How to Travel with Pets: Documents, Airlines, Road Trips, and Pet-Friendly Stays

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September 29, 2026

How to Travel with Pets: Documents, Airlines, Road Trips, and Pet-Friendly Stays

Pets are a part of the family, and while it’s possible to take them on vacation, it requires a little extra pre-planning. Before you book a vacation, it’s crucial to determine how and if a pet will be able to make the journey, including any entry rules they have to meet. There are three main things to consider when traveling with pets, including where they’re traveling from and to, the type of animal, and how much time there is until the trip.

Although the pet owner is responsible for obtaining the necessary documentation and vaccinations, a travel agent will need to adjust their planning and itinerary to account for the challenges of traveling with a pet. They’ll need to choose appropriate transport, reserve the correct ticket, and arrange pet-friendly accommodation.

As a travel agent, you always want to do your research before making promises about a potential pet-friendly stay or itinerary. In this guide, we’re sharing a breakdown of how to travel with pets, from navigating documentation and airline policies to finding pet-friendly hotels and choosing the best transportation options.

Aine Lagan

111

14 minutes read

Step 1: Establish the pet travel constraints before you promise anything
Step 2: Build the document timeline backwards from departure
Step 3: Flying with a dog or cat
Step 4: Road, rail, and ferry travel with pets
Step 5: How to book pet-friendly accommodation
Step 6: Arrival, the first night, and the trip itself
Where pet travel plans often fall apart
Frequently asked questions for traveling with pets
Book pet-friendly accommodation with RateHawk’s search features

Step 1: Establish the pet travel constraints before you promise anything

Every country has different rules regarding pets, but the route is just as important as the destination itself. You’ll need to check the pet entry requirements throughout every stage of the travel route, including for the departure country, destination country, and any transit countries. The owner will need to have the correct documentation for all these jurisdictions to avoid potential delays or fines.

Start by ensuring you have the correct information about the pet, including their:

Age
Breed (including if they are a snub-nosed or brachycephalic breed)
Weight
Dimensions when inside a carrier
Medical or behavioral considerations

Every country has different rules regarding pets.
Photo by STAR EV on Unsplash

Deciding when it’s best to fly with a pet

Flying can be stressful for both humans and pets alike, but sometimes getting on a plane is the best option. Below, we’re sharing the pros and cons of the four most popular transport options:

Travel method	Best suited for	Potential drawbacks
Air	Small pets and long-distance journeys	Airline and document restrictions
Car	Dogs and cats traveling within a practical distance with regular stops	Long driving days and border requirements
Train	Some European city-to-city trips	Carrier and operator restrictions
Ferry	UK/European routes and car-based vacations	Limited facilities and operator-specific rules

Step 2: Build the document timeline backwards from departure

Depending on the itinerary, the pet’s documentation may only need to be arranged shortly before travel, while some destinations may require the pet to be in quarantine before departure or immediately upon arrival. As a travel agent, it’s easiest to work backwards from the documentation that is needed for departure to identify the earliest deadlines for paperwork and vaccinations.

There is often a specific sequence of events when preparing a pet for travel. Even correct documentation can be invalid if it’s not completed at the right time. For example, a vaccination administered before a pet has been microchipped may not qualify, as the documentation would not have the animal’s microchip number attached.

Entry requirements will always vary for pets depending on their breed and the destination, so check the local government website for the latest requirements. Below, we’re breaking down a general timeline for preparing a cat or dog for travel:

What to do	Why this timing matters	Who handles it
Microchip	The microchip number may need to appear on paperwork	Owner
Rabies vaccination	May be needed after microchipping	Owner
Mandatory waiting periods	Some countries require a specific waiting/isolation period for pets	Owner
Rabies titre/FAVN test (if required)	Some countries may have stricter testing, especially for cats	Owner
Health certificate	May be valid for a short time period to cover the duration of travel	Vet
Government endorsement (if required)	Some countries may require documentation like a “pet passport”	Owner
Final document check	Check all documents to ensure dates, names, and microchip numbers match	Travel agent and owner
Travel	Carry both the original documents and a copy throughout the course of the trip	Owner

Traveling to the USA with a dog in 2026

Generally, there are several requirements that owners need to meet when traveling to the USA with a dog, including:

Submitting an online CDC Dog Import Form between 2 and 10 days before traveling
The dog being microchipped with an ISO-compliant microchip (which has a 15-digit code)
Having a valid rabies vaccination, as this is required by most US states, and must be administered more than 30 days but less than one year before the arrival date
Getting a “fit to fly” or health certificate that is issued by a vet.

Regulations for traveling to the USA with a dog can change at any time, so it’s important to regularly check government websites and the CDC for the most up-to-date requirements. It’s also crucial to check the individual guidelines for the specific airline that the pet is traveling with, as some may have additional requirements, including size and weight limits for traveling in the cabin.

