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How to Plan Your First Camping Trip with Pets

There’s a unique joy that comes from sharing the outdoors with your furry best friend – one that we are obviously big fans of here on The Kas Pack.

However, we also know that while the dream of including our pets in camping trips is incredibly appealing, it can also feel a little daunting.

How do you ensure their safety, comfort, and the enjoyment of everyone involved (including other campers)? Is there a secret to success?

We totally get it! Just last year, we started introducing our newest adventure dog, Willow, to the joys of outdoor travel, and it hasn’t been seamless! We’re still working through her struggles, teaching her to be the ideal canine camping companion.

Now, we’re introducing our new cat, Theia, to our outdoor travels.

Each new addition and every trip has brought its own mix of excitement, a few “oops!” moments, and more than a few invaluable lessons that have helped shape how we adventure with our pets today.

With that in mind, we wanted to create this guide to walk you through everything you need to plan your first successful camping trip with your pet, ensuring it’s safe, responsible, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

two dogs sitting outside a tent | How to Plan Your First Camping Trip with Pets
Lucifer and Willow outside the tent during her first camping trip to Limberlost Forest & Wildlife Reserve

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Before You Go: Pre-Trip Planning & Preparation

The key to successfully camping with your pet, whether it’s your first time or your hundredth time, lies in the steps you take BEFORE leaving for the campsite.

Don’t underestimate the power of planning ahead. Planning and preparation can make all the difference between a stressful experience and a truly memorable adventure.

Is Your Pet Ready for Camping?

Before you even think about booking a campsite, you need to take a step back and look honestly at your pet.

Not every pet is cut out for a life of outdoor adventure. Not every pet wants to go on adventures. That’s perfectly okay!

  • Health Check: Start with a visit to your veterinarian to ensure your pet is up to date on all necessary vaccinations and you have a solid plan for parasite prevention (for both dogs and cats). Discuss any existing health conditions and whether they can come camping safely.
  • Temperament: How does your pet generally react to new sights, sounds, and smells? Are they comfortable or able to relax in new settings? This isn’t to say a reactive or anxious pet can’t go camping, but you must be familiar with what they need to make it possible.
  • Training & Socialization: Basic obedience is non-negotiable for pet-friendly camping. Commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” “leave it,” and good leash manners all help with prioritizing your pet’s safety and practicing good campground etiquette. This includes etiquette when adventuring with cats – we are still working on teaching Theia to be more relaxed and a little less vocal when outdoors, out of respect for everyone camping around us.
  • Age & Breed Considerations: Think about your pet’s age and breed. For example, puppies/kittens and senior pets may have different needs regarding exercise or gear required to keep them comfortable. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persians, are more susceptible to overheating.
view of a campsite with a tent dining shelter and pen containing two dogs | How to Plan Your First Camping Trip with Pets
Our campsite setup on a recent trip to Port Burwell PP with tarps to block visual triggers

Choosing the Right Campsite

Once you have determined that your pet is a good candidate for camping, the next step is to find the perfect place to pitch your tent or park your trailer.

“Pet-friendly” can mean different things in different campgrounds. Additionally, your pet may have specific needs when choosing that ideal camping spot.

Identifying your needs and wants, combined with thorough research, will help you make this decision.

  • Pet-Friendly Policies: Don’t just assume a campground welcomes pets. Always research their specific pet policies. National Parks, for example, often have very strict rules, frequently restricting dogs from accessing various campgrounds, trails, etc. Meanwhile, Ontario Parks and private campgrounds tend to be more accommodating. Look for clear guidelines on leash requirements and restricted areas. You can see our complete guide to camping at Ontario Parks HERE.
  • Campsite Specifics: Beyond the campground, consider the individual campsite itself. Is there adequate shade to protect your pet from the sun, especially if they are prone to overheating? Is there enough clear space to set up a pet tent or crate? Is there vegetation between the sites to provide privacy for nervous or anxious pets?
  • Local Regulations: If you will be exploring hiking trails or parks beyond the campground boundaries, take time to familiarize yourself with the local regulations concerning pets. This includes leash laws and pet-related restrictions.
  • Weather Considerations: Always research the expected temperatures and precipitation for your chosen dates and location. Some areas are more likely to see sweltering heat or excessive rainfall, especially in specific seasons.

