How to Plan a Successful Camping or Backpacking Trip with Your Dog

April 18, 2023

How to Plan a Successful Camping or Backpacking Trip with Your Dog

Dreaming of an outdoor adventure with your pup? Camping with your dog is a great way to bond, explore new environments, and create unforgettable memories together. But before you hit the road, proper planning is essential to keep your dog safe, comfortable, and happy on your trip.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan a successful camping or backpacking trip with your dog!

4 Key Factors to Consider Before Camping with Your Dog

While a spontaneous camping trip might sound exciting, taking time to plan ensures your pup stays safe and stress-free. Here’s what to think about:

1. Your Dog’s Personality and Comfort Level

Not every dog enjoys camping! While some pups thrive in outdoor settings, others may feel overwhelmed by new sights, sounds, and unpredictable elements.

Consider:
✔ Does your dog enjoy new environments, or do they get anxious?
✔ How do they handle unpredictable stimuli—other dogs, wildlife, loud noises?
✔ Can they relax outside their normal routine and environment?

If your dog is reactive, noise-sensitive, or uncomfortable around other dogs or people, a crowded campground may not be the best fit. Opt for a quiet, remote location or consider leaving your pup with a trusted sitter if camping isn’t their thing.

Dog in a tent

Cruz cozy in his tent. @cruzthecanine

2. Research Dog-Friendly Campgrounds and Trails

Not all parks allow dogs, and some have strict leash regulations.

✔ Check pet policies before booking a campsite—many national parks don’t allow dogs on trails.
✔ Know the leash rules—most public trails require a 6 foot leash, even if your dog is great off-leash.
✔ Verify vaccination requirements—some locations require proof of up-to-date shots.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a custom BioThane long line (a long leash) to give your pup freedom while still staying within park guidelines!

3. Your Dog’s Physical Condition & Stamina

Hiking, exploring, and just being outdoors can be physically demanding for your pup.

✔ Gradually build endurance before your trip—start with short hikes and increase difficulty over time.
✔ Monitor for fatigue—dogs are experts in masking signs of pain or discomfort, so always be conservative.
✔ Consider joint health—older dogs or breeds prone to hip issues may need extra support.

4. Check the Weather & Plan Ahead

Camping in extreme heat or cold can be dangerous for your pup. Check the weather ahead of time and have a plan to keep your pup comfortable and safe.

✔ Hot weather – Risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and burned paw pads.
✔ Cold weather – Hypothermia, frostbite, and exposure risks.
✔ Sudden storms – Loud thunder and unexpected downpours can spook some dogs.

💡 Pack paw protection, extra water, and a cozy sleeping space to keep your dog safe in any weather.

Essential Gear to Pack for Your Dog

A successful camping trip means packing smart! Here’s what you’ll need:

✔ Updated ID Tags & Microchip Info – In case your pup gets lost.

✔ Vaccination Records – Required at many campgrounds.

✔ A crash tested crate or seatbelt for your pup to ride in the car. We provide lots more tips about safe car travel here.

✔Food & Extra Treats – Expect to increase food intake with extra activity.

✔ Collapsible Bowls – Lightweight and easy to pack.

✔A comfortable, non restrictive harness and flat collar with ID tags securely attached. Try our ID Tag Collar for all in one collar and tag.

✔ Poop Bags – Always practice Leave No Trace!

✔ Comfortable Bed and Blanket – To keep your pup cozy at night.

✔ Dog Towels & Grooming Wipes – For cleaning muddy paws and fur.

✔ Paw Protection – Boots or balm to prevent paw damage on rough trails.

✔ Dog Sunscreen or sun protective clothing – Essential for light-colored or short-haired dogs.

✔ A Durable, Waterproof Leash – Our custom BioThane dog leashes and long are easy to clean and won’t absorb moisture or odors.

✔ Secure Harness & GPS Tracker – A well-fitted harness and a GPS tracker (like a Fi Tracker on our Fi Compatible Collar) add extra safety.

✔ Pet First Aid Kit – Always be prepared for minor injuries.

Dog eating from travel bowls on a camping trip

Summit @youdidwhatwithyourweiner enjoys dining al fresco with the raised feeder bowls from @dexasintl

Pet First Aid Kit Must-Haves:

✔ Medications – Bring any daily prescriptions, anti-nausea, or anxiety meds your pup might need.
✔ Benadryl – Can help with allergic reactions to insect bites or stings (ask your vet for the correct dosage).
✔ Tweezers – For tick removal.
✔ Emergency Muzzle – In case of injury or distress.
✔ Gauze & Vet Wrap – For minor wounds.
✔ Alcohol Wipes – To clean scrapes or cuts.

7 Tips for a Safe & Fun Camping Trip with Your Dog

1. Check in With Your Vet Before You Go

✔ Ensure your dog is healthy enough for the trip and up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention.
✔ Ask your vet about rattlesnake vaccines if traveling to areas with venomous snakes.
✔ Get anti-nausea or anxiety meds if your dog struggles with car travel.

2. Hydration is Key

✔ Bring plenty of fresh water—dogs need more hydration when active.
✔ Never let your pup drink from stagnant water (ponds, puddles) to prevent exposure to harmful bacteria.
✔ Consider adding water to kibble for extra hydration.

3. Practice Before the Big Trip

✔ Start with short car rides and mini hikes to get your dog used to outdoor settings.
✔ Try an overnight camping trip close to home before committing to a long adventure.

4. Be Aware of Trail Hazards

✔ Wildlife encounters – Know how to respond to bears, mountain lions, snakes, and porcupines.
✔ Poisonous plants – Watch out for toxic mushrooms, foxtails, and other harmful vegetation.
✔ Temperature extremes – Be prepared for heatstroke, frostbite, and sudden storms.

💡 Keep your dog on a long leash or hands free leash while hiking for freedom and safety.

Dog on a long leash hike standing in front of a mountain view

Wren @loveandthedogs enjoys a panoramic view while hiking.

5. Protect Your Dog’s Paws

✔ Check paws before and after hikes for cuts, foxtails, or burns.
✔ Use dog boots or paw balm to protect against rough terrain.
✔ Be mindful of hot surfaces, especially pavement or asphalt.

6. Create a Cozy Sleeping Setup

✔ Choose a tent big enough for you and your pup.
✔ Bring a dog bed or blanket for extra comfort.
✔ Ensure your dog has a warm, dry place to sleep away from the cold ground.

Dog at a camping site

Hugo @crystalsister enjoying lounging in camp.

Plan for Decompression Time After the Trip

Even the most adventure-loving pups can feel exhausted after a camping trip. Allow for extra rest and quiet walks when you return home. Monitor for any signs of injury, illness, or post-trip stress, and give your dog plenty of time to recharge.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

With the right preparation, gear, and mindset, a camping trip with your dog can be a fun, safe, and rewarding experience.

🔹 Looking for the perfect adventure leash? Shop our custom BioThane Long Lines & Hands Free + Convertible Leashes!

We always recommend keeping your dog on a long line while hiking in an unfamiliar area or while you’re in camp. It keeps your dog, and everyone else, safe, while giving your dog plenty of room to sniff and explore.

🔹 Need expert leash tips? Check out some of these resources about choosing and using long lines:

🔹 Have questions? Contact us!

Happy camping! 🏕🐾