RV Travel with Pets: Life on the Road Guide

The open road, no fixed itinerary, the freedom to wake up in a new place every morning, and your pet right there with you through it all. RV travel with pets combines the best elements of road trips, camping, and home comforts into one seamless adventure. Your dog does not have to endure a cramped airline cabin. Your cat does not have to adjust to a strange hotel room every night. Instead, they travel in a familiar space that smells like home, with their own bed, their own food bowls, and the people they love most within arm’s reach.

It is no wonder that pet owners are the fastest-growing segment of RV travelers. According to the RV Industry Association, over 60 percent of RV owners travel with pets, and that number continues to climb. The lifestyle is tailor-made for animals who thrive on routine and proximity to their humans. But RV travel with pets is not without its challenges. Small spaces, temperature management, unfamiliar campgrounds, and long driving days all require careful planning. This guide covers everything you need to know to make RV life with your furry companions safe, comfortable, and genuinely enjoyable.

Choosing an RV with Pets in Mind

If you are renting or buying an RV, pet-friendliness should factor into your decision.

RV Types and Pet Suitability

Class A Motorhomes ($100,000 to $500,000+ to buy, $200 to $500/day to rent) The largest option, offering the most interior space for pets. Multiple slide-outs create generous floor plans. Best for large dogs or multi-pet households. The downsides are fuel costs, limited maneuverability, and higher campground fees.

Class C Motorhomes ($60,000 to $200,000 to buy, $150 to $350/day to rent) A popular middle ground. The overhead cab area can serve as a dedicated pet sleeping nook. Easier to drive than Class A but still offers ample space for pets.

Class B Camper Vans ($50,000 to $150,000 to buy, $100 to $250/day to rent) The most maneuverable option but also the most compact. Works well for one small to medium dog or a cat. Space management is critical.

Travel Trailers ($15,000 to $80,000 to buy, $75 to $200/day to rent) Towed behind your vehicle, so pets ride in the car (never in the trailer while it is being towed). Upon arrival, the trailer becomes a spacious base camp. Wide range of sizes available.

Pet Parent Tip: When renting an RV, always confirm the company’s pet policy before booking. Most major rental companies like Cruise America, Outdoorsy, and RVshare allow pets, but cleaning fees, deposits, and breed restrictions vary.

Pet-Friendly RV Features to Look For

• Durable flooring: Vinyl or laminate floors resist scratches and are easy to clean. Carpet is the enemy of pet travel.
• Lower entry steps: Older or arthritic dogs struggle with tall entry stairs. Look for models with lower steps or buy a pet ramp.
• Under-bed storage: Many RVs have exterior-access storage compartments perfect for storing pet supplies.
• Good ventilation: Multiple windows, roof vents, and a powerful air conditioning system are essential for temperature control.
• Outdoor shower: An exterior shower hookup is invaluable for rinsing muddy paws before they track through the RV.
• Awning: A retractable awning creates covered outdoor space for your pet during rain or intense sun.

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Safety While Driving

The most dangerous part of RV travel for pets is the drive itself. Securing your pet properly is essential.

Dogs in the RV

• Crate or kennel: The safest option. Secure the crate against a wall or in a slide-out area using straps or bungee cords to prevent movement. Ensure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down.
• Crash-tested harness: If your dog rides on a seat, use a crash-tested harness like the Sleepypod Clickit Sport ($70 to $90) or Kurgo Impact Seatbelt Harness ($30 to $50). These attach to the vehicle’s seatbelt and are designed to protect your dog in a collision.
• Never let dogs ride unrestrained. A 60-pound dog in a 30 mph collision becomes a 2,700-pound projectile. Even at low speeds, a sudden stop can throw an unrestrained dog into the dashboard or windshield.

Cats in the RV

• Always use a carrier while the RV is in motion. Cats are unpredictable in moving vehicles and can hide in dangerous places (under brake pedals, behind panels).
• Secure the carrier with a seatbelt or bungee cord so it does not slide.
• Consider a crash-tested carrier like the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed ($160) which doubles as a comfortable bed at camp.

General Driving Safety

• Stop every two to three hours for bathroom breaks and stretching.
• Never leave pets alone in a parked RV without running climate control. RV interiors heat up even faster than cars.
• Keep a pet-specific emergency kit in an easily accessible location.
• Lock exterior storage compartments. A curious dog investigating an open compartment while you are loading gear can get hurt.

Temperature Management

Temperature control is the single most important safety consideration for pets in an RV. Unlike a house, an RV has minimal insulation and can experience rapid temperature changes.