Essential Gear for Your Pet

You wouldn’t want to go camping without your sleeping bag or cooking supplies, so don’t forget your pet’s essentials.

We share all our favourite products on our Go-To Tools and Resources page.

But to help you with your planning, we wanted to take a moment to break down some items we believe are crucial for your pet’s comfort and safety.

  • Food & Water: Always pack more food than necessary. You don’t want to run out if you experience an unplanned delay on returning home. Bring collapsible bowls or pet-friendly travel water bottles for easy access to water on the trails and at the campsite. If you’re camping on Crown Land or somewhere where potable water isn’t available, don’t forget a filtration solution that works for you and your pet. We have fallen in love with our Grayl water filter bottle for this!
  • Leash & Collar/Harness: Always have a sturdy leash and a comfortable collar or harness with updated ID tags (including your cell number). Our pets all have Biothane leashes or easy cleaning (dog leashes from Mysfit Mutt and cat leashes from KittyCatGo). For harnesses, we love the Momentum Control Harness for the dogs and the Adventure Kitty Harness for the cats, both from RC Pets.
  • Bedding/Create/Travel Enclosure: Provide a familiar and comfortable sleeping surface or a contained area that will serve as a secure, designated “home base” for your pet. If your pet sleeps in a crate, don’t leave it behind. For our cats, a portable playpen inside the tent offers an extra layer of security to ensure they don’t escape.
  • Waste Bags: Pack lots of waste bags. We firmly believe in the importance of the Leave No Trace principles, which include packing out your pet’s waste to maintain clean campsites/trails and avoid upsetting the ecosystem. This includes packing out your cat’s waste, too, whether they are using a litterbox or going to the bathroom outdoors like a pup.
  • Pet Specific First Aid Kit: Always carry a basic pet first aid kit for camping and hiking. This should include necessary supplies like bandages, styptic powder, tweezers (for ticks or splinters), medications your pet requires, and more. Consider downloading our Free Camping & Hiking Pet First Aid Checklists to ensure you don’t miss anything important!
  • Comfort Items: A favourite toy or blanket can do wonders to help reduce stress in an unfamiliar environment. For example, our boy Lucifer’s Wingo Outdoors Trixie Dog Pack Bed, or “place” as we call it, is an essential piece of gear to help him enjoy his trips.
  • Cooling/Warming Gear: Depending on the weather, you may want to consider a cooling vest or mat for hot summer days or a dog coat or sweater for colder nights. Boots can protect sensitive paw pads from hot surfaces, rough terrain, or icy conditions.
  • Towels: Always have a few old towels on hand for muddy paws or after those fun days playing at the dog beach.
  • Pet-Specific Bug Spray/Sunscreen: Just as bug spray can make your trip more enjoyable, having safe, pet-specific bug spray can make a big difference for your pet. Additionally, sunscreen is an important consideration for pets with short fur or light skin.  
dog lying next to a grayl water bottle | How to Plan Your First Camping Trip with Pets
Lucifer posing with our Grayl water bottle

Tips for During Your Trip

You’ve planned, packed, and now it’s time for the adventure to begin! The actual camping trip is where all this hard work pays off.

However, there are also steps you can take to set you and your pet up for success.

Here are some tips to help you ensure your outdoor adventures with your pet are safe, respectful, and incredibly fun:

Arrival & Settling In

When you first arrive at your campsite, allow your pet to explore and acclimate to their new surroundings for a few minutes.

  • Explore on Leash: When first checking out the campsite, do so with your pet on leash. This will help them familiarize themselves with the smells and sounds of their new temporary “home” while ensuring you’re prepared for trouble. This is an ideal time to look around and identify potential concerns, like high-traffic areas you must block off for visually triggered dogs.
  • Set Up Home Base: Immediately set up their designated “home base.” For some pets, that’s a travel crate, a pet tent, or their comfy bed. This familiar space will give them a sense of security as they settle in. For our cats, it’s their portable playpen. Our dogs’ travel mats work for both backcountry and car camping travels.
  • Stick to Routines: Try to stick to your pet’s regular routines as much as possible, especially for potty breaks and mealtimes. This predictability helps your pet feel more comfortable as they know what to expect, significantly reducing stress in a new environment.

