Pre-Travel Pet Checklist

Run through this before any trip with your pet so nothing essential gets left behind. Works for a road trip, a flight, or a weekend away.

Before you go

• Confirm your accommodation's pet policy, fee, and any weight or breed limit
• Visit the vet if needed; confirm vaccinations are current
• Refill any medications for the whole trip plus extra
• Confirm microchip is registered and ID tag shows a current number
• Save a 24-hour vet near your destination

Pack

• Food for the whole trip plus extra, and a travel bowl
• Water for the journey
• Leash, waste bags, and a familiar bed or blanket
• Medications and a copy of vaccination records
• A favorite toy, a towel, and cleaning wipes
• Carrier or car restraint

Day of travel

• Exercise your pet before you leave
• Feed a light meal a couple of hours before departure
• Secure your pet safely in the car or an airline-compliant carrier
• Plan stops every 2 to 4 hours on a drive
• Never leave your pet in a parked car

Pet policies change and vary by location; confirm the current details with each property before you book.