There are a few things to consider before you set off, such as making sure your camper van is dog-proof and packing all your dog’s essentials. But with a little bit of planning, you and your dog can have an amazing adventure together.

Here are some tips for taking your dog on a campervan holiday, suggestions for where to go and an explanation of some of the top dog-friendly features of Bailey Endeavour campervans.

You know your dog’s temperament best, so choose between a harness and a container for travel. According to Article 57 of the Highway Code, dogs must be “suitably restrained” in a vehicle when travelling within the UK for safety.

Options include:

• Dog crates which can be installed and secured in a number of ways depending on the design
• Dog seat belts or harnesses
• Dog guards and barriers to separate your dog from the cab area

Which solution or combination you choose will depend on your campervan and your dog’s temperament, so you may need to try a couple of ideas to find the perfect solution.

You can check the Highway Code as it relates to animals here and make sure you keep up to date with any changes.

First-time campervan journeys can be overwhelming for pups! Here’s how to keep them calm:

• Practice runs: Before the big adventure, take short campervan trips to get them used to the sights and sounds.
• Familiar haven: Pack their favourite bed, toys, and blanket to create a calming, familiar space in the van.
• Exercise breaks: Factor in frequent stops for walks and playtime to release energy and prevent boredom.
• Safe and secure: Ensure the campervan is escape-proof and they have a comfortable harness for travel.
• Calming scents: Consider bringing a calming spray or pheromone wipes to create a relaxing atmosphere.

1. Dog-proof your campervan: Before you set off, make sure your campervan is secure and escape-proof for your furry friend. This might involve blocking any gaps around the doors and windows with mesh or lining the floor with a non-slip mat.Items like a dog gate can be ideal for preventing your dog from getting out of the campervan at an impromptu time.

Dog hair can also get everywhere, so consider investing in some covers or blankets for your seats to protect them from the hair. You might also want to keep a small dustpan and brush in the campervan to help keep the floor and hard surfaces hair-free.

2. Pack the essentials: Don’t forget to pack all your dog’s essentials, including food, water bowls, a lead, poop bags, a comfortable bed, familiar toys, and any medications they may need. It’s also a good idea to have your dog’s vaccination certificate with you on your travels. If your dog falls sick or has an accident, the vet will ask for this, so it’s useful to have handy for emergencies.

3. Plan your route with dog-friendly stops in mind: There are plenty of dog-friendly campsites and pubs across the UK. Do some research beforehand to find places to stay and eat that will welcome your canine companion.

Both the Caravan and Motorhome Club and Camping and Caravanning Club have handy site finders that allow you to filter campsites that allow dogs — most of these dog-friendly Club sites even have dog walking areas on site.

4. Factor in plenty of exercise breaks: Dogs need regular walks and playtime, so factor in plenty of stops on your journey to allow your dog to stretch their legs and relieve themselves.

5. Be prepared for hot weather: If you’re travelling during the summer months, take extra precautions to keep your dog cool. This might involve providing them with a shady spot in the campervan, carrying a portable paddling pool, and making sure they have access to plenty of water.

6. Be prepared for cold and wet weather: For the colder and wetter months, consider taking a lot of mud protection so your furry friends don’t traipse what should remain outside inside.

• A Mud Daddy portable washing device is perfect for cleaning muddy paws and fur before they enter the van. Compact and lightweight, it helps you to wash your dog after a woodland adventure, rinse off muddy boots, or keep your bike sparkling, all without dragging around a hose.

• After washing, wrap your dog in a Mud Daddy drying robe to keep them warm and dry quickly. These items help maintain cleanliness and comfort for your dog during wetter weather.

7. Never leave your dog unattended in a hot campervan: Even on a seemingly mild day, the temperature inside a campervan can soar very quickly. It can be dangerous, even fatal, to leave your dog unattended inside a parked vehicle.

Many people will choose to never leave their dog unattended in the campervan regardless of the weather, and this is the safest course of action to take.

8. Be mindful of campsite rules: Always check the campsite rules before you book. Some campsites may have restrictions on the number of dogs allowed per pitch or breed restrictions.

