What started as a carefully planned vacation turned into a learning experience in vacationing with a puppy when Sadie ended up coming along at the last minute. We learned so much about what it takes to travel with a dog, and I thought other families might find our experience helpful if they’re thinking about bringing their pup on their next trip.
The Opportunity We Couldn’t Pass Up
This was our first real family trip in about 15 years, so I wanted everything to go perfectly! I have a dear friend who volunteered to do our animal chores for a week if we would take a family vacation. How could we possibly pass on this opportunity? We decided on Kentucky as our destination. I gave Joey and Teva the task of researching activities to do and places to visit in Kentucky. Once they had compiled their list, I went through and rated the things each person really wanted to do.
It became clear that there were two hotspots on our list: places either near Cincinnati, Ohio, or Lexington, Kentucky. There was not time to do both, and the higher votes actually landed near Lexington. So, I finally found an Airbnb—it was the last three-bedroom and 2-full-bath accommodation available for this area. They even allowed pets. I only made a passing note of that fact since my sister, Becky, had graciously agreed to watch our Sadie. Since we are only milking one cow at the moment, chores are not very time-consuming.
The initial plan seemed flawless. Our puppy would be well cared for, our minimal farm duties would be handled, and we could focus entirely on family time and exploration. Sometimes the best-laid plans, however, take unexpected turns that lead to even better adventures.
Plans Change: Sadie Joins the Adventure
As vacation week approached, I needed to pack Sadie’s supplies. As I began discussing Sadie’s drop-off time with my sister, it became apparent that Becky’s busy life had become more hectic with work, events, and unexpected family issues. So, when she asked if I had a backup dog sitter. I decided we would just take Sadie with us. I had no clue how to bring a pet along on an 8-hour road trip, but I know people do it all the time, so we could figure it out.
Becky felt guilty about backing out, but I assured her we would be fine, and we were starting to see this twist in plans as an adventure in itself. Teva was especially excited that we were bringing our puppy! She got us all excited about it, and before we knew it, what seemed like a hassle became part of the fun.
Bringing Sadie took a little extra planning, but thankfully, we already had a dog-friendly place to stay. The car situation was going to be the most challenging since we were already tightly squeezed with four adults and a week’s worth of luggage for each of us into a 4-door sedan.
Packing Challenges and Strategic Solutions
We managed to pack everyone’s bags and Sadie’s kennel and things, with not an inch of room to spare, into our Honda Accord. I became ever more grateful that the Airbnb allowed pets. The tight quarters required careful planning and strategic packing that maximized every inch without sacrificing essential items.
Our collapsible kennel worked great. We were able to easily pack it and then assemble it once we arrived, similar to a pack-and-play on a smaller scale. This single piece of equipment was our smartest investment for puppy travel. It compressed down for efficient packing and expanded to provide Sadie with a familiar, secure space throughout our stay.
Packing for a puppy when you’re already tight on space means you really have to pick and choose what to bring. We made sure to pack enough dog food for the whole week, her collapsible bowls, a couple of her favorite toys, her leash with updated tags, way more cleanup bags than we thought we would need, and her little blanket that smelled like home.
The key to successful puppy packing is thinking through your destination needs while maximizing space efficiency. Collapsible items, multipurpose supplies, and careful organization make all the difference when working with limited vehicle space. For instance, her food was put into gallon plastic bags with zip closures because they are easier to pack around than a rigid bucket that we normally use.
The Road Trip Reality: Sadie’s Travel Performance
As it turns out, Sadie is a wonderful traveling puppy. I believe she barked in the car once the entire trip. This remarkable behavior exceeded all our expectations and made the 8-hour drive peaceful and enjoyable for everyone in the family. Sadie seemed to understand that this was a special adventure and settled into travel mode beautifully.
The success of our road trip came down to preparation and making strategic stops along the way. Driving requires scouting ahead for pet-friendly facilities. We found the Love’s truck stops and state rest areas to be great stops. These locations offered ample space for Sadie to stretch her legs, handle her business, and get some exercise before continuing our journey.
Rest Stops and Essential Supplies
Keep doggie-doo sacks handy and available throughout your trip. Some places have them, but you do not want to be caught without proper cleanup supplies. Pack more waste bags than you think you will need—it is better to have extras than find yourself in an awkward situation without them.
Regular stops serve multiple purposes when traveling with a puppy. They provide bathroom breaks, exercise opportunities, mental stimulation from new sights and smells, and chances for the entire family to stretch and refresh. Planning these stops in advance eliminates guesswork and ensures you have less stress while traveling.
Accommodation Success with Your Puppy
Selecting pet-friendly accommodations proved crucial to our vacation success. Our Airbnb’s pet policy provided the flexibility and space needed for comfortable puppy accommodation. The collapsible kennel worked well at our destination, creating a familiar den-like space for Sadie in our temporary home.
