Travelling With Pets in a Campervan: Dogs, Cats and Practical Tips

Many vanlifers would not dream of travelling without their dog or cat. Pets can make life on the road richer: they encourage daily walks, help you meet people and make a van feel like home. But they also add responsibilities, especially in hot climates, at borders and when you want to visit places where animals are not allowed.

This guide covers practical advice for travelling with pets in a campervan or caravan. Always consult your vet before long trips and check official rules for each country you plan to visit.

Is Your Pet Suited to Van Travel?

Consider your pet's personality and health:

• Does your pet cope well with car journeys? Some get anxious or travel sick.
• Is your pet comfortable in new places?
• Are they healthy enough for heat, long drives or hiking?
• How old are they? Very young or older pets may need extra care.

Start with short trips to see how your pet reacts. Gradually increase journey length and overnight stays.

Safety While Driving

An unrestrained pet can be seriously injured in a sudden stop and can distract the driver. Options include:

• Crash-tested harnesses attached to seatbelt points.
• Secured crates fixed so they cannot move.
• Pet barriers that separate the cab or living area.

Never let pets travel loose in a moving van, and never leave them in a caravan while towing, as caravans are generally not designed to carry passengers or animals during travel and rules in many countries prohibit it.

Heat: The Biggest Risk

Vehicles heat up very quickly in the sun, even on moderately warm days. This is especially relevant in the Middle East and Mediterranean, where summers are hot.

• Never leave pets alone in a hot van. Temperatures inside can become dangerous quickly, even with windows partly open.
• Park in shade and use reflective window covers.
• Run roof fans and provide cross-ventilation. See our ventilation guide.
• Provide constant access to fresh water.
• Walk dogs early in the morning and late in the evening.
• Check pavement and sand temperatures; hot surfaces can burn paws.
• Learn the signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, drooling, weakness and confusion, and seek veterinary help immediately if you notice them.

Our staying cool in a campervan guide has more strategies for hot weather that help both people and pets.

Some vanlifers use remote temperature monitors that send alerts to a phone. These can be useful, but they do not make leaving a pet in a hot van safe.

Setting Up the Van for Pets

Sleeping Space

• Give your pet a dedicated bed or mat in a consistent spot.
• Under-bed spaces or a corner near the door often work well.
• For cats, a cosy hideaway and an elevated perch help them feel secure.

Our guide to choosing a campervan bed layout can help you plan space for pets from the start.

Food and Water

• Use non-spill water bowls.
• Store food in sealed containers to avoid pests.
• Bring enough of your pet's usual food, especially if it may be hard to find abroad; sudden diet changes can upset stomachs.

Cleaning

• Use washable seat covers and blankets.
• Keep a towel by the door for muddy or sandy paws.
• Carry a small brush and vacuum for hair.
• Choose durable, easy-to-clean flooring.

Cats in Vans

Cats need special consideration:

• A litter tray secured in place, ideally in a ventilated spot.
• A harness and lead for supervised outdoor time.
• Secure windows and doors; cats can slip out quickly.
• A microchip with up-to-date contact details.

Health and Paperwork

Before You Go

• Visit your vet for a check-up.
• Make sure vaccinations are up to date.
• Discuss parasite prevention for the regions you will visit, such as ticks, fleas and other risks.
• Ensure your pet is microchipped with current contact details.
• Carry vaccination records and any medical history.

Crossing Borders

Pet travel rules vary by country and can include microchip requirements, specific vaccinations, blood tests, health certificates issued within a certain time before travel and waiting periods. Requirements also depend on where you are coming from. Check official government sources for each country well in advance, as some processes take weeks or months.

Ferries

Ferry companies have their own rules for pets. Some require pets to stay in the vehicle or in kennels during the crossing; others offer pet-friendly cabins. Check before booking.

Finding Pet-Friendly Places

• Campsites: many accept pets, but some have restrictions or extra fees. Check in advance.
• Beaches: some beaches ban dogs, especially in summer.
• Nature reserves and national parks: rules vary; some do not allow dogs or require them on leads.
• Restaurants and cafés: outdoor seating is often more pet-friendly.

Respect local attitudes: in some places, dogs are less commonly kept as indoor pets, and some people may be uncomfortable around them. Keep dogs on a lead and under control in towns and villages.

Daily Routine on the Road

• Keep feeding and walking times consistent.
• Plan driving days with regular breaks for walks and water.
• Exercise pets before long drives so they rest more easily.
• Do not let dogs chase wildlife or livestock.
• Pick up after your pet everywhere.

Leaving Your Pet Alone

Sometimes you will want to visit places pets cannot go. Options include:

• Only leaving pets in the van in cool weather, for short periods, with ventilation and water, and only if they are calm when alone.
• Using local pet sitters or day boarding.
• Planning visits so one person stays with the pet.

First Aid for Pets

Carry a pet first aid kit with bandages, tick remover, antiseptic suitable for animals, tweezers and any prescribed medications. Save the contact details of vets along your route.

Pet Travel Checklist

• Vet check, vaccinations and parasite treatments.
• Microchip details up to date.
• Paperwork for each country.
• Harness, crate or barrier for driving.
• Bed, bowls, food and treats.
• Lead, spare collar and ID tag with your phone number.
• Towels, waste bags and cleaning supplies.
• Pet first aid kit.
• Shade and cooling plan for hot weather.

Helping Your Pet Settle Into Van Life

A van is a new environment full of unfamiliar sounds and smells. Help your pet adjust by spending time in the parked van at home before your first trip. Feed meals there, let them nap on their bed inside and reward calm behaviour. Short drives to enjoyable places, such as a park or beach, help build positive associations. On the road, keep familiar items like blankets and toys, and avoid moving every day at first so your pet has time to settle.

Final Thoughts

Travelling with a pet in a campervan takes extra planning, but it is very rewarding. Put safety first, especially when driving and in hot weather, prepare paperwork well ahead, and build your days around your pet's needs. For more on preparing for trips, see our off-grid camping checklist and safety and security tips.

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