With the holiday season upon us once again, many people may be wondering what to do with their beloved pets for their holiday travel. The answer is simple, bring them with you! While traveling with your pet may sound stressful and even impossible, it's not. There are many ways to incorporate your pets into your holiday travel plans, they are, after all members of your family as well- albeit furry or leathery ones. It'd be hard to enjoy Christmas vacation knowing that your fur child is at home alone or in the company of a stranger. There are many things, however, one should remember when traveling with pets for the holidays. Let’s go a few important details!

What to Pack

There are many different items that you wouldn't want to forget when traveling with your pets. Such items include:

Food: While this may be obvious, many pet owners forget the thing they should remember most, the food! It may seem easier to just buy new food at your destination, but you'll save money, and you'll be prepared in case you can’t find their specific food brand.

Toys: When traveling with your pet, bringing toys is along is just as important as it would be with a child. Pets need stimulation, especially from play, and leaving their favorite toy at home could bring about anxiety and behavioral issues. As you may have guessed, traveling isn't the best time for behavior problems to arise.

Collars: This is another common item that many people may forget or not to think to bring. One should always remember to bring their pet's collar, including an LED collar, as well as their leash and other materials they'll need for a nice holiday walk with the family.

Clothes: We know, it started off just because it looked cute and you wanted a picture. But putting clothes on your pets isn't as ridiculous as it may seem. It get's cold outside during the holiday season and the saying is true, if you're cold, they're cold too. This is why packing a sweater or two for your best friend on four legs is never a bad idea, and depending on the temperature, may even be crucial to their health.

Beds: Bringing your pet's bed is a smart move, as it reduces anxiety and creates a more calm and comfortable atmosphere for them while away from the familiar scents and sights of home. Bringing your pet's bed will calm and comfort them during the trip, which is always a good thing.

Gifts: What is the holiday season without even one gift?! Don't forget to pack those treats and toys you'll be gifting your fur friend, it's the holidays for them too!

Make The Ride Cozy

Making the ride comfortable for your pet is just as important as making the ride comfortable for you and others. Nobody wants to be uncomfortable, especially not for a long period of time. There are many things one could do to make your pet as comfortable as possible for the trip out, such as:

Cozy up the back seat by securing a cushioned sleeping area, such as a pad or a velcro attached bed. Giving your pet a place to rest is important.

Use a thunder shirt if needed. Some pets, especially dogs, may get anxious when left in the car for extended periods of time. This is why it may be wise to invest in a thunder shirt for your pet, which has been shown to reduce anxiety in pets.

Bring plenty of snacks and water for your pet to eat and drink on the way. This is especially important for long car rides.

Don't forget to stop often, allowing your pet to stretch its legs and use the bathroom when needed. Nobody wants an accident, and they're more likely to happen if nobody stops the car.


Traveling with your pet for the holidays may seem daunting, but with the right amount of planning and care, it can be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Your pet is a member of the family as well, and shouldn't be left out of holiday trips, they'll miss you more than you think!