Taking your pet on a trip can be fun, but a little preparation makes the journey easier. Think about water, food, a secure place to travel, cleaning supplies and regular breaks.

This guide to pet travel essentials will help you pack for your dog or cat while keeping their comfort and safety in mind.

Choose a Suitable Carrier

A carrier bag for small dogs and cats gives your pet a familiar place during travel. A structured carrier bag is another option to consider for your pet's needs.

Choose a well-ventilated carrier with secure closures and enough space for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. For car journeys, secure the carrier according to its instructions. If you're flying, check your airline's size, weight and carrier requirements before booking.

Don't introduce the carrier on the day of the trip. Leave it open at home beforehand with a familiar blanket, toy or treat so your pet can get used to it.

Keep Water Close

Pack drinking water and offer it regularly during suitable stops, especially in hot weather. A travel water bottle makes water easier to carry and offer on the go.

Bring water from home if practical, and don't wait for signs of discomfort before offering a drink.

Heavy panting, weakness or unusual tiredness can indicate more than thirst. Move your pet to a cool place and seek veterinary advice promptly if they appear unwell or you suspect overheating.

Pack a Foldable Bowl

A foldable bowl takes up less space than a regular bowl and is handy for food or water during stops.

If your pet gets carsick, ask your vet about meal timing and how to manage travel sickness. Avoid making sudden changes to their usual food before a journey.

Use a Car Seat Cover, but Don't Skip a Travel Restraint

Fur, muddy paws and water can make a mess in the car. A car seat cover helps protect the upholstery.

A seat cover is not a safety restraint. Use an appropriately secured carrier or a suitable dog car harness and restraint system, following the manufacturer's instructions. An everyday walking harness isn't necessarily designed for car travel.

Never let your pet sit on your lap while you're driving.

Bring Something Familiar From Home

A familiar blanket, bed or toy can help your pet settle in a new environment. Familiar smells can be particularly reassuring for cats.

You don't need to bring everything from home. One or two comforting items are often enough.

Keep Cleaning Items Easy to Reach

Keep waste bags, tissues, a towel and pet wipes near the top of your bag, rather than buried underneath everything else.

A separate pouch makes cleanup supplies easier to find. Keep your foldable bowl and travel water bottle accessible too.

Plan Regular Breaks

Allow time for dogs to stretch, drink water and take toilet breaks. Attach their leash before opening the car door to reduce the risk of them running off.

Check your cat's comfort, temperature and needs during stops. Don't open their carrier in an unsecured or unfamiliar outdoor area, as even a normally calm cat may panic and escape. Plan any feeding, water or litter breaks in a secure, enclosed space.

Check the Weather

In hot weather, carry enough water and keep your pet cool. Never leave your pet in a parked car, even briefly.

During the rainy season, pack extra towels and dry your pet when needed. In colder weather, consider a suitable blanket or jacket for pets that need extra warmth, including some small, older or short-coated pets.

Keep Their Routine as Consistent as Possible

Bring your pet's regular food and try to maintain familiar feeding and walking times where practical.

New smells, sounds and surroundings can be unsettling. A predictable routine and familiar belongings can help your pet adjust.

Pet Travel Essentials: Quick Packing Checklist

• A suitable carrier for small dogs or cats
• Drinking water and a travel water bottle
• A foldable bowl
• Regular food and treats
• Waste bags
• Pet wipes, tissues and a towel
• A leash or walking harness for breaks, plus an appropriate car restraint for the journey
• Prescribed medicine, if needed
• A familiar blanket or toy
• A car seat cover, if needed
• An ID tag with up-to-date contact details
• Vaccination papers and other travel documents required by your destination or transport provider

Adapt the checklist to your pet, transport and trip length. Safety restraints, drinking water and any required medicines or documents shouldn't be treated as optional.

A little preparation goes a long way. Give your pet a secure place to travel, keep water and cleanup supplies handy, and plan breaks around their needs for a smoother journey together.