Got wanderlust and a tail-wagging sidekick? You’re not alone. Exploring the world is more meaningful when your furry best friend is by your side. Pet travel is on the rise, with more cat and dog lovers seeking destinations that welcome four-legged family members. Whether you dream of hiking mountains, strolling through historic cities, or just lounging by the beach, this Pet Travel Bucket List has something unforgettable for you and your furry co-pilot.
Why Travel with Pets?
Pets are family — and leaving them behind for vacation can feel incomplete. Traveling together builds stronger bonds, provides mental stimulation for your pet, and allows for shared experiences that go beyond the backyard.
Plus, with more airlines, hotels, and even cafés becoming pet-friendly, the world is opening up for well-prepared pet parents.
What Makes a Destination Pet-Friendly?
Before you add a city to your travel wishlist, look for these features:
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Accessible parks, trails, or beaches
- Walkability and safe transport
- Dining options that welcome pets
- Local vets or pet clinics
- Cultural attitude toward animals
Let’s explore 10 destinations that tick all those boxes — and more.
Top 10 Travel Bucket List Spots for Pet Owners
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California (USA)
This coastal gem is famous for being one of the most dog-friendly towns in America.
- Dogs can roam leash-free on Carmel Beach
- Nearly all hotels, shops, and restaurants welcome pets
- Scenic trails like Garrapata State Park are great for active dogs
“My Labrador was treated like royalty here. Every restaurant had a water bowl and treat waiting.”
— Nina, Fluffze community member
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam isn’t just canals and bicycles — it’s also a city where dogs are treated as equals.
- Dogs are allowed on public transport without crates
- Most cafés welcome dogs inside
- Beautiful parks like Vondelpark offer off-leash play areas
Just keep a leash handy and respect cycling lanes!
3. Banff National Park, Canada
If hiking is your vibe, Banff is the ultimate adventure.
- Miles of pet-friendly trails through alpine forests and glacial lakes
- Leash rules apply, but the views are epic
- Stay in cozy cabins with pet-friendly fire pits
Check with Parks Canada for seasonal pet guidelines.
4. Asheville, North Carolina (USA)
Known for its art scene and beer culture, Asheville is equally a dog lover’s paradise.
- Hundreds of dog-friendly breweries and patios
- The Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking views and trails
- Annual events like the Doggie Drag Show welcome all breeds and personalities
5. Lake Bled, Slovenia
A fairy-tale setting for you and your pup.
- Leash-free lakeside trails
- Canoe rides with dogs allowed
- Pet-friendly stays in nearby mountain lodges
Lake Bled is lesser-known but incredibly warm to pets and tourists alike.
6. Tokyo, Japan
Surprised? Japan is increasingly pet-inclusive, especially in big cities like Tokyo.
- “Pet cafés” let your cat or dog dine with you
- Pet-only hotels and spas
- A growing number of pet parks in urban zones
“I traveled to Tokyo with my Ragdoll cat and was amazed by how accepted pets were in public.”
— Fluffze contributor, Leo
7. Edinburgh, Scotland
Historic charm meets pet-friendliness.
- Dogs allowed in many pubs and shops
- Pet-welcoming castle grounds and gardens
- Scenic walking trails like Arthur’s Seat offer epic views
8. Queenstown, New Zealand
Adventure capital of the world — and pet-friendly to boot.
- Dog-friendly hikes along Lake Wakatipu
- Boutique lodges with pet pampering services
- Outdoor dining that welcomes muddy paws with open arms
9. Cape Town, South Africa
A hidden gem for international pet travelers.
- Pet-safe beaches like Clifton 1st
- Vineyards with dog-friendly wine tastings
- Local pet transport services make exploring easy
Just be mindful of airline restrictions and import requirements for pets.
10. Sedona, Arizona (USA)
Red rock magic, desert hikes, and mystical vibes await.
- Countless dog-friendly trails like Cathedral Rock
- Outdoor dining that embraces pets
- Many spiritual and healing centers offer pet-aura readings and bonding sessions
Tips for Traveling with Pets
Before you book that ticket, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Check airline and train policies ahead of time
- Pack essentials: food, meds, water bowls, waste bags
- Book pet-friendly hotels early — they fill fast
- Keep updated ID tags and microchip info
- Schedule vet visits and vaccinations if traveling internationally
- Bring comfort items: blanket, toy, favorite treat
You’ll find more helpful pet travel prep tips at Fluffze.com!
Real-Life Pet Travel Stories
“We took our Frenchie to Banff and hiked every day. People stopped to ask for photos of him more than the mountains!”
— Jess, Fluffze reader
“My cat flew with me to Amsterdam. With a little training, she handled the flight like a champ and loved exploring Vondelpark in a backpack carrier.”
— Shawn, Fluffze contributor
Traveling with pets isn’t always easy, but it’s always memorable.
FAQ: Pet Travel Tips & Questions
Q1: What’s the best way to fly with a pet?
Use a soft-sided airline-approved carrier, book direct flights, and talk to your vet about sedative alternatives.
Q2: Are there pet travel restrictions between countries?
Yes. Check for quarantines, required vaccinations, and entry rules with your airline and local authorities.
Q3: How do I find pet-friendly hotels or Airbnbs?
Use filters on apps like BringFido, Airbnb, and Booking.com. Always confirm pet policies directly.
Q4: Can I take a cat on vacation?
Yes, with preparation. Use a secure carrier, train them in short trips first, and bring familiar items.
Q5: What if my pet gets sick while traveling?
Research nearby vet clinics before your trip. Bring your pet’s medical records and emergency contacts.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Pet Travel Bucket List means imagining memories — not just destinations. Whether you’re trekking through mountains, sipping lattes in Europe, or lounging on a quiet beach, traveling with your pet can deepen your bond in unforgettable ways.
Just remember: their comfort comes first. With a little prep and a lot of love, the world is paws-itively yours to explore.
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Inspired to hit the road (or skies) with your furry friend?
Share this list with other pet parents, and check out more travel tips, gear reviews, and bonding ideas at Fluffze.com.
Written by
Written by Shawn, pet lover & contributor at Fluffze
Shawn travels full-time with his senior cat Luna and a rescue beagle named Max. He shares practical advice and real-world stories for fellow pet explorers.
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