Traveling with a big dog isn’t just a matter of tossing a leash in the backseat and hitting the road. From folding crates to cooling mats, large-breed travel takes planning—and the right gear. Whether you’re heading cross-country or just a few towns over, the size of your dog changes everything: space, safety, and even where you can stay.
But don’t let that overwhelm you. With a bit of prep and a smart packing list, big dogs can make the best travel companions. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make your next trip smooth, safe, and stress-free—for both of you.
✨ TL;DR: Big Dogs, Big Travel Plans
- Road trips offer the most comfort and flexibility for large breeds—air travel has strict limits.
- Foldable crates, cooling mats, and seat hammocks make a huge difference in space, safety, and comfort.
- Portable food/water gear and travel-size treats are lifesavers for smooth travel days.
- Prep early—big dogs need time to adjust to crates, car rides, or new spaces.
🚙 Ready to hit the road (or maybe take flight)? Keep scrolling for packing tips, safety gear must-haves, and travel-tested advice.
Essential for hotels or long stays. Compact, breathable, and secure.
Keeps fur and drool off your seats—plus adds traction and comfort.
Helps prevent overheating on summer road trips or warm layovers.
Road Trip vs Air Travel (and Other Options)
When you’re traveling with a big dog, your choice of transportation isn’t just about convenience—it’s about your dog’s safety, comfort, and stress level.
Let’s break down the options so you can make the best call for your next adventure:
Road Trips: The Top Choice for Big Dogs
For most large-breed dogs, car travel is the least stressful and most flexible option.
Why it works:
You control the environment—temperature, music, and stops.
More room for gear like crates, cooling mats, and hammock seat covers.
You can take breaks for potty, water, and stretch time.
Pro Tip!
Use a hammock seat cover to create a non-slip, comfy zone in the backseat. It protects your car and your dog.
Air Travel: Doable, But Complicated
Flying with a big dog usually means cargo travel—and that comes with risks.
What to consider:
Most airlines require large dogs to travel in the cargo hold, not the cabin.
Not all breeds or crates are accepted.
Summer and winter travel can be risky due to temperature extremes.
You’ll need an IATA-compliant crate, health certificates, and a calm, well-trained dog.
🩺 Vet Tip: Always schedule a pre-flight vet visit and discuss any health risks of flying for your breed.
Trains, Ferries, and More
Some Amtrak routes and regional trains allow large dogs if crated. Ferries are often more flexible but can vary by location.
Things to ask ahead of time:
Is there a size or weight limit?
Does your dog need to be crated the whole time?
Are there designated pet areas?
Pro Tip!
Bottom Line: If you can drive, do it. It’s typically the least stressful and most practical way to travel with a big dog—especially when you’re bringing along crates, cooling gear, and plenty of snacks.
The Planning Phase: Start with Your Dog in Mind
Planning a trip with a big dog isn’t just about where you want to go—it’s about what your dog needs to feel secure along the way. And for large breeds, that need is amplified. New environments, long stretches in the car, unfamiliar sounds—it can all be a bit much.
Before you hit “book now” on that adorable cabin or map out scenic pit stops, ask yourself:
“Is this trip actually set up for my dog’s comfort?”
Because what feels adventurous to us can feel chaotic to them.
💡 Real Talk: The bigger the dog, the more structure they need on the road. You can’t just wing it with a 90-pound German Shepherd and expect everything to go smoothly.
3 Smart Starting Points
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean your pet has to miss out on a comfy life. With a few clever strategies, you can keep your space pet-friendly and stress-free. Here are some tips to help you make the most of apartment living with your furry friend:
Choose Dog-Friendly—Really Dog-Friendly—Destinations
Just because a place says “pet-friendly” doesn’t mean it welcomes big dogs. Double-check for size restrictions, extra fees, or off-limits areas. Bonus points for nearby green space or trails. Check out some of our favorite pet-friendly hotel chains for more tips.
Understand Your Dog’s Limits
Think beyond “can they ride in a car?” and ask:
Can they stay calm in new places?
Do they get overstimulated easily?
Have they ever been crated outside of your home?
A short overnight trial run can help you spot any red flags early.
Be Strategic About Your Booking
Look for ground-floor rooms, private entrances, and places that allow interior crate setups. The goal: less stress for your dog, fewer headaches for you.
🩺 Vet Tip: Call ahead to confirm any pet policies—even if it’s listed online. Rules can change, and surprises are no fun when you’ve got a 100-pound sidekick in tow.
What to Pack for Your Big Dog
Packing for a big dog means more than just tossing in a leash and food bowl. You need gear that’s portable, practical, and designed for their size. Here’s what should be on your checklist.
Folding Travel Crate
A must-have for hotel stays, rentals, or even extended stops.
Why it matters:
Keeps your dog safe and contained in unfamiliar places
Folds flat for easier packing
Many are soft-sided yet sturdy enough for large breeds
💡 Pro Tip: Choose a crate with good ventilation and enough space for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down.
