6 Essentials for a Cross-Country Van or RV Adventure with Your Dog
For those who want more affordable, more flexible, and more relaxing travel options with their pooches, it may be a good time to explore an option like driving cross-country in an RV or van. If you don’t mind going off the beaten path with little more than the essentials in your vehicle and your dog by your side, your memories of immersing in nature and going on spontaneous outdoor adventures will surely be one of a kind.
That said, sometimes it can be more difficult to plan for a cross-country van or RV excursion precisely because you’re working with a less conventional itinerary and bringing little more than the bare necessities with you. Long before you hit the gas, you should have made all the necessary preparations to keep yourself and your canine companion safe and comfortable.
Make sure that the following are on your to-pack list for your pet before anything else:
1) Pet Accessories That Ensure Easy Identification
First, pack a set of high-visibility accessories to greatly reduce the risk of your furry companion getting lost during your trip. Brightly colored collars will make it easier for both you and others to spot your dog from a distance. Reflective harnesses, on the other hand, are ideal for ensuring that your canine can be spotted at night and in other low-light conditions.
In addition to collars and harnesses, colorful custom-branded dog bandanas can add a personal touch to your dog’s look while also aiding in their identification. A bandana with your contact information or your dog's name embroidered on it will serve as a fun, yet practical accessory. Not only will it make your dog stand out in a crowd; it will also offer an extra distinctive layer of identification should they ever get separated from you.
You can also consider investing in a good GPS tracker that you can attach to your dog’s collar. This device will allow you to monitor their real-time location and give you peace of mind as you both explore unfamiliar outdoor surroundings.
2) Enough Dog Food and Clean Water to Last the Trip
You’ll also want to ensure that your dog has enough food, clean water, and treats for the entirety of the trip, plus extra. This will save you the trouble of making frequent stops to restock and find specific brands, especially if there are few groceries or pet supply shops near secluded areas like the woods or the hills.
Even when you’re far away from home, it would be good to keep your dog’s diet consistent. Changes in food can upset your canine buddy’s stomach, leading to digestive issues that could make the cross-country journey uncomfortable for both of you.
Bringing enough clean water is equally important, especially when traveling through areas where safe drinking water might not be readily available. Dogs can get dehydrated, particularly in warmer climates or after long stretches in the van or RV. The opportunity to drink water will regulate their body temperature and energy levels, thus keeping them comfortable and happy for the length of the adventure.
3) Collapsible Food and Water Bowls
When packing for a cross-country adventure, you’ll want to maximize the precious limited space you have in your van or RV. Collapsible bowls for your dog’s food and drink, made of lightweight silicone or fabric, can be easily stored here without taking up much room. These bowls are designed to be both sturdy and functional, yet fold flat when not in use.
Another key benefit is that they’re portable and easy to clean. You can whip them out during quick stops in town or longer rest breaks and make sure your dog has access to food and water whenever needed. In addition, given their durable design, these types of bowls can hold up to a variety of conditions—which is perfect for places like campsites and hiking trails.
4) Long and Short Leashes
It’s also a good idea to bring both long and short leashes on your cross-country trip for full versatility in controlling your dog in different environments. A short leash is perfect for urban stops, crowded places, or rest areas where keeping your dog close is necessary for both their safety and the safety of others. In these areas, a short leash offers more direct control, preventing your dog from darting into traffic or getting into a tense unexpected encounter with other animals.
A long leash is ideal for giving your dog some freedom when you're in more open or relaxed spaces like parks, hiking trails, or campgrounds. With a longer leash, your dog can roam, sniff, and explore while still being safely tethered. It also provides them with a safe means to exercise when you can’t let them completely off-leash completely. The combination of both leash lengths will allow you to adapt to different locations and activities, keeping your dog safe and in close quarters while still giving them enough opportunity to enjoy the adventure.
5) Blankets or Toys That Provide Comfort
Though new countryside settings may be exciting for your dog, they might also miss the sights, smells, and habits of home. Make space in your van or RV for blankets and toys that provide quick comfort during times of stress or anxiety. These items will also help create a sense of normalcy for them, which will ultimately make the journey more pleasant for both of you.
6) Dog Safety Harness and Seat Belt
Safety should always be a top priority when traveling long distances in a vehicle with your dog, and a dog safety harness paired with a seat belt attachment is a must-have combination for any cross-country adventure.
Look for a harness that's specifically designed for travel that can secure your dog in place while the vehicle is in motion. Unlike traditional collars, harnesses distribute pressure across the dog’s body, which makes them both safer and more comfortable during sudden stops.
The seat belt attachment connects the harness to the seat belt system in your van or RV, keeping your dog in place and preventing them from wandering around the vehicle while you're driving. On top of sufficiently protecting your dog, this also reduces distractions for you as the driver.
A little forethought will go a long way in ensuring that your four-legged companion is ready for the cross-country adventure of a lifetime with you. Free up space in your RV or camper van for the essentials listed above, and you’ll already be well-positioned to have an awesome trip.
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