Beginner’s Guide to Pet Travel Kit

You’ve packed your bags and are ready to go on a road trip.

If you’re bringing your fur pal along for the ride, then a pet travel kit is a must-have.

But what items are necessary? You might be surprised by how many things you can include in your pet travel kit!

Here’s what you need to include—and why:

Why Do You Need a Pet Travel Kit?

Did you know that according to the American Pet Products Association, more than 37% of pet owners travel with their pets annually?

While you might feel it’s unnecessary to have pet travel accessories, there are many compelling reasons why it’s best to bring them along with you.

Pet travel kits can come in handy in various situations, such as:

• To comply with the airline or other transportation regulations for traveling with pets.
• Ideal for handling unexpected emergencies or accidents.
• Provide your pooch with food, water, toys, treats, and other essentials during an extended trip.
• Could help prevent stress, boredom, or illness in your pet during travel.

Overall, having a pet travel kit can make traveling with your fur baby much easier, more organized, and more enjoyable for you and your pooch.

What Is Included in a Pet Travel Kit?

Remember those kibble wars in the airport café or the wet nose nuzzling in your bag?

Pets need their travel essentials just as much as you do when planning a weekend getaway, and it’s time to embrace it.

From dog car seats to motion sickness medications, here’s what you need to include:

Food and Water

• In times when you can’t find a pet store, having a reasonable supply of regular food and a water cup will keep your fur baby well-fed and hydrated.
• You can pack a travel accessory kit, such as a collapsible bowl, for easier storage.

First-Aid Kit

• A comprehensive first aid-kit includes handy accessories such as bandages, tweezers, antiseptic wipes, tick removers, pain relievers, and a dog travel bag, among others.

Medication

• Travel sickness, anxiety, and allergies are common.
• Consult your vet for any required medications, vaccinations, and health certificates.
• If your pet is on any medication, pack it along with copies of their identification number and veterinary records.

Waste Bags and Cleaning Supplies

• Being a responsible fur parent includes cleaning up after your pet.
• Make sure to pack plastic bags, absorbent kennel pad, zip ties, spill-resistant food, waste bags, as well as pet-friendly cleaning wipes.

Toys and Treats

• Long journeys can be uncomfortable for fur babies.
• Pack a familiar blanket, toys, and some cute live animal stickers to keep them entertained.

Identification

• In case your pup goes astray, a collar with a temporary pet ID tag, a microchip, a pet photo, and pet travel forms can help reunite you in a jiffy.

Safety Gear

• Don’t forget to pack the necessary dog travel gear, including your pet passport and pet airline travel kit, for your day trips. 
• Reflective leashes, harnesses, and a pet life jacket for water adventures are vital for your pet’s safety.
• An airline-approved carrier or crate that fits in the cargo area.

How To Choose the Best Pet Travel Kit

When you’re traveling with your furry friend, their comfort, safety, and happiness should be considered.

A great way to ensure this is by having a pet travel kit that contains all the necessary items to take care of your pooch during your journey, whether it’s a car, a flight, a train ride, or a boat trip.

Pet travel kits are a collection of items that you need to take care of your pet’s needs while on the road.

It can include things like water bottle, litter boxes, waste containers, grooming wipes, calming supplements, pet travel crates airline approved, carriers, pet travel bag, seat belts, and more.

But how do you choose the best travel kit for your pooch?

Size and Portability

• The size and portability of the pet travel accessories are important factors to consider, especially if you have limited space.
• If you’re traveling by air, look for a cabin pet airline kit that is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and store.
• It should also have a sturdy handle or strap for convenient transportation.

Food and Water Containers

• Your pet will need to eat and drink during the journey, so make sure it includes travel bowls and water containers.
• Look for containers that are spill-proof, easy to clean, and can hold an adequate amount of food and water for the duration of your trip.
• Water clips and collapsible bowls are a great option as they take up less space when not in use.

Comfort Items

• Traveling can be stressful for fur babies, so including comfort items in the travel kit is essential.
• Choose a kit that includes a comfortable blanket or a padded mat where your pet can rest.
• Familiar scents can also help calm your pet, so consider including a small toy or blanket that carries their scent from home.

Safety Features

• Safety should never be compromised when traveling with your pooch.
• For safe travels, opt for a kit that includes safety features like a leash, harness, or seat belt attachment, and seat cover for car rides.

Hygiene Essentials

• I feel you on keeping pets clean when traveling – it can definitely be tricky! My best advice is to pack lots of towels, wipes, and cleaning supplies. Stop often so you can clean up any messes before they really set in. 
• A good travel kit should include hygiene essentials like pet wipes, poop bags, and a small towel.
• Some deluxe pet airline kits may also include a portable litter box, which can be a lifesaver on long trips.

Storage for Identification and Documentation

• When traveling, especially across state or country borders, you’ll need to have your pet’s identification and documents handy.
• Choose a kit that includes a compartment or pouch for storing these important items.

Customizability

• Every pet’s needs are unique, so customizable space is a great feature to have.
• Look for kits with plenty of room or removable compartments, allowing you to organize and prioritize items based on your pet’s specific needs.

Durability

• Pet travels can be rough, and the last thing you want is a travel carrier that falls apart midway through your journey.
• Look for a kit made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of travel.

Reviews and Recommendations

• Finally, before making a purchase, check online reviews and recommendations from the American Kennel Club and other pet owners.
• As the AKC is dedicated to canine health and wellbeing, their products are designed with safety and comfort in mind. 
• You can browse AKC-approved travel gear on their website.

