Why Pet-Friendly Travel Is Growing in 2025—and How to Plan

I remember the first time I packed a suitcase for Poppy, my feisty little terrier. It was an experiment, really. I wasn’t sure how she’d handle the five-hour car ride or the boutique hotel stay on the other end, but I was determined to bring her along and not feel that pang of guilt when leaving her behind. Spoiler alert—she adored every second of it, from sniffing roadside picnic stops to curling up on her designated hotel bed. And me? I couldn’t stop smiling. That was the moment I realized pet travel wasn’t just achievable, it was a joy—and it’s only getting better.

Welcome to the era of pet travel, where our furry companions are no longer left at home or in kennels. More and more of us are choosing to bring our pets on our adventures, and because of this growing trend, the travel industry is transforming in incredible ways. Whether you’re a seasoned pet traveler or just curious about giving it a try, here’s why this movement shows no signs of slowing down—and how you can make the most of it.

Why Pet Travel Is Booming

When I first started traveling with Poppy, it felt like a hard-fought gamble. Fast forward a few years, and it seems like the world has caught up to what many pet parents have always known—life is better together, including on the road. But why is pet travel blowing up these days?

1. The Remote Work Revolution

Remember when working remotely was a rarity? Since that shifted, people have become more flexible in both their professional lives and their travel habits. Suddenly, long weekends or extended stays became possible without needing to leave pets behind at home.

I’ve even taken work trips with Poppy lounging next to me in the Airbnb. The flexibility of working remotely has made “pack your bags” often include packing for our pets too.

2. Pets Are Family Now

We’re no longer just pet owners; we’re pet parents. The bond we share with our dogs, cats, and even rabbits or birds has deepened. For many of us, the thought of leaving our beloved buddies behind feels unthinkable. Millennials and Gen Zers, in particular, are more likely to treat pets as family, which leads us to rethink how we travel.

3. Pet-Friendly Infrastructure Has Improved

From pet-friendly cafés to entire hotel chains that cater to pets, the infrastructure is finally catching up. Unlike the days when you had to beg a host or sneak a pup into a motel, many travel hubs now openly welcome pets. They’re creating spaces designed to make those four-pawed travelers feel right at home.

4. Budget-Friendly Alternatives to Pet Sitters

Let’s be honest, pet sitting can be expensive—and that’s if you’re lucky enough to find someone reliable. Rising pet care costs have made it more practical to bring pets along on trips rather than fork over hundreds of dollars for boarding fees.

5. Millennials Lead the Charge

This trend is particularly fueled by Millennials and Gen Z—the two groups that are redefining travel. They crave experiences, they prioritize flexibility, and yes, they love their pets. It’s this generation of adventure-seekers that’s driving the surge in pet travel.

Transportation Evolution

One of my most nerve-wracking moments as a pet traveler was my first flight with Poppy. Would she be comfortable? Would I be? But now, airlines have upped their game and made it so much easier to jet-set with pets.

1. Airlines Adapting Their Policies

The days of unclear pet policies are finally fading. As stated in Wowfare's analysis, nearly 20% of travelers now bring their pets on flights, prompting airlines to adapt with clearer rules and better amenities.

From pet-friendly cabins to streamlined processes, it’s easier than ever to travel with your furry companion. Finally, the industry is catching up—because pets are family, and they deserve to come along for the ride.

2. Train & Bus Flexibility

If you prefer keeping all four feet on the ground, train and bus options have also embraced pet travelers. European trains, for instance, are incredibly pet-friendly, and now it feels like everywhere else is catching up.

3. Road Trip Trends

I’ve customized my car with Poppy in mind. There’s a water bowl holder, a comfy seat cover, and even a little backseat fan for long stretches in the sun. More car accessories and vehicle modifications now cater to pet safety and comfort, making road trips a breeze.

4. New Pet Transport Services

For those who can’t—or don’t want to—handle the logistics themselves, specialized pet transportation services have popped up. These companies focus on safely and comfortably carrying your furry loved ones from one place to another.

5. Insurance Considerations

Pet travel insurance is becoming a thing, too. It’s one of those “you hope you don’t need it” items, but it offers peace of mind if anything unexpected should happen in transit.

Accommodation Transformation

I’ve stayed everywhere, from luxury inns to charming Airbnbs, with Poppy in tow—and I’ve noticed how dramatically accommodations are evolving.

