Traveling as a human is hard enough. You have to deal with strange sleep schedules, bumpy flights, unfamiliar food options, and perhaps most obviously, a change in routine.

For pets, traveling can be just as difficult. While we can load up on luxurious travel-sized toiletries, earplugs, and cozy clothing to make the journey a little less stressful and uncomfortable, pets often get the short end of the deal. If you want to make Fido a little more comfortable on your next trip, try out these luxurious travel pet accessories for furry friends.

Plush Carriers

Traveling with your pet requires careful consideration of their comfort and safety, and the choice of carrier is paramount in this regard. Sleepypod offers multifunctional carriers that serve as both cozy pet beds and secure car seats. These carriers are designed with plush foam and can transform into a car seat, making them ideal for various travel scenarios.

Another example is the Sherpa Travel pet carrier. This carrier is a favorite among pet owners for air travel due to its compliance with most airline regulations. It features a padded shoulder strap, mesh panels for ventilation, a machine-washable faux lambskin liner, and locking zippers for security. The Sherpa carrier’s practical design and durability make it an excellent choice for ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety during flights.

For pet owners who prefer more versatile and straightforward designs, there are carriers that focus on lightweight materials and easy storage. Collapsible and expandable options are available, catering to the need for space-saving and comfort during travel. Some carriers even incorporate eco-friendly materials, aligning with environmentally conscious travel practices.

Anti-Motion Sickness Collars

One particular issue when you’re traveling with pets is motion sickness. Anti-motion sickness collars help alleviate the stress and discomfort associated with travel. These collars typically contain a blend of dried herbs known for their calming properties, utilizing aromatherapy to reduce motion sickness symptoms.

Companies like Calming Collars and In the Company of Dogs have developed a range of these innovative collars. Each is designed to release a soothing scent that can help settle your pet’s stomach during turbulent plane rides, rocky boat trips, or long car journeys. The natural herbs used in these collars are selected for their ability to ease anxiety and motion sickness, making the travel experience more comfortable for your pet.

Food and Water Storage

Traveling with pets calls for special attention to their feeding and hydration needs. The Kurgo Kibble Carrier is an excellent travel-specific option for food storage. Designed for portability and convenience, it features a roll-down top that adjusts to the amount of food being carried and ensures a tight seal. This keeps pet food fresh and secure, while the durable material withstands the rigors of travel. The carrier’s compact size and additional storage pockets make it a practical choice for feeding your pet on the move.

For hydration, the WePet Portable Dog Water Bottle is an ideal companion. This 12-ounce, leak-proof water dispenser is crafted from food-grade plastic, ensuring safe drinking water. Its design facilitates easy use, with a drinking feeder that allows pets to drink comfortably. Lightweight and compact, it’s perfect for various activities and journeys, keeping your pet hydrated throughout your travels.

Bubble Pet Carrier Backpack

Pet backpacks offer a convenient and secure way to travel with smaller pets, combining the functionality of a traditional pet carrier with the ease of a backpack. They come in various designs and features to suit different needs and preferences. The U-Pet Bubble Pet Carrier Backpack is a popular choice, known for its distinctive bubble window design that allows pets to view their surroundings while remaining safely contained. The backpack also provides ventilation holes and mesh panels for breathability, ensuring your pet’s comfort during travel.

Other backpacks, like the PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack, are designed with expandable sides, providing extra space for pets to move and stretch. The PetAmi backpack also includes several mesh windows for increased airflow and visibility. For those focused on ergonomic features, the K9 Sport Sack is a notable option. It is designed with padded straps and back panels for the owner’s comfort and a cozy interior for the pet, ensuring ease of travel for both. For the adventure enthusiasts, the Kurgo Dog Carrier Backpack is ideal for rugged, outdoor activities. Made with durable materials, it’s suitable for hiking and outdoor adventures, featuring waterproof fabric and reinforced stitching to withstand harsher conditions.

Calming Treats

Many pets find travel to be a stressful experience, whether due to the motion of a car or airplane, unfamiliar environments, or changes in routine. Calming treats can help mitigate this stress, providing a sense of comfort and normalcy. These treats often contain ingredients like chamomile, valerian root, or L-Theanine, which are known for their natural calming effects. They are designed to be palatable and appealing to pets, making them easy to administer.

