions, a recent photo, and emergency vet contact info together and ready to grab—just in case.
Now is also a good time to make sure their ID tag lists your current cell number and their microchip info is up to date. A GPS tracker or AirTag can be a great bonus, especially for adventurous pets who tend to try to slip away.
One of the best ways to avoid a stressed-out travel buddy is to give them time to adjust to RV life before a long adventure. Start by letting them sniff around the rig while parked. Feed them inside so they create positive associations. You may even want to relax and take a nap or perhaps spend a full night with them in the RV before you take off. Gradually building up to short drives can help them get used to the sounds and motion, so they start looking forward to hitting the road as much as we do.
Road Safety! Rolling Securely with Your Pet
Once you’re on the move, safety should be the name of the game—for both you and your four- (or two-) legged passengers. Just like people, pets need to be buckled in or safely contained while the RV is in motion. Letting them roam freely may seem fun, but it can be dangerous if you have to brake suddenly or take a sharp turn.
Depending on the size and personality of your pet, you have a few solid options to make sure they’re secured:
- Seatbelt harnesses: Ideal for dogs who ride well in the front or back seat of a tow vehicle.
- Crates or carriers: A must for cats, small dogs, and birds—make sure they’re crash-tested and well-ventilated.
- Pet travel cages: Birds should be in a sturdy, secured cage, preferably one designed for travel with attached food and water cups.
Anchor crates or carriers so they don’t shift or tip while driving, and keep pets away from airbags, which can cause injury in an accident.
Give your pet a designated travel spot with a familiar blanket or bed. Some pets prefer quiet, dim areas (like the dinette-turned-cozy-den), while others don’t want to miss a minute of the action. Either way, the goal is to minimize stress and keep them safely out of the way when you’re driving.
Don’t forget to watch the temperatures. It’s easy for an RV to heat up quickly—even while on the road. AC or fans keep the space comfortable. If your pet is riding in another part of the rig, be extra cautious. Without ventilation or climate control, the interior can become dangerously hot (or cold) fast.
And don’t forget: never leave pets in a towed trailer while driving. Not only can it be unsafe, it can be illegal in many areas!
Settling into Camp
You’ve arrived, you’ve parked, and you’re ready to soak up the scenery! For your pet, though, this new place might feel a little overwhelming. With some thoughtful setup and supervision, you can help your companion settle in and enjoy campground life right by your side.
That starts with a safe perimeter. Whether you’re staying for a night or a week, create a defined space where your pet can relax. This might include:
- A leash or tether (secured to a stable object—not your picnic table!)
- A portable exercise pen or pet play yard for small dogs or cats
- A pop-up bird tent or shaded outdoor cage for our feathered friends
Make sure your setup provides plenty of shade, water, and a comfy spot to lie down. Never tie pets out unattended, especially in unfamiliar surroundings or near wildlife.
Know the Ground Rules: Each campground has its own pet policies, so check the posted rules. Some require leashes at all times (even if your pet is extremely well-trained). Others may restrict access to trails or public buildings. And many have quiet hours, so it’s helpful to know how your pet handles new noises or other campers passing by.
Tip: If your pet is reactive or easily overstimulated, request a more secluded site if possible.
Watch for Hidden Dangers: Campsites can hide all sorts of hazards—from toxic plants to leftover chicken bones in the firepit. Keep a close eye out for:
- Mushrooms, foxtails, and burrs
- Hot pavement or metal surfaces (especially in summer)
- Campfire pits, charcoal, skewers, or cooking scraps
- Local wildlife like skunks, snakes, or porcupines
A good rule of thumb: if you wouldn’t want a toddler getting into it, keep your pet away from it, too!
Alone Time in the RV: How to Keep Pets Safe and Secure
Let’s face it—there may be times when your pet can’t come along for the activity of the day. Maybe you’re heading into a museum, a restaurant, or a trail that’s not pet-friendly. In these cases, it’s crucial to plan ahead so your pet stays safe, calm, and comfortable while you’re away.
Know the Risks of Temperature Extremes: Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside an RV can skyrocket within minutes during summer—or plummet during a cold snap. So before ever leaving a pet alone, be sure to:
- Run the AC or heater (and double-check it’s working properly)
- Close blinds or window shades to block direct sun
- Use fans to keep air circulating
- Avoid leaving them during the hottest or coldest parts of the day
If you’re relying on your RV’s power, have a backup power source (like a generator or inverter) and consider adding an RV surge protector to prevent outages from shutting everything down.
