Pet Travel Checklist: What to Do Before Your Easter Road Trip
The bags are packed, the snacks are sorted, the playlist is ready—and your dog’s already figured out something exciting is happening. Easter getaways are part of the rhythm of Aussie life. And for many families, that includes a four-legged passenger, curled up in the backseat or supervising from the boot.
But while the holiday mood kicks in fast, pet travel takes more than just tossing a bowl and lead in the car. From unexpected pit stops to parasite risks in unfamiliar places, there’s a bit more to think about if you want your pet to arrive safe, calm, and ready to relax (just like you).
This checklist covers everything you’ll need to prepare your pet for the Easter road trip—from the must-pack essentials to the things people usually forget until it’s too late. Because let’s be honest: no one wants to spend their long weekend Googling “emergency vet near me” from a holiday house with no reception.
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How To Get Your Pet Travel-Ready
Whether your pet loves the car or needs convincing to get in, a little groundwork can make the journey smoother for everyone. Travel isn’t just about getting from A to B—it’s about arriving with your sanity (and their stomach) intact.
Start with safety: pets should always be restrained in the car. That means a crash-tested harness, a properly secured crate, or a barrier if they’re in the back of an SUV. It’s not just for your pet’s safety—it protects you, too. In an accident, an unrestrained pet becomes a projectile.
If your pet doesn’t travel often, try a few short drives in the weeks leading up to your trip. Watch for early signs of motion sickness or anxiety—panting, drooling, whining, restlessness—and speak to your vet if needed. There are calming products, supplements, and even prescription options available that can make a big difference.
Before you leave, plan your stops. Dogs (and some brave cats) will need toilet breaks, fresh water, and a stretch every couple of hours. Aim for shaded rest areas or quieter parks—somewhere safe to sniff and reset.
Now for the travel bag. Here’s what should be on your list:
- Food—enough for the whole trip, with extra in case of delays
- Any medications, clearly labelled with dosage instructions
- Water and a collapsible bowl
- Familiar bedding or a favourite toy—something that smells like home
- Poo bags or a litter tray (don’t assume you’ll find one at the servo)
- Updated ID tag and microchip info linked to your current number
And here’s a trick that works wonders: give your pet a decent walk before you hit the road. A tired dog (or a content cat) is far more likely to nap through the drive—and that means fewer stops, less whining, and more peace up front.
Protection Against Parasites (and Other Travel Risks)
Holiday mode tends to lower our guard—but parasites don’t take time off. Travelling with your pet means exposing them to new environments, new wildlife, and new risks. And depending on where you’re headed, those risks might look very different from what you deal with at home.
Before you hit the road, make sure your pet’s parasite prevention is up to date—and tailored to your destination.
If you’re staying in:
- Coastal or bush areas in SE QLD or Northern NSW → paralysis ticks are a real concern. They’re still active in autumn and can be fatal without prompt treatment.
- Tropical or sub-tropical zones → think mosquito-borne heartworm, especially if you’re camping, staying near water, or heading north.
- Beaches and estuaries → sandflies and midges can irritate pets (and humans), and roundworm or hookworm larvae can live in the sand.
If your pet’s dose is due mid-holiday, give us a call for advice—giving preventatives a few days early may offer better coverage while you’re away.
While you’re away:
- Do daily body checks, especially after walks or time in long grass or gardens. Feel for ticks (around the ears, armpits, belly, between the toes) and scan for any new bumps, scabs, or signs of irritation.
- Wipe down paws and bellies after outdoor time—this helps remove allergens, burrs, and potential irritants before they can cause trouble.
- Bring a small travel kit with flea comb, tick remover, saline, and basic wound care items. It takes up no space and could save a midnight panic trip.
After you return:
- Keep a close eye on your pet for a few days. Lethargy, limping, vomiting, or skin flare-ups can sometimes take time to appear.
- If something feels off—even subtly—it’s worth a call or consult. Some tick-related illnesses or infections have delayed symptoms.
📌 Quick tip: Travelling with kids? Keeping your pet protected helps keep them protected too—some parasites (like certain intestinal worms) can transfer to humans through soil, sand, or pet waste. A well-covered pet = peace of mind for the whole crew.
Check-Ups, Certificates & Travel Documents
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Trip
No one wants to find out their pet isn’t travel-ready when they’re already at the holiday house. Avoid the last-minute rush by getting these important checks and documents sorted ahead of time. A bit of prep now will keep your pet safe and your journey stress-free.
- Health Check: A pre-travel vet visit is a must. It’s especially important for older pets, those with chronic conditions, or pets who are new to travel. Your vet will ensure they’re fit for the trip and discuss any adjustments to their regular care or meds.
- Vaccination Boosters: If your trip involves dog parks, boarding facilities, or contact with other animals, make sure your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations. Don’t skip kennel cough preventatives if they’ll be near other dogs. Many pet-friendly accommodations and boarding services will require proof of vaccination, so check the requirements before you book.