The Pet Travel Store, for instance, offers a variety of calming treats suitable for both dogs and cats. Their products are designed to be an all-natural alternative to sedatives, making them a safe option for reducing travel-induced anxiety in pets. The treats are often crafted to start working quickly, ensuring your pet remains calm throughout the journey. Another popular brand is Ark Naturals, which offers Happy Traveler Calming Chewables. These are formulated to help ease stress and anxiety in pets, using natural ingredients to promote a sense of relaxation. They are ideal for use in various travel scenarios, from short car rides to longer journeys.

It’s important for pet owners to choose calming treats based on their pet’s specific needs and to follow dosage instructions carefully. These treats can be a part of a broader strategy to ensure a pet’s comfort and well-being during travel, alongside other measures like familiar bedding, regular breaks, and reassurance from the owner.

Hotel Door Hangers

Feel bad leaving your pet in the hotel room when you head out to eat? Minimize the guilt (just a little bit) by getting a special pet door hanger that lets others know your pet is inside. That way, if housekeeping shows up, your furry friend won’t get scared and start barking. It’s also just a good idea to let the hotel know that you have a pet in the room, just in case. You’ll get a little bit of peace of mind knowing your pet is safer when you’re not around. These door hangers can be purchased on The Pet Travel Store’s website.

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Pet Tents

Pet tents are an innovative solution for pet owners who enjoy outdoor adventures with their furry companions. These portable shelters offer pets a dedicated space to rest and relax, whether in a campground, park, or even in a hotel room. Pet tents come in various sizes and designs, catering to different breeds and travel needs. For families who love to camp, pet tents provide a separate sleeping area for pets, ensuring both the pet and owner have comfortable, undisturbed rest. This separation is particularly useful for keeping your sleeping space clean and free from pet hair and dirt.

Brands like Pawhut and Alcott offer pet-friendly tents that are large enough to accommodate larger pets, yet compact enough to be easily transported. These tents often feature durable materials, mesh windows for ventilation, and easy setup mechanisms, making them practical for various outdoor settings. Alcott’s Adventure Pet Tents, for example, are designed for easy portability and quick setup, making them a great choice for pet owners on the go. With their lightweight and durable design, these tents are perfect for providing a cozy, shaded area for pets during outdoor activities.

FAQs:

Q: How do I choose the right size carrier for my pet?
A: Measure your pet’s length and height to ensure they can comfortably sit, stand, and turn around in the carrier. Check the carrier’s weight limit and dimensions to ensure it accommodates your pet’s size.

Q: Can calming collars be used on all pets?
A: Calming collars are generally safe for most pets, but it’s important to ensure the collar is the right size and fit. Always observe your pet’s reaction to the collar, and consult a vet if you have concerns, especially for pets with health issues.

Q: Are pet backpacks safe for long hikes?
A: Yes, many pet backpacks are designed for outdoor activities. Ensure the backpack fits comfortably, provides adequate ventilation, and has enough space for your pet. Start with short trips to acclimate your pet to the backpack.

Q: How often should I give my pet calming treats?
A: Follow the dosage instructions on the treat package. Typically, calming treats are given before the stressful event, such as travel. It’s always best to consult with your vet, especially if your pet has health issues or dietary restrictions.

Q: Can pet tents be used indoors?
A: Yes, pet tents can be set up indoors, providing a familiar and secure space for your pet in a hotel or guest room. They’re lightweight and easy to assemble, making them suitable for indoor use.

Q: Do I need to train my pet to use a portable water bottle?
A: Some pets may need a little training to use a portable water bottle. Introduce the bottle in a familiar environment, encourage them to drink from it, and reward them for successful use. With patience, most pets adapt quickly.

Q: How should I prepare my pet for travel in a carrier?
A: Gradually acclimate your pet to the carrier by placing treats, toys, or meals inside it at home. Start with short durations and gradually increase them. This helps your pet associate the carrier with positive experiences.

Are there any travel pet accessories we forgot to add to the list? Let us know below!