Even as governmental regulations fluctuate around which service and emotional support animals are cleared to fly, traveling with pets is becoming more and more commonplace. Accommodations, restaurants, and parks increasingly allow access to man’s best friend – even tailoring their experiences accordingly.
While it can be fun to have a furry companion along for the ride, loud crowds and unfamiliar spaces like airports, train stations, and hotels can be distressing for sensitive pets. Therefore, we’ve rounded up a few items to make your journey as smooth as possible. From cat harnesses and dog socks to GPS trackers and anxiety jackets, these are the goods to get you to your final destination – and let you enjoy the journey too.
1. Wild One Air Travel Carrier
If you’re taking to the skies with a small pup or cat in tow, the proper carrier can make all the difference. Wild One’s version is ideal for animals up to 16 pounds, featuring mesh walls for breathability, a shoulder strap that doubles as a leash, and a padded interior that folds out to serve as a bed. Most importantly, it’s airline compliant, sized to fit underneath a standard economy-class seat, and comes with a sleeve that slides over your suitcase handle for ease of carry. Air travel carrier, $125; wildone.com
2. Spruce Dog Bed
For road trips and train travel, you can afford to pack those items that make your canine companion feel at home – even if they take up a bit more room. Not only is Spruce’s portable bed extra cozy, with memory-foam padding, side bolsters, and removable, washable, waterproof sheets, but it also folds up to hold all of your dog’s essentials, from toys and food to leashes and bowls. Plus, it’s made from the same materials as luggage designed for humans, ensuring durability against wear and tear. Spruce portable dog bed, from $170; sprucepup.com
3. Kitty Holster Cat Harness
Cats tend to be less well-traveled than dogs – it’s just the nature of the beast. However, if you leash-train your kitten, they’ll be primed to join you on your adventures, as long as you have the proper equipment. Some harnesses secure with clips and adjustable straps, but Kitty Holster’s lightweight model utilizes Velcro closures to keep them secure and breathable cotton fabric to prevent overheating. Kitty Holster cat harness, $24; amazon.com
4. ThunderShirt Anxiety Jackets
Some pets take to the open road like champs, while others need a little assistance to feel at ease. Much like swaddling calms a fussy baby, ThunderShirt’s jackets apply mild, constant pressure to soothe your pet. Vet-approved and a low-tech alternative to medications, they make it easier for your dog or cat to stay comfortable during transit. ThunderShirt anxiety jackets for dogs and cats, from $40; amazon.com
5. Whistle Go Explore GPS Tracker
There’s little more gut-wrenching than losing a pet, especially in an unfamiliar place. Whistle’s Go Explore tracker uses WiFi, cellular data, and GPS to maintain tabs on their location. It is waterproof when submerged up to six feet, so an impromptu jump in a lake shouldn’t hinder its functionality. Moreover, the battery holds a charge for 20 days, allowing you to find your cat or dog even after they’ve been on the run for a while. A couple of caveats: this device requires a monthly subscription and doesn’t work outside of the US or in areas with poor coverage. Go Explore GPS tracker, $130 plus monthly subscription fees; whistle.com
6. Saltsox Dog Boots
Dogs require protective footwear when sidewalks are covered with snow and salt. They also need it during those hot summer months; if it’s too hot for you to go barefoot, it’s also too hot for your dog. These boots from Saltsox will keep them protected year-round: with breathable mesh uppers and a radiant heat barrier in the rubber sole, Lavasox blocks heat from pavement, while the winter version offers lightweight insulation against icy pathways. Saltsox dog boots, from $56; saltsox.com
7. Billy Wolf Dash Travel Bowl
Hydration is crucial for animals, just as it is for humans. Billy Wolf’s collapsible Dash bowl helps deliver water anywhere. Its flexible canvas construction allows it to fold down, snap closed, and fit into tight spaces easily. Thanks to a waterproof nylon lining and food-safe paraffin wax exterior, it’s suitable for food service as well. It holds up to three cups of dog food, and it’s hand-washable, eliminating worries about crumbs between meals. Dash travel bowl, $32; billywolfnyc.com
8. Cycle Dog Dog-Waste Pickup Bags
Cleaning up your pup’s mess is an essential part of pet ownership. To maintain sustainability while doing so, consider Cycle Dog’s biodegradable waste pickup bags – these bags are made from corn- and plant-based materials, breaking down in 10 to 45 days when disposed of properly. You can also utilize your local composting service if it accommodates pet waste. Dog-waste pickup bags, $6; packagefreeshop.com
9. DryFur Pet Carrier Insert Pads
The US Department of Transportation advises against feeding your pets solid food in the six hours leading up to a flight, recommending a moderate amount of water instead. However, accidents can happen even with the best planning. DryFur’s absorbent travel pads dry quickly and wick away moisture, featuring a rigid core to prevent shifting and bunching, and fitting most soft carrier bags and some hard-sided kennels. DryFur pet carrier insert pads, $28 for two; amazon.com
