10 Tail-Wagging Travel Tips!
At KUI Parks, we know pets are part of the family – and the best road trips are the ones shared with your most loyal, enthusiastic and cuddly companion! Whether you’re hitting the open road with a dog, cat, or another four-legged best mate, here is a whole litter of tips to keep your travels smooth, safe, and full of tail-wagging worthy memories – ensuring all ruff days are purr-vented!
1. Practice Makes Paw-fect!
Before em-bark-ing on your next adventure, it’s important your furry friend feel comfortable and safe. Taking your pet on a few shorter drives or single night sleepovers in the van to get them used to travelling is a fur-tastic way to start. Rewarding calm behaviour with treats, cuddles or little games can assist in making the car/van feel like a safe and familiar place.
2. Pack a Doggy Bag
Just like you’ve got your toiletries and snacks, your pet needs their own doggy bag of essentials and treats! Be sure to include:
- Portable food & water bowls
- Leash, harness & ID tag collar
- Poo bags, pee pads or a portable litter box
- Comfy bed, blanket or crate
- Favourite toys & familar items
- Medications, vet records & first aid kit
- Grooming tools
- Pet friendly flea & insect repellent
(Psst – don’t fur-get their favourite treats!)
3. Howl to Make Them Feel at Home
Travelling can be exciting (and a little confusing) for pets. Try to stick to familiar routines – feeding, walking, and resting at their usual times – to help them feel settled. Bringing along favourite bedding or toys can reduce anxiety, provide comfort, and keep them entertained during long travel days
4. No Hot Dogs Here!
Never leave your pet in a hot car – even for a quick stop! Make sure your co-pilot has plenty of airflow, shade, and a comfy spot to curl up while you’re cruising. Bonus points for windows with a good view and head scratches on demand.
5. Fur-tunately, We’re Pet Friendly!
The good news? Most KUI Parks are pet-friendly! You’ll find plenty of parks that welcome pets with open arms and plenty of space to explore. Simply head to our Park Finder and use the “Pet-Friendly” filter to discover stays all across Aus. However its always im-paw-tent to check each parks specific pet policies to find to the location that best suits you and your four-legged mate. Our pet-friendly park owners are always happy to lend a helping paw, with local tips and recommendations on walking tracks to explore, off-leash areas to “go fetch” or pet-friendly cafes to lap up.
6. The Leash You Can Do
Not everyone is a pet person – and that’s okay! Keep your pet leashed in shared spaces, always clean up after them, and try to manage barking or wandering so everyone can enjoy a peaceful stay. We want your fur-baby to be welcomed with praises of “good doggo!” from all your fellow campers.
7. Avoid a Cat-astrophe: Safety First!
Fur-st things first – if your pet gets carsick or anxious, speak to your vet and prepare with enough medications, or chew toys. Make sure their collar has an up-to-date ID tag, carry their prescription (if they’re taking medication), and a pet first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers. It’s also a “good dog” idea to look up the nearest vet clinic in each stop, or ask your friendly KUI host for advice.
8. Stretch Those Legs, Long or Short
Plan regular paws’s for toilet stops, water, and a bit of playtime – there’s no such thing as too many belly rub breaks. Not only is it great for your pet, but you’ll both benefit from a good stretch (and maybe a treat). Who knows – you might sniff out a hidden-gem along the way!
9. Cat-ure the Cuteness!
First beach run? Campfire cuddles? Cat-ure those precious moments! Share your paw-some pics with friends, family and us! Tag your memories with #kuiparks – we love to see all our guests enjoying their KUI adventures, muddy paws and all!
10. Paws, Breathe, and Enjoy the Ride
Travelling with pets might take a little extra planning, but the tail wags, snuggles, and shared adventures make it so worth it. So sit, stay… and soak up the scenery. Enjoy the little moments – whether it’s a sunset snooze in the van or your pup’s first splash in a creek.
So whether your furry co-pilot is a seasoned traveller or setting off on their very first camping trip, these tips will help make your journey smoother, safer, and full of paw-sitive memories. At KUI Parks, we believe exploring Australia is better with your best mate by your side – tail wags fur all. Start planning your next pet-friendly escape today with our Park Finder – and let the adventures whisker you away!