Considerations before including your dog, cat or pet in your vanlife travels.
Van lifers who travel with pets face unique challenges, but with some planning and preparation, it's possible to keep your furry friend happy and healthy on the road. Before hitting the road permanently with a dog, cat or other pet, it may be worthwhile to start small with a few trial trips to ensure the animal is comfortable and you have everything you need! Jump to resources.
The most common pets people live with in vans are dogs and cats. However, there are numerous pets that can thrive in a van lifestyle; we’ve heard of hamsters, guinea pigs, reptiles and even birds being a part of vanlife. When choosing a pet to live with in a van, it's important to consider their size, energy level, and specific needs to ensure they will be comfortable and happy in a small space. It's also important to research any regulations or restrictions on traveling with certain types of pets, especially if you plan to cross state or national borders.
If you’re considering living with a dog, cat or pet of some sort, there are a few things to think about:
Choosing the right van
When choosing a van, consider the size and needs of your pet. If you have a large dog, you may need a larger van with more space to accommodate them comfortably. You should also ensure the van has adequate ventilation, insulation, and temperature control to keep your pet comfortable. Many people customize the design of their van prior to building it out to account for their pet by including a dedicated sleeping area, storage, outdoor shower hookup and more.
Preparing the Van
You'll need to prepare the van to be pet-friendly. This means installing or upgrading to pet-friendly flooring, securing any cabinets and loose items that could cause harm, and adding a water bowl and food dish.
Training
Potty training (and general training) your pet is an essential part of van life, given how much time is spent driving. Consider using pee pads or litter boxes, especially if your pet is small, and take your pet outside frequently for bathroom breaks. Having a grasp on basic commands will be critical given the environments (park lots, roads, crowded parks, narrow trails, etc.) you may find yourself in on the road.
Exercise
Your pet will need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Fortunately, living on the road, you’ll likely have easy access to the outdoors. Consider how the need to walk your pet may impact some of your plans and hobbies.
Storage
Ensure you have enough storage for the pet’s food, water, gear, toys etc. You'll likely want to dedicate a spot within your van for all of the pet's items and needs; most importantly you'll want this to be an accessible spot.
Pet-friendly destinations
When planning your travels, look for pet-friendly destinations that allow pets. This may include campgrounds, parks, and hiking trails. In addition to outdoor-geared activities, sites like BringFido, DogFriendly or GoPetFriendly may be helpful.
Safety
Make sure your pet is safely secured in the van while driving, and consider investing in a pet seatbelt or harness to keep them secure.
Health and Wellness
As you may be traveling, and in new locations it may be hard to maintain a primary veterinarian. Attention to your pet’s health will require more planning ahead than if you were living a traditional lifestyle. Think in advance about the locations you plan to travel to, and what vets in the areas may be suitable during an emergency. Many vanlifers with dogs, cats and other pets use mobile vet services, pet taxis or online consultations. Prior to setting off on a long trip, be sure to keep up with your pet's regular vet visits and vaccinations, and make sure you have any necessary medications and first aid supplies on hand.
Behavioral Issues
Living in a van with a pet can sometimes lead to behavioral issues, such as barking, anxiety, or aggression. Consider working with a trainer or behaviorist to identify and address any issues before committing the dog, cat or other animal to living in such a small space.
Enjoy the Journey
Living in a van with a pet can be an amazing adventure, so take the time to enjoy the journey with your furry friend. Be flexible and open to new experiences, and cherish the bond you share with your pet.
Can you leave your dog, cat or pet in a campervan?
Most dog or pet owners who live in a converted van do not leave them unattended for long periods, especially in hot weather, and they usually avoid situations where they cannot be with their pets. Ventilation and fans will help keep interior temperatures comfortable, but only to an extent - this comes down to common sense and judgment on part of the owner. In all cases, it's best to err on the side of caution, and make alternative plans if you suspect you may need to leave your dog or pet for a long period. In the situation that you do need to leave your dog, cat or pet unattended for a long time, consider switching to a dog-friendly activity or use sites like Rover.com to find an affordable pet sitter.
Overall, traveling with a pet in a van can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it requires some extra planning and preparation. With some careful planning and a bit of flexibility, you can keep your pet happy and healthy on the road.
Where can I find first-hand experience from people living in a campervan with a dog or pet?
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