Your Ultimate Guide to RVing with Dogs

Your Ultimate Guide to RVing with Dogs
Must-have apps, tips, and essential checklists for traveling with dogs.

By: Morgan Field

Hello, I’m Morgan Field! I’m an RV enthusiast and part-time van-lifer, cruising the open road with my fur-tastic companion, Teddy. His million-dollar smile makes every mile a joy as we explore the world together in our 2019 Winnebago Travato 59K. From our cozy homebase in Central Florida to new horizons, each new destination brings a fresh adventure and more memories to treasure!

Teddy and I are on a mission to make the most of life—full of joy, freedom, love, laughter, snuggles, and endless adventure. Whether we’re kayaking, hiking, exploring unique Hipcamps, or relaxing at the beach, every day is a new chapter in our journey. Our RV life has brought us more than we could have ever imagined. We’ve met incredible humans and animals along the way, with some of our favorite encounters being with dogs, horses, and a few cheeky donkeys!

Traveling in an RV with your dog is an amazing way to create lasting memories, but it takes a bit of extra planning. This guide covers everything you need for stress-free and joyful adventures with your furry friend—from the best apps for traveling with a dog, practical tips, answers to common questions, and packing essentials to keeping your pup safe and entertained. Let’s hit the road!

Must-Have Apps for RVing with Dogs

Leveraging the right apps can make your travels smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. Here are some must-have apps I rely on:

• AllTrails: Ideal for finding dog-friendly hiking trails with detailed reviews and trail maps.
• BringFido: A comprehensive guide to pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and attractions.

• iExit: Helps locate dog-friendly stops, rest areas, and pet amenities along the highway.
• Rover (or Wag!): I personally use Rover, but both apps are great for finding local dog walkers, day-sitters, boarding services, and more, in case you need to leave your pup behind for an activity.
• Pet First Aid by American Red Cross: Provides quick access to emergency pet care advice.
• Campendium: Not all campgrounds allow dogs, but this app lets you search through listings to find dog-friendly RV parks and campgrounds. Each listing usually includes details on pet policies, like leash requirements and designated dog areas, so you can plan accordingly.
• HipCamp and Harvest Hosts: Use apps like HipCamp or Harvest Hosts to discover unique RV spots like farms or secluded retreats. Dog-friendly farms often offer open spaces, exposure to other animals, and new scents for your dog to explore, while private spots give you peace and quiet to relax together.

Note: GoLife Perks members receive a discount for Harvest Hosts. Learn more here.

Tips for RV Travel with Dogs

1. Stick to a Routine: Maintain regular feeding, walks, and playtime to keep your dog happy and calm.
2. Plan Pet-Friendly Stops: Research campgrounds and activities that welcome pets ahead of time.
3. Be Mindful of Your Dog’s Needs: Watch for signs of discomfort, such as nervousness in confined spaces or motion sickness, and adjust with calming aids or extra time to adapt.
4. Designate a Year-Round Storage Spot: Create a dedicated space in your RV for dog essentials like a bed, bowls, blankets, toys, leash, collar, harness, layers, and medical records. Keep it stocked year-round to avoid packing for every trip.
5. Prepare a "To-Go" Bag for Weather-Sensitive Items: Pack a grab-and-go bag with items like medications, sprays, treats, bones, or anything sensitive to extreme temperatures. This ensures you're ready for outings while protecting perishables when your RV is in storage.

Q&A for Traveling in an RV with a Dog

What Do You Do with Your Dog When You Can’t Take Them Along for the Day?

Sometimes your travel plans might include activities or errands that aren’t dog friendly. In these situations, it’s important to have a plan in place to ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable while you're away.

1. Use a Temperature Monitor

If you're leaving your dog in the RV, make sure the temperature stays safe. With the right setup—whether you’re plugged in, running the generator, or using your RV's climate control system—it’s possible to leave your dog in the RV for a while. However, maintaining a safe temperature is crucial.

Some newer Winnebago models have Winnebago Connect which includes a "pet minder" feature to control the temperature in your RV while you are away and notify you of any issues. You can also invest in a device like Marcell, which monitors the temperature in your RV and alerts you if it becomes too hot, too cold, or if the power goes out. This way, you’ll always know your pup is safe, even when you’re not there.

2. Hire a Dog Sitter

If you’ll be away for a longer period or won’t be able to check in frequently, consider alternative options like hiring a dog sitter. While some people still use traditional methods such as boarding, dog grooming drop-offs, or doggy daycare, apps like Rover provide more flexibility. You can find local sitters who will care for your dog in their home or even in your RV. Rover lets you search based on your dog’s specific needs and read reviews from other pet owners for peace of mind.