1. Hotels Go Beyond Basic Pet Policies

Major hotel chains are no longer just "allowing" pets; they're actively courting them. Think pet mini-bars, comfy dog beds, and even special room service menus for your fur baby.

2. Vacation Rentals Adjusting

The vacation rental market has seen a boost in pet-friendly listings. Platforms like Airbnb now have filters for pets, making it easy to find the perfect stay that welcomes your whole crew.

3. Luxury Amenities for Pets

On one trip, I stayed at a hotel in New York City where Poppy received a custom doggie cupcake during afternoon tea. It was adorable. Hotels and rentals alike are stepping up with some pretty creative pet-focused extras.

4. Rural and Urban Contrasts

Urban stays often involve chic amenities, while rural retreats offer wide-open spaces and dog-friendly trails. Knowing your pup’s personality can help you pick the right vibe.

5. Clean Protocols

A bonus? Many pet-friendly accommodations hold themselves to higher cleaning standards, meaning no lingering smells or allergens, even in heavy-use areas.

Destination Trends

Certain places shine brighter than others when it comes to pet-friendly destinations.

1. Pet-Centric Cities

Cities like Austin or Portland are leading the charge with dog-friendly parks, restaurants, and even breweries that welcome pets.

2. National Parks & Outdoor Fun

There’s nothing quite like watching your dog frolic in the great outdoors. National parks and other outdoor-focused locales are increasingly accommodating pets on trails, beaches, and picnic areas.

3. Beach Getaways

Even traditional beach towns are finding ways to welcome pets, with special off-leash hours or designated pet-friendly stretches of sand.

4. International Considerations

Crossing borders with a pet can feel daunting. I’ve done it, and it’s all about preparation—vaccines, paperwork, and understanding each country’s rules.

5. Specialized Attractions

From pet spas to cafes designed just for dogs, tourism spots are making room for pets in a way we’ve never seen before.

Planning Your Trip

Preparation is key to a successful pet trip—and trust me, I’ve learned this through trial and error.

1. Veterinary Checkups

Before you go, a checkup with the vet ensures your pet is healthy enough to travel. They can give you advice on motion sickness, anxiety meds, or health documentation.

2. Packing Essentials

Packing for Poppy is second nature now. Her essentials? Collapsible bowls, favorite toys, a secure leash, and a cozy blanket that smells like home.

3. Be Emergency-Ready

Have an emergency vet service locator handy, plus extra meds your pet may need. On one trip, Poppy had an unexpected tummy issue and having her records with me helped expedite care.

4. Budget Matters

Pet travel can be surprisingly affordable if you plan. Knowing the add-on costs for accommodations or transportation upfront helps avoid surprises.

Common Challenges & Solutions

Traveling with pets isn’t without hiccups, but most challenges have manageable fixes.

• Pet-anxiety? Calming sprays, familiar toys, or a soothing playlist might help.
• Allergies or restrictions? Researching restaurants ahead of time is key.
• Weather issues? Always factor in the season and bring gear for rain or snow.

Technology & Services

There’s an app for everything, and pet travel is no exception. I swear by GPS collars and pet-friendly booking platforms that streamline travel. Other tools, like health monitors, help me stay proactive about Poppy’s well-being on the go.

Economic Impact

This booming trend is reshaping budgets beyond just individual travelers. Hotels are rethinking their designs, airlines are training staff on pet-friendly policies, and even insurance providers are cashing in on the expanding needs of pet family vacations.

Looking Ahead

What’s next for pet travel? From more specialized gear to evolving travel policies, the future is full of possibility. Operators may face challenges keeping up, but the demand is undeniable—pet travel isn’t going anywhere.

Travel Sparks ✨

• Check airline policies well in advance, including size restrictions for carriers.
• Invest in a quality travel water bottle for sipping on the go.
• Don’t forget to pack your pet’s vaccination records—they’re essential.
• Use pet-filter searches for accommodations to save time and hassle.
• Train your pet in shorter outings before embarking on long trips.
• Always have a first-aid kit specifically geared for pets.

Paws Up for Your Next Adventure!

Traveling with Poppy has taught me that pet travel isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a whole new way of experiencing the world. Every trip we take together feels more meaningful, more connected, and honestly, more fun. Sure, it takes a little extra planning, but the wagging tail and happy snuggles make it all worth it.

The best part? The world is catching up with more pet-friendly options than ever before. So, if you’ve been on the fence about bringing your furry friend along, trust me—pack that leash, grab their favorite toy, and dive in. You’ll never look back.