Going on a well-deserved break with your beloved dog is an exciting prospect. Whether you’re planning a UK staycation or travelling further afield to Europe, a little preparation goes a long way in making sure your dog shares in the fun and doesn’t suffer from holiday blues.
Travelling to Europe with a dog from the UK is becoming increasingly popular, but it does require some extra planning. From understanding the latest EU pet travel rules to organising your dog’s Animal Health Certificate, being well prepared will help you avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy a smooth, memorable trip abroad with your dog.
Read on to discover what to pack and how to prepare for a dog-friendly holiday, with everything you need for a smooth and stress-free trip with your dog.
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Should You Take Your Dog On Holiday?
Taking your dog away from their home comforts can be exciting, but it’s important to consider how they will cope with changes to their routine, environment and travel itself. For some dogs, this can be quite stressful, so it’s worth asking whether bringing them along is the right choice.
As a responsible owner, think about what will suit your dog best. In some cases, staying with family, friends or in a reputable boarding facility may be a better option. Many places now offer a home-from-home experience, so you can feel confident your dog is well cared for and comfortable while you’re away.
Before taking your dog on holiday, it’s also essential to research your destination carefully. Consider the following:
- Will you have access to all the facilities you need?
- Is your accommodation truly dog-friendly throughout?
- Are local pubs, cafés or attractions dog-friendly?
- Are there any restrictions on nearby beaches or walking areas?
- Will your dog need to be left alone at any point?
- Could the weather, particularly heat, be an issue for them?
Taking the time to plan ahead will help ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for both you and your dog.
What To Pack When Taking Your Dog On Holiday
Whatever the season, you will need to make provision for all the extra luggage your dog may need. This includes a portable water bowl, treats for good behaviour, favourite toys, bedding, towels, poo bags, enough food for the entire trip, grooming equipment and leads. The list can feel endless, but having familiar items will help your dog feel more comfortable and settled in a new environment.
A deep cleaning dog shampoo can also be a useful addition to your wash bag, especially if your dog enjoys beach days or muddy walks. WILDWASH deodorising shampoo, with peppermint, rosemary and lemongrass, helps keep your dog clean, fresh and pleasantly scented, while also helping to maintain a fresh-smelling holiday accommodation.
Holiday Packing List For Your Dog
Here's our list of essentials for taking your dog on holiday and keeping them happy and keeping you time away from home as stress-free as possible:
Travel essentials:
- Crate or carrier (if needed for transport)
- Seat belt harness or pet seat belt for car travel
- Comfortable bedding
- Portable water and food bowls
- Dog food (enough for the duration of the trip)
- Treats
- Bottled water (especially if the local water quality is uncertain)
- Collar with ID tags
- Lead (plus a spare one!)
First aid items:
- Basic first aid kit for dogs (including sterile guaze pads, vet wrap, antiseptic wipes, styptic powder for bleeding nails, tweezers etc)
- Tick remover tool
- Any necessary medication (with instructions)
- Emergency contact numbers for a local vet.
Grooming tools:
- Brush or comb suitable for your dog's coat type
- Nail clippers
- Dog shampoo
- Quick drying towel
- Ear cleaner and cotton balls.
Above: Holiday essentials - Wildwash shampoo and bug repellent and our Essentials Grooming Set containing all the grooming equipment you need in a handy carry case
Comfort and safety:
- Favourite toys
- Blanket or familiar item from home
- Poop bags
- Dog-friendly sun cream
- Flea and tick prevention - see our favourite natural spray here.
Documentation:
- Vaccination records
- Microchip information
- Pet insurance details
- Any relevant travel permits or pet passports (for international travel)
Extras:
- Cooling mat (for hot weather/climates)
- Raincoat or jacket (for cold or wet climates)
- Portable playpen or gate (for securing your dog in unfamiliar environments)
Make sure to tailor this list to your dog's specific needs and the details of your holiday destination.
Keep Up With Their Grooming Routine
Regular grooming while you’re away does more than just keep your dog looking tidy. It plays an important role in maintaining coat health and overall comfort, especially when they are exposed to new environments such as beaches, woodland or warmer climates.
Frequent brushing helps prevent tangles and matting, removes dirt and loose hair, and keeps the coat well-ventilated. It also gives you the chance to closely check the skin for any signs of irritation, parasites or debris picked up during walks.
If your dog is regularly clipped, it’s a good idea to give them a tidy-up before you travel. A well-maintained coat is much easier to manage on holiday and will help keep them comfortable throughout your trip.
Using a fine-toothed flea comb allows you to carefully inspect the coat, while a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers can be used to safely remove any ticks you may find. Staying on top of grooming little and often will help keep your dog clean, comfortable and healthy throughout your trip.
Dog First Aid: Be Prepared
Would you know what to do if your dog became unwell or had an accident while you were away? Being prepared can make all the difference and gives you peace of mind throughout your trip.
Before travelling, make sure your dog is fit and healthy, with vaccinations, worming and flea treatments all up to date. It is also important to have suitable pet insurance in place that covers you while you are away. Packing a basic dog first aid kit is a sensible precaution and can help you deal with minor issues quickly and effectively.
Taking the time to complete a dog first aid course is also highly worthwhile. It can help you feel more confident in handling a range of situations, from small injuries to more serious concerns such as heatstroke, until you are able to seek veterinary care.
Travelling Abroad With Your Dog: What You Need To Know for 2026
If you’re planning to take your dog on an overseas adventure, there are a few extra things to consider beyond your usual packing list. Different countries have their own rules and regulations for travelling with pets, so it’s important to plan ahead to ensure a smooth trip.
