From Road Trips to Rentals: Tips for Planning a Vacation with Your Dog

It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly five years since COVID-19 began. At the time, many people saw it as the perfect opportunity to raise a puppy, while others turned to dogs for comfort during isolation. In response, businesses started welcoming dogs to attract customers. Hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, restaurants, and even travel destinations embraced more pet-friendly policies. Taking a vacation with your dog became easier, with more accommodations, attractions, and outdoor dining options catering to pet owners. For a while, it seemed like the world was becoming more dog-friendly.

But lately, I’ve noticed a shift. Places that once welcomed dogs without hesitation are quietly rolling back their policies. While plenty of hotels still allow dogs, it’s becoming harder to find restaurants and activities that are truly dog-friendly. Some eateries that once had pet-friendly patios no longer allow dogs, and many attractions have tightened their restrictions. Traveling with your dog now takes more effort than it used to.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the things you need to consider when planning a trip with your dog, from the best types of vacations to the details that can make or break your experience.

Best Vacation Types for Vacationing with Your Dog

When planning a trip with your dog, the first thing to consider is what type of vacation will work best for both of you. Not all destinations or travel styles are suited for dogs, so picking the right kind of trip can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. We travel a lot with our dog, and these are the types of vacations that we’ve found work best:

Road Trips

While many vacations are all about the destination, choosing a road trip is about the journey itself. Taking a road trip with your dog means setting your own pace, making spontaneous stops, and discovering more dog-friendly spots along the way.

A couple of years back, we did just that when we took a road trip up the Maine coast. Instead of staying in one town, we mapped out a route that included charming seaside villages, scenic hiking trails, and we even went on a dog-friendly whale watching tour. We found that traveling this way gave us more freedom—if a place wasn’t as pet-friendly as expected, we always have the next stop to go to.

Road trips can be one of the most rewarding ways to travel with a dog, but they do require some planning. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Pet-Friendly Pit Stops: Long stretches in the car can be tiring for your pup. Plan breaks at dog-friendly rest areas, scenic hiking trails, or small towns with parks and walking paths. Apps like BringFido and AllTrails can help you find the best stops.
• Dog-Friendly Lodging Along the Way: While many hotels and motels allow dogs, their policies vary. Some may have weight limits, breed restrictions, or pet fees. Booking in advance and reading reviews from other dog owners can save you from last-minute surprises.
• Car Safety: Just like people, dogs need to be safely secured in the car. A crash-tested harness, seat belt tether, or well-ventilated travel crate can keep your dog safe in case of sudden stops. If your dog isn’t used to long car rides, take shorter trips beforehand to help them adjust.
• Packing for the Road: Bring enough food, water, and any medications your dog might need. A collapsible bowl, leash, waste bags, and a seat cover to protect your car from fur and muddy paws are also essential.

Beach Vacations

There’s nothing quite like a beach vacation with your dog—running through the sand, splashing in the waves, and enjoying the salty breeze together. Some of the best dog-friendly beach destinations make it easy to include your pup in every part of your trip, from sunrise walks along the shore to pet-friendly patios for a seaside dinner. But not all beaches are equally welcoming to dogs, so planning ahead ensures a stress-free and fun-filled getaway.

The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches

Some coastal towns go out of their way to welcome dogs, offering off-leash beaches, pet-friendly boardwalks, and plenty of outdoor dining options. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, and Outer Banks, NC, are among the top spots for dog lovers.

Last summer, we took our pup to the Outer Banks, and it was one of our best dog-friendly family vacations yet. We spent our days exploring the beaches, where many towns allow leashed dogs all day and some even offer off-leash access during certain hours.

When we weren’t at the beach, we had no trouble finding dog-friendly restaurants and outdoor spaces to relax. One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Wright Brothers National Memorial with our dog—a great way to take in some history while enjoying a scenic walk. Our hotel made the stay even better with private beach access and a freshwater station, perfect for rinsing off the sand before heading back to our room.