- Travel Certificates: Some pet-friendly accommodations or pet transport services (especially interstate) will ask for travel certificates. These certificates typically show that your pet has been checked by a vet and is fit to travel. Get these early in case they’re needed.
- Microchip Info: Update your pet’s microchip details before you head out. Make sure your contact information is accurate, as it’s your pet’s best chance of getting back to you if they go missing during the trip.
- Medications: If your pet requires specific medications – make sure you have enough for the trip, plus a little extra in case of delays (you can order medications online here). It’s a good idea to bring a copy of their prescription, just in case you need to refill it while away.
📌 Quick Tip: Check that your pet’s collar ID tag includes an up-to-date contact number and address. If you’re travelling far from home, consider adding your pet’s microchip number on the tag too.
Accommodation, Routine, and Setting Realistic Expectations
Don’t Just Book ‘Pet-Friendly’—Check What That Means
Pet-friendly doesn’t always mean pet-safe. Many places will advertise themselves as “pet-friendly,” but it’s important to dive deeper and ensure the accommodations are truly suitable for your pet’s needs.
Before booking, take the time to confirm the following:
- Pet Policies: Ensure the property truly accommodates pets, not just allows them. Check for things like whether pets are restricted to certain areas, if there’s a fenced yard or secure outdoor space, and if there are any extra fees or restrictions on your pet’s breed or size.
- Fencing and Space: A secure yard is a must, especially for dogs. Ensure the fencing is high enough, secure, and free from gaps your pet could slip through. If your pet is prone to escape, consider a leash when outside.
- Sleeping Arrangements: Bring familiar bedding, toys, or their crate to help them feel settled. New environments can be unsettling, and having something that smells like home will help with the transition.
- Routine Maintenance: Pets thrive on consistency, even when you’re on the go. Stick to their usual feeding times, walk schedules, and bathroom routines. We recommend bringing along their regular food to avoid stomach upsets from changes in diet.
- Cat Care: Cats can be more sensitive to travel than dogs. If your pet is staying indoors, ensure the space is safe for them to roam—close off any areas where they might hide or become stressed. Bringing a crate with their bedding can help them feel secure.
- Bringing Other Pets?: Small pets, birds, or reptiles? Check that the place is truly safe for them. For example, birds should be kept indoors and out of direct sunlight, while reptiles need their heating lamps to stay consistent. If travel is unnecessary for smaller pets, consider leaving them at home with a sitter.
📌 Quick Tip: If your pet isn’t used to long car rides or unfamiliar surroundings, consider making the trip shorter or more manageable by staying in pet-friendly places closer to home—no point in stressing your pet (or yourself) with too much travel.
Travel First Aid and Emergency Prep
When you’re on the road with your pet, accidents don’t take holidays. It’s a good idea to be prepared for any minor emergencies that might pop up—whether it’s a small injury, unexpected illness, or a general “what now?” moment.
Here’s what to pack in your travel first aid kit:
- Saline solution: For flushing out wounds or eyes if needed.
- Gauze and bandages: In case of small cuts or scrapes.
- Blunt-ended scissors: To trim fur away from injuries or tick removals.
- Tick remover: If you’re heading somewhere known for ticks, always have one on hand.
- Antiseptic wipes: For cleaning wounds before bandaging.
- Basic medications: If your pet is on any regular meds, be sure you have enough for the whole trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays.
While it might seem overboard, these items are compact and can save you a lot of stress if something minor happens. When you’re in a new place, it can take time to find a vet, and a first aid kit means you’re prepared no matter what happens.
Beyond the first aid kit, take a few extra steps:
- Emergency vet contact: Before you leave, research and save the contact information for the nearest emergency vet clinic at your destination. You never want to be scrambling to find one in the middle of the night.
- Know the signs: Familiarise yourself with the signs of heatstroke, dehydration, and motion sickness, and have a plan for how to deal with them.
- Keep your vet’s contact handy: If your pet has an ongoing medical issue or you just want reassurance, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to your vet to discuss travel-related concerns.
Travel Checklist
- Secure pet carrier, crate, or travel harness for safety
- Practice car trips to check for anxiety or motion sickness
- Plan rest stops for water, toilet breaks, and exercise
- Bring along familiar food, meds, bedding, and water
- Update pet ID tags and microchip info
- Ensure flea, tick, and worm preventatives are up to date
- Schedule a pre-trip vet check (especially for older pets or those with health issues)
- Pack a travel-sized first aid kit (saline, gauze, tick remover, bandages)
- Confirm pet-friendly accommodation policies (fencing, space, restrictions)
- Have emergency vet contacts saved on your phone
- Stick to your pet’s routine as much as possible (meals, walks, meds)
Secure Your Spot Before the Holiday Rush
Planning a trip with your pet this Easter? We’re here to make sure they’re safe, healthy, and ready to roll. From pre-travel check-ups to emergency prep, our team can help get everything sorted well before your holiday begins.
