If your furry companion is not just a pet, but a member of your family, then no road trip is complete without them. Taking a road trip with your pet can be a fun and exciting adventure for both you and your furry companion. It can be a great way to bond with your pet and create memories that will last a lifetime. However, traveling with a pet can also be challenging, and it's important to be prepared and plan ahead. We want to ensure that your next road trip is not only safe and enjoyable for you but also for your pet.

From finding pet-friendly accommodations to packing the right supplies, there are many things to consider before hitting the road. It's a good idea to check for any travel restrictions, such as state-specific regulations or seasonal weather conditions, that may affect your pet's travel. Additionally, it's important to consider the temperament and behavior of your pet, and how they may handle the stress of a long car ride. 

Planning ahead can ensure that you have a smooth and stress-free trip with your pet, and will help you to be prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise.

In this blog, we will discuss things to pack and tips for making a road trip with your pet a success. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time pet owner, this guide will help you navigate the logistics of traveling with a pet and make your road trip as stress-free as possible.

Before the trip

1) Packing essentials

Here is a list of things to pack when traveling with a pet on a road trip

  • Pet food and water bowls
  • Extra food and treats
  • A portable food storage container
  • Medications and any veterinary records
  • A first aid kit for pets
  • A comfortable and familiar blanket or bed
  • A favorite toy or two
  • A collar with identification tags
  • A leash and harness
  • Poop bags and paper towels
  • A travel water dish
  • A pet carrier or crate if necessary
  • A pet seatbelt or harness for safety in the car

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2)  Accommodation

Image: https://www.pookyandboo.com.au/articles/luxury-pet-friendly-accomodation-australia

There are multiple ways to find accommodation that is suitable for both you and your pet.

There are multiple ways to find accommodation that is suitable for both you and your pet.
Online resources
Use online resources such as pet-friendly hotel directories or travel apps to research pet-friendly accommodations along your route.
Contact the hotel directly
Once you've narrowed down your options, contact the hotel directly to confirm their pet policies and availability.
Look for pet-friendly amenities
Some hotels may have specific amenities for pets such as designated pet-friendly rooms, outdoor pet runs, or even on-site dog-walking services
Check reviews
Before booking a hotel, read online reviews from other pet owners to get a sense of the hotel's pet-friendliness and any potential issues to be aware of.
Consider vacation rentals
Vacation rental properties such as cabins, cottages, or apartments, maybe a lot more comfortable because most of them have ample space which will give your pet freedom to move around.

NOTE: Be prepared to pay an additional fee: Many hotels charge an additional fee for pets, so be prepared to pay more for your stay.

3) Travel

When renting a car for your road trip, it's important to check with your car rental company to ensure that they indeed allow pets to travel in the car. For Drive mate, all the cars listed on the platform are personally owned and it is up to the car owner to allow pets in their car when they rent it out. All the car listings on Drive mate app show the restrictions listed by the individual car owners to make it easy for you to decide which car to choose.

4) Medications

If your pet is prone to motion sickness, consider consulting with your veterinarian about medication options before your trip.

During the trip

During your road trip, it's important to make frequent stops for your pet to stretch its legs and go to the bathroom. It's also essential to never leave your pet alone in the car, as temperatures can quickly become dangerous.

It will be a good idea to research pet-friendly rest stops, parks, and attractions along your route, so you can plan for fun and comfort breaks for your pet. Be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding pets in the areas you will be visiting. Also, we all love our pets. But it is important to be respectful of other travelers and make sure your pet is not causing a disturbance.

In conclusion, a road trip with your pet can be a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry companion. However, it's important to plan ahead, be prepared, and be mindful of your pet's needs during the trip. Remember to make regular stops for rest, potty breaks, and exercise, bring enough food, water, and any necessary medication, and keep your pet secured while driving.

Additionally, be aware of local laws and regulations, make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and has proper identification tags, and be prepared for emergencies. By following these tips, you can ensure that when you rent a car and go on a road trip with your pet is a safe and memorable one. Happy travels!

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Why choose Drive mate to rent a car in Australia? 

Drive mate, the leading peer-to-peer car-sharing and rental company in Australia, is the best car-sharing app in Australia and boasts several benefits that set us apart from our rivals. Our platform provides an opportunity for customers to list their cars and earn extra income, as well as an option for customers to rent cars from our reliable hosts at an affordable price, compared to other car-sharing and car rental companies.