Know the Leash Rules Before You Go

While some beaches allow dogs to run free, others require leashes at all times. It’s important to check local regulations so you know what to expect. A few examples at the Outer Banks:

• Nags Head, NC allows dogs year-round with a leash no longer than 10 feet.
• Duck, NC is one of the most dog-friendly spots in the Outer Banks, where dogs can be off-leash at any time as long as they are under voice control.
• Cape Hatteras National Seashore welcomes dogs but requires them to be leashed at all times.

Even on off-leash beaches, you must bring along a lead to use when needed.

Keeping Your Dog Safe at the Beach

A day at the beach can be a blast, but it’s important to keep safety in mind. Hot sand, strong waves, and saltwater ingestion can all be hazards for dogs. Simple precautions—like providing fresh water, watching for signs of overheating, and taking breaks in the shade—can help keep your pup happy and healthy. Learn more about beach safety with our post: Is it Safe to Take Your Dog to the Beach?

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

For active dogs, a hiking or camping trip can be an ideal getaway. The fresh air, open trails, and endless scents to explore make for a stimulating and enjoyable experience. However, not all trails are dog-friendly, and many national parks have strict pet policies. Planning ahead ensures both you and your pup can enjoy the great outdoors safely and comfortably.

National Parks vs. State Parks

If you’re considering a national park for your trip, be aware that many have restrictions on where dogs can go. Most national parks only allow dogs on paved areas, limiting access to hiking trails. However, state parks and national forests tend to be much more dog-friendly, offering a wider variety of trails for you and your pup to explore together.

When we visited Shenandoah National Park, we were pleased to find that it is one of the few national parks that allows dogs on most of its trails. We hiked the Hawksbill Loop Trail, which leads to the park’s highest peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The trail was moderately challenging but manageable for our dog, and the cool spring mountain air kept us all comfortable. We also explored the Rose River Loop Trail, a scenic path featuring cascading waterfalls and serene forested areas.

In addition to hiking, we visited Luray Caverns, located near the park. Small dogs are allowed in the caverns as long as they’re in a carrier. They also have historic grounds where you can wander around with your pup.

Finding the Right Trail for Your Dog

Not all hikes are suitable for every dog, so it’s important to consider your pup’s fitness level before setting out—especially for small dogs, who may struggle with steep climbs or rough terrain.

• Easy, scenic trails are great for older dogs or those new to hiking. Flat, shaded paths with soft terrain are the most comfortable.
• Moderate hikes offer a bit more challenge with inclines and varied terrain. These are great for active dogs who enjoy longer walks.
• Challenging hikes with steep climbs, rocky paths, or sharp drops may be too difficult for some dogs. Make sure your pup is up for the challenge before choosing a difficult route.

Wildlife and Terrain Risks

Before heading out, take a moment to research potential hazards that could affect your dog’s safety.

• Ticks and fleas are common in wooded areas, so check your dog thoroughly after a hike and consider using flea and tick prevention.
• Snakes and wildlife can pose a threat, especially on remote trails. Keep your dog on a leash and stay aware of your surroundings.
• Extreme temperatures can make hiking dangerous. Hot pavement or rocky surfaces can burn paw pads, while cold conditions can lead to hypothermia.

City Getaways

City trips can be exciting, but they come with one major challenge—most indoor attractions, including museums, historic sites, and shopping centers, don’t allow dogs. If you want to bring your pup along for a city adventure, the key is choosing a destination where most of the attractions are outdoors.

