The holidays are coming, which means road trips, family visits, and festive chaos — for humans and dogs alike! Whether you’re heading across town or across the state, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your pup safe, calm, and happy on the road. Here’s your ultimate guide to smooth, stress-free holiday travel with your four-legged copilot.
🧳 1. Smart Packing for Your Pup
Think of your dog’s travel bag like your own carry-on — only with more snacks. Here’s what to pack:
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Food & treats: Bring enough for the whole trip plus a little extra in case of delays.
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Water & bowl: Travel bottles or collapsible bowls work best.
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Leash, harness, and ID tags: Always double-check tags are current.
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Medications & vet info: Keep them handy in case of emergencies.
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Blanket or bed: Familiar scents help reduce anxiety.
Waste bags & wipes: Because… well, dogs.
🐾 Pro Tip: Pack some Big Head Barkery Snacks — perfect for rest stops and rewards.
💤 2. Make the Crate a Comfort Zone
If your dog travels in a crate, make it a cozy den before you leave.
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Line it with a soft blanket or your pup’s favorite bed.
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Add a toy or something that smells like home.
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Keep it well-ventilated and positioned securely in the car.
Training trick: Feed your dog in their crate a few times before your trip so they associate it with something positive.
🤢 3. Preventing Motion Sickness
Just like people, some dogs get carsick — especially on longer drives.
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Avoid feeding a large meal within 2 hours of departure.
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Keep the car cool and well-ventilated.
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Offer small sips of water at rest stops.
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Ask your vet about motion-sickness remedies if your dog struggles often.
⛽ 4. Rest-Stop Routine
Plan to stop every 2–3 hours for potty breaks and a little stretching. A few minutes of walking or sniffing helps your dog reset mentally and physically. Reward calm leash behavior with small training treats — it reinforces good manners in new environments.
🎁 5. Traveling to Dog-Friendly Homes
If you’re staying with family or friends who have pets, come prepared:
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Bring your dog’s own bed or mat to create a familiar space.
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Use Big Head Barkery Gift Cards as thoughtful “thank yous” for hosts with dogs — a sweet way to share the love (and the treats).
❤️ The Road to Happy Holidays
With a little planning and a pocket full of snacks, traveling with your dog can be smooth, safe, and full of wag-worthy moments.
🎄 Before you hit the road, grab our snacks and Gift Cards for Hosts-with-Dogs — thoughtful, dog-approved essentials for every holiday trip.