Holidaying with Your Pet
Planning a holiday is always an exciting prospect, but it gets even better when you can bring your furry friend along. For many, pets are part of the family and leaving them behind while travelling is simply not an option. There is good news, Australia offers an abundance of pet-friendly accommodations, destinations, and resources that make holidaying with your pet easier than you might think.
Travelling with your pet
Pets bring joy, comfort, and companionship, so it’s only natural that we want to include them in our adventures. Travelling with your pet has plenty of benefits, including:
- Bonding time: a shared getaway lets you enjoy quality time together.
- Stress free travel: avoid the guilt and worry that can come with pet boarding or pet sitting.
- Health and wellness: exploring new places and going for walks with your pet can be a great way for both of you to stay active and happy.
That said, travelling with pets requires a little extra prep work. Here’s how you can make it easy and stress-free.
Pet friendly accommodation in Australia
Gone are the days when travelling with pets meant limited accommodation options. Today, Australia is brimming with fantastic pet-friendly stays that welcome your four-legged friends with open arms. Here are some top considerations when choosing a place to stay:
Pet friendly hotels
many hotel chains in Australia offer pet-friendly rooms that are purposefully designed to accommodate furry guests. Some examples include:
- QT Hotels and Resorts
- Ovolo Hotels
- The Langham Hotels and Resorts
- Quest Apartments
- Accor Hotels
- W Hotels
- Abode Hotels
- Spicers Retreats
- View Hotels
- Punthill Apartment Hotels / Veriu Hotels & Suites.
Simply search ‘pet friendly’ on the hotel websites to find suitable options.
Holiday rentals
Booking websites like Airbnb, booking.com and Stayz allow you to filter searches for pet-friendly properties. Many hosts even provide fenced yards, pet beds, and bowls, making it feel just like home.
Other resources such as Pet Friendly Accommodation has a pet friendly accommodation search that can assist with booking accommodation for you and your pet.
Another great website, for Victoria only, is Dogs on Holidays this includes accommodation, along with dog friendly beaches and cafes and restaurants and off lead parks.
Caravan parks and camping grounds
For a more outdoorsy holiday, many caravan parks provide pet-friendly cabins and camping grounds where you and your pet can stay. Big4 Holiday Parks, G’Day Parks, Discovery Parks and many more have options for pet friendly accommodation. Try visiting the websites and searching using the ‘dog friendly park’ filter for a list of options.
Essentials and tips when travelling with pets
When travelling with pets, preparation is key. Here are a few important tips to ensure a stress-free adventure:
Pet transport – If you’re travelling long distances or interstate, consider using professional pet transport services like Jetpets or Dogtainers. These companies ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during the trip. A newer alternative is flying your dog with you, visit Virgin Australia for more information on this new service.
Pet travel resources – Websites like BringFido list pet-friendly attractions and dining spots.
Pet health – ensure vaccinations and flea/tick treatments are up to date before boarding or traveling. And, before setting out, research vets near your destination.
Plan breaks – If you’re driving, plan regular breaks every two hours for bathroom stops, hydration, and a quick walk.
Pet safety – never leave pets unattended in a car, especially during hot weather.
Identification – confirm microchips and ID tags are current.
Pet essentials – pack all the essentials such as a leash, collapsible food and water bowls, your pet’s favourite toys, and waste bags. For longer trips, consider a travel crate or car harness for your pet’s safety. To make sure your pet feels at home, bring along their favourite blanket or toy.
Check accommodation policies: always confirm the pet policy at your accommodation. Some have restrictions on pet sizes, breeds, or the number of pets allowed.
Respect local rules – always follow local leash laws, clean up after your pet, and respect other travellers.
Holidaying with your pet in Australia has never been easier, thanks to the growing availability of pet-friendly accommodations and services. With a bit of planning, you can create unforgettable memories with your furry friend while exploring some of the most stunning locations this country has to offer.
Happy travels!