Keeping Cool in Summer

• Run the air conditioning whenever you are parked, even if you step away briefly. Most RVs have a generator that powers the AC independently of being plugged in. Budget for generator fuel costs.
• Use window reflectors to reduce solar heat gain. RV-specific reflective windshield covers can reduce interior temperatures significantly.
• Park in shade whenever possible.
• Install a temperature monitoring system. Products like the Waggle Pet Monitor ($100 plus $10/month subscription) track interior temperature and send smartphone alerts if it rises above a safe threshold. This is essential if you ever leave pets in the RV while connected to shore power.
• Have a backup plan. If your AC or generator fails, you need to know the nearest dog-friendly indoor location where your pet can cool off.

Staying Warm in Winter

• Use a propane furnace for primary heating. Most RVs are equipped with adequate propane heating systems.
• Add a ceramic space heater as a supplement, but only pet-safe models with tip-over protection and automatic shut-off.
• Insulate windows with thermal curtains or insulating panels.
• Provide warm bedding. Elevated dog beds allow cold air to circulate underneath. In winter, place beds directly on the floor with a blanket barrier.
• Monitor for carbon monoxide. Ensure your RV’s CO detector is functioning and has fresh batteries. Propane heating in an enclosed space requires vigilance.

Setting Up Camp with Pets

Arrival Routine

Develop a consistent arrival routine that your pet can rely on:

1. Park and secure the site. Check for hazards: ant hills, toxic plants, broken glass, or neighboring aggressive dogs.
2. Walk your pet on a leash around the campsite perimeter. Let them sniff and investigate.
3. Set up the outdoor area. Deploy the awning, set up a tie-out or exercise pen, and place water bowls outside.
4. Open the RV. If it has been closed up during the drive, let it air out before your pet settles in.
5. Establish the bathroom spot. Consistently take your dog to the same area of the campsite.

Outdoor Containment

• Tie-out systems: A cable strung between the RV and a tree or post gives your dog room to move while staying secure. Always supervise a tethered dog.
• Exercise pens: Portable metal or fabric pens create a contained outdoor area. Best for smaller dogs.
• Portable fencing: Products like Alcott Traveler Portable Fence ($25 to $50) create visual boundaries, though they are not escape-proof for determined dogs.

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RV Life with Cats

Cats adapt surprisingly well to RV life once they get past the initial adjustment period. The key is creating a cat-friendly environment within the confined space.

Litter Box Solutions

The litter box is the biggest cat-specific challenge in an RV. Options include:

• Top-entry litter boxes: Prevent litter tracking and keep dogs out. The IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box ($25) is a popular choice.
• Enclosed litter boxes: Contain odor and mess. Place in the bathroom or a rear storage area.
• The shower stall: Many RV travelers place the litter box in the shower when it is not in use. This contains mess to an easy-to-clean area.
• Under-bed storage access: Some creative RV cat owners install a cat door into the under-bed storage area and place the litter box inside. This keeps it out of sight and away from dogs.

Vertical Space

Cats need vertical territory. In an RV, create height with:

• Window perches: Suction cup-mounted cat perches attach to RV windows and let your cat watch the world go by.
• Overhead cab bed: If your Class C has an overhead bed, dedicate part of it to your cat.
• Cat shelves: Small, mounted shelves along the upper walls give cats places to climb and perch.

Safety

• Stomp your feet or make noise before opening the RV door. Cats waiting by the door can bolt outside in a flash.
• Check all windows and vents to ensure screens are secure. A cat can push through a loose screen.
• Secure all cabinet latches. Cats are experts at opening cabinets, and RV cabinets often contain cleaning supplies and other hazards.

Feeding on the Road

Water

• Bring water from home for the first few days of a trip. Sudden changes in water chemistry can upset your pet’s digestive system.
• Use a water filter at campground hookups. A simple RV water filter removes sediment and improves taste.
• Always have a backup supply. Carry at least two gallons of fresh water per pet in case of hookup issues or boondocking.

Food

• Stick to your pet’s regular food. Travel is not the time to experiment with new brands or flavors.
• Store food in airtight containers. This keeps food fresh, prevents pest intrusion, and contains odors that attract wildlife.
• In bear country, treat pet food like human food. Store it in bear boxes or lockers if provided.
• Feed on a consistent schedule. Routine helps manage your pet’s digestive system and reduces anxiety.

Campground Selection

What to Look For

• Pet policies: Confirm the campground accepts pets and note any breed, size, or quantity restrictions.
• Dog parks or run areas: Some campgrounds offer fenced off-leash areas.
• Walking paths: Paved or natural trails near the campsite are ideal for daily walks.
• Shade: Essential for summer travel. Sites with tree coverage keep your RV and outdoor area cooler.
• Proximity to veterinary care: When possible, choose campgrounds within reasonable driving distance of an emergency vet.

