Travelling with Pets: How to Keep Dogs Calm, Happy and Ready for the Road

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road with your four-legged friend beside you. This summer, we met hundreds of pet-loving travellers at campervan and motorhome shows across the UK — and one thing became very clear: life on the road is always better with a dog.

But while dogs love adventure as much as we do, many can struggle with the change of routine, the hum of the engine, or the movement of the vehicle. Travelling, whether it’s a short drive to the coast or a two-week road trip around Scotland can sometimes cause anxiety in dogs. That’s why so many pet parents we met were reaching for our Tranquil Tails calming dog treats.

Made with natural ingredients like Chamomile, L-Tryptophan, Valerian Root, Ashwagandha, Lemon Balm, and Hemp Seed, Tranquil Tails are designed to help dogs feel calm, comfortable and settled — without any nasties or sedatives. Perfect for nervous travellers, long journeys, or first-time adventures in the campervan.

👉 Discover Tranquil Tails Calming Treats

Why dogs get anxious when travelling

Even the most confident dogs can find travel stressful. Some of the most common triggers include:

• Unfamiliar environments – new smells, sights and sounds can be overwhelming.

• Motion sickness – especially in puppies or dogs who aren’t used to car travel.

• Lack of routine – dogs thrive on predictability, so a change in feeding or walk times can unsettle them.

• Owner stress – dogs pick up on our emotions. If you’re tense or worried, they can feel it too.

Understanding these triggers helps you plan ahead and make the journey more relaxing for both of you.

Top tips for calm and comfortable travel with your dog

Whether you’re setting off for a weekend away or living van-life full-time, here are some things to consider before your next trip:

1. Make the vehicle feel like home

Bring your dog’s familiar bed, blanket and toys. The smell of home will help them feel safe and relaxed.

2. Plan regular breaks

Stop every couple of hours for a walk, toilet break and water. A chance to stretch their legs makes a world of difference.

3. Feed light before travel

A full stomach can make motion sickness worse. Feed a small meal a few hours before setting off.

4. Try a natural calming treat

Our Tranquil Tails are perfect before or during travel. The gentle blend of natural ingredients supports calm behaviour without drowsiness, helping your dog enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

5. Keep cool and comfortable

Make sure there’s good ventilation and shade in your campervan or car. Never leave your dog in a parked vehicle.

6. Pack the essentials

Don’t forget water, food, lead, poo bags, first-aid kit, and your dog’s paperwork or ID tag.

What about travel insurance for pets?

If you’re travelling abroad or taking longer trips, it’s worth checking your travel insurance and whether your pet is covered in case of emergencies.

Our friends at Go Compare have created a detailed and helpful guide that covers:

• Pet travel insurance

• Pet-friendly accommodation

• Packing lists and comfort tips

You can read the full article here:
👉 Go Compare: Travelling with Pets – What You Need to Know

Enjoy the journey together

At Popcorn Paws, we believe wellness isn’t just for humans it’s a journey we share with our dogs. Whether you’re exploring the Scottish Highlands or parked up by the beach, a calm and happy dog makes every moment more special.

So next time you’re heading off in your campervan or motorhome, pack your dog’s favourite toy… and a tub of Tranquil Tails calming treats.

Because adventures are better when everyone — paws included — can relax and enjoy the ride. 🐾