How to Travel with Your Pets (Without Overspending)
Traveling with pets doesn't have to drain your wallet or stress you out. With a little planning, you can keep costs down and keep your furry friend comfortable — whether you’re hitting the road, flying, or navigating busy holiday travel.
Key takeaways
⏵ Pack the essentials to avoid buying pet supplies on the road.
⏵ Book pet-friendly lodging early to dodge surprise fees.
⏵ If flying, research the airline’s in-cabin pet policies to avoid unexpected fees or restrictions.
⏵ Travel off-peak during holidays to save money.
Pack the essentials for your pet
Packing strategically is the easiest way to avoid unexpected costs and keep your pet comfortable during the trip.
Must-haves:
Food and water: Bring enough for the trip to avoid buying more at premium prices.
Collapsible bowls and portable water bottles: These are compact, reusable, and easy to clean.
Leash, harness, and waste bags: Essential for safety and compliance at rest stops and hotels.
Medication and medical records: Include prescriptions and vaccination documentation.
Comfort items: Bring favorite toys or blankets to help pets feel secure during flights or long drives.
Pick the right travel method
The most affordable way to travel with pets often depends on your destination, pet size, and schedule.
Let your pet get used to the carrier in advance. If necessary, ask your vet about anxiety management.
Road trips
Driving is often the cheapest way to travel with a pet. Gas and lodging are usually more cost-effective than airline fees, especially if you have multiple pets. Plus, you can stop whenever you need to for bathroom breaks, meals, and exercise.
💡Tip: Before heading out, make sure your vehicle’s maintenance is current to avoid breakdowns on the road.
Flying with pets
In-cabin travel is cheaper and safer than cargo. Pet cargo comes with unique stressors, such as extreme temperatures, loud noises, poor ventilation, and air pressure changes. This can make cargo flights risky for pets with pre-existing health conditions or anxiety. If your pet must fly cargo, make sure the airline meets current safety standards.
Whether your pet travels cargo or in the cabin with you, booking a direct flight can make things easier for you both.
Each airline has different fees and restrictions, so research before you book.
Popular options:
Comparing Pet-Friendly Travel Methods | ||||
Method | Average cost | Pros | Cons | Best for |
Car | Varies by distance & lodging | Flexible, low cost, pets are comfortable | Longer travel time | Budget-conscious travelers & multiple pets |
In-cabin flight | $95 to $125 per pet | Fast, less stressful than cargo | Airline restrictions, limited pet size | Quick trips with small pets |
Cargo flight | $200+ | Suitable for large pets | Expensive, higher stress | Large breed dogs |
Choose pet-friendly lodging
Nothing's worse than getting to your hotel only to discover they don't allow pets — or they charge outrageous fees. Comparing accommodations ahead of time has helped me save a lot of money.
Where to look:
Pet-specific sites: BringFido, GoPetFriendly, and PetsWelcome make it easy to filter pet-friendly options.
Travel booking sites: TripAdvisor, Expedia, and Booking.com all have pet-friendly search filters.
Pet-friendly chains: Kimpton, Motel 6, Red Roof Inn, and Virgin Hotels are known for waiving or reducing pet fees.
Call ahead: Contact the property directly. Some offer unadvertised pet discounts.
💡Tip: Confirm weight limits, bedding rules, and amenities before booking to avoid last-minute surprises like kennel rental fees.
Avoid surprise fees
Unexpected costs add up fast, but a little upfront planning keeps them in check.
Review airline and hotel policies before booking. Call if you have questions.
Measure your pet and the carrier to ensure compliance with size and weight restrictions.
Pack your own food and supplies to avoid paying premium prices at airports or hotels.
Monitor pet fee promotions through loyalty programs or travel rewards.
Tips for enjoyable road-tripping with pets
I once drove four days with five cats and two dogs. All the extra planning was worth it for the safety, comfort, and savings.
Here’s how to make it work:
Secure your pet. Use crates, harnesses, or seatbelt attachments to reduce risk and prevent distractions while driving.
Plan your stops. Apps like GasBuddy and iExit help you locate pet-friendly rest areas, parks, and dog-friendly hiking spots along your route.
Budget for the full trip. Factor in gas, overnight lodging, and any park or campground fees upfront so you're not caught off guard.
Holiday travel considerations
The holidays are hectic enough. Add a pet to the mix, and you need a strategy.
Book early: Peak travel days have higher fees and limited pet-friendly lodging.
Consider off-peak times: Fall and spring trips cost less, have fewer crowds, and often come with better pet-friendly deals.
Pack holiday essentials: Extra food, treats, and bedding reduce on-the-go expenses.
💡 Tip: Pre-pack a dedicated pet holiday travel bag. Everything in one place means you're organized, prepared, and less likely to make impulse purchases.
Bonus tips for traveling with pets
Want to stretch your travel budget even further? Here are pro-level tips from pet owners who've mastered budget-friendly trips.
Enjoy free and low-cost activities. Parks, trails, and pet-friendly beaches keep your pet entertained without draining your wallet. Many are completely free.
Tap into rewards programs. Airline miles, hotel points, and credit card travel perks can cover pet fees. Check your accounts before booking.
Consider pet travel insurance. It's optional, but it covers accidents or health issues during trips, giving you peace of mind.
FAQs about traveling with a pet
What’s the cheapest way to travel long-distance with a pet?
For most families, driving is the most affordable option because you avoid airline fees, pet cargo charges, and kennel costs.
Can I give my pet medication to help them stay calm during travel?
Yes, but only under your vet’s guidance. Some pets need calming medication for long trips, but you’ll need a prescription.
Do hotels charge the same for all pets?
No. Hotel policies vary, so you should always check in advance.
Is flying cargo cheaper for a pet?
Cabin travel is usually cheaper for small pets. Pets over the weight and size restrictions will need to travel in cargo.
Do airlines require vaccination records for pets?
Often, yes — but requirements vary by airline and destination.
More on pets:
Notice: Information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Consult your attorney or financial advisor about your financial circumstances.
About the author
Bree Ewers is a senior editor, copywriter, and content writer whose work has been featured across the media, small business, and financial industries. She operates Nomad Freelance Content from her home office in Portland, Oregon.
