25 Genius Ideas for Camping With Your Dog
25 Genius Ideas for Camping With Your Dog
Your pup is a member of the family and he loves the great outdoors, so you'll want to take him along on your next camping trip. Any canine would jump at the chance to roam around the great outdoors and stick its head outside the car window while driving along. (Plus, you'll save money on boarding fees!) Camping with dogs, no matter how big or small, only takes a bit of extra prep and a few additional supplies, like food, dishes, and safety gear. Don't worry; it hardly takes up any extra room. Before you head out, make sure your campsite allows four-legged visitors, and prepare for the unexpected with extra food, medication, and emergency supplies.
Once you've finalized your own human camping checklist, make your dog one happy camper with the best outdoor tips, tricks, and products. From protective weather gear to safety hacks, we've got you covered with these genius pet ideas so both man and mutt can soak up Mother Nature safe and sound. Whether you're heading to a camping in a National Park, beach camping in sunny California, or giving car camping a try, your next adventure won’t be ruff on your pup. And for more camping ideas, check out the best tents and camping stoves.
Elevated Pet Bed
YEP HHO
amazon.com
$35.99
This elevated dog bed is perfect for larger breeds or dogs with joint issues. The breathable material will keep them cool and dry, and the carrying case means it won't weigh you down.
Lightweight Hiking Backpack
Outward Hound
amazon.com
$41.55
If you're going to be hiking while you're camping, consider a lightweight backpack for your pup. It's perfect for stowing essentials like keys, you phone, doggie bags, and snacks.
Lightweight Tent
HILLMAN
amazon.com
$61.98
Consider the size of your dog when you purchase a tent and make sure there's room for the people and the dog. A Jack Russell won't take up much room at all, but a Golden Retriever should be considered as another person. Pick a tent that's lightweight, easy to clean, and well ventilated.
Dog Sleeping Bag
KUDES
amazon.com
$30.99
Okay, so unless you're camping somewhere really cold, your dog doesn't *need* a sleeping bag. But think of the cute pics you'll get for Instagram!
Dog Food Travel Bag
Kurgo
amazon.com
$13.49
This kibble carrier holds up to 5 pounds of pet food, making it perfect for camping or road trips.
Portable Dog Tent
Hillwest
amazon.com
$36.99
Of course your dog can have his own tent! This one folds up to make it fully portable, and it has shade to keep your pup cool.
Travel Bed
Chuckit!
chewy.com
$24.39
You can reap the benefits of this machine-washable bed at home after your camping trip. Dogs of any size can cozy up on this soft spot from the car ride to the campsite and back.
Layer Your Tent With Towels or Blankets
Depending on the durability of your tent, sharp puppy claws could potentially poke holes in the flooring. Spreading out a few extra blankets or towels can help put a stop to this, while also making any post-camping doggy cleanup so much easier.
Pup Paw Protectors
Bark Brite
amazon.com
$29.99
No matter what type of terrain you and your pooch plan to conquer, these water-resistant, adjustable booties can handle it all. They're even equipped with two reflective straps for better nighttime visibility.
Make Clean Ups a Breeze
Pogi's Pet Supplies
amazon.com
$9.99
Hypoallergenic pet wipes, fit for any dog breed, is a camping must-have in between baths.
Use This Dog Bowl Water Bottle for Hikes
UncommonGoods
uncommongoods.com
$15.00
Just like you, your dog will get thirsty while you two are hiking. This dog bowl water bottle lets your canine easily drink from your own canteen, making it easy to keep your pup hydrated.
Use a Light-Up Dog Collar
Blazin' Bison
amazon.com
$21.89
Your furry friend will be easy to spot on your campground at night—or even when the sun starts to set—with this glowing collar.
Snap a New Photo
Keeping recent photos of your dog on hand may come in handy on the unlikely chance your dog runs off the trail and you have to enlist others to help you search for them.
Bring Along Collapsible Dog Bowls
IDEGG
amazon.com
$5.89
These compact food and water bowls fold down and easily fit in your camping pack.
Let Them Roam With a Spiral Dog Leash Anchor
Camco
amazon.com
$2.80
Twist this anchor until its secure in the dirt, then attach your dog's leash to keep them close while also giving them room to roam your campground.
Make a Checklist
Pet parents, listen up! There are a few things you simply can't leave home without and should consider adding to your packing checklist: collar, leash, dog ID tags, dog food, water bowls, and poop bags.
DIY a Doggie Zip Line
If you're bringing along more than one dog, zip lines are the best way to ensure their leashes don't tangle (a problem you may experience with anchors or dog cables).
Get the tutorial at Go Pet Friendly.
Take Your Pup on Hikes With a Dog Carrier Backpack
PetAmi
amazon.com
$23.49
While large breeds will be happy walking by your side, smaller dogs may be more comfortable in a roomy backpack like this one.
Include Your Campsite Number on Your Dog's Collar
With a Sharpie marker, write your campsite number on a dog ID tag (which you can buy in bulk) and then attach it to their collar.
Organize Your Supplies in a Dog Gear Travel Bag
Overland Travelware
target.com
$39.49
Keep everything you'll need in one place with this roomy bag.
Set up a Doggie Playpen
Protect Them Against Ticks and Fleas
Frontline
amazon.com
$41.53
After you've packed your own bug repellent, make sure your canine is protected, too.
Keep Important Pet Documents Organized and On Hand
SKYDUE
amazon.com
$7.99
When traveling with your dog, pet parents should always keep a few special papers on hand including vaccine records, proof of ownership, and your pet license (if your state requires ones).
Travel With a Pet First Aid Kit
RC Pet Products
amazon.com
$12.00
You'll be prepared—no matter what happens—with this well-stocked kit. Inside you'll find gauze, antiseptic wipes, bandages, latex gloves, first aid guidelines, and more.
Keep 'Em Clean With a Travel Dog Shower
Kurgo
amazon.com
$11.69
If your furry friend loves to roll around in mud or run through leaves, you'll definitely want one of these gadgets, which attaches to your water bottle.
Make your pup feel right at home in the great outdoors.