Road trips are timeless adventures, especially when you’re traveling with your best furry friend. Growing up, some of my fondest vacation memories revolve around family road trips, particularly the one to Montana with my yellow lab, Chica. The joy of having my dog along made every mile that much more special, and I’ve found that epic road trips with dogs remain one of the best ways to travel. If you agree, renting an adventure van for your next road trip might just be the ideal way to bring your pets along for the ride.
Why Choose an Adventure Van?
An adventure van can be the perfect choice for pet-friendly road trips. Unlike full-blown RVs, which can be cumbersome and expensive to operate, campervans provide just the right amount of space without being too overwhelming. They’re easy to drive, park, and maneuver while offering enough room for you, your gear, and your furry companions. Best of all, many rental companies understand the appeal of traveling with pets and offer pet-friendly options to make your journey more enjoyable.
Most campervans are designed with practicality in mind—compact yet functional. They can comfortably accommodate humans and their pets while leaving space for supplies, food, and other essentials. With pet-friendly policies becoming more common, renting a van and taking your dog along for the ride has never been easier.
Understanding Rental Policies and Fees
As with any rental, it’s important to check the specific policies of the rental company. While many companies welcome pets, there may be certain restrictions or additional fees to consider. When I rented from Escape Campervans in Phoenix, I found that pets were allowed, but during the hot summer months (July to September), they restricted pets for safety reasons. It’s always best to call ahead to verify these details.
Here are a few questions to ask when booking your van rental:
- Are pets allowed in the van, and are there any breed or size restrictions?
- What are the additional fees for traveling with a pet?
- Is there a weight limit for pets, and how many can be in the van at once?
- Are there any other rules regarding pets (e.g., pet-proofing the van)?
These questions will help ensure that everything goes smoothly for you and your pet on your road trip.
Safety Comes First
Once you’ve confirmed that your adventure van is pet-friendly, the next step is to think about your pet’s safety during the drive. Many campervans come equipped with a back seat that converts into a bed, so your dog might be able to ride just like they do in your regular car. There are often seatbelt attachments available for use with a safety harness, or you might find enough space to place a pet crate on the floor.
During our trip in the “Hawaii” van, I was able to secure my dogs, CW and Herc, safely with the seatbelts that were available in the bed configuration. It was a bit tight for both of them, but they were comfortable, and I didn’t have to worry about them slipping off the seat. While it’s all in good fun to joke about dogs with driver’s licenses taking the wheel, it’s important to remember that proper restraint is key to keeping both you and your pet safe during travel.
What to Pack for Your Pup
Packing for a road trip with your pet requires more than just food and water. You’ll want to bring along all the essentials to keep your pet comfortable throughout the journey, as well as a few extras for unexpected situations.
Here’s a packing checklist for pet-friendly road trips:
- Food and water: Don’t forget your dog’s usual meals, plus extra water for those long stretches between stops.
- Bowls: Collapsible bowls are great for easy storage when you’re on the go.
- Leashes, harnesses, and collars: Always have these on hand for walks or bathroom breaks.
- Toys and treats: Keep your pet entertained and comfortable with familiar items.
- Paw protection: Depending on the terrain, your dog may need paw wax or booties to protect their feet.
- Cleaning supplies: Paper towels, pet-safe wipes, fabric freshener, and dry shampoo for pets. Trust me, you’ll be glad to have these when your pet gets into something a little less than pleasant on the road.
- Dog beds or mats: Bring your dog’s favorite bed or a mat for lounging in the van. This will help them feel more at home, and it also makes it easier to keep the van clean.
I also recommend packing a yoga mat, which comes in handy for wiping paws and creating a designated space for your dog to rest. It’s easy to clean, and it doubles as a doormat to help keep dirt from getting inside.
Where to Park the Adventure Van
One of the joys of renting an adventure van is the flexibility it offers when it comes to where you can stay. Whether you prefer a full-service campsite with all the amenities or a more rustic, off-the-grid experience, the options are endless. You can stay at:
- State park campgrounds: Offering facilities like hot showers, flush toilets, and picnic tables.
- National parks: Some have designated camping areas for RVs or campervans.
- Private campgrounds: These often provide additional amenities, such as laundry facilities and Wi-Fi.
- National forests and BLM land: For a more remote experience, dispersed camping is available on Bureau of Land Management sites and in many national forests.
While some campgrounds may have restrictions on pets, many are welcoming, and there are thousands of pet-friendly campgrounds listed online. Make sure to check pet policies for each location before you arrive.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Check the van’s gear: Before packing, review the list of items included with your van rental. Many vans come with essentials like bedding, camp chairs, and cooking supplies. If something is missing, it’s easy to bring your own.
- Storage solutions: Space in adventure vans can be tight, so consider using plastic storage bins to keep your gear organized. I used 15-quart containers, which were the perfect size for stashing our belongings without taking up too much space.
- Food thieves: Keep an eye on your pup during meal prep. Dogs can be opportunistic when it comes to unattended food, so don’t leave your pancakes or snacks within easy reach!
Final Thoughts
Renting an adventure van with your pet can be one of the most rewarding and fun travel experiences you’ll ever have. With a little preparation, the right vehicle, and a spirit of adventure, you and your furry friend can enjoy the open road together, exploring new places and making memories that will last a lifetime. So pack up the van, bring along your pet, and hit the road for an unforgettable journey!
