Dog Travel Resources
Everything you need before, during, and after your adventure — from packing checklists to airline policies.
Ultimate Dog Travel Packing Checklist
Health & Safety
- Vet records and vaccination certificates
- Microchip information / pet ID tags
- Prescription medications (30-day supply)
- First aid kit (vet-approved)
- Flea/tick prevention (applied before trip)
- Pet emergency contact numbers
Food & Water
- Enough food for the trip + 2 extra days
- Collapsible water bowl
- Portable water bottle for dogs
- Treats for training/rewards on the road
- Familiar snacks to prevent upset stomach
Comfort & Sleep
- Familiar blanket or bed
- Crate or travel carrier (airline-approved if flying)
- Car seat cover or hammock
- Calming aids (if your dog gets anxious)
- Favorite toys
Safety & Control
- Properly fitted harness and collar
- 6-foot leash + long training lead
- Seat belt clip or crash-tested carrier
- Poop bags (lots of them)
- Light-up collar or reflective vest for night
Dog-Friendly Hotel Tips
Always call ahead
Even "pet-friendly" hotels have weight limits, breed restrictions, and room limits. Confirm everything by phone.
Ask for a ground-floor room
Makes late-night bathroom trips easier and reduces noise complaints from floor vibrations.
Request the pet fee in writing
Pet fees range from $20–$150/night. Get confirmation so you aren't surprised at checkout.
Bring your dog's bed
Familiar scents reduce anxiety in new environments. Your dog will settle faster with something from home.
Never leave alone without crating
Anxious dogs can destroy rooms or injure themselves. Always crate or use a pet-sitter for outings.
Book chains that are consistently pet-friendly
Kimpton, La Quinta, Loews, and Best Western are known for consistent dog-friendly policies.
Canadian & US Airline Pet Policies (2025)
🍁 Canadian Carriers
| Airline | In-Cabin Max | One-Way Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Canada | 10 kg (22 lbs) combined | CAD $50/segment domestic | Dogs and cats allowed; carrier must fit under seat; some routes restricted |
| WestJet | 10 kg (22 lbs) combined | CAD $50/segment | Select routes only; no cargo pet option; soft-sided carrier required |
| Porter Airlines | Fits under seat | CAD $75 each way | In-cabin only; dogs and cats; no cargo pets; confirm route eligibility |
| Air Transat | 8 kg (18 lbs) combined | CAD $50 each way | Charter/leisure routes; some seasonal restrictions; check before booking |
🇺🇸 US Carriers
| Airline | In-Cabin Max | One-Way Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | 20 lbs combined | USD $125 each way | No cargo pet program; soft-sided carrier required; carrier must fit under seat |
| Southwest Airlines | 20 lbs combined | USD $125 each way | Max 6 pets per flight; no cargo pets; domestic US only |
| Delta Air Lines | 20 lbs combined | USD $95 domestic / $200 international | No cargo pets; brachycephalic breed restrictions apply |
| American Airlines | 20 lbs combined | USD $150 each way | No cargo pets on most routes; breed restrictions; limited spots per flight |
| Alaska Airlines | 20 lbs combined | USD $100 each way | In-cabin and PetSafe cargo option available; check cargo restrictions by season |
Before You Book — Key Questions to Ask
- Is your specific route eligible for in-cabin pets? (Not all routes allow pets)
- What are the exact carrier dimensions for your aircraft type?
- How many pets are allowed per flight, and are spots still available?
- Are there breed restrictions for your dog's breed or mix?
- What documentation is required at check-in (health certificate, vaccination records)?
- Is a pet reservation required in advance, or can it be added online?