Remember to customize your pet travel kit based on your pet’s specific needs, such as any medical conditions or dietary restrictions.

Additionally, it’s always a good idea to pack a few extra supplies in case of unexpected situations or delays.

Pet Travel Kit Essentials Checklist

Here’s a checklist of essential items to include in your pet travel kit:

Food and Water

• Portable food bowls or double dish
• Collapsible water bowls or dispenser
• Sufficient amount of pet food and fresh water for the duration of the trip
• Treats for rewards or distractions

Comfort and Rest

• Comfortable bedding or blanket
• Familiar toys or chew items
• Pet carrier or crate (if necessary)
• Extra towels or blankets for accidents or spills

Hygiene and Cleanup

• Pet waste bags or poop scooper
• Pet-friendly wet wipes for quick cleanups
• Absorbent pads or liners for accidents
• Pet-safe disinfectant or cleaning spray
• Pet shampoo and grooming supplies (if needed)

Identification and Documentation

• Updated identification tags with your contact information
• Proof of vaccinations and health records
• Copy of your pet’s microchip information
• Travel permits or documentation required for your destination

Safety and Security

• Leash or harness for walks and rest stops
• Seatbelt attachment or pet car harness for car travel
• For training and commands, a signal whistle can be an excellent tool. 
• Pet first-aid kit with essential supplies
• Any necessary medications or prescriptions
• Emergency contact numbers for veterinarians along your route

Entertainment and Distractions

• Leash or harness for walks and rest stops
• Seatbelt attachment or pet car harness for car travel
• Pet first-aid kit with essential supplies
• Any necessary medications or prescriptions
• Emergency contact numbers for veterinarians along your route

Miscellaneous

• Pet-friendly insect repellent
• Extra collar or harness
• Pet-friendly sunscreen (if applicable)
• Travel-sized food and water dispensers for convenience

Where Can I Buy a Pet Travel Kit?

Depending on your budget, preferences, and specific travel requirements, you can choose from a range of pet traveling kits that provide your pet with all the necessary amenities and comforts on the go.

Here are some of the top brands that offer traveling kits to ensure a stress-free pet travel experience:

Treksafe

This brand provides comprehensive pet travel supplies that include a first aid kit, a hammock, a seat belt tether, a collapsible bowl, and more.

You can purchase it on popular online shopping platforms such as eBay or Amazon with free shipping and fast delivery times, usually within 2-3 business days.

JetPaws

JetPaws is a popular brand that offers the official pet carrier of JetBlue Airlines.

Their soft-sided carrier is designed to fit easily under JetBlue’s cabin or back seat and features JetBlue’s travel Petiquette™ on the fabric pattern.

It also has a side pocket, three mesh panels, and a washable pad.

You can purchase it from Glamour Mutt, eBay, or Galleon.

PetMate

Another well-known brand that offers one of the best pet travel products is PetMate.

They offer soft-sided carriers, hard-sided sky kennels, backpack carriers, tote carriers, and more.

In addition to carriers, they also carry accessories such as cooling pads, blankets, and leashes.

TSA

This is not a brand, but an agency that regulates the security screening of passengers and their pets at airports.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulates the security screening of passengers and their pets at airports.

It’s important to follow their guidelines and tips for traveling with your pet in order to avoid any problems or delays.

You can easily find this information on the TSA’s website or by watching their informative video.

Bottom Line

Now that you’re a pro, you’ll be all set to take your fur pal on the adventure of a lifetime.

With a well-stocked and thoughtful travel kit, you’ll have peace of mind and a happy pet as you hit the open road together for a long time.

So buckle up and get ready for a tail-wagging good time!

FAQs

Some common questions I get from fellow pet parents:

Where Can I Buy Pet Travel Accessories Online?

You can find a wide variety of pet supplies at online retailers like Chewy, Amazon, Petco, and PetSmart.

Sites like Orvis and REI also carry travel gear for pets.

Look for products like collapsible bowls, car harnesses, and portable crates.

How Much Does A Dog Travel Kit Cost?

Basic travel kits start around $15-20.

All-inclusive kits with carriers, bowls, toys, etc. cost $50-100 approximately.

While the high-end versions with luggage-quality materials run $200+.

But you can always build your own with a bag and essential supplies for less.

*Note that prices vary based on content.

Can I Pay For Pet Travel Supplies In Monthly Payments? 

Some retailers like Chewy and Amazon offer monthly payment options on purchases over a certain amount, so you may be able to divide the cost into smaller recurring payments. 

However, credit approval is required based on your credit history.

Should I Label My Pet Carrier?

Definitely. Attach the standard set of live animal shipping labels to your carrier. Include your name, phone number, address, and emergency contact. 

List any relevant care instructions. And be sure your pet’s collar includes ID too. This ensures you can be contacted if ever separated.

When does the purchase date start for return policies on pet supplies?

The purchase date for return policies on pet supplies typically starts on the date the item was purchased in-store or the ship date for online orders. 

Many pet retailers offer 30 to 90-day return windows, during which unused items in new condition with original packaging and tags can be returned for a refund. 

Items on clearance or marked as final sale are generally excluded from returns. Be sure to keep your receipt or order confirmation with the date as proof of purchase. 

This will come in handy if you need to return an item from your pet supply shopping cart within the allowed new window.

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