One of Sadie’s admirable traits that made accommodation easier was her natural cleanliness. Sadie does not go in the vehicle, on the bed, or in her kennel, so it was extremely beneficial. This reliability eliminated many potential stress points and made our stay more enjoyable for everyone.
Setting up a designated puppy space within your accommodation helps maintain routines and provides security in unfamiliar surroundings. The kennel became Sadie’s little safe spot—somewhere she could go when she needed a break. We brought the puppy gate, but we did not end up needing it since the house had pocket doors to enclose her in the kitchen/dining area. This helped us reinforce where she could freely roam on her own at the rental, a similar rule that we have at our home.
Pet-friendly accommodations vary widely in their amenities and restrictions. Some places go all out with dog beds, bowls, and treats waiting for you, while others just let you bring your pet if you pay extra, and there may be restrictions such as no animals on the furniture or beds. I would definitely check out what other dog owners say in their reviews so you know what to expect and how to better plan.
Managing Puppy Activities During Vacation
As it turned out, we were able to take Sadie on outings three of the five days. This balance allowed us to include her in family adventures while also planning some activities that required leaving her safely at our accommodation.
Sadie still does not understand that she is supposed to wait and go outside—she just goes whenever and wherever she feels like it. So, we were taking her outside quite often with varied results. Potty training on vacation is a work in progress. You have to expect some accidents and not stress about it.
Most of the activities you can do with your puppy are going to be outside. We found that hiking trails, parks, places with nice views, and restaurants with patios usually let you bring dogs as long as they are well-behaved. I would definitely look up the pet rules before you go so you do not show up somewhere and get turned away.
Indoor attractions, museums, and cultural sites typically restrict pet access, so planning becomes essential. Consider alternating family members for puppy-sitting duties during these activities, or research local dog daycare or pet-sitting services for longer excursions.
Summarizing Successful Puppy Travel Tips
When visiting upscale destinations like Washington, D.C., or New York City, research pet policies in advance and book pet-friendly accommodations early.
Scout your route for pet-friendly stops—Love’s Truck Stops and state rest areas offer reliable options. Always keep waste bags easily accessible since availability varies by location.
A collapsible travel kennel serves double duty as space-saving luggage and familiar comfort once you arrive. Pack a complete travel kit, including sufficient food for your entire trip, collapsible feeding bowls, favorite toys, an updated ID tag on the leash, extra cleanup supplies, and a comfort item from home to ease the transition.
Building Confidence Through Experience
I hope these recommendations are useful as you plan your upcoming vacation! When we initially decided to include Sadie in our travel plans, I found myself quite anxious about the entire experience. What if she does not travel well, like my sister’s dog, and gets sick in the car? What if she does not sleep well or, worse, barks all night? But it actually turned out way better than I expected, and now I am more comfortable if I need to do it again. Plus, some of our favorite memories from that trip were totally unplanned moments.
However, every dog has their own quirks. You will need to decide your pet’s personality and ability to adapt to different situations. Sadie, as a whole, is laid-back and always seems up for another adventure. Does your pet get carsick easily? How does your pet acclimate to new situations? You will figure out what your dog needs as you go.
Starting with shorter trips is generally advisable before planning extended vacations. Beginning with overnight excursions can also be beneficial, as staying relatively close to home reduces stress and allows for easier adjustments if needed. This approach also provides an opportunity to work through logistical challenges without the added pressure of longer travel commitments.
Documenting successful strategies can be valuable for future travel planning. Keeping notes about positive rest stops, helpful items to pack, and accommodation preferences will streamline subsequent trips. This record-keeping approach allows for more efficient preparation and improved travel experiences over time.
The Unexpected Joy of Puppy Travel
Last-minute plan changes sometimes lead to the best trips. Bringing a puppy along creates different experiences than expected—more stops, different activities, but often more fun too.
The extra prep work pays off when you see how much everyone enjoys having your fur baby along. Your children will especially love the added adventure of including your pet. Simple moments like watching it explore new places or settle down after a busy day become highlights of the trip.
Puppy travel requires flexibility and patience, but it teaches you to slow down and notice smaller details. Those unplanned rest stop discoveries and quiet evening moments may become the stories you tell later.
Planning Your Next Puppy Adventure
Your dog already wants to tag along with you. With some smart planning and the right mindset, there is no reason to leave it behind. Watching your family have fun together makes all the prep work worth it. Hopefully you have the travel bug and want to take your pet too!
With your travel essentials packed and your fur baby by your side, you are ready to create those precious vacation memories that will become part of your family’s story for years to come.