Pet-Proof Your Rig: Before you pull out, do a quick sweep:
- Secure food and trash to keep curious noses out
- Store cleaning supplies and medications safely
- Check for any wires, cords, or small items that could pose a hazard
- Make sure windows are closed or screened (and escape routes are blocked!)
Set Up Tech for Peace of Mind: Technology can be a game-changer here. For instance, temperature monitors can alert your phone if temps rise or fall outside a safe range. Pet cameras let you check in from your phone and even talk to your pet to soothe them. And security apps or sensors can let you know if your RV’s door opens unexpectedly.
Bonus tip: It never hurts to have a small sign near your door or window noting that pets are inside. This can be extremely helpful—lifesaving even—in case of an emergency.
Create a Comfort Zone: If your pet is used to alone time at home, try to recreate that cozy environment:
- Give them access to their crate, bed, or favorite perch
- Offer puzzle toys, chews, or a frozen treat to keep them occupied
- Use calming aids like a white noise machine, calming sprays, or familiar background music
However, if you do have a highly anxious pet, especially if they’re prone to destructive behavior or aren’t yet used to the RV environment, please don’t leave them alone. It’s always better to change plans than risk your pet’s safety—or peace of mind.
Top Tricks for a Happy Travel Companion
Once you’ve nailed the logistics—safety, comfort, climate control—it’s time for the best part: helping your pet love RV life. Whether you’ve got a playful pup, a chill cat, or a curious bird, these simple tricks can make the journey more enjoyable for everyone.
Stick to a Routine: Pets thrive on predictability. Keeping consistent mealtimes, walks, playtime, and bedtime helps ease anxiety and gives them a sense of security no matter where you are. A quick morning jaunt or evening snuggle can go a long way in helping them adjust.
Explore Together: Let your pet sniff out the new surroundings (safely, of course). Go for walks, check out pet-friendly trails or waterfronts, or set up a comfy outdoor space where they can lounge with you while you read or cook. Many campgrounds even have off-leash dog areas or hiking loops made for paws.
Cats can explore, too—as long as you bring the right gear. Some RVers use secure outdoor playpens, harnesses with leashes, or even backpack carriers for feline adventurers.
Enrichment Is Everything: Bored pets can get mischievous (or possibly destructive), especially during long stretches in the RV. Keep them entertained with enrichment toys like puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys, safe chews, catnip toys or window hammocks, or swings, mirrors, and foraging toys, depending, of course, on your type of pet. Rotate toys regularly to keep things interesting—and toss in an occasional new one as a treat.
Make Their Space Feel Like Home: Give your pet a designated space in the RV where they can retreat when they want to rest or get away from the hustle and bustle. A crate, bed, blanket, or perch that smells like home can provide comfort and calm.
And don’t forget to bring a few favorite things: a well-loved toy, a special treat, or their regular food bowl can make a big difference in how quickly they settle in.
Celebrate the Little Things: Every happy tail wag, contented purr, or chirpy tune is a sign that your pet is adjusting and enjoying the adventure.
Pet Packing List: Don’t Leave Home Without…
Essentials:
- Pet food (plus extra in case of delays)
- Food and water bowls (collapsible versions are great for travel)
- Water from home for sensitive stomachs
- Medications and supplements
- Vaccination records and health certificate
- Collar with ID tags and up-to-date microchip info
- Leash, harness, and waste bags
- Crate or carrier (even for cats and small dogs who might roam)
Comfort Items:
- Favorite toys and chews
- Pet bed or blanket with familiar scent
- Calming sprays, anxiety vests, or pheromone diffusers
- Litter box and litter (for cats) or cage liner (for birds)
- Treats and enrichment toys
Health & Safety:
- Pet first-aid kit
- Pet sunscreen (especially for light-colored or hairless pets)
- Brush/grooming supplies
- Towels for muddy paws or post-swim cleanup
Bonus Items:
- Pet cam or monitor (if leaving them alone in the rig)
- Portable fan and/or cooling mat
- Shade tent or pop-up playpen for outside time
- Extra leash or long lead for campsite lounging
- Local emergency vet contact info
Adventure Is Better with a Buddy
RVing with pets isn’t just possible—it’s a joy. With the right planning, safety precautions, and a little creature comfort, your road trip can be just as fun and fulfilling for your dog, cat, or bird as it is for you.
After all, they’re not just pets—they’re family. And when they’re safe, happy, and part of the adventure, every destination becomes that much more memorable. So, load up the leash, pack the kibble, and hit the road together.