Taking a dog on a motorhome trip can change the pace of travel in a positive way. Walks become part of the day rather than something to fit around it, stops feel more purposeful, and many owners find their dog settles quickly once the vehicle begins to feel familiar.

That said, travelling with a pet does bring a few extra considerations. A small amount of preparation before setting off usually makes journeys smoother and helps avoid unexpected issues once you are on site or on the road.

What to pack for your dog

Most regular motorhome owners eventually keep a small “dog touring kit” ready to go. Having essentials stored together saves time before departure and reduces the chance of leaving something important behind.

Food is the obvious starting point, but consistency matters just as much as quantity. Changing brands mid-trip can unsettle some dogs, particularly during longer journeys. A familiar bowl, bedding or blanket can also make a noticeable difference when settling in overnight somewhere new.

Alongside everyday items such as leads and waste bags, it is sensible to include:

• a spare towel for wet paws after walks;
• a portable water container for travel days;
• a basic tick remover;
• vaccination details if required by campsites;
• any regular medication.

Some owners also note the location of the nearest veterinary practice before arriving at a destination, especially when touring further from home than usual.

Dog-friendly campsites

Across the UK, many touring parks welcome dogs, although the details can vary between sites. Some allow more than one pet per pitch, while others may ask that dogs remain on leads outside designated exercise areas.

Checking these details in advance helps avoid last-minute changes of plan and makes it easier to choose a location suited to your dog’s routine.

Sites that regularly host touring pets often provide small but useful features such as waste points, walking areas and access to nearby countryside routes. Coastal paths, woodland tracks and canal-side walks are particularly popular with motorhome owners travelling with dogs.

If your dog prefers quieter surroundings, smaller rural sites can sometimes feel more relaxed than larger holiday parks during peak periods.

UK rules for travelling with pets

When travelling in a motorhome in the UK, drivers remain responsible for ensuring their dog is transported safely and does not interfere with driving.

The Highway Code advises that animals should be suitably restrained while a vehicle is moving. In practice, this may involve using a harness clipped to a seatbelt fitting, a travel crate, or a fixed guard separating the cab from the living space.

These arrangements are intended to reduce distraction as well as help limit movement during sudden braking.

Dogs must be microchipped by law across England, Scotland and Wales, and contact details should be kept up to date before travelling. Many owners also keep an identification tag attached to the collar during trips away from home.

Some campsites occasionally request confirmation of vaccinations where multiple animals share facilities, so keeping records accessible can be helpful.

Safety & comfort tips

A motorhome can become a comfortable travelling space for dogs quite quickly, particularly when routines stay familiar from one stop to the next.

Temperature is another of the key factors to monitor during touring. Interior conditions can change faster than expected depending on weather and ventilation, so it is generally sensible not to leave dogs unattended inside the vehicle for extended periods in warmer conditions.

Planning regular breaks during longer journeys as you would when motorhoming with children also helps dogs stay settled and relaxed between destinations. Many owners naturally build these stops around walking routes or green spaces rather than service areas alone.

Other small adjustments can make touring easier:

• placing a non-slip mat near the entrance after muddy walks;
• keeping fresh drinking water available throughout the day;
• maintaining usual feeding times where possible;
• providing a consistent sleeping position inside the vehicle.

Over time, many dogs begin to associate the motorhome with familiar routines rather than unfamiliar surroundings.

Best dog-friendly motorhomes

If you expect to travel regularly with a dog, the choice of motorhome layout can make everyday touring noticeably more straightforward.

Owners often look for practical details such as wipe-clean flooring near the habitation door, accessible storage for outdoor equipment and enough open floor space for a bed or blanket without blocking walkways.

Fixed-bed layouts can work particularly well, as they leave a predictable living area available throughout the day. For larger breeds, additional lounge space can also make longer stays more comfortable.

Visiting a dealership and viewing layouts in person often helps highlight features that are easy to overlook online. If travelling with a dog will be a regular part of your touring plans, at Derby Motorhomes we can help you compare models that suit both your travel style and your four-legged companion.