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Camping is one of the greatest pastimes, and it is best enjoyed when you can do it with the people—or pets—you love most. While taking your dog along for a camping trip may require extra planning and preparation, it can be incredibly rewarding and enjoyable to spend quality time with your furry companion.
If you want to take your pup on your next camping adventure, we are here to help you prepare. Below, we will dive into some of the most important things to consider before starting your journey.
So, let’s dive in.
Bringing Your Dog Camping for the First Time
If this is your first time taking your pup along for a camping trip, you may find yourself overwhelmed trying to think of everything to pack. We get it – dogs require a lot of care and attention, and when taking them out of their regular routine, it can be hard to remember all of the little items you rely on daily.
For your first-time experience, the best tip we can provide is to keep things simple. Start with a shorter trip to see how your pup adjusts to its new surroundings, and overpack on the essential items to ensure you are prepared for anything. Once you have a handle on how things go on this first trip, you can branch out and start planning more adventurous trips for your pup to tag along.
How to Find Dog-Friendly Campgrounds
When looking for places to stay on your trip, you need to make sure you’re looking for pet-friendly campgrounds. Some sites will require an additional fee to bring your dog along, so do your research and ask questions before you get there.
A simple online search of “dog-friendly campgrounds in my area” is a great place to start. This will help you select some appropriate campsites to attend and allow you to plan your trip based on where these spots may be.
Essential Gear for Camping With Your Dog
Sturdy Leash and Harness
Most pet-friendly campsites will require you to keep your pup on a leash. Even if they are well-trained and don’t typically stay on a leash, this is a rule you will have to follow if it is required by the site you are staying at.
Sturdy leashes come in all lengths, so you’ll definitely be able to find one that’s suited for your pup. Some are even retractable and will allow your pup a little extra room to explore the area on their own while still being able to find their way back to camp safely.
Portable Water Cup
Whether you are planning lengthy hikes or just spending time around your campsite, you should make sure to bring multiple portable water cups for your pup to drink from. Dogs can get dehydrated very quickly, especially if they aren’t used to the extreme temperatures associated with spending long hours outdoors.
These cups are inexpensive and easy to break down, so packing a few of them should be easy to do.
Waste Bags and Cleaning Materials
Even if you are camping deep in the wilderness, it is still a good idea to bring along waste bags and cleaning items to pick up after your pet. These items are especially important if you are camping in a populated spot and will help to keep everyone clean and healthy.
Cleaning up after your dog is essential and is your responsibility as a pet owner. You may even face a hefty fine if you leave it, so make sure you are prepared and have what you need to keep a clean and sanitary campsite.
Dog Tent
Some pet owners are less comfortable with keeping their dogs inside of the tent or van with them. In this case, you can actually bring along a tent that is designed specifically for your pup. Whether you choose to keep your pup in this tent overnight or just use it as a spot for them to relax, they can come in handy and help your dog get used to the new area faster than they would have without it.
Introducing them to this tent before heading out on your trip is a good tip. Like traditional crates, many dogs find comfort in these enclosed spaces and retreat to them when they feel stressed or anxious. Providing them time to get used to this tent will grant them some peace when they arrive at the campsite and will ensure that they have their own space.
Tracking Device
If your pup gets away from you, you should always make sure to have some type of tracking device on their harness or collar. These devices are small and won’t irritate your pup, but they can be an absolute lifesaver if they were to get away.
Some collars and harnesses even come with these items installed. Do your research and make this purchase beforehand so your pup can get used to wearing this important item.
Also, take the time to learn how these tracking devices work ahead of time in case you have to use them. Keeping your phone charged with an EcoFlow Portable Power Station and having whatever app or website ready is a great way to be prepared.
5 Tips To Make Camping With Dogs Easier
Bring a Portable Fan or Heater
Weather conditions are a big factor to take into account when planning to camp with your dog. Despite being animals, many dogs are used to indoor conditions and may not be accustomed to the extreme temperature fluctuations in the warmer and cooler seasons.
To ensure you and your dog stay comfortable, make sure to pack a portable fan or heater for your trip. These items can easily be powered up with a portable power station like the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max and will ensure you can maintain a comfortable temperature inside your tent.
Are you planning to extend your stay? The EcoFlow Wave 2 Portable AC is a great addition to any van or camper and can easily supply consistent, cool air to your indoor space.
Pack Plenty of Food and Water
Before you head out on your trip, take some time to pack the proper amount of food and water that your pup will need to stay nourished and hydrated throughout the length of your trip.
Long days spent outside can burn a lot of calories, especially if you and your dog are hiking or exploring the campsite. Having a proper meal each night and an ample supply of water is vital and will keep you and your dog feeling good.
Are you worried about where to keep all of your food items stored? Look no further than the EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator. This portable unit is easy to bring along and can keep all of your food and hydration items chilled and ready to go.
First Aid Preparedness
Spending extended periods of time in the outdoors is great, though there are typically extra hazards to prepare for. Accidents happen, so be prepared and plan to bring a first aid kit stocked with items for your entire party—including your dog.
Ticks and fleas are particularly problematic in some areas in the warmer seasons, so pack plenty of repellants and spend some time each evening checking to ensure they are clean and no unwanted visitors have latched on to their fur.
Pack Your Dog’s Favorite Items
Bringing your pup along to a familiar space is likely to make them a little anxious, at least as they get accustomed. To help make this process go smoothly, we highly recommend packing your dog’s favourite toys, blankets, and any other items from home that provide comfort.
Spend some extra time with your dog over those first few hours in the campsite to help them understand they are safe in this new environment. Doing this while reintroducing them to some of their favourite items will have them enjoying the new experience in no time.
Install an Air Purifier
Dog dander and small spaces don’t always make for the most pleasant experience. However, if you are camping in a small space, like a tent or a van, this tip will prove very helpful.
With EcoFlow RIVER 2 Series Portable Power Stations, you can easily supply power to a compact air purifier to ensure that you and your pet can breathe easily when inside the tent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Camping is one of the greatest activities to enjoy with your pup. To keep everyone happy and healthy, make sure to make the proper arrangements for your dog and have plenty of food and water for them throughout the trip. Keeping them leashed in public areas is important, but apart from that, there are very few rules when bringing your dog along to camp.
Dogs typically will camp alongside their owners in tents or motorhomes. If you aren’t comfortable sharing a bed with your pup, make sure to pack something that your dog can sleep in at the end of the night. It is important to keep your dog comfortable when adjusting to the new routine and camping lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Bringing your dog on your camping adventures can make some truly amazing memories. Most dogs love spending time outdoors, especially when they get to spend time with their owners, and camping is the perfect activity to do together.
Want to make sure you and your pup are comfortable for the entirety of your camping trip? Make sure to pack an EcoFlow Portable Power Station for easy access to power no matter how far off the grid you may find yourselves.
