Imagine this: You’re sipping coffee on a cabin porch surrounded by nature, the sun is peeking through the trees, and right beside you is your pup, tail thumping with pure joy. Sounds dreamy, right?
Well, good news—it’s totally doable.
Traveling with pets used to be a hassle. Finding a hotel that didn’t give you side-eyes for bringing your dog, let alone your cat, felt nearly impossible. But things have changed.
Today, pet-friendly vacation rentals are popping up everywhere, from oceanside bungalows to mountain hideaways.
But—and it’s a big but—not every “pet-friendly” listing is actually pet-welcoming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide: to help you confidently plan a stress-free getaway with your furry best friend.
So whether you’re a seasoned pet traveler or just considering your first trip with your pet, keep reading. You’re about to become an expert in all things pet + vacation.
Why Take Your Pet on Vacation?
First things first—why even bring your pet along?
Sure, some might say, “Isn’t it easier to leave them with a sitter?”
Maybe. But ask any pet owner who’s done it, and they’ll tell you—traveling with your pet creates a whole new kind of joy.
Here’s why:
- You avoid the stress (and guilt) of leaving them behind.
- You get fresh air, walks, and playtime—great for both of you!
- Your pet gets to explore new scents, sights, and places.
- You strengthen your bond with unforgettable shared experiences.
- And let’s be honest… your dog makes every trip 1000% better.
Choosing the Right Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental
This is where the magic (and the planning) starts. Finding the right place to stay can make or break your trip. And while many listings say “pets allowed,” that doesn’t always mean your pet will be comfortable—or even truly welcome.
Here’s how to pick the perfect pet-friendly rental:
1. Read the Pet Policy (Like, Really Read It)
Don’t just rely on the checkmark that says “pets allowed.” Dig into the details.
Ask yourself:
- Are there breed or size restrictions?
- Are multiple pets allowed, or just one?
- Is there a pet fee or deposit, and is it refundable?
- Do they allow cats, or just dogs?
- Are there house rules like no pets on the furniture?
Pro tip: Message the host before booking. Confirm everything in writing so there are no surprises later.
- Look for Pet-Friendly Features That Actually Help
A pet-friendly rental shouldn’t just tolerate your pet—it should accommodate them.
Here’s what to look for:
- Fenced yard or private outdoor space
- Easy-to-clean flooring (tile or wood is better than carpet)
- Pet beds, bowls, or toys provided
- Pet-washing station (especially great after a muddy hike)
- Nearby pet-friendly parks, beaches, or trails
If the listing photos include a dog bed or food bowls, you know the host actually expects four-legged guests—not just allows them.
- Scan the Reviews for Fellow Pet Parents
You’d be surprised how many stories you’ll uncover in the reviews section.
Look for mentions like:
- “Our dog loved the yard!”
- “The host left dog treats—such a sweet touch!”
- “There was a trail nearby perfect for long walks.”
On the flip side, reviews can also be red flags:
- “The listing said pet-friendly, but we were asked to keep our dog in the crate the entire time.”
- “Too many decorative breakables—not ideal for curious pups.”
What to Pack for Your Pet’s Vacation
Let’s be honest, you probably already have a travel bag ready for your dog before you even pack your own suitcase. But just in case, here’s a comprehensive pet packing checklist to keep you organized.
Pet Travel Essentials:
- Leash, harness, and collar (with updated ID tag)
- Travel-friendly food and water bowls
- Enough pet food for the entire stay (+ a little extra)
- Poop bags (pack more than you think you need)
- Pet bed or blanket (familiar scents = comfort)
- A couple of favorite toys or chews
- Medications and copy of vet records
- Grooming wipes, towels, or a brush
- Crate or carrier (especially if required by the host)
 Tip: Bring a lint roller. Your host will thank you later.
Tips for a Smooth Trip with Your Pet
Okay, so your bags are packed, and your rental is booked. Now what?
Here are the real-world tips that will turn your trip from “this is chaotic” to “we need to do this more often.”
 1. Ease into Travel
If your pet’s not used to long car rides or new environments, take some short trips ahead of time. Let them get used to the car, the crate, or the leash-on-the-go.
🎯 2. Pet-Proof the Rental
As soon as you arrive, do a quick scan of the space:
- Are there open balconies, toxic plants, or loose wires?
- Any tempting trash cans or items left on the floor?
Move breakables and set boundaries early. It’s easier to prevent messes than clean them up later.
🎯 3. Stick to a Routine
Try to feed, walk, and play at roughly the same times you would at home. This helps your pet feel grounded in an unfamiliar environment.
🎯 4. Don’t Leave Them Alone (Unless You Have To)
If your pet isn’t used to being left alone in new places, don’t risk it. Some rentals specifically state pets should not be left unattended.
If you do have to step out:
- Use a crate or confined safe space.
- Leave a toy or treat to keep them occupied.
- Keep outings short, especially on Day 1.
Best Platforms to Find Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals
Here’s where to start your search:
Airbnb
Use the “pets allowed” filter, but always message the host before booking. Great for unique stays like tiny homes or cabins.
Vrbo
Excellent for larger homes or families traveling with pets. You can filter for pet-friendly stays and check reviews for past pet guests.
BringFido
A hidden gem! Not only does it show pet-friendly rentals, but also parks, restaurants, and pet services in your destination.
Booking.com
Surprisingly good pet-friendly filters and options—especially for urban getaways.
Top Pet-Friendly Destinations in the U.S.
Need ideas for where to go? Check out these ultra-pet-welcoming cities:
Asheville, North Carolina
Dog-friendly breweries, hiking trails, and laid-back cabin rentals? Yes, please.
Bend, Oregon
Off-leash parks, endless hiking, and river trails make this a pup’s paradise.
Austin, Texas
Pet-friendly patios, live music, and a super walkable downtown. Bonus: Lots of food trucks with dog treats.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Explore Acadia National Park with your dog—yes, they’re allowed on most of the trails!
San Diego, California
With dog beaches, pet-friendly cafes, and sunshine year-round, it’s a no-brainer.
Pet Etiquette 101: Be the Guest Everyone Wants Back
You’ve found the perfect place, your pet is behaving, and your host is awesome. Let’s make sure you leave things just as amazing.
Here’s how to be the perfect pet guest:
✅ Clean up all pet waste—every time
âś… Use a blanket or towel on furniture if needed
âś… Vacuum or sweep up pet hair before checking out
✅ Respect noise levels—no one wants a barking dog at midnight
âś… Leave a review mentioning your positive pet experience
Bonus: A thank-you note (or even a small pet-themed gift) goes a long way in encouraging hosts to stay pet-friendly.
Final Thoughts: Pets + Travel = Pure Joy
Traveling with your pet doesn’t have to be complicated—it just takes a little planning. With the right vacation rental, a solid packing list, and a few pro tips in your back pocket, you’ll be making memories that last a lifetime (or at least until your next trip).
So go ahead—book that beach house, cabin in the woods, or city loft. Your best furry friend is ready for the adventure, and you deserve a vacation that includes the whole family.
Tell Us!
Where have you had your favorite pet-friendly getaway? Share your recommendations and photos in the comments—we’d love to feature your story in our next post!
And hey, don’t forget to subscribe for more pet travel guides, grooming tips, and all things paws-itively fun
