While it’s easy to assume that a destination is pet friendly because it welcomes dogs or cats, the reality is a little more complex. A genuinely pet-friendly destination makes travelling with animals enjoyable, safe and practical from the moment you arrive.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or flying further afield with your pet, taking the time to understand a destination beyond its pet policy can make all the difference to your experience.
It’s about more than pet-friendly accommodation
Some hotels, holiday parks and holiday rentals provide dedicated pet amenities, such as enclosed outdoor spaces, pet beds, feeding bowls or nearby walking areas. Others may allow pets but impose restrictions on where they can go within the property or charge additional fees.
Reading independent reviews from other pet owners can give some helpful and unbiased insight into how welcoming your accommodation actually is, helping you avoid unpleasant surprises after arrival.
Access to green spaces matters
One of the biggest factors in choosing a pet-friendly destination is having access to outdoor areas where your pet can exercise and relax. Look for destinations with:
- Off-leash dog parks
- Walking and hiking trails
- Beaches that allow dogs
- Public parks with shaded areas
- Pet-friendly cafés where your companion is welcome.
Regular exercise helps maintain your pet’s routine, reduces stress and helps them enjoy the holiday alongside you.
Consider the local climate
Whether you’re staying in Australia or travelling internationally, you’ll need to be mindful of the weather of your destination, particularly in summer.
High temperatures can be dangerous for pets, particularly older animals or brachycephalic breeds, like pugs, chow chows and shih tzus. Hot pavements, limited shade and long periods in the sun can quickly become uncomfortable or even dangerous. If you’re travelling during the warmer months, choose destinations that offer plenty of shade, access to water and opportunities for indoor breaks.
Similarly, if you’re heading somewhere cooler, make sure to pack appropriate coats and bedding so they’ll be comfortable and warm.
Know the local rules
Different states and councils, and individual attractions, will have their own rules about pets, so before you travel, or perhaps before you start planning your holiday, take some time to check:
- Dog lead requirements
- Beach access regulations
- National park restrictions
- Camping rules
- Local wildlife protections
- Biosecurity requirements (microchipping and pet passports).
Knowing about these regulations in advance will help you plan an easier trip, avoid fines and protect the local wildlife.
Think about vet support
While you hope you won’t need to visit a vet on your holiday, it can give you peace of mind to do a quick online search to find a couple of local options near where you’re staying, just in case something happens to your furry friend.
It’s also sensible to travel with copies of your pet’s vaccination records, current medications and microchip details.
Don’t forget the journey
For road trips, plan regular rest stops so your pet can stretch, hydrate and take bathroom breaks. If you’re flying, make sure your pet meets the airline’s requirements, has an appropriate travel crate and is used to spending time inside it before you set off.
Flying with your pet to a pet-friendly destination? PetFlyers handles the entire journey — crates, paperwork, and airline bookings included. Get a free quote →
Choosing a holiday that works for everyone
The best pet-friendly destinations make life easier for both pets and their owners by offering welcoming accommodation, accessible outdoor spaces, sensible local regulations and the facilities you may need for you and your pets.
If you’re still deciding where to go, Skyscanner’s Pawprint Guide is a helpful resource for discovering destinations, accommodation tips and travel inspiration for holidays with pets. Combined with careful planning and preparation, it can help you choose a location that’s enjoyable for every member of the family, including those with four legs.