Campground Etiquette & Safety

Being a responsible pet parent at a campground is about more than just keeping your pet safe and comfortable.

You also need to take steps to respect the enjoyment of everyone else in the area.

This includes other neighbouring campers as well as the trails, dog beaches, and other shared spaces.

  • Leash Laws are Non-Negotiable: This is perhaps the most important rule. ALWAYS keep your pet on a leash in leash-required areas. Even if your pet has perfect recall at home, the rules are in place for a reason. They can only be off-leash in these spaces when they are safely contained. No exceptions. If allowing your pet off-leash is important to you, go to designated off-leash areas. Everyone deserves to enjoy these outdoor spaces – including reactive pets, pets in training, people who are afraid of pets, etc.
  • Waste Management: Pick up all your pet’s waste, every single time. Pack out what you pack in. This isn’t just about courtesy; pet waste can introduce diseases or excess nutrients that upset the delicate balance of the local ecosystem.
  • Noise Control: While some barking is normal, try to minimize excessive noise. If your pet is prone to barking at every passing squirrel or camper, work on distraction techniques or consider calming aids. Ensure you know and respect quiet hours in the campground.
  • Respect Wildlife: Keep your pet away from wildlife. Not only can pets disturb the natural environment, but encounters with wild animals can create dangerous situations. This includes stopping your pets from chasing squirrels or birds; it’s not “cute.” It also means keeping them from disturbing nests and dens.
  • Supervision: Never leave your pet unattended at the campsite, even if they are crated or inside a tent or trailer. Unexpected situations can arise quickly, and unattended pets can cause disturbances or get into trouble. Most established parks and campgrounds have rules against this, which can carry hefty fines.
  • Interaction with Others: Never assume other pets and people want to interact with your pet. Always gauge social cues and ask before approaching someone. Be ready to get your pet to safety if they seem hesitant or uncomfortable.
view inside a tent with a bed and a cat playpen | How to Plan Your First Camping Trip with Pets
View inside our tent with the playpen in place for our cats

Exploring Beyond the Campsite

Of course, camping isn’t just about the campsite. We love exploring the hiking trails, dog beaches, and other beautiful outdoor spaces.

Here are some essential considerations for enjoying these natural areas:

  • Trail Rules: Before hitting the trails, research whether they are pet-friendly and what the specific leash requirements are. Some trails might have restrictions during certain seasons due to safety concerns or for specific wildlife protection. Longer trails, like the Bruce Trail, may have pet-free sections.
  • Water Safety: If your adventures include water activities like canoeing or kayaking, ensure your pet wears a well-fitting life vest. Always check the water quality before letting your pet drink from or swim in natural sources – pay attention to any warnings or restrictions relating to risks like blue-green algae. Be aware of strong currents or dangerous underwater obstacles.
  • Be Mindful of Surfaces: The surfaces your pet is walking on could pose a risk. Hot asphalt, sharp rocks, rough ice, thorns, burrs, or foxtails can injure paws. Consider protective booties for rough terrain or concerning surfaces. You can always pack them away in your pack if they aren’t necessary.
  • Hydration & Breaks: Just like you, your pet needs frequent water breaks, especially during physical activity on warm days. Carry plenty of water for both of you and offer it regularly. If your dog is playing in the water (Lucifer LOVES playing fetch while swimming), regularly enforced breaks can help reduce the risk of water intoxication.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Know what to do if you encounter local wildlife like bears, coyotes, snakes, or porcupines. Keep your pet close, remain calm, and never let your pet chase or provoke wild animals.
  • Weather Awareness: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. A sunny morning can quickly turn into a thunderstorm, especially at certain times of year, so pack appropriate gear. For example, our dogs have Rovercoat Rain Coats that easily pack up to carry on the go.  

Troubleshooting Common Camping Pet Issues

Despite your best efforts, issues can arise. Knowing how to troubleshoot these common problems can help you manage them effectively.

