It’s been a while since I had a guest post on my blog.  So, I was delighted when Nick from https://ourbestdoggo.com offered to write an article on traveling with our dogs.  I guess I need a tip or two myself on this topic. You may also check out Nick’ blog for more tips, resources and support on dog lovers doing good .  So, many thanks again Nick for this great article.

Photo by: Pixabay

Traveling with Fido: Budget-Friendly Tips for Happy Travel

If you’re like most pet parents, the thought of leaving your dog at home while you travel for any amount of time is out of the question. Plus, boarding and sitter fees can add up fast, and you’d much rather provide that same love and attention yourself. If you’re put off by the idea of traveling with Fido because you think it’s too expensive, think again. Read on to discover several budget-friendly ways to travel with your four-legged friend.

Bring the Necessities

Just like you need to pack a bag and some essentials for yourself, the same thing applies to your dog. Before you hit the road (or the air), you’ll need to make sure you have a few basic travel items such as food, water, bedding, crate/carrier, toys, treats, waste bags, collar, leash, and seat covers. You likely have some of these items on hand already, but if you don’t, you can save money by using savings such as eBay coupons when you purchase the gear you need. While you might think it’s easier to buy food once you get to your destination, prices tend to be higher in other cities, especially tourist destinations, so package food in baggies for big savings and instant access in case of any delays. If you’ll be traveling for an extended period of time, you might think about having a bag of dog food shipped to your destination, utilizing Amazon’s free shipping. Don’t forget to visit the vet prior to travel to get vaccinations, health certificates, and travel meds for anxiety or motion sickness if needed.

Find Dog-Friendly Hotel Accommodations

No matter how well behaved, quiet, and clean your dog is, there are still some hotels that aren’t pet-friendly. Before you get hasty with making a reservation and lose your deposit in the process when you realize Fido isn’t allowed, do some research first. BringFido.com is an excellent resource for locating dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities in or near your travel destination. Depending on the accommodation you choose, you may be required to pay a fee. In order to save money on hotel stays, PawCulture warns about pet fees disguised as deposits. If it is a deposit, you should get your money back if Fido keeps the room clean, so make sure you have a clear understanding of the meaning. While some hotels have a pet fee, there are several that welcome dogs free of charge including Aloft Hotels, Kimpton Hotels, and Motel 6 — Red Roof Inn even gives you a 10 percent discount for bringing your pet!

Find Ways to Save on Travel by Air

When it comes to pet travel, you aren’t confined to the road, as many airlines welcome dogs. Keep in mind that there are pet fees for air travel, and the cost is often dependent upon the size of the dog. A great way to keep costs down is by using a rewards credit card for pet expenses – you can check out some of the best ones. Depending on the card you choose, you can earn miles that can be applied to the pet fee, as well as earn cash back on your pet supply purchases. You won’t see the reward overnight, but with regular use, you’ll be racking up points and savings that can be applied to travel and splurges for both you and your pooch.

When you book a flight, make sure you note the specifications for crates to ensure you have the right size. Prepare your dog for air travel via crate training and desensitization, as your dog may have to ride in a climate-controlled compartment away from you if he exceeds a certain size. Check with your vet before flying to ensure your dog has the all-clear for safe travels.

Having your dog accompany you on your travels is a wonderful experience if you prepare ahead of time. With the tips above, it doesn’t have to break the bank either. What are you waiting for?