Traveling with Pets in Your RV: Tips from the Road

One of the best parts of RV life? You don’t have to leave your pets behind. No more kennel drop-offs, expensive pet-sitting apps, or guilt over leaving your furry best friend at home. With the right prep, your pet can be the perfect road trip companion.

After years of traveling with my two dogs, plus the occasional foster pup, I’ve learned a few things—some the hard way! Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time traveler, here are my top tips to help you and your pets stay safe, happy, and stress-free on the road.

1. Update Shots & Keep Records Handy Before hitting the road, make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations. Some campgrounds require proof before check-in, and having records handy is critical in case of a vet visit. I keep a digital copy on my phone and a printed backup in my glovebox. Bonus tip: Vetco (through Petco) has clinics across the country—great for travelers.

2. Confirm Pet-Friendly Campgrounds in Advance Don’t assume every RV park welcomes pets. Breed restrictions, size limits, and max pet policies vary widely. Call ahead or check online listings to avoid last-minute surprises. And even in pet-friendly parks, always follow leash laws and etiquette.

3. Monitor RV Temperature Remotely Weather can change fast—and so can the inside of your RV. I use a temperature monitor with a mobile app that sends alerts if temps rise too high. I also have a small security cam to peek in while I’m out exploring. And yes, I have solar as a backup for unexpected power outages.

4. Build Pets into Your Emergency Plan Storms, wildfires, and sudden evacuations happen. Have a go-bag ready for you and your pets. Include food, meds, leashes, and comfort items. If you have to leave quickly, you don’t want to scramble.

5. Take a Short Trial Run First RV travel isn’t every pet’s cup of kibble. Take a weekend trip before committing to long hauls. One of my dogs adjusted right away; the other needed time to get comfy with motion. Bring familiar bedding to help ease anxiety.

6. Secure Pets While Driving Safety first! Pets shouldn’t roam while you're driving. I anchor thin leashes to floor cleats so they can move safely but stay put. You can also use crash-tested harnesses or secured crates. No more lap-jumping while navigating mountain passes.

7. Microchip Your Pets Collars can fall off. Microchips are your best backup if your pet gets lost. Also keep a printed photo in your rig and save a copy on your phone for quick sharing.

8. Know Where Your Pet Is Before Opening Doors/Windows Before opening anything, do a quick check—especially for cats. It takes two seconds, and it can prevent a very stressful escape.

9. Pack At Least 2 Weeks of Food & Water Pet food brands vary by region. Bring enough of your usual brand to avoid stomach issues. I also carry bottled water for the pets—changing water sources too frequently can upset their digestion, even with a filter.

10. Poop Bags Are Gold You can never have too many. I stock up at HomeGoods (hidden gem for pet gear!) and keep rolls stashed everywhere—glove box, leash bag, outside bin. And of course, always clean up after your pup.

11. Know Your Pet’s Physical Limits A quick hike for you might be a marathon for your pet. My Shih Tzu, Willie, once pushed himself too hard on a short but steep trail. Always bring water, watch for fatigue, and carry them if needed.

12. Schedule Frequent Breaks Plan for breaks every 2–3 hours when driving. Let your pets stretch, go potty, and shake off the motion. RV life is great because you can travel slower—and they’ll thank you for it.

Bonus Tip: Protect Your RV from Pet Mishaps Whether you're renting or own your RV, having RPg Surface Care Protection is a game changer. Spills, tears, muddy paw prints, even pet stains and odors—life on the road can be messy. Surface Care helps shield your RV’s interior from damage, keeps things fresher, and can save you big $$$ at turn-in or resale time. If you’re traveling with pets, be sure to have your RV treated before you go. It’s peace of mind that covers accidents—and totally worth it.

Final Thoughts: Traveling with pets is one of the biggest joys of RV life. With a little preparation and a lot of love, you can create unforgettable memories together. Make safety and comfort a priority, and you’ll both thrive on the road.

Safe travels (and tail wags),

🧭 Jenna Blake Jenna Blake is an RV lifestyle writer, weekend wanderer, and seasoned traveler who’s passionate about helping others find freedom on the road. From rental hacks to solo travel safety, she shares empowering insights and fun, practical tips to make every RV journey smoother, safer, and unforgettable.