What to Pack in Your Pet’s Travel Bag: The Complete Checklist

Planning a trip with your furry companion? Whether you’re hopping on the Eurostar from London to Paris, taking a car trip across Canada, or checking into a pet-friendly hotel in Tokyo, a well-organized pet travel bag can make or break the experience.

Just like you wouldn’t leave home without your passport or charger, your pet has travel essentials that deserve their own space. Having a pre-packed bag means fewer last-minute scrambles, less stress—and a much more comfortable journey for your pet.

This guide breaks down everything you need in an easy-to-follow checklist format. Plus, grab your free downloadable Pet Travel Bag Checklist PDF at the end for instant packing peace of mind.

Staying hydrated and well-fed is key to keeping your pet calm during travel. Whether you’re flying Lufthansa to Germany or driving through rural Ontario, pack these basics:

✅ Checklist:

• 🔹 Dry or wet pet food (enough for the full trip + extra)
• 🔹 Collapsible food and water bowls
  👉 Check price on Amazon – Comsun Collapsible Bowls
• 🔹 Bottled water (especially for flights or camping)
• 🔹 Portable pet water bottle
  👉 Check price on Amazon – Lesotc Pet Water Bottle
• 🔹 Treats for rewarding and calming
• 🔹 Measuring scoop (if your pet is on a strict portion plan)

G7 Tip: On flights like ANA (Japan) or British Airways, only small food quantities are allowed in-cabin. Keep it sealed and accessible for layovers.

Your pet’s well-being comes first—especially when you’re miles from your regular vet. These items are crucial for peace of mind:

✅ Checklist:

• 🔹 Any medications (with dosage instructions)
• 🔹 Flea/tick preventative (especially for hiking or outdoor stays)
• 🔹 Pet first-aid kit
  👉 Check price on Amazon – ARCA Pet First Aid Kit
• 🔹 Copy of vet contact info
• 🔹 Emergency contact tags or smart ID tags
• 🔹 Muzzle or soft restraint (some trains and airports require this)

Example: Traveling by train in Japan? Pets must stay in approved carriers. A soft restraint and health record may be requested if staff checks your setup.

Being away from home can stress pets out. Bring familiar comforts that help them feel safe and relaxed in unfamiliar surroundings.

✅ Checklist:

• 🔹 A favorite blanket or towel (smells like home)
• 🔹 One or two familiar toys
• 🔹 Portable pet bed or mat
• 🔹 Carrier or crate with soft liner
  👉 Check price on Amazon – Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier

Hotel tip: In Rome or Tokyo, pet-friendly hotels may allow pets on beds—but many prefer owners bring a designated pet mat.

Traveling internationally? You’ll need paperwork. Even local trips can require up-to-date records in case of emergencies or pet hotel stays.

✅ Checklist:

• 🔹 Vaccination records (digital + paper copy)
• 🔹 Rabies certificate
• 🔹 Pet passport (EU travel) or USDA health certificate (US)
• 🔹 Microchip registration paperwork
• 🔹 Airline travel documents (carrier approval, ID tags)

France/Germany travel tip: The EU Pet Passport is required for travel across borders within the EU. If you’re coming from the UK or Canada, allow extra time for health checks.

Accidents happen—especially on long journeys or unfamiliar environments. Keep your pet bag ready for any mess with these essentials:

✅ Checklist:

• 🔹 Waste bags (biodegradable recommended)
• 🔹 Scent-free pet wipes
  👉 Check price on Amazon – Earth Rated Dog Wipes
• 🔹 Travel-size stain/odor remover spray
• 🔹 Extra towels or puppy pads
• 🔹 Compact grooming brush
• 🔹 Lint roller (for hotels and car seats)

Canada road trip tip: Pulling over every 3–4 hours for potty breaks gives both you and your pet a refresh—wipes and waste bags make cleanup a breeze.

While not mandatory, these items can help make your trip smoother:

• 🔹 Extra leash and harness
• 🔹 Weather-appropriate clothing (raincoat, booties for snow)
• 🔹 Clip-on night light for evening walks
• 🔹 Travel litter box (for cats)
• 🔹 Calming spray or supplements (approved by your vet)

Ready to hit the road without forgetting a thing?

👉 [Click here to download your FREE printable Pet Travel Bag Checklist (PDF)]
Perfect for printing or keeping on your phone—because travel should be fun, not frantic.

Includes sections for:

• Food & hydration
• Health & meds
• Comfort items
• Documents
• Clean-up gear

Save time. Stay organized. Travel stress-free.

Can I bring pet food through airport security?

Yes, but it must be in sealed packaging. In most G7 countries, you can bring enough dry food for the flight and a few days. Check the specific airline and customs regulations for international travel.

What paperwork do I need for pet travel in the EU?

You’ll need an EU Pet Passport for travel between EU countries. If you’re traveling from the UK, USA, or Japan, you may need a health certificate, proof of rabies vaccination, and microchip documentation.

How much water should I bring for a road trip with my dog?

Plan for 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. For a 50-pound dog, bring at least 50 oz (1.5 liters) per day, plus extra for hot weather or long hikes.

Need help planning your next trip with your pet?

Stay tuned for more travel guides, packing tips, and pet gear reviews—your passport to stress-free adventures with your furry best friend. 🐾