There are several requirements that owners need to meet when traveling to the USA with a dog.
Photo by PeopleImages on Shutterstock

EU pet travel in 2026: Don’t assume a “pet passport” is enough

It’s important to determine whether a traveler and their pet are actually eligible to use an EU pet passport for their specific trip. Only pet owners whose main or primary residence is in an EU member state (or Northern Ireland) are eligible to obtain and use an EU passport. Therefore, travelers from England, Scotland, and Wales cannot use an EU pet passport and must instead use an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) when traveling into the EU.

These pet passports are only available for the pets of qualifying residents who have a working, readable microchip and who have a current, up-to-date rabies vaccination that was administered by an authorized EU veterinarian.

Returning to or traveling to the UK with a pet

Rules for traveling to and from the UK with a pet are similar to EU rules; however, dogs must be given a tapeworm tablet by a vet within 1 to 5 days before entering the UK.

Pets from certain countries, particularly non-EU member states, may also need to do a blood test before arriving in the EU. Travelers may also need to fill in a form if they do not intend to sell or transfer ownership of their pet to a new owner when traveling into the UK.

The importance of a rabies titre test

Depending on the travel route, the pet may also need to have a rabies titre test in line with their rabies shot. A rabies titre test checks the animal’s antibody levels after the shot, and some international destinations require this to be at least 0.5 IU/ml to prove that the pet is protected before travel.

This test usually needs to be taken at least 30 days after the pet’s rabies vaccination. Some countries enforce a 3-month wait time from the date the blood was drawn before the pet is allowed to enter.

Step 3: Flying with a dog or cat

When flying with a dog or cat, there are three options. The pet can travel in either the cabin, hold, or as cargo. Airline restrictions will determine whether a pet can fly in the cabin, which is usually determined by the animal’s total weight and carrier size.

Many travelers are not comfortable with placing their pet in the hold of an aircraft, but it may be the only option due to their breed or the size of carrier required for the animal. In some scenarios, pets may need to have a separate cargo ticket, although this is typically only done when travelers are relocating internationally.

The pet can travel in either the cabin, hold, or as cargo.
Photo by nadisja on Shutterstock

The reality of putting pets under the seat

It’s easy to assume that all small dogs can travel under an airplane seat, but this isn’t true. Flying with a small dog will depend on their weight, including when placed inside the carrier, and whether the carrier meets the airline’s size requirements.

Just like a piece of carry-on luggage, pet carriers must fit within a specific size and weight. Most airlines will also require the pet to remain inside their carrier throughout the duration of the flight.

Flying with a large dog

It’s best to assume that a large dog cannot travel in an airplane cabinunless it is a medical or support dog. When booking any pet on a flight, it’s important to confirm their size and crate/carrier dimensions and compare this to the airline’s current policy, including for the specific route.

How to book a dog on a flight

Pets require their own ticket when flying, and it’s important to book this alongside their owner’s ticket as there are only a limited number of pet spaces available on flights. There are typically separate fees involved, and they must be booked in advance.

Pets require their own ticket when flying.
Photo by Standret on Shutterstock

Step 4: Road, rail, and ferry travel with pets

If a pet isn’t able to fly, it may be a better solution to plan an itinerary that involves road, rail, or ferry travel. Car travel is a great option for large dogs and anxious animals who may be more comfortable in familiar surroundings, or if you’re planning a multi-stop itinerary with destinations that are accessible by land.

However, car travel still involves border documentation and accommodation planning, while also planning realistic breaks and navigating the heat and weather accordingly.

There’s lots to consider when planning a long drive with pets, including:

How to keep the car properly ventilated
The best way to secure the pet’s carrier and keep them restrained
Regular rest stops, including for taking the pet out of the car
Avoiding excessively long drives
Regular access to clean, fresh water
Avoiding leaving the pet in a parked vehicle in unsafe temperatures

Car travel is a great option for large dogs and anxious animals.
Photo by Callum Hill on Unsplash

Alternatives to flying

Flying and long car journeys aren’t right for every pet, making ferry journeys and trains a great alternative. Many European rail operators allow pets, subject to carrier and size restrictions, although ferry policies will vary between carriers; many do offer pet-friendly cabins and on-board kennels.

Just like booking an airplane ticket, travel agents will need to check the specific requirements for the route and whether the pet’s type, size, and carrier make them eligible to travel. Depending on the transport method and carrier, the owner may not be able to stay with their pet throughout the journey.

Step 5: How to book pet-friendly accommodation

One of the biggest mistakes travel agents make is to assume that a hotel being “pet-friendly” guarantees that a pet can stay in that property without booking it in advance. Even hotels that heavily market themselves as being “pet-friendly” may still have restrictions on the type or size of animal they allow on their property, and they may only be allowed to stay within specific room types.

Even hotels that heavily market themselves as “pet-friendly” may still have restrictions on the type or size of animal.
Photo by BP Miller on Unsplash

Always ensure that the pet is included in the booking and that the accommodation provider is aware of the type and breed of the pet.