3. Use a Dog Tracker

For extra peace of mind, attach a tracker like the YIP Tracker to your dog’s collar. This device allows you to monitor your dog’s location, ensuring their safety—especially in unfamiliar areas.

How Do You Keep Your Dog Active on the Road?

A happy, healthy dog needs regular exercise, even when you’re traveling. Here are some fun ways to keep your pup active:

1. Explore with Sniffspot

Instead of traditional dog parks, consider renting private outdoor spaces through Sniffspot. These fenced areas allow your dog to roam freely and safely, giving them the chance to burn off energy and explore new environments.

2. Discover the B.A.R.K. Ranger Program

Some national parks offer the B.A.R.K Ranger program, where dogs can enjoy designated trails and paths. Plus, your pup can earn a badge from the gift shop—a perfect souvenir for your adventure buddy. Learn more in this article.

3. Try a Sniffari

Let your dog take the lead on a ‘sniffari’—a walk where they explore at their own pace, following their nose. It’s mentally stimulating and a great way to enjoy nature together. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to slow down, be present in the moment, and enjoy the journey.

4. Stay at a Hipcamp or Harvest Hosts

Look for stays with wide open spaces where your dog can roam off-leash or safely play with a long lead. Use the opportunity to play fetch or let your pup burn off energy. Farms are particularly great—they offer unique smells, sights, and even interactions with other animals, providing both physical and mental enrichment for your furry companion.

What are Fun Things to Do with Your Dog while Traveling by RV?

RV travel offers endless opportunities for bonding and fun with your pup. With a little pre-planning, you can ensure that every stop along the way is packed with adventure and joy for both you and your dog. Here are some ideas to make your journey unforgettable:

1. Dog-Friendly Outdoor Adventures

Use apps like AllTrails to find leash-friendly hiking trails, dog-friendly beaches, or serene lakes for paddleboarding or kayaking. 

2. Training Stops and Unique Experiences

Look for agility courses, dock-diving sessions, or scent-training classes along your route. Some facilities welcome single-session visitors, giving your dog the chance to enjoy a stimulating new experience while you both explore new places.

3. Playdates and Pack Walks

Join dog meetups or “pack walks” in cities or campgrounds along the way. These events give your dog the chance to socialize with other dogs while you connect with fellow dog owners and travelers.

Checklist of Essential Items for RVing with Your Dog

Packing the right gear ensures both you and your pup stay comfortable and happy on the road. Here’s a list of must-haves for a smooth journey:

Everyday Essentials

• Fanny Pack & Poop Bags: Fanny packs are back, and for good reason! They’re the easiest and most convenient place to store poop bags, keys, and essentials for quick access during adventures. My go-to is the Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack - Del Día from Cotopaxi. It’s colorful, durable, and just plain fun to wear.
• Treats Pouch: Perfect for training, bonding, and engagement. I use the AUDWUD Silicone Dog Treat Pouch from Amazon. Its magnetic closure and clip-on design make it super convenient.
• Collapsible Dog Bowl: A must for hikes and adventures to keep Teddy hydrated.
• Splash Guard Water Bowl & Rubber Mat: A splash guard bowl prevents spills while driving (well, except for Teddy’s enthusiastic drinking style). To make cleanup easier, I swapped out the cab’s carpet runner with a rubber mat and placed the water bowl up front.
• Doggie Seat Belts: Safety first! A dog seat belt clips onto your dog’s harness and secures into the seatbelt receptacle. I got Teddy’s from Petco, but they’re widely available.
• Outdoor Floor Mat: Provides a comfy, clean spot for Teddy to relax outside, reducing bugs and allergens.
• Compact Hiking Pack: The Luzon 18L Backpack - Del Día from Cotopaxi is an RV-friendly, rollable hiking pack that holds everything from water bottles and treats to a Turkish towel for impromptu picnics.
• Harness and Leash: Choose a comfortable, durable harness and leash for everyday use and adventures. 

Playtime & Relaxation

• Toys: A variety of toys is essential to keep Teddy entertained. I bring squeaky toys for interactive play, chew toys for comfort, and balls for fetch. For mental stimulation, I scatter a bunch of treats on the ground for a “go find” game—a huge energy burner!
• Bones and Treats: Durable chews like bully sticks, Nylabones, or antlers are perfect for keeping Teddy occupied and promoting dental health. I also pack calming lickable treats like the Woof Pupsicle and its refill pops for soothing decompression.
• Camping Loveseat Chair: If your dog’s a snuggler, invest in a double-wide camping chair. Teddy and I love relaxing together after a long day of exploring.

