A road trip with your dog can be the best part of a holiday, from beach walks on the way down to evening strolls in a new town. It also means hours in the car with an excited, curious passenger who would happily climb into the front seat at the first sharp bend. The right dog travel accessories keep your pet secure, protect the car from muddy paws and make long drives calmer for everyone on board.
Securing a dog properly is not just about comfort. An unrestrained pet can distract the driver and, in a sudden stop, be thrown forward with real force. A harness clipped to the seat belt or a guard that keeps the dog in the boot solves both problems.
Small and medium dogs usually travel best on the back seat, wearing a car harness attached to the seat belt system. Larger dogs often settle better in the boot of an estate or SUV, separated from the cabin by a dog guard for the car so they cannot jump over the seats. Whichever you choose, a cover underneath keeps hair and dirt off the upholstery and makes cleaning up after a muddy walk much quicker.
Before setting off, let your dog get used to the set-up on a few short trips. A familiar harness and blanket in the same spot every time helps nervous travellers relax, and makes the first long day of driving far easier.
These dog car accessories cover the essentials: keeping your dog secure, protecting the car and looking after your pet once you stop.
This adjustable dog guard fits between the back seats and the boot, creating a safe space for larger dogs to stretch out. Because it adjusts, it suits a range of cars, and it stops an excited dog from climbing into the cabin while you drive.
A car safety harness in size M for medium-sized dogs. It is designed to attach to the seat belt system, so your dog can sit or lie on the back seat while staying secured, without the strain on the neck that a collar would cause.
The same safety harness in size L, for bigger breeds who travel on the back seat. Measuring your dog's chest before you buy is the easiest way to choose between the two sizes.
This large boot cover protects the boot floor from mud, sand and wet fur after a day outdoors. At 100 by 100 centimetres it covers most of a family car's boot, and it can simply be lifted out and shaken off at the end of the trip.
A travel bowl kit for water and food on the go. Long drives mean regular breaks, and having proper bowls to hand at every stop keeps your dog hydrated, especially on hot summer days.
A 360-degree LED safety collar that makes your dog easy to spot at evening rest stops, campsites and late walks in an unfamiliar place. It is a small addition that adds a lot of peace of mind after dark.
Never leave your dog alone in a parked car on a warm day, even with the windows open; temperatures inside rise very quickly. Plan lunch stops at places where your dog can come along, and the whole trip will feel easier.
A secure harness or guard, a cover to protect the car and a few travel comforts are all it takes to turn a long drive into a relaxed part of the holiday. Set everything up before you leave, keep breaks regular, and your dog will be ready for every stop along the way. A good dog car harness is the place to start.
All six products are available from Norauto, online and in store. For more road trip ideas and travel tips, visit Organizetrip again before your next getaway.