Here’s a checklist of additional items you’ll need for taking your dog on an international trip:
- An Animal Health Certificate
- Microchip (ensure your dog is chipped and the details are up to date)
- Rabies Vaccination and Proof (must be up to date, and given at least 21 days before travel)
- Tapeworm Treatment (required for entry into some countries, and for returning to Great Britain)
- Tick and Flea Prevention (especially for regions with exotic parasites)
- Comfortable Travel Crate (IATA-approved for air travel if your jounrey involves flights)
- Portable Water and Food Bowls
- Pet Insurance (make sure it covers international travel)
- Dog’s Usual Food (as it may not be available abroad)
- Medication (any necessary meds with instructions)
- Vaccination Records (to prove up-to-date shots)
- Emergency Contact Numbers for a Local Vet
- Cooling Mat (for warmer climates)
If you’re travelling outside the UK, your dog must be vaccinated against rabies. Most countries require that this is done at least 21 days before your departure, and you’ll need to carry proof of this vaccination when crossing borders. Always check the specific country’s rules as some may have additional requirements.
In some places, you’ll also need to watch out for exotic parasites, such as sandflies, heartworm, and ticks. Make sure your dog is up to date with flea and tick prevention and consider speaking to your vet about any extra treatments they might need based on your destination.
Updated EU Travel Rules For Taking Dogs Abroad (2026)
If you're heading to the EU, it’s important to be aware of the latest guidance introduced in 2026. While travel is still straightforward, a few key rules mean preparation is more important than ever.
Since Brexit, UK-issued EU pet passports are no longer valid for travel into the EU, and this remains unchanged. Instead, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip. This must be issued by an official vet no more than 10 days before travel and confirms your dog’s microchip number, rabies vaccination, and overall health.
An AHC allows:
- A single entry into the EU
- Onward travel within the EU for up to 4 months
- Re-entry into Great Britain, provided vaccinations remain valid
For non-commercial travel, you can bring up to five pets per vehicle. If someone else is travelling with your dog, you’ll need to provide written authorisation, and your pet must travel within five days of you.
When returning to Great Britain, dogs must receive tapeworm treatment between 24 and 120 hours before arrival, and you must use an approved transport route.
It’s also worth noting that individual EU countries may have their own specific rules, including breed restrictions or additional health requirements so always check the latest guidance for your destination before travelling.
How To Get A Pet Passport - The Animal Health Certificate
Since Brexit, UK pet passports are no longer valid in the EU. If you’re travelling to the EU or Northern Ireland, your dog will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead, which must be issued by a vet no more than 10 days before travel. The certificate will confirm your dog’s microchip number, rabies vaccination, and health status.
Checklist For A Dog Friendly Holiday
Going on holiday with your dog can be a wonderful experience, whether you’re exploring the UK or heading abroad to Europe. With the right preparation, you can ensure your trip is safe, stress-free and enjoyable for both you and your four-legged companion.
Dog Holiday Check List - Key things to remember:
Plan ahead for travel – Check accommodation, transport and local rules to make sure your destination is truly dog-friendly.
Pack all the essentials – Food, water, bedding, grooming tools and a basic first aid kit will help keep your dog comfortable and cared for.
Understand travel requirements – For EU trips, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate, a valid rabies vaccination and the correct documentation.
Stay on top of health and safety – Keep ID tags updated, maintain flea and tick prevention, and don’t forget tapeworm treatment before returning to the UK.
Prepare for the unexpected – Research local vets and ensure your pet insurance covers travel abroad.
With a little forward planning, you and your dog can relax and enjoy a happy, memorable holiday together. Planning your next adventure with your dog? Make sure you’re fully prepared with the right tools, travel essentials and grooming kit to keep your dog comfortable every step of the way. A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to happy, stress-free travels. Discover our dog grooming and travel must-haves below.
What’s the best way to manage shedding when travelling with a dog?
Shedding can quickly build up in cars, accommodation and on clothing while travelling. Brushing your dog daily with the right grooming tools will help control loose hair and keep their coat healthy. If your dog is a heavy shedder, consider packing a slicker brush and coat rake deshedding tool to stay on top of it, especially during longer trips or seasonal coat changes.
Do dogs need a passport to travel to Europe from the UK?
No, UK-issued pet passports are no longer valid for travel into the EU. Instead, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip. This must be issued by an official vet within 10 days of travel and confirms your dog’s microchip, rabies vaccination and health status. If you have an EU-issued pet passport, this can still be used for travel within the EU and for returning to Great Britain.
Can dogs fly in the cabin from the UK?
Most airlines in the UK do not allow dogs to travel in the cabin, with the exception of registered assistance dogs. Instead, dogs usually travel in a secure, airline-approved crate in the hold. Some European airlines may allow small pets in the cabin when flying within mainland Europe, so it’s always best to check directly with your airline before booking. If your dog is flying, make sure they are comfortable in their crate and well-groomed before travel to keep them calm, cool and comfortable during the journey.
Is it easy to travel with a dog in a motorhome or caravan?
Travelling with your dog in a motorhome or caravan can be a great option, as it provides a familiar and comfortable space throughout your trip. However, it’s important to plan ahead—ensure your dog is secure during travel, has a designated sleeping area, and is never left alone in a hot vehicle. Regular stops for exercise, toilet breaks and hydration are essential. Keeping up with grooming is also important, especially in smaller living spaces, as it helps manage dirt, shedding and odours while on the road.