Comfort & Cleanliness

• Colorful Throw Blankets*: These protect surfaces from dog hair and add extra warmth for chilly nights. Bonus: They’re great for snuggle sessions.
• Duvet Covers*: Simplify laundry day by protecting your bedding with a washable duvet cover.
• Dog Bed*: Even though Teddy thinks every comfy spot in the RV is his, I keep a dog bed up front between the cab seats for him to chill during drives or hang out when I need to make the beds.
• Pet Hair Lint Roller: This is a small but mighty addition to any RV with dogs. It doesn’t take up much space, and it’s an asset for quick cleanup of dog hair on your clothes and in your RV. Cuddle, live, love, lint roll, repeat.
• USB Charging Handheld Vacuum: A cordless handheld vacuum (like the AIRWOX Hand Held Vacuum Cordless, 12KPA High Power) is perfect for quick cleanups of dog hair and dirt. Compact and powerful, it’s a lifesaver for keeping your RV tidy on the go.
• Machine Washable Mats: Place washable mats (like Gorilla Grip Bath Rug Mats 24x17) at the entrance of the RV to catch mud, dust, and debris your dogs might track in. They’re a game changer for keeping your RV floors clean and easy to maintain.

*RVer Tip: Make sure all blankets, human bedding, duvet covers, dog beds, and mats are machine washable, and dryer friendly. This is a must for quick and easy laundry days when you're on the road.

Tech & Safety

• Air Purifier: The Pure Enrichment PureZone Mini Portable Air Purifier keeps our air fresh and clean. It’s compact, cordless, and a game-changer after outdoor adventures.
• Temperature Monitor System: I use MarCell for peace of mind. It monitors temperature, humidity, and power outages, with alerts sent straight to my phone. Their month-to-month option is perfect for part-time travelers like me.
• Tracker: I use a YIP tracker, similar to an AirTag, to keep tabs on Teddy’s general location. It’s engraved with his name and my number for extra safety.
• Fast Charger: Never run out of phone battery! A fast charger ensures you’re always ready to capture memories, navigate trails, and receive temperature alerts.
• Fans: The Ryobi ONE+ 18V WHISPER SERIES fan is a game-changer! Perfect for warm nights without plugging in, it provides a steady breeze on the middle setting. I also use it for air circulation during errands while Teddy enjoys RV people-watching. Highly recommend!

Health & Grooming Essentials

Check with your dog’s vet before starting anything new, but here are the supplements and tools I use for Teddy:

• Probiotics and Fish Oil: Support gut health and keep coats shiny with Proviable, Zesty Paws, or Plano Paws Omega 3 Fish Oil.
• Flea and Tick Comb: Use Wondercide spray before walks and a comb after to keep ticks and debris at bay.
• Grooming Brush: The compact, self-cleaning KingKomb reduces shedding and allergens—ideal for RV living.
• Skin and Ear Care: Natural Dog Company’s Skin Soother and Zymox Otic drops are must-haves for hotspots and ear issues.
• Preventatives & First Aid: Stay on top of flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Vetericyn Plus is essential for cuts and irritations.

Adventure & Exploration Essentials

• Long Lead: Great for recall training, setting a roam radius, or giving your dog freedom to explore while you relax.
• Cooling Bandana: Helps keep your dog cool on hot days. My go-to brand is Canada Pooch.
• Hot Pavement Boots: Essential for walks on hot surfaces or longer hikes, especially in places like Florida. Watching your dog get used to them is an added bonus of laughter!
• Layers for Warmth: Pack sweatshirts, coats, and boots for colder climates. Canada Pooch is one of my favorite brands for warm layers, while Spark Paws offers great options for both practicality and fun—matching outfits, anyone? Teddy even has a tux we travel with, so we’re always ready for special occasions.
• Life Jacket: A must for water adventures. Outward Hound’s Granby Splash is a lifesaver—literally! (I learned this during a mini sailboat mishap with Teddy.)
• Rain Jacket: Keeps your dog dry and prevents wet dog smell in the RV—plus, it’s adorable and always a conversation starter.

Documents and Paperwork

• Vaccination Records: Keep copies of your dog’s vaccination records handy for campgrounds or emergencies.

Final Thoughts on RVing with Dogs

RVing with your dog is a journey filled with joy, discovery, and deepened bonds. With the right gear and apps, you’ll be ready for whatever the road throws your way—whether it’s a scenic hike, a quirky llama farm, or a cozy night under the stars. Teddy and I wish you safe travels and unforgettable adventures. Here’s to the open road and wagging tails!

You can follow along with us on Instagram (@themorganfield) or on Facebook.

Blessings and gratitude, 
Morgan & Teddy