How to Go on Vacation with Your Dog: Plan Everything

Hitting the road with your dog means going on vacation differently. That look your dog gives you when they realize they’re coming along—no question of leaving them in a kennel. But traveling with a dog cannot be improvised. Between administrative requirements, transportation logistics, accommodation, and your four-legged companion’s physical and emotional needs, organization makes all the difference. Here is everything you need to know to make the trip a success, for both you and your dog.

Mandatory documents for going on vacation with your dog

Les documents obligatoires pour partir en vacances avec son chien

Traveling with a dog involves specific legal obligations. In France and abroad, all paperwork must be in order. The first thing to check is the microchip or tattoo, which are mandatory for identifying the animal. This identification is essential for any travel, especially outside the national territory.

The health record must be up to date. It includes vaccinations, notably the rabies vaccine. This vaccination becomes mandatory as soon as you cross a European border, or if you are traveling to Corsica, Switzerland, or certain overseas territories.

For international travel, you must also have a European pet passport, issued by a veterinarian. In some countries, an antiparasitic treatment against echinococcosis must have been administered within a specific timeframe. Do not leave without checking the health requirements of your destination country.

Traveling with your dog by car, train, or plane: what to plan for

Duration, mode of transport, breaks, heat—every detail matters. By car, a dog must be secured with a harness attached to the seat belt or placed in a securely fastened transport crate. Letting your dog roam freely is dangerous, both for them and for you.

Plan breaks every two hours so your dog can stretch their legs, drink, and relieve themselves. Air conditioning is not always enough. Bring a spill-proof water bowl, a damp towel if the trip is long, and keep the vehicle well ventilated.

On trains, rules vary depending on size. Up to 6 kg, the animal travels in a closed carrier. Above that weight, the dog must be leashed and requires a ticket. On planes, each airline has its own rules: some only accept dogs in the cargo hold, while others allow small dogs in the cabin. Contact the airline as early as possible to avoid unpleasant surprises.

For the journey, consider adding an absorbent dog mat in the crate or trunk. It improves comfort and helps prevent unpleasant surprises in case of stress or extended travel time.

Travel Litter Mat for Small Dogs

Ensure comfort and cleanliness during travel with this absorbent mat.

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Where to go on vacation with your dog: the most welcoming destinations

Not all regions are pet-friendly. Some beaches prohibit animals, while others offer no off-leash areas at all. Choosing the right destination is therefore essential. Seaside resorts with dog-friendly beaches are often found in the southwest, along the Brittany coast, or in Corsica. In the mountains, many hiking trails are accessible, but be mindful of national parks, where dogs are often prohibited. Dog-friendly campsites or vacation rentals with enclosed gardens are options worth prioritizing. Some cities, such as Annecy, Biarritz, or La Rochelle, even offer dedicated services: dog parks, waste bag dispensers, and sometimes restaurants where dogs are welcome. Using a “pets allowed” filter in accommodation search engines helps avoid unpleasant surprises. Also remember to protect your dog’s paw pads on hot, rocky, or slippery surfaces. These dog booties provide support, comfort, and safety during walks.

Dog Shoes

Protect your dog’s paws on walks with stylish and safe shoes.

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Finding dog-friendly accommodation: the right questions to ask

It is not enough for accommodation to accept dogs. You need to check what that actually means. Some places limit size, others restrict access to certain rooms. Some charge a daily supplement or require a specific deposit. Before booking, ask the right questions: is there a fenced outdoor area? Are dogs allowed to stay alone in the accommodation? Are any services offered (pet sitting, walking, nearby veterinarian)? A well-written pet policy is often a good indicator of overall quality. Camping sites, hotels, gîtes, private rentals: each has its own specifics. Campsites, for example, sometimes require dogs to wear a muzzle in common areas. In hotels, a dog may be tolerated but not necessarily welcomed warmly. Booking platforms are increasingly offering dedicated pet-friendly filters.

Food, toys, comfort: what to bring for your dog on holiday

Nourriture, jouets, confort : ce qu’il faut emporter pour son chien en vacances

A change of place means new smells, which can sometimes be unsettling. To avoid digestive issues or anxious behavior, it is best to keep your dog’s usual diet. Bring enough food, especially if you are traveling abroad. Some brands are not available everywhere. Dogs need familiar reference points. Bring their bowl, blanket, and toys. These help recreate a sense of routine in an unfamiliar environment. Do not change feeding times or walk schedules. A complete first-aid kit is essential: disinfectant, tick remover, antiparasitic treatment, compresses, your veterinarian’s contact details, and, if necessary, a calming medication prescribed before departure.

Rules to follow when traveling with your dog

Even on holiday, you remain responsible for your dog. In cities, a leash is often mandatory, and sometimes a muzzle for classified breeds. Failing to pick up waste can result in fines of up to €450, depending on the municipality. In public places, it is best to anticipate your dog’s reactions. Some environments can be crowded, noisy, and stressful. An uncomfortable dog may pull on the leash, bark, or even become aggressive. Avoid overcrowded areas and plan quieter walking routes. Some places ban dogs from public transport. Others require a special ticket. Certain protected natural areas, such as bird reserves, prohibit access to all animals. Check with the local tourist office for accurate information.

What to do if your dog gets sick or goes missing while on holiday

Even with thorough preparation, unexpected situations can arise. A dog may get sick, escape, or be injured. To reduce stress, always keep their identification number with you, as well as your regular veterinarian’s contact details. An identified dog is usually found quickly, especially if contact details in the I-CAD database are up to date. In the event of a bite or behavior deemed aggressive, a veterinarian may be appointed for mandatory health observation, or the animal may be isolated. It is therefore important to anticipate delicate situations, particularly in very busy environments. Some pet insurance policies cover veterinary expenses while traveling. Check the terms of your policy or consider taking out temporary coverage suited to your trip.

Tips to help your dog fully enjoy the holiday with you

A dog on holiday discovers, explores, and enjoys new experiences. But it can quickly become tired, especially with a fast-paced schedule. Respecting its need for rest, hydration, and shade is key to enjoying the trip at its own pace. Do not force a dog to walk in 30°C heat. Never leave it in a stationary car. Do not expose it to crowds if it is anxious. Pay attention to its signals: excessive panting, ears held back, tail lowered. Your dog communicates, even without words. A successful holiday is a shared holiday. A moment of connection, away from daily routine, discovering a gentler, more attentive way of traveling, and very often, a more rewarding one.