9.4
Lesure Collapsible Dog Crate
- Sets up in seconds
- Breathable mesh ventilation
- Strong, durable steel frame
- Easy-clean, comfy liner
- Handy storage side pockets Ask ChatGPT
Hammock Seat Cover
This is a game-changer for car travel.
Benefits:
Protects your back seat from fur, mud, drool, and scratches
Creates a comfy hammock-style sling that helps dogs stay secure
Often includes seatbelt slits for harness attachments
9.6
4Knines Rear Seat Cover with Hammock
- Protects seats from damage
- Hammock design with ventilation
- Waterproof, non-slip K9-Shield®
- Durable, high-quality construction
- Comfortable, stylish ride Ask ChatGPT
Portable Food and Water Gear
Spill-proof. Lightweight. Compact. That’s what you want.
Smart picks:
Collapsible silicone bowls
Travel water bottles with built-in dispensers
Airtight treat and kibble containers
Vet Tip: Stick with your dog’s usual food and treats to avoid digestive surprises.
9.2
Mobile Dog Gear Weekender Pet Travel Bag
- Includes bowls and feeding mat
- Multiple storage compartments
- Padded, adjustable straps
- Dog bone luggage ID tag
- Quilted, stylish travel design
Cooling Mat
Especially important in warm weather or for long drives.
Why it’s useful:
Helps regulate body temperature
Can be used in the car, crate, or hotel room
Some are pressure-activated, others can be chilled in advance
8.4
Arf Pets Self-Cooling Mat
- Cools pets for three hours
- Ideal for hot climates
- Non-toxic, puncture-resistant gel
- Lightweight and foldable design
- No water or power needed
Travel-Size Treats
Treats aren’t just rewards—they’re tools.
Use them to:
Reinforce calm behavior during transitions
Redirect anxiety
Lure them into crates, elevators, or new situations
Prep Tips Before You Leave
You’ve picked the destination and packed the gear—now it’s time to prep your big dog for the journey ahead. A little groundwork can make the difference between a smooth ride and a stress-filled trip.
Schedule a Vet Check
Even if your dog seems perfectly healthy, a pre-travel vet visit is essential.
Make sure to:
Get up-to-date vaccinations and ask for printed records
Stock up on any necessary meds (including anxiety meds if prescribed)
Discuss motion sickness prevention if your dog struggles in the car
Pro Tip!
Keep all medical info in a waterproof pouch with your travel documents.
Crate or Car Training
Don’t wait until departure day to introduce new gear.
Ease your dog into it:
Set up the travel crate at home with comfy bedding and toys
Let them explore the crate on their own terms
Take short drives using the hammock seat cover to build familiarity
Try a Mini Test Run
If your dog isn’t used to long travel, do a test trip a week or two ahead.
What to test:
How they respond to being crated in a new place
Whether they settle in the car for longer than 30 minutes
How easily they follow commands in unfamiliar settings
🩺 Vet Tip: If your dog shows high stress, ask your vet about natural calming aids or behavior strategies.
On-the-Road Strategies: A Day in the Life of Traveling with a Big Dog
7:30 AM – Load Up and Roll Out
Your dog’s settled into their hammock seat cover, water bottle clipped to the back pocket, folding crate tucked securely in the trunk. You toss in a cooling mat and a pouch of travel treats, and you’re off.
💡 Pro Tip: Pack travel-size portions of kibble and treats in easy-access containers. It’ll save you from digging through luggage at every stop.
9:45 AM – First Pit Stop
You pull over at a rest area with grass (win!). Your dog hops out, stretches those long legs, and sniffs every inch of their new kingdom. Quick water break, a couple of reward treats for staying calm, and back in they go.
12:30 PM – Midday Check-In
It’s getting warm. You slide the cooling mat under their belly during lunch and crack the windows while you’re parked. You watch your dog sprawl out content, panting softly but comfortably.
🩺 Vet Tip: Even in shade, temperatures rise fast. Never leave your big dog in the car unattended—not even for 5 minutes.
3:00 PM – The Wiggle Hour
Your dog is restless. You break out a puzzle treat toy from your “go bag.” Crisis averted. A little stimulation goes a long way when the hours stretch out.
6:00 PM – Safe Arrival
You arrive, crate pops up in the corner, and your dog does a happy spin. They’ve arrived, and you’ve made it—with your sanity (and upholstery) intact.
Final Thoughts: Big Dogs, Big Adventures
If you’ve ever watched your dog lean into the wind with their head out the window, you know—they were born to travel with you.
Yes, traveling with a big dog means more planning. More packing. More “wait, does this hotel even allow 85-pound Labradors?” moments. But it also means more shared experiences, more tail-wagging memories, and more chances to see the world through their eyes.
“My dog didn’t care where we were going. As long as I was there, he was all in.”
That’s the thing about dogs—especially big ones. Their loyalty is giant. Their trust is complete. And when you take the time to prepare well, travel becomes more than movement. It becomes a bond.
So if you’re ready to explore, your big dog is ready too. You’ve got the tools. You’ve got the checklist. Now go make the memories.
