The times spent together with the whole family are the moments that matter the most. The adults, kids, pups, friends, and chosen family! It’s these moments that become life’s greatest memories. Don’t leave anyone at home, even your dog.  

Save the stress and cost of pet boarding kennels, and instead, bring pups with you – after all they’re part of the family. With Aussies spending around $520 million on pet sitters and accommodation annually, bringing your furry kids with you on the adventure will reduce travel costs (and owner guilt of leaving them home). 

Let pups explore new landscapes, get out in nature, and help make memories for the whole family. Take road trips and stay in caravan parks with fully equipped amenities that welcome pets. Be around fellow travellers who are also dog owners – your kind of pet-people.

Before you head off with your dog in the backseat, it’s worth taking your pet to the vet for a health check-up to avoid any issues on the road (or air). A vet will check for infections, parasites, illnesses, weight changes, teeth and gum health, unusual growths, and vaccination requirements. Book a vet appointment prior to your trip to travel with a pet with confidence. For long trips, consider purchasing a pet travel policy for health insurance. 

Travel checklist for pets 

Pet travel by car 

• Take them out for a long walk so they’re tired once they’re in the car.

• Give them food and water at least three hours before the time you plan to leave.

• Pack all the necessities – their favourite toys, dry food, treats, water and bowls, poop scoop and bags, a lead, and towels.

• If your pet doesn’t travel well, consider a seatbelt restraint or a portable kennel to avoid injuries – just be sure to do a test run first.

• Pack blankets in winter and cooling pads in summer.

• Level the back seat area for your dog to relax and ride safely by packing pillows, blankets, and sleeping bags between the front and back seats.

• Check identification tags are up to date.

• Make regular toilet stops along the way to avoid any nervous accidents.

• Research possible dog parks and reserves on the way (e.g. Dog Park Finder Plus app) and plan your rest stops.

• Upon arrival, keep them on the lead while at the caravan park. 

Pet travel by plane 

• Book a vet check-up to complete any vaccinations and treatments (e.g. flea, tick and worming) and check the airline’s requirements.
• Ask your vet about how to best prepare and sedate your pet for air travel.
• Find a comfortable carrier with one of their blankets to get them familiar with it before the flight.
• Pack a pet carry-on bag with all the necessities.
• Print out your dog’s health certificate and any additional documents.
• Take them out for a long walk before leaving for the airport and make sure they’re hydrated and well fed.
• Put their favourite toy in the container with one of their blankets.

Pet travel by bus 

• Check if the states you’re travelling from and to allows dogs on board.
• Follow the requirements of the bus company.
• Follow the steps in the car travel checklist.
• Make sure you’re awake during the scheduled stops to let your dog out. 

Pet travel by boat 

• Check if the state allows pets on ferries and boats.

• Follow the requirements of the transport company.

• Follow the steps in the plane travel checklist.

Pet-friendly amenities & activities 

At Discovery Parks, you can expect pet-friendly experiences. This includes amenities such pet-friendly cabins, dog parks and fenced leash-free areas, pet waste stations, special doggy treats at check-in, and staff who are animal lovers themselves – who can share pet-friendly locations nearby for your day trips. There’s plenty of greenery for dogs to run around with water available, and easy access to dog-friendly beaches and walking trails nearby. 

Some of our parks feature coin-operated dog washes, a $10 wash and blow dry service, the Discovery Barks Walk, designated pet beds, and doggy day care. Pet policies differ from park to park, so reach out if you need support planning your travels with a pet. 

There are plenty of things to do with your dog at the caravan park and in the surrounding areas. Some ideas include:  

• Relax on the deck 
• Throw the ball in fenced areas 
• Lounge by the campfire 
• Explore nearby walking trails 
• Visit dog-friendly beaches, lakes, and public parks.

Safety measures for travelling with a dog 

Travelling with pets requires a little extra planning, but it’s well worth it. Make sure to check the specific requirements of your accommodation, not just the caravan park site. Familiarise yourself with the park layout and pet-friendly features before your visit. Read the dog guidelines and conditions beforehand.  

Always keep your dog on a leash, unless in a fenced area for pets. Be wary of other dogs and how your pooch usually behaves around other animals. Carry all the essential items to best manage your dog at all times – this is a public place like any other. 

Discovery Parks – a walk in the park for travelling with pets 

Discovery Parks aren’t just accessible for pets. They’re built intentionally for families with pets. Consider staying in one of our caravan parks across Australia for your next holiday. Explore the parks  where you can take your pups, pooches or pawesome pals off the lead in nearby parks and beaches for a full dog-friendly holiday.
 

The best bits of a trip are unexpected and discovered on the journey. Plan your family friendly, pet friendly and budget friendly trip at a Discovery Park, and enjoy the adventure… knowing you’ve got everything you need.