Top Tips for Taking Your Pet on a Campervan Road Trip

Planning an Australia road trip and considering bringing your furry companion along? If you’re like us, the idea of leaving your pet behind may not just sit right. That’s why a motorhome road trip with your pet can be the perfect solution! 

In this blog, we sat down with one of our campervan road trippers Kara Elliston and her pup Peanut, to walk you through the essentials of planning a pet-friendly road trip. She will cover everything from picking the right pet-friendly campervan hire to ensuring you have a solid travel itinerary that keeps your pet’s needs in mind. 

Plus, she’ll share some insider tips on finding pet-friendly accommodations and activities along the way. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveller with your pet, these tips will help you make the most of your Aussie road trip. 

Why you should take your pet on a campervan road trip

There are just so many reasons! Bringing your four-legged friends along is not only possible but is guaranteed to make the journey even more memorable. Peanut, my four-year-old retriever, is my family, after all, and the idea of hitting the road without her just doesn’t feel right. 

I have travelled all around Australia with Peanut. I watched her play in the snow for the first time in Tasmania and run through the red sand dunes of the Outback, and all I can say is that there is something special about exploring these new places with your pet. 

Giving her that experience and seeing the landscapes through her eyes was just so special. Planning a pet-friendly road trip might require a bit more planning, but the rewards are totally worth it! 

Why you should use a campervan for your pet’s first road trip

When it comes to planning your pet’s first big adventure, there’s no better way to travel than in a campervan. Why? Nothing beats the freedom and flexibility that a campervan offers when it comes to pet-friendly road trips. 

One of the biggest benefits of using a campervan for pet-friendly travel is the control it gives you over your pet’s environment. In a campervan, Peanut has a familiar place to sleep, easy access to food and water (with all the great onboard storage), and a secure area to settle in during the drive. 

And you never have to worry about having dog-friendly accommodation because you're already in it! Unlike other forms of travel, where you might be restricted by pet policies, pet cleaning fees or schedules, a campervan lets you decide where to go and how long to stay. Plus, there are plenty of pet-friendly campervan accommodation options around Australia. 

Essential pre-trip preparations for travelling with a pet

Before you and your furry friend hit the road, it’s important to make sure you’re fully prepared. A little planning ahead can ensure a smooth and enjoyable campervan road trip for everyone (furry friends included). Here’s my go-to checklist of essential pre-trip preparations to keep in mind: 

Take your dog for a vet check-up

The first thing I always do before every campervan road trip is schedule a visit to the vet. Use this appointment to ensure all vaccinations are current. 

Discuss your travel plans with the vet, particularly if you’ll be travelling to different regions with varying climates or local wildlife. Depending on your route, your vet might recommend additional flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. 

Pack the pet essentials

When it comes to packing for your pet, think of everything they might need to feel at home on the road. Start with the basics: pack enough food and treats to last the entire trip, along with their bowls. 

Bedding is another essential—bringing their favourite bed or blanket is a perfect way to provide comfort and familiarity in the campervan. Don’t forget their toys, as these are great ways to keep them entertained during downtime. 

And, of course, a sturdy leash and plenty of poop bags are must-haves for those pit stops and walks! 

Research dog-friendly destinations and activities

Australia has plenty of dog-friendly destinations and activities, including parks, beaches and walking trails! Peanut loves running, so I always look for dog-friendly beaches and walking trails in the areas we visit. 

Additionally, I always make sure to mark a few dog parks along our route, especially on long drive days, so that Peanut has plenty of opportunities to stretch and move. 

Plan your route and learn the local rules

In my experience, planning your Australia itinerary is essential to a successful pet-friendly road trip. This is especially true if you are visiting a new state or territory, as the rules and regulations around pets can vary from state to state. 

Before setting off on your campervan road trip, I always recommend taking some time to research the specific rules and local laws for each state and territory you plan to visit. 

Overall, as a general rule, you will need to steer clear of most national parks where pets aren’t typically allowed. Then, it's always good to check beach rules, as these can vary depending on seasonality. For example, in the summer, it's pretty common for beaches to have pet-friendly hours, so keep an eye out for those! 

Choosing a pet-friendly campervan

Selecting the right campervan for your pet-friendly road trip is crucial to ensuring that both you and your pet have a comfortable journey. Here are some features to look for when choosing a pet-friendly campervan: 

• Pet-Friendly Campervan Hire Companies: Not all campervan hire companies allow pets, so it’s important to choose one that welcomes your furry travel companion. Look for companies that specifically offer pet-friendly campervan hire, like Apollo, which allows dogs on board. Make sure to review their pet policies ahead of time to avoid any surprises. 

• Size: The size of the campervan is another important factor to consider. Make sure the campervan you choose has enough space to comfortably accommodate your dog. 

Larger dogs may need a campervan with extra floor space, while smaller pets might require a cozy nook where they can feel secure. It’s also worth considering how much space you’ll need for your pet’s bedding, food, and toys. 

TOP TIP: If you're planning to travel with your pet in an Apollo campervan, make sure to let us know in advance. There is a pet fee of $299, so it's best to get that sorted before your trip. For more details, check out Apollo’s pet-friendly policy. 

Top tips for travelling with your furry friend

When setting off on a campervan road trip with your four-legged friend, it’s important to ensure their comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout the journey. Here are some tips to help make your pet-friendly road trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. 

Make sure they are comfortable

Ensuring your pet's comfort during the trip is key to a successful road trip. Just like us, pets need their creature comforts to feel at home, even when they're on the move. A few of my go-to's for car travel include: 

• Pack your dog’s favourite toys and blankets: These items carry the scent of home, which can be calming in a new environment. 

• Bring a portable dog bed and crate: A cozy place to sleep is essential for your dog’s comfort, while a crate offers a secure space for your pet to retreat to when they need a break. Crates are also helpful for keeping your pet safe while the campervan is in motion. 