Book your pet’s pre-Easter check-up today—appointments fill quickly before the long weekend!
FAQ: Traveling with Your Pet
Ideally, you should start preparing at least 2–3 weeks before your trip. This gives you time to address any potential health concerns, start short car trips for nervous pets, and ensure all vaccinations, preventatives, and medications are up to date. If your pet has travel anxiety or motion sickness, early preparation (like practicing short drives) can make a huge difference.
Motion sickness is common, especially on longer trips. Start with short car rides to build your pet’s tolerance. If they’re still struggling, talk to your vet—they may suggest calming medications, supplements, or natural remedies like ginger. Keeping the car cool and offering water frequently can also help.
Yes, even short trips can expose your pet to new environments with different parasites. Fleas are prevalent year-round, but particularly in warmer or humid areas. If your pet isn’t on regular flea prevention, they can pick them up anywhere—especially if you’re travelling near parks, beaches, or wooded areas. Ensure their flea, tick, and worm prevention is up to date before leaving.
While flea and tick preventatives are highly effective, no product guarantees 100% protection. If you’re travelling to areas with high tick prevalence, like bushland or coastal regions, ticks can still attach before the preventative kicks in. Be vigilant about checking your pet for ticks after each outdoor adventure, especially in vulnerable areas like the ears, underarms, and belly.
Travel can sometimes be stressful for pets, and that stress can aggravate underlying health issues. Always have your pet’s medical history and a list of any medications they’re currently on. If you notice changes in your pet’s behaviour or health (like vomiting, lethargy, or unusual discomfort), don’t hesitate to consult with a vet—either over the phone or in person. Having the contact details of an emergency vet in the area is key.
Heatstroke can occur quickly, especially during long car trips or in unfamiliar places where your pet may not have access to shade. Key symptoms include heavy panting, drooling, weakness, confusion, vomiting, and collapse. To prevent it, never leave your pet in a hot car, and take frequent breaks during travel for water and rest. Keep your car cool, and avoid driving during the hottest part of the day.
Absolutely. A pre-travel vet visit ensures your pet is fit for the journey. This is especially important for older pets or those with chronic health issues. The vet can check for any potential travel-related risks, ensure their vaccinations are up to date, and give you specific advice on handling any existing medical conditions during the trip.
Yes, always bring enough medication for the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Ensure you have clear instructions on how to administer any medication. You might want to pack their meds in a separate container to make it easier to track. Don’t forget to check that your pet’s medication hasn’t expired!
Pet-friendly accommodations can be fantastic, but always confirm exactly what that means. Some places only allow pets in certain areas or may have restrictions on breed, size, or number of pets. Double-check if there are specific pet rules (like keeping pets on a leash at all times or restrictions on leaving pets unattended in the room). It’s best to ask about local pet policies in advance, including extra fees, and whether pets are allowed in the yard or garden.
Make sure you know the location of the nearest emergency vet clinic before leaving, and save their contact details. If your pet gets sick or injured, call ahead and explain the situation. If you’re staying in an unfamiliar place, ask the vet if they have a referral network or if there’s a specialist in the area. Always keep a first aid kit in your car to manage minor injuries until you can get professional care.
Puppies and kittens have weaker immune systems than adult pets, so be extra cautious. Make sure they’re up to date on vaccinations before travelling, and avoid exposing them to public places or other animals until they’re fully vaccinated. Short trips with these young pets can be manageable, but consider your destination—long car rides may be too stressful for them, especially if they’re still in the process of adjusting to new environments.
Many pets, especially dogs, experience travel anxiety. To minimize stress:
- Avoid feeding them a big meal before the trip, as that can lead to motion sickness.
- Play calming music or use pheromone sprays to keep them relaxed.
- Consider natural calming remedies like lavender oil or pet-specific anxiety chews, but always check with your vet first.
Keep things calm and predictable—avoid loud noises or sudden changes in routine during travel.
Check with the accommodation ahead of time about their pet policy. Most places prefer you don’t leave your pet unattended, but if it’s a necessity, make sure your pet is comfortable in their crate with their bedding and a treat to occupy them. If possible, bring a pet-sitter or ask the front desk if they offer pet-sitting services. Always ensure your pet has access to fresh water and isn’t exposed to extreme temperatures.
First, don’t panic. You’ve already set yourself up for success by keeping your pet’s microchip information updated and having current ID tags. If your pet is lost:
- Contact local animal shelters and vet clinics immediately.
- Post on local lost pet groups and social media.
- Walk around the area, calling your pet’s name.
- If staying at a hotel or Airbnb, inform the management, as they may have had lost pets reported.
Every pet is different, but signs that your pet is adjusting well include:
- Eating and drinking normally
- Sleeping comfortably during car rides
- Not showing signs of extreme anxiety, like drooling, excessive panting, or refusing to walk If your pet is not adjusting well, take extra care with routine, try to minimise disruptions, and speak to your vet for tips on calming them during the trip.
