A guide to caravanning with dogs

Did you know 86% of British caravan owners take their dogs on caravanning holidays? If you’re thinking of joining the club, read on! Taking your dog on a caravan holiday can turn a good trip into a great one. No kennels. No guilt. Just fresh air, long walks, and your best mate along for the ride. It can save you money, too, with kennel costs increasing in recent years.

Better still, dogs have a habit of slowing things down in the best way. You explore more. You meet people. And if you’re travelling solo, they can offer an extra sense of security. So, how do you keep things calm, safe and tail-waggingly fun?

Before you go

A smooth trip starts before you set off.

• Plan your journey: walk your dog first and schedule regular stops

• Pack the essentials: water, a bowl, food, and familiar items

• Keep them secure: the Highway Code requires pets are safely restrained

Use a seat belt harness, carrier, cage or dog guard to keep everyone safe if you stop suddenly.

Top tip: Speak to your vet before you travel. Having your dog’s details shared with a local practice near your campsite can save time in an emergency.

Is your caravan site truly dog-friendly?

’Dog-friendly‘ doesn’t always mean the same thing. Some sites welcome dogs but offer little else. Others go all in, with dog walking areas, wash stations and nearby day care or dog-friendly pubs. Think about what you and your dog actually need. A relaxed, well-equipped site can make all the difference.

Make your caravan work for your dog

Caravans are cosy, but that can be a challenge with a muddy or excitable dog. A few simple tweaks can help:

• Use throws or covers to protect furniture

• Bring old towels for wet walks

• Consider a protective spray for fabrics

Awnings are especially useful. They give your dog space to rest or eat without crowding the caravan (as long as it’s warm enough). If you’ll be outside a lot:

• A playpen can help for smaller dogs

• A corkscrew anchor keeps leads secure

• Always provide shade and fresh water

And don’t forget ventilation. Caravans can heat up fast, so airflow is essential, especially if your dog is resting inside. A few extras can make life much easier:

• Portable water bottles

• Cooling mats or jackets

• A basic canine first aid kit (gauze, antiseptic, medications)

• Dog shampoo (for the inevitable muddy moments)

Can you leave your dog alone?

Every dog is different. If you’re planning time away from your caravan, ask yourself:

• Will they feel comfortable alone?

• Is the caravan secure and well-ventilated?

• Could noise, heat or unfamiliar surroundings cause stress?

When in doubt, plan dog-friendly days out instead. It’s usually the better option for everyone.

Exploring safely (and responsibly)

The UK countryside is one of the best parts of caravanning. But it comes with responsibilities. On farmland, always keep your dog on a lead around livestock. Even the calmest dog can spook animals, and farmers’ land should be respected.

At the beach, check local rules before you go. Many beaches have seasonal or time-based restrictions for dogs. A bit of planning avoids an awkward turnaround. And speaking of planning, with sea swims to muddy trails on the cards, wet dogs are part of the experience. The trick is managing it. Dry your dog outside, when possible, keep towels by the door and air out the caravan regularly. Otherwise, that unmistakable ’wet dog smell‘ can take over quickly.

Top tip: Pack a pet-friendly air freshener. You’ll thank yourself later.

Heading off? Make sure you’re covered

If you’re planning a caravan or motorhome trip, it’s worth checking your insurance before you go. The right cover gives you peace of mind, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure with your dog. And if you’re out exploring this summer, keep an eye out for your local Howden branch. Many of our high street teams are offering handy hydration stations. Perfect for a quick pit stop!

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