How to create a Pet-Friendly Camper Van

Believe us, we get it– your furry friend is absolutely joining you for the adventure. Traveling in a camper van is the best way to see the world, and for pet owners, it's an amazing opportunity to share these experiences with your favorite companions. From the sandstone deserts to towering cedar forests, your pets will be just as excited as you to sniff, run, and explore new places.

Before you hit the road, there are some important considerations to keep both you and your pets happy, healthy, and safe on the road. Keep reading for essential tips on how to create a pet-friendly van so that the journey is enjoyable for the whole family!

The Joy of Traveling with Pets in a Camper Van

Traveling with pets in campervans opens up a world of possibilities for both owners and their furry friends. Unlike traditional vacations, where pets might be left behind or confined to unfamiliar spaces, camper van travel allows them to be part of the adventure every step of the way. From hiking trails to beachside campsites, pets can explore new environments and form deeper bonds with their owners.

At Noovo, many of our customers bring dogs (and cats!) along for the ride. They curl up on the cozy queen bed, ride in the passenger seat, or snooze in their crate in the storage area. Once a pet has acclimated to the space and feels safe, traveling with them can add a whole new layer of fun and adventure to the journey.

Questions to Ask Before Traveling with a Pet

Creating a camper van that's comfortable and safe for your pets may require specific modifications and considerations. But first, it is important to ask yourself: is vanlife something my pet will truly enjoy? Do they get anxious while traveling? What comforts at home could I bring or recreate to make them feel safe? How well do they do in new places and meeting other people and pets? Do they need regular medications or prescription refills? Are the places I am going pet-friendly? (Most national parks, for example, do not allow pets outside of vehicles.)

There are some pets for whom traveling might not be the best option, and it is important to understand this before heading out for a trip.

Creating Secure and Comfortable Spaces for Pets in Vans

Each pet is different in what they need to be comfortable. Older pets might need more cushions for their joints, whereas more energetic pets might need a crate or harness to secure them while driving. Designate a cozy corner or bed where they can relax and feel at home. Consider installing non-slip flooring to prevent slips and falls, especially for older or anxious pets. Noovo vans’ under bed storage space, with access from inside the van, is a customer favorite for crates and pet beds as it feels safe for the pets and also keeps the bed and dining area free for humans to sit.

Must-Have Pet Accessories for Your Camper Van

Before you leave on your adventure, stock up on essential pet supplies such as food and treats, foldable or stackable food and water bowls, small toys, waste bags, and bedding. Portable pet ramps or steps can make it easier for them to access elevated areas like beds or seating areas. Additionally, pack a pet first-aid kit, including any necessary medications and grooming tools. Depending on where you are traveling, a rattlesnake bite kit for dogs would also be a good item to keep accessible!

Other accessories we love are the Fi GPS collar, cat window hammocks, stackable and stowable treat and food bins, foldable outdoor elevated dog beds, ramps to the door or bed, and retractable leads for hanging out outside or at camp.

Safety First: Pet Travel Tips for Vanlife

Vanlife should be an enjoyable adventure for all involved! Traveling with pets in a camper van requires careful attention to their safety and well-being. Here are some of our top tips for keeping pets safe and healthy while traveling:

• Make sure they are always secured in a crate or on a leash when you open the doors so they don’t escape.(This happens more than you think!)
  
• Offer fresh water at rest stops and keep a bowl filled when parked. Many pets tend to pant more while traveling either due to anxiety, excitement, or temperature, so they might require more water than usual!
  
• If your pet is free to roam inside the vehicle while driving, make sure they do not get under your feet or interfere with your ability to drive safely.
  
• Before departing, make sure your pets are up-to-date on vaccinations and have current ID tags, and carry their medical records with you. If traveling out of the country, know the pet requirements wherever you are going. Countries like Canada and Mexico may ask for proof of certain vaccinations upon entry.
  
• Regularly check for ticks, fleas, and other pests, especially after outdoor excursions. It is also a good idea to bathe your pet frequently while traveling (for them and for the cleanliness of your campervan!) Many towns and pet stores have self-serve doggy-wash stations, which are a quick and easy way to keep them clean.
  
• If you are hiking or biking with your pet, make sure to bring enough water for them and take breaks often. Even though your dog can keep up, they still need snacks and water too! If your dog is trailing behind or trying to find shade, this may be a sign they need a rest.
  
• Never leave pets unattended in the camper van, especially in hot temperatures, unless you leave the AC running. Although vans are better insulated than other vehicles, the temperatures can quickly rise and can become life-threatening.
  
• It is also a good idea to get pet insurance. You never know what they might ingest or injure while traveling, and emergency vet visits are not cheap. Insurance can be an (actual) lifesaver!
  

Engaging Your Pets During Long Drives

Long drives can be tedious for both pets and owners, but with some creativity, you can keep them entertained and engaged. Know what helps your pet feel happy, calm, and safe, and try to maintain this environment for them!

Exercise and Entertainment Ideas for Traveling with Pets

Schedule regular breaks for walks and playtime at pet-friendly rest stops or parks. Exercise is one of the best ways to keep your pet happy! Sniffing new places or going for a quick jog can help get the jitters out. While driving, interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and chew treats like rawhides or bones can help keep your pet busy. You can fill a KONG with peanut butter and freeze it, giving your dog something to preoccupy them while driving. Consider playing calming music or using pheromone diffusers to reduce anxiety in nervous pets. Once you are parked for the night, make sure they have a regular spot to find their bed, food, and water.

Planning Your Trip: Finding Pet-Friendly Stops

From dog parks to pet-friendly hiking trails and open spaces, you can almost always find somewhere for your pet to stretch their legs and have some fun. There are many campgrounds that have pet-friendly spaces or trails. There are even pet-focused campgrounds like 4 Paws Kingdom in North Carolina!

Some places are more welcoming than others to pets, so it is great to know ahead of time which policies are in place. Certain national and state parks, wildlife preserves, and other protected areas often don’t allow pets. As always, be mindful of leash requirements. BringFido is a great resource for finding pet-friendly camping, parks, restaurants, trails, hotels, and more!

Stories and Tips from the Vanlife Community

It is estimated that 66% of households in the US have a pet, and many Noovo customers have eagerly jumped into vanlife with their furry friends. Some owners even have a hard time convincing their pets to get out of the van when they return home! If you are wondering which modifications to make to your van for your pet or how to travel safely with them, reach out to one of our Noovo Ambassadors to hear their experience. Many pets have embraced vanlife with their owners and become true road warriors, adventuring around the world together.

Life in a campervan with your dog or cat (or…?) can be an exciting adventure, but it is one that involves thoughtful planning and a commitment to prioritizing your pet's comfort and safety. By incorporating these tips and tricks into making a pet-friendly van, you can enjoy unforgettable adventures with your furry companions, exploring the open road and creating lasting memories together.

Have a story about vanlife with pets? Reach out, we would love to hear it!