  • Anxiety/Stress: If your pet shows signs of stress (pacing, panting, whining), try to provide comfort to help them relax. This can include familiar items like their favourite toy or blanket, calming treats or supplements, or a little downtime in their quiet “home base.” Identify and manage the triggers of this stress. For example, when camping with our reactive dog, we have to restrict visuals, such as people walking past on the road or views of the neighbouring sites.
  • Overheating/Hypothermia: Recognize the signs of overheating (excessive panting, lethargy, confusion) or hypothermia (shivering, cold to the touch). Know basic pet first aid for these conditions and when to seek immediate veterinary care.
  • Injuries: Always carry a pet-specific first aid kit. Know the basics of first aid for minor cuts, scrapes, or paw issues. Locate the nearest veterinary clinic before your trip in case of anything more serious. Check your first aid kit regularly to ensure it’s fully stocked.
  • Lost Pet Protocol: In the unfortunate event your pet goes missing, having up-to-date ID tags (with your cell number), ensuring they are microchipped, and knowing local animal control or shelter contacts can significantly improve your chances of a happy reunion. We also add temporary tags with our campsite numbers and the dates of our travels when staying in established campgrounds.
cat standing outside in the grass | How to Plan Your First Camping Trip with Pets
Theia exploring outdoors on leash

Post-Trip Reflections

Congratulations! You’ve successfully completed your first camping trip with your beloved pet.

Now that your gear is packed and the paw prints are (mostly) washed off, it’s time for a quick debrief to make your next adventure even better.

Debrief Your Trip

Take a moment to reflect on your experience. We highly recommend writing down the following:

  • Assess & Improve: What went well during the trip? Perhaps your pet settled into their crate beautifully or gravitated to relaxing in a specific area of the campsite. Equally important, what could be improved? Maybe you realized you needed more outdoor toys for the campsite, or your pet struggled with a particular sound.
  • Gear Check: Note any gear you wish you had but didn’t – an extra water bottle, a more comfortable dog bed, or better paw protection. Additionally, write down any gear you brought and never used. This helps you refine your packing list for future trips.
  • Campsite Specific: Take notes on the campground and campsite you stayed at this trip. Was the campsite ideal? If so, it may be a return spot. If not, what would you have changed? This will help you search for a better fit next time.

Looking for a new campsite for your next adventure? Check out our list of pet-friendly campsite reviews HERE.

Pet Health Check

Once home, thoroughly check your pet for any ticks, new injuries, or unusual changes in their health or behavior.

Sometimes, the excitement of a trip can mask minor issues.

Don’t be surprised if your pet is tired and resting for a few days after traveling. All the new scents, sights, and experiences can be exhausting!

Continuous Improvement

Did your trip not quite go as planned? Did you experience some struggles or challenges? That’s okay! Every trip is a learning experience.

Recognizing these “hiccups” can help you set yourself up for success next time.

  • Gradual Progression: Don’t feel pressured to immediately jump into a week-long backcountry trek. In fact, the best option for a first trip is a short time (like a single night or a weekend) in a campground close to home. Have to cut it short? No problem! Try again next time. Gradually increase the length and difficulty of your trips as both you and your pet gain confidence and experience.
  • Ongoing Training: Continue reinforcing training and socialization between trips. The more you expose your pet to various environments and situations, the more adaptable they’ll become.

Emphasize the Joy

Despite any challenges, always remember the incredible joy of sharing these experiences.

Your first trip is a learning curve, filled with unexpected moments and happy memories. We know, we were all new to camping with pets at one time!

But seeing the pure delight of exploring new smells and cuddling by the campfire together makes every bit of planning and every minor challenge absolutely worth it.

We can’t imagine an adventure now without our pets by our side.

two dogs sitting outside a tent in a pinterest graphic | How to Plan Your First Camping Trip with Pets

Start Camping with Your Pet Today!

Taking your first camping trip with your pet might seem like a big undertaking. But with careful preparation, a focus on safety, and an awareness of campground etiquette, you’re setting yourself up for unforgettable memories.

Sharing the peace of the wilderness with your pet is an incredibly rewarding experience. So, take the leap!

Plan that first adventure, embrace the learning curve, and enjoy this quality time with your best friend.

What are your top tips for camping with pets? Share your first camping trip memories with your pet in the comments below!

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