Top Pet-Friendly RV Campground Chains

KOA Kampgrounds With over 500 locations across North America, KOA is the most consistent option for pet-friendly RV camping. Most KOA locations feature dog parks, walking trails, and pet-friendly policies. Some offer “Kamp K9” enclosed dog parks exclusively for KOA guests. Rates range from $30 to $80 per night.

Harvest Hosts A membership program ($99/year) that gives you access to over 4,600 unique overnight stops at wineries, breweries, farms, and attractions. Most locations welcome pets. No hookups, but the unique settings and free overnight stays make this a favorite among pet-owning RVers.

Thousand Trails A membership-based campground network with over 80 locations. Most parks have excellent pet amenities including dog parks and walking trails. Membership costs vary but can offer significant savings for frequent travelers.

Hipcamp The Airbnb of camping, listing private properties for overnight stays. Many hosts explicitly welcome pets and offer the kind of rural, spacious settings that dogs love. Rates range from $15 to $100+ per night.

Health Considerations

Pre-Trip Veterinary Visit

Before any extended RV trip, schedule a vet visit to:

• Update vaccinations (especially rabies, bordetella, and leptospirosis)
• Refill medications for the entire trip duration plus a buffer
• Get a health certificate if crossing state lines or national borders
• Discuss anti-nausea medication if your pet is prone to motion sickness
• Update microchip information with your current phone number

On the Road Health Monitoring

• Check for ticks daily after outdoor activities. Pay special attention to ears, armpits, and between toes.
• Monitor paw pads for cuts, abrasions, or burns from hot surfaces.
• Watch for signs of stress: excessive panting, loss of appetite, changes in bathroom habits, or withdrawal from social interaction.
• Keep a pet health journal noting any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels.

Emergency Veterinary Resources

• AAHA Vet Finder: The American Animal Hospital Association’s website lets you search for accredited veterinary hospitals by location.
• VCA Animal Hospitals: With over 1,000 locations, VCA is one of the largest veterinary chains in the US.
• BluePearl Emergency Pet Hospitals: Specializing in emergency and critical care, BluePearl has locations in major metro areas across the country.
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435. Save this number in your phone.

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Managing the Small Space

Living in close quarters with pets requires thoughtful space management:

Organization Tips

• Designate specific areas for pet supplies. A dedicated cabinet or storage bin keeps everything organized and accessible.
• Use vertical storage. Hanging organizers on the back of doors can hold leashes, treats, and grooming supplies.
• Invest in multi-functional items. A collapsible crate that doubles as a side table. A dog bed that rolls into a compact cylinder.
• Rotate toys. Instead of bringing every toy your pet owns, bring five and rotate them to maintain novelty.

Odor Management

• Ventilate regularly. Open windows and roof vents when weather permits.
• Use enzymatic cleaners for accidents. Standard cleaners mask odor; enzymatic cleaners break down the molecules that cause it.
• Wash pet bedding at laundromat stops (most campgrounds have laundry facilities).
• Baking soda sprinkled on upholstery and vacuumed after 30 minutes absorbs odors naturally.
• Air purifiers designed for small spaces can make a noticeable difference. The Levoit Core Mini ($40) is sized for RV use.

Keeping Pets Entertained

Long days in a small space can lead to boredom and destructive behavior. Keep your pets engaged with:

• Puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys
• Long-lasting chews (bully sticks, Himalayan yak chews, frozen Kongs)
• Daily exercise. A tired pet is a well-behaved pet. Prioritize walks, hikes, and play sessions.
• Training sessions. Teaching new tricks provides mental stimulation and strengthens your bond.
• Window time. Park where your pets can watch the world go by through the windows.

Full-Time RV Life with Pets

A growing number of people are embracing full-time RV life with their pets. If you are considering making the leap:

• Establish a home state for veterinary records and pet licensing.
• Build a network of trusted veterinarians in the regions you frequent.
• Join online communities like RV Pets (Facebook), Full Time RV Families with Pets, and r/RVLiving on Reddit for tips and support.
• Budget for pet costs including food, veterinary care, grooming, and campground pet fees.
• Plan your route around pet-friendly attractions, not just human ones. Your pets deserve adventures too.

The RV lifestyle can be extraordinarily rewarding for pets and their people. Your dog gets to explore new trails every week. Check out the best dog-friendly hiking trails across America for route inspiration. Your cat gets the comfort of a familiar home that happens to have an ever-changing view outside the window. And you get the companionship of your best friends through every mile of the journey.

Start with a weekend, then a week, then a month. Dog-friendly national parks are perfect destinations for RV travelers with pets. Before long, the open road will feel like home, and your pets will be the happiest travelers you know.

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Related Reading

• Road Tripping with Your Dog: A Complete Guide
• Camping with Dogs: Gear, Tips & Best Campgrounds
• Dog-Friendly National Parks: Best Trails in 2026