• Consider a dog ramp or stairs: If your dog has trouble getting in and out of a car, especially if they’re older or have mobility issues, investing in a dog ramp can make a big difference. 

Break up your campervan hire journey

Long drives can be tiring for both you and your dog, so it’s important to break up your journey with regular stops. I like to plan to stop every couple of hours to let Peanut stretch her legs and get some exercise. 

These breaks are also the perfect opportunity for your dog to hydrate and relieve themselves. Collapsible bowls are a great space-saving option for water and food on the go. 

Use the proper safety precautions

When travelling around Australia, there are a few safety considerations to ensure your pets and the local wildlife are safe: 

• Use a crate or pet safety harness: It’s important to secure your dog while the campervan is in motion to prevent injury in case of sudden stops or sharp turns. A crate or a pet safety harness can keep your dog safely in place and reduce the risk of accidents. 

• Don’t leave your dog unattended in the campervan: It may go without saying, but it is important to never leave your dog unattended in the campervan, especially in warm weather, as temperatures can rise quickly, creating a dangerous environment. 

• Avoid letting your dog hang their head out of the window: While it may look like fun, keep your dog safely inside the campervan at all times. 

• Be aware of wildlife: Australia is home to a huge variety of wildlife, so it’s important to keep your dog under control at all times, especially in unfamiliar areas. I always recommend packing a long leash for beach areas and keeping your dog on a short lead when exploring areas where wildlife is present. 

Plan your pet-friendly accommodation and dining in advance 

Regarding finding dog-friendly accommodation and dining on your pet-friendly road trip, Australia has plenty of options catering to travellers with pets. 

Pet friendly accommodation 

Australia is home to numerous pet-friendly campgrounds and campervan parks. Many of these locations offer amenities that will even accommodate pet owners with off-leash areas, dog wash stations, and more. Just make sure to book ahead to ensure you have a spot. Some parks will also only allow pets at certain times of the year due to weather (e.g., being too hot) or school holidays. 

TOP TIP: Check out Petstock’s guide to the best pet-friendly caravan parks across Australia for some great options, as well as our top ten pet-friendly accommodation options across Australia. 

Dining with your fury friends

Finding a place to eat with your pet in tow is easier than ever, thanks to the growing number of pet-friendly cafes and restaurants across the country. 

Sites like BringFido are my go-to for finding places to eat out together. This can help you locate pet-friendly dining options no matter where you are in Australia. From cozy cafes to trendy eateries, you and your dog can enjoy a meal together in a welcoming environment. 

Dog-friendly activities in Australia

Wondering what to do with your pet during your holiday? Australia offers a wide range of dog-friendly activities that are perfect for exploring with your pet. 

My favourite go-to's are taking Peanut on scenic hiking trails through the beautiful hinterland, enjoying leisurely walks in pet-friendly parks, or letting them run free on dog-friendly beaches. 

Wine enthusiasts can visit pet-friendly wineries across regions like the Hunter Valley and Yarra Valley, where dogs are often welcomed as part of the experience. 

Dog-friendly destinations in Australia 

Australia is a fantastic country to explore with your dog. Here is a snapshot into some of the best places to visit with your furry friends on your pet-friendly road trip: 

New South Wales: Dog-friendly road trip stops

• Bondi Beach, Sydney: While dogs aren't welcome on this world-famous beach, the Bondi to Coogee walk is the perfect beachside walk for the pups to enjoy the ocean breeze! 

• Hunter Valley: A wine region with many pet-friendly wineries and breweries, ideal for a relaxing day out. 

• Byron Bay: There are plenty of dog-friendly beaches and cafes in this popular coastal town. 

Victoria: Dog-friendly road trip stops

• St Kilda Beach, Melbourne: A seasonally dog-friendly beach close to the city, perfect for a seaside stroll. 

• Yarra Valley: This wine region has many pet-friendly wineries and accommodations. 

• Great Ocean Road: Take a scenic drive along this iconic route with stops at dog-friendly beaches and parks like Aireys Inlet and Lorne.

Queensland: Dog-friendly road trip stops

• Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast: Enjoy the sun and sand at one of Queensland's most famous beaches with its designated dog-friendly areas 

• Bundaberg Botanic Gardens: Take a ride on the dog-friendly Australian Sugar Cane Railway through these beautiful gardens. 

• Mary Valley Rattler, Gympie: A vintage train ride where your dog can join you onboard. 

Western Australia: Dog-friendly road trip stops

• Kings Park, Perth: One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, with designated dog-friendly zones. 

• Margaret River: Known for its wineries and lush hinterlands, many of which are dog-friendly, it is an ideal spot for a leisurely day out. 

• Monkey Mia: A unique destination in WA where you can experience an important wildlife area with your pet. 

Northern Territory: Dog-Friendly road trip stops

• Darwin Waterfront: A large waterside park perfect for dogs to join you for a day in the sun. 

• ANZAC Hill, Alice Springs: Hike to the top of this vantage with your dog for stunning outback scenery overlooking the town 

• The Cool Spot, Darwin: A pet-friendly cafe where you can enjoy a meal or coffee with your dog by your side. 

South Australia: Dog-Friendly road trips and stops

• Glenelg Beach, Adelaide: A dog-friendly beach where your pet can enjoy the ocean and sand. 

• Adelaide Hills: Explore the dog-friendly walking trails and parks in this picturesque region. 

• Barossa Valley: Visit pet-friendly wineries in one of Australia’s premier wine regions. 

Ready to see Australia with your furry friends by your side?

Ready to hit the road? You can easily book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from any of Apollo’s branches across Australia. Start your journey and enjoy the freedom of exploring Australia with your best friend by your side.