The Best Dog-Friendly Cities for Outdoor Exploration

Some cities make it easy to include your dog in your itinerary by offering parks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and outdoor attractions. Here are a few of the best in the USA:

• Savannah, GA – This charming Southern city is known for its dog-friendly squares, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture. Many of the city’s attractions, like Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery, are outdoors, making it easy to explore with your pup. Several walking ghost tours allow well-behaved dogs to join.
• Charleston, SC – With its beautiful waterfront views and pet-friendly historic district, Charleston is a great place to visit with a dog. You can walk the Battery promenade, explore White Point Garden, and even take a dog-friendly boat tour around the harbor. Many restaurants in Charleston also have dog-friendly patios.
• San Diego, CA – San Diego is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the U.S., thanks to its mild weather and outdoor attractions. You and your pup can stroll through Balboa Park or visit Coronado Dog Beach, one of the best off-leash beaches in California.
• Washington, D.C. – While most of D.C.’s museums don’t allow dogs, you can still enjoy plenty of outdoor attractions. The National Mall is a great place for a long walk, with views of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Tidal Basin. In the spring, you and your dog can take in the cherry blossoms along the Potomac River.
• Saratoga Springs, NY – We visited Saratoga Springs with our pup and had a fantastic time exploring this charming upstate New York town. One of the highlights of our trip was going on a treasure hunt to find the town’s natural springs, which are scattered throughout the area. Along the way, we enjoyed strolling through Congress Park and stopping by some of the dog-friendly shops along Broadway, where many store owners welcomed our pup inside. Saratoga Springs also has plenty of dog-friendly patios, making it easy to grab a bite without having to leave your dog behind. Plus, it’s just a short drive from Lake George, another great destination we visited with our pup.

Vacation Rentals

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with your pup, renting a cabin or lake house can be one of the best vacation options. Unlike hotels, vacation rentals give you more space, fewer restrictions, and the freedom to enjoy nature right outside your door. Whether it’s a cozy cabin in the woods or a waterfront home with private lake access, these rentals offer the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for both you and your dog.

Lake Destinations for Dog-Friendly Rentals

Some lakes are particularly great for dog-friendly vacations, offering rentals that welcome pets and plenty of outdoor activities:

• Lake George, NY – With its beautiful shoreline and dog-friendly hiking trails, Lake George is a fantastic spot for a lakeside retreat. Many rentals have direct water access, and you’ll find pet-friendly boat tours, kayaking and restaurants in town or nearby. They even have a dog-friendly beach.
• Lake Winnipesaukee, NH – This New Hampshire gem offers stunning mountain views and a variety of dog-friendly rentals. The area has several hiking trails, and some marinas allow dogs on rented boats.
• Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – One of the most scenic lake destinations, Lake Tahoe offers stunning rentals with mountain views, plus plenty of dog-friendly beaches and hiking trails.
• Smith Mountain Lake, VA – Known as the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge,” Smith Mountain Lake has several dog-friendly vacation rentals with private docks, plus great hiking in the nearby state park.

What to Look for in a Dog-Friendly Lake Rental

Not all vacation rentals are equally dog-friendly, so when booking a stay, keep these things in mind:

• Check pet policies – Some rentals have weight limits, extra fees, or restrictions on the number of pets allowed.
• Look for pet-friendly amenities – Fenced yards, nearby trails, or a shallow beach area for swimming can make a big difference.
• Consider the location – A quiet, secluded spot is often more enjoyable for dogs than a crowded lakeside resort.

Making Your Dog-Friendly Vacation a Success

Traveling with your dog takes extra planning, but the effort is well worth it. Whether you’re road-tripping to scenic destinations, relaxing at a lakeside rental, hiking through national parks, or exploring a dog-friendly city, choosing the right type of vacation makes all the difference. By researching pet policies, planning dog-friendly activities, and considering your pup’s needs, you can create a trip that’s enjoyable for everyone.

Of course, keeping your human travel companions entertained is just as important—especially if you have kids who love dogs as much as you do! Long drives and travel delays can be tough, but our Dogs on Vacation and Dog Detectives Hidden Object 5 Game Bundles are a great way to keep kids engaged on the road. These fun, travel-friendly activities are perfect for keeping little dog lovers busy while you focus on the journey. You can find them at our shop Happy Doodles Art Shop on Etsy.

Safe travels and happy exploring!