After a tumultuous winter, stuck indoors, we are finally here. Thank heavens for our furry companions that got us through cuffing season! The sun is shining, and the heat is on. You know what that means… It’s ROAD TRIP TIME!

Road trips are some of the most American leisurely times. Hopping in the car, your ride-or-die in tow, packing your favorite cute outfits (and theirs, too), you are ready for a whole new adventure. Who wants to stay inside when there is an entire country for you and your best pal to explore? This is why we created the essential road trip kit you MUST have for this summer’s epic road trips. Y’all ready for the secret sauce to a perfect summer, just you and your bestie?

Here is the road trip kit every dog mom must own this summer:

Safety First

Your dog is clearly your son/daughter. You wouldn’t put a human child in a car without the proper car seat, so you know you’d better protect your pooch! Safety first – a calm, relaxing car ride with our boo.

Driving cross-country means crazy traffic and places unknown. Exciting? Yes. Dangerous? Can be. So let’s protect you and your baby, as an accident can cause serious issues. Securing your dog is an absolute non-negotiable. 

You have a few options to choose from, so take your pick:

• Crash-tested harnesses
• Secure travel crate
• Dog car booster seat

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Girl, it’s the summer. That Stanley Cup isn’t going to cut it! You need to plan ahead for you and your doggo. As dogs can’t regulate their body temperatures or even sweat – which is crazy – you are in charge of keeping them hydrated.

Cross-country trips allow dehydration to sink in as you are most likely jamming out to tunes, pup’s head out the window, not a care in the world. You also can’t rely on finding proper hydration at rest stops. You may not even have a rest stop close enough when you need it. 

Plan ahead and drink up. Plan on carrying at least one gallon per day JUST for your dog! Heat stroke is no joke!

First Aid Prep

Being healthy is as important as catching that perfect selfie lighting. It is non-negotiable. That means that you need to be a good dog mom and plan ahead! Bring a first-aid kit for both you and your pal.

If you are crossing state lines, you may need proof of vaccinations, etc. Don’t leave these at home! If you are going to a campground, you may even need a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection. Check with your local regulations and the rules of the state you are heading to.

Here is what you need in your road trip emergency kit:

• Bandages that self-adhere (they don’t stick to the fur)
• Tick remover tool (gross, but necessary)
• Hydrogen peroxide (to promote vomiting but only under the guidance of a vet)
• Antiseptic wipes (for those dirty lil’ corn-chip paws)

Chaos Management

Your dog gets into chaos – and don’t lie, you love a little chaos, too. However, a peaceful dog is a quiet dog. Dogs can get restless when they sit around too long. Road trips can be long and dreadful for your canine companion. 

Plan ahead to manage the chaos. Consider some good exercise before long trips to tire them out, or calming supplements for the pups who need a bit of extra help to relax! Pick and maintain a routine such as bringing one of their favorite toys, bed, and blanket from home. Hell, it can even be a dirty sock of yours. You know they love that. These items with your scent on them help soothe their anxiety. It’s proven.

Next, don’t forget to bring an organizer to keep all your dog gear together. A dedicated travel bag  can provide peace of mind (and sanity) as you navigate through your road trip. Keep your dog-stuff and you-stuff separate, too.

Daily Essentials

Now, it is on to the daily essentials. You cannot forget those! 

Here are the most important daily essentials you need for your dog on your next summer road trip:

• Pre-portioned food (but don’t forget treats for your sweets)
• Collapsible bowls
• Leashes (both standard and long-line)
• Poopie bags (cannot forget these. Good lord, won’t do that again!)
• Paw balm
• Cooling mat
• Sunscreen (for dogs with lighter-colored noses)
• Window shades (for Sleeping Beauty-vibes)
• Flea and tick meds
• Calming chews (do they make these for humans? Asking for a friend…)
• Lint roller (for you, of course, unless you want to lint roller your dog, too; it may help!)
• Wet wipes
• Old towels (for those muddy paws)
• And anything else you can think of

Get Those I.D. Tags Updated!

You and your bud are going to want to get out at those rest stops. You’ll learn fast that this can lead to a headache. Clip that leash on them before even leaving the car. You know they are going to play “the chase game” if they should outsmart you and dash out.

Keeping the I.D. tags updated can provide the peace you need should the unimaginable happen. Share with your friends and family where you are headed as well, in case your dog darts off.

Bonus Tip: Get them microchipped for even more protection and safety in case someone picks them up.

Seat Covers

Your new whip needs to be protected – even from your best travel mate. Fur, accidents, and mud can quickly damage your car seats. Plus, the smells can create a cesspool that will make you want to drive the car off a cliff.

Seat covers protect the upholstery. Opt for a washable one so you can quickly get stains and smells out.

A Great Attitude

Many people don’t even think about packing this last essential summer road trip element into the travel kit. But it may be one of the most important ones! Traveling with a pup can be magical – and it can also drive you crazy.

Allow room for your dog to adjust to their new surroundings. Remember, being in the car can cause some pups anxiety. By packing the right items, you can soothe them and teach them to enjoy the ride. They can whine, get upset, and even have an accident. It is crucial for you to keep calm, comfort your child, and reinforce that they are okay and that you are there with them.

You are their everything. It is your job to ensure they are safe and have a good time. Your great attitude will transfer over to them. If you are stressed, they can feel it. Do your best to manage your emotions when unplanned things pop up… because they will.

Bottom Line

Summertime road trips with your favorite pup can lead to lifelong, amazing memories. Your best friend in tow, the music cranked up, and the wind in your hair is something we all look forward to each year. You and your bestie will embark (see what I did there?) on an incredible journey together.

With the right strategy and preparation in place, you both can enjoy yourselves to the fullest. With extra food and water, their favorite toys and blankets, and the proper safety precautions, you both are bound to have endless fun in the sun. 

Update those tags and manage that chaos, and it’s a recipe for an incredible summer road trip. You and your boo will have the most epic adventure that all your friends on Instagram will envy. So put your paws up, relax, and enjoy the ride, dog moms!