16 Best Dog Travel Accessories for 2024
Vacationing with your pet doesn’t have to be a hassle or cause a headache. With the right equipment and accessories, traveling with your dog can be a lot of fun — and really memorable, too. From carriers and seat covers, to waste bags and water bowls, we’ve rounded up the 16 best accessories for every size of dog and every type of travel.
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16 best dog travel accessories for road trips, flights, and more
1. Best calming treats: Pet Naturals
If your dog is prone to anxiety during travel, you’ll definitely want to look into these calming treats from Pet Naturals. Not only are these treats veterinarian-approved, but they’re made using naturally sourced, calming ingredients like L-Theanine, Colostrum, and Thiamine. When consumed together, these three ingredients help to manage stress, reduce irritability, and support a relaxed state — meaning your pup is bound to be on their very best behavior.
Price range: starting at $8
2. Best airplane travel carrier: Wild One
If your upcoming travels involve taking a plane and your fur baby is on the smaller side (i.e. less than 16 lbs), then we highly recommend this travel carrier from Wild One. Constructed with breathable mesh walls, this carrier comes with a dual-use leash and shoulder strap and even has an interior cushion that folds out to become a comfortable dog bed. The carrier is airline compliant and comes in three fun colors (the spruce being our fave).
Price range: starting at $125
3. Best organizational kit: Modoker
This organizational tote from Modoker is equipped with nearly everything you need for taking your dog on the go. Inside this travel bag you’ll find: (2) zippered food carriers; (2) collapsible food bowls; (1) water-resistant placemat; and a large inner compartment to stash pet treats, toys, and more. Plus, this kit comes with multiple pockets and an adjustable strap to give you a customized fit. But the best part? This bag is perfectly sized to fit under an airline seat!
Price range: starting at $36
4. Best waterless shampoo: Wahl
Wahl’s waterless, no rinse pet shampoo is a convenient option for keeping your dog looking and smelling as fresh as possible. On top of being pH balanced, this oatmeal and coconut lime blend is also alcohol and paraben-free — so you know it’s going to be super gentle. You can use this shampoo for cleaning, conditioning, and moisturizing your dog’s coat (without any water required). Then, you can quickly dry them off with a towel and the two of you are good to go!
Price range: starting at $6
5. Best waste bags: PET N PET
Picking up after your dog isn’t exactly the highlight of being a pet owner, but it *is* the reality of the situation. And that’s why you’ll need to bring waste bags any time you travel with your pup. We’re recommending these bags from PET N PET because they’re durable, leak-proof, and easy to tear whenever you need to grab one. We also love that this purchase comes with a free dispenser and leash clip, so all your bags stay organized and readily accessible.
Price range: starting at $15
6. Best sling carrier: TOMKAS
The TOMKAS sling carrier is a great accessory for toting your small dog when they’re tired of walking or you just want to keep them extra close. With this handy sling bag, you can make sure your dog is safe and secure at all times — which is especially important when you’re navigating large crowds and/or there are larger dogs nearby. This design is made from machine washable materials, comes with multiple zippered pockets, and can actually be worn two different ways.
Price range: starting at $18
7. Best multipurpose carrier: Ibiyaya
If your dog is too big to fit in a sling, you might like this multipurpose pet carrier instead. Ibiyaya’s 5-in-1 product can be used as a (1) backpack, (2) stroller, (3) shoulder carrier, (4) car seat, or (5) rolling carrier for wheeling your dog everywhere you go. Talk about traveling in style! This pet carrier is highly rated for its easy maneuvering, but we’d also like to point out that it's manufactured according to baby stroller standards (so you know it’s incredibly safe).
Price range: starting at $196
8. Best first aid kit: ARCA PET
Nobody wants to think about their dog getting sick or injured while on vacation, but it’s best to be prepared/get ahead of any first aid situations with your beloved pet. This first aid kit from ARCA PET is full of useful tools to help you take care of your furry friend. There’s a medicine feeder, digital thermometer, cotton swabs, eye wash solution, and more. With this convenient, yet comprehensive kit, you’ll be more than ready on the off chance an emergency occurs.
