An active holiday doesn't have to mean leaving your best friend behind. With a little planning, cycling trips, hikes and outdoor escapes can include your dog — and travelling together often makes the adventure even better. Here are practical tips for a safe, happy pet-friendly holiday.
Plan around your pet before you book
Start with accommodation and transport that genuinely welcome animals, and check the rules for any parks, trails or beaches on your route — some restrict dogs in certain seasons. Knowing the nearest vet at your destination, and carrying your pet's vaccination records, saves stress if anything unexpected comes up.
Build up fitness gradually
Just like us, dogs need to train for a big effort. In the weeks before an active trip, increase the length of your walks or runs so your pet arrives ready. Watch for signs of tiredness or sore paws, and always match the day's activity to your animal's age, breed and condition.
Bringing a dog along on the bike
For cycling, small dogs can travel in a secure basket or a dedicated bike trailer, which also gives them shade and shelter. Introduce the trailer at home first so it feels familiar, secure your pet with a harness rather than a collar, and start with short, calm rides before longer outings. Larger, fit dogs may prefer to run alongside on quiet, traffic-free paths — never on busy roads.
Pack for your pet
Bring plenty of water and a collapsible bowl, their usual food, a lead and harness, waste bags, a familiar blanket or toy, and any medication. In warm weather, plan around the heat: ride early or late, rest in the shade, and never leave an animal in a hot car or enclosed trailer.
Keep it fun for everyone
The golden rule is to travel at your pet's pace, with frequent breaks for water, sniffing and rest. Watch their body language and be ready to cut a day short — a happy, well-rested animal is what makes the trip enjoyable for all of you. Dreaming of your next active escape? Explore our cycling tours.