Here are a few things to consider when booking a pet-friendly hotel:

Use the RateHawk map feature to find hotels with nearby green spaces in a walkable location
Look for accommodation with easy room access or the ability to request a ground floor room, especially if your pet is scared of elevators or unable to walk on stairs themselves
If taking a road trip, it’s worth choosing a hotel with on-site parking and outdoor access
Hard flooring is generally a better idea for pets, rather than accommodation with carpets or rugs
Aparthotels and serviced apartments are a better alternative for longer itineraries and can make pets feel more comfortable.

At RateHawk, our pet-friendly search filters and map feature make it easy to find and compare accommodation to suit pets of all sizes. Travel agents can book pet-friendly hotels with additional access to air tickets, train tickets, and transfers to offer complete vacation packages for pet owners and their four-legged friends.

Step 6: Arrival, the first night, and the trip itself

There are a few easy steps to make travel day and the first night of a trip more comfortable for both a pet and their owner. Here’s how:

Find a quiet space to help the pet familiarize themselves with their new surroundings
Bring familiar bedding or a favorite blanket to reduce anxiety
Keep food and water in an accessible place, using bowls they’re familiar with
Maintain the pet’s usual routine as much as possible, including daily walks
Make a note of the contact information for the local veterinary clinic in case of emergency
Always carry both the original and a copy of all the documentation related to the pet when traveling

Maintain the pet’s usual routine as much as possible, including daily walks.
Photo by Marine Vec on Unsplash

Where pet travel plans often fall apart

As a travel agent, it’s important to know the most common mistakes that your clients are likely to make and how you can mitigate them.

Here’s why pet travel plans often fail:

The client books the flight before checking entry requirements
The pet’s microchip and vaccination sequence is wrong
The pet’s ticket was never confirmed, or the client assumed they could fly in the cabin without checking size requirements
The “pet-friendly” hotel operates with size or breed restrictions
The itinerary contains too many hotel changes, which unsettles the pet
There are additional property charges for pets that the client wasn’t aware of
The pet’s titre test is started too late, or they don’t have a health certificate from a vet

As a travel agent, you can avoid most of these common mistakes by following our advice above. Just like checking your client’s entry requirements, always check what documentation the pet needs as well.

Always check what documentation the pet needs.
Photo by LightField Studios on Shutterstock

Frequently asked questions for traveling with pets

What documents does my pet need to fly internationally?
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Requirements will vary depending on departure and arrival destinations, but most pets will be required to have identification (including a microchip), rabies documentation, and a “fit to fly” health certificate. Always check local authority websites for the latest requirements for your arrival destination and any transit countries.

Can a large dog fly in the cabin?
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No, generally only small dogs who can fit in a small carrier are able to fly in the cabin, as they must be placed under the seat in front of the traveler. Only large dogs who are deemed to be medically essential are able to travel in the cabin if the airline policy allows it.

Is the EU pet passport still valid?
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Travelers are eligible to apply for an EU pet passport for their dog or cat if they are a resident or have their primary home in an EU member state (or Northern Ireland). This passport will only be valid for travel to/from EU states.

How early should you start preparing for international pet travel?
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As early as possible, as requirements will vary by destination and some may have complex requirements, including rabies titre tests.

Is it safe for a pet to fly in the hold?
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It will always depend on your pet, but there are risks associated with placing any pet in an airplane hold, especially for certain breeds and when there are human conditions. It’s best to discuss your pet’s suitability with a veterinarian before booking for them to travel in an airplane hold.

Do hotels charge extra for pets?
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Yes, most hotels and private accommodation providers will charge additional fees for travelers staying with pets.

Is it better to travel with a cat by car or by plane?
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Cats generally are better suited to traveling by car, rather than plane, especially if they’re anxious. It’s also worth limiting hotel and accommodation changes to keep your cat comfortable by avoiding introducing them to too many new environments at once.

Book pet-friendly accommodation with RateHawk’s search features

Pet travel isn’t necessarily difficult, but it’s a situation that can quickly go wrong if important documents or processes are overlooked. As a travel agent, it’s worth doing your research and familiarizing yourself with the travel requirements for the most popular destinations that your clients visit.

Always verify the information before booking your client’s package and ensure that they’re aware of the documentation they’ll need for their pet.

Pet travel isn’t necessarily difficult.
Photo by Alberto Menendez Cervero on Shutterstock

At RateHawk, we help travel agents streamline their packages by making it easy to search for and compare pet-friendly properties to give your clients added peace of mind. Get started with RateHawk today to get access to extensive inventory with exclusive rates for pet-friendly accommodation and travel packages.

Get started with RateHawk

Cover image: Photo by Alvan Nee on Unsplash

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111

14 minutes read

Aine Lagan

Aine is a freelance copywriter and self-certified travel expert, based in the UK. She’s the researcher-in-chief for every vacation and the go-to source for travel hacks. She graduated from King’s College London with an LLB and helps businesses grow communities online with educational content. Bucket list trip? Visiting the penguins on Antarctica.

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