Price range: starting at $39
9. Best waterproof booties: QUMY
Aside from being super functional, these waterproof booties are undoubtedly the cutest accessory on our list. This design from QUMY comes with tons of smart features you (and your dog) will love — anti-slip soles for walking wet roads or hiking trails, adjustable straps for ensuring a tight fit, and reflective details for keeping safe at night. Although these booties aren’t a necessity for every dog, they’ll likely be worth it if you’re traveling to a rainy climate.
Price range: starting at $28
10. Best back seat cover: Active Pets
Road trips are a lot of fun, especially if your four-legged friend comes along for the ride. The trouble is, dogs have a tendency to shed — and all that hair can make a big mess in the back of your car. Luckily, this back seat cover from Active Pets keeps your car clean while making sure your dog doesn’t slide around as you’re cruising down the highway. This cover is sturdy, waterproof, and compatible with nearly any size car or SUV you might drive.
Price range: starting at $34
11. Best booster seat: Henkelion
If you prefer to have your dog ride next to you in the front seat, you might like this little booster from Henkelion. This product can accommodate small to medium-sized dogs (up to 30 lbs), and prevents them from jumping or sliding all over the place while you’re out on the open road. Henkelion’s design is waterproof, breathable, and fixed with two safety belts to keep it from collapsing. When you’re not using this seat, it folds down flat as a board to save you space.
Price range: starting at $21
12. Best food and water bowls: SLSON
While the organizational kit from Modoker does come with two bowls, you’ll need to buy these separately if you decide to pass on the tote. In that case, we’d suggest these food and water bowls from SLSON. This two-pack set has a lightweight, collapsible design that’s ideal for saving space in your suitcase. In addition, these bowls have a climbing buckle that’ll easily attach to a backpack or leash so you can carry them with you wherever you go.
Price range: starting at $6
13. Best grooming wipes: Earth Rated
Grooming wipes are a great way to freshen up your pet on the fly. These Earth Rated wipes are pretty much raved about — not only do they get the job done, but they’re plant-based, compostable, and hypoallergenic (so they’ll be gentle on even the most sensitive skin). Whether you need to clean your dog’s face, paws, feet, or backside, these wipes are sure to do the trick. And because they’re compostable, you can reduce your carbon footprint at the same time.
Price range: starting at $9
14. Best collapsible crate: MidWest Homes for Pets
The MidWest Homes foldable crate gives your dog a safe place to be while the two of you travel together. This crate includes a divider panel, leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, and a carrying handle for ease of transport. In addition, this product is quick to assemble and to break down — it sets up in just seconds with no tools required, and then folds down flat whenever you need to pack it up. With over 130,000 reviews, you really can’t go wrong with this one!
Price range: starting at $84
15. Best bike basket: BARKBAY
Renting a bike is a fun and affordable way to explore a new city — and it’s also an activity you can enjoy with your dog. If you parent a small pup, BARKBAY has the bike basket for you. This carrier has a padded, sheepskin liner for super comfy ride, and comes with a removable ‘floor board’ for easy cleaning of any messes. There’s also security features that prevent your dog from jumping out, as well as a front window that’ll cool them down on warm days.
Price range: starting at $49
16. Best portable bed: Furhaven
Furhaven’s portable dog bed has an open design that allows your pet to stretch out and sleep in whatever position they want. This bed has a low profile, smooth surface, and tons of batting for enhanced snuggling and burrowing comfort. But what we love most is that this product folds down into its own stuff sack for easy storage while you’re on the go. Bring this bed along when you and your dog are camping, backpacking, or going for an afternoon picnic.
Price range: starting at $24
Dog travel accessories - common FAQs
What should I bring for my dog on a trip?
When you take your dog on vacation with you, there are a few essential items you’ll want to make sure to pack. Generally speaking, you’ll need to bring a sturdy leash, portable bowls, waste bags, grooming wipes, and a towel or blanket they can use to lounge on/dry off.
What can I give my dog to help them travel?
If your dog needs help with traveling, you can give them a bone, rope, or similar chew toy to keep them occupied in transit. You can also roll down your windows so they get some fresh air, and take breaks every few hours so they can get out and stretch their legs.
How do I calm my dog while on a road trip?
Just like humans, dogs can get anxiety as they’re traveling. If your dog feels scared in a car or in the air, there are prescriptions available to help ease their nerves. Alternatively, you can use calming treats with naturally sourced ingredients that won’t sedate or upset them.