9. Keep your dog on a lead when necessary: Even the best-behaved dog can be unpredictable in new surroundings. Secure your dog around livestock, on busy roads, or in crowded areas. A Pet Peg can help you to keep your dog safely tethered while you all relax outside.

10. Relax and have fun! Travelling with your dog in a campervan can be a fantastic way to explore the UK together. Relax, have fun, and make some unforgettable memories with your furry friend.

Below is just a small selection of the many dog-friendly campervan destinations available in the UK and Europe. With a bit of research, you’re sure to find the perfect place to take your furry friend on an unforgettable adventure.

• The Lake District National Park: With its stunning mountains, glistening lakes, and endless hiking trails, the Lake District is a paradise for dogs and their humans. Many campsites around the park cater to dogs, and there are plenty of dog-friendly pubs and cafes where you can relax after a day of exploring.

• The Cotswolds: Explore the rolling hills and charming villages of the Cotswolds. There are plenty of dog-friendly walks to be had, and the traditional pubs often have a water bowl waiting for your thirsty pup.

• The Jurassic Coast: This stunning coastline stretches from East Devon to Dorset and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of dog-friendly beaches to explore, as well as fossil hunting opportunities for both you and your furry friend.

• North York Moors National Park: This vast national park offers stunning scenery, heather moorland, and ancient forests. There are plenty of dog-friendly walking trails to choose from, and you might even spot some wild deer or ponies on your travels.

• The Scottish Highlands: If you’re looking for an epic adventure, then the Scottish Highlands is the place to go. With its dramatic mountains, lochs, and glens, there’s plenty to explore. Just be aware that midges can be a problem in the summer months, so pack some insect repellent for both you and your dog.

• The French Alps: Take in the breathtaking scenery of the French Alps and enjoy some long walks in the fresh mountain air. Many French campsites are dog-friendly, and there are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with your furry companion.

• The Dutch Coast: Explore the Netherlands’ stunning coastline with your dog. There are plenty of dog-friendly beaches to relax on, and many towns and cities are very dog-friendly. You might even see some locals taking their dogs for a bike ride!

• The German Mosel Valley: Follow the Mosel River through Germany’s picturesque wine region. There are plenty of dog-friendly wineries where you can sample the local wines, and many towns and villages have charming dog-friendly cafes and restaurants.

• Tuscany, Italy: Explore the rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany with your dog. There are plenty of dog-friendly campsites and agriturismos (farm stays) where you can stay, and many towns and villages have dog-friendly restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with a view.

• The Austrian Alps: Hike through the stunning scenery of the Austrian Alps with your dog. Many Austrian campsites are dog-friendly, and there are plenty of dog-friendly mountain huts where you can stop for a rest and a bite to eat.

For travelling to a foreign country with your dog, ensure you’ve prepared all necessary paperwork. 

Always check the latest requirement when you travel in case the rules have changed. Visit the UK Government website. 

Once the paperwork is sorted, you can explore dog-friendly destinations across Europe, such as France’s scenic countryside, Italy’s pet-friendly beaches, or Germany’s vast forests.

Essentials

• Dog poo bags
• Doggy shampoo
• Extra food and water
• Familiar food and treats
• Dog towel
• Spare leash and collar
• Pet peg
• Documentation showing vaccination history
• Paperwork for travelling abroad if you need it

Health and Safety

• Doggie medicine
• Dog brush
• Collar with your contact details

Comfort and Entertainment

• Dog toys
• Dog towel
• Dog brush

Travel

• Dog car harness / Dog seat belts
• Dog crate / Travel crate
• Dog guard / barriers

Our Bailey Endeavours are made with the family in mind, and that includes your four-legged friends. Here are several features that you’ll find across our Endeavour campervan range that make travelling easy for dog owners:

Spacious Interior
The Bailey Endeavour’s interior ensures a comfortable travel experience for both you and your dog. The long sofas allow space for your pet to stretch out and relax after long journeys. On the B62 the back doors can be opened and the back cushion removed to allow pet beds, crates, or feeding stations to be placed with access to the outside, ensuring that your furry friend feels at home while on the road.

All-Weather Durability
Equipped with a four-season heating system, the Bailey Endeavour is built to handle various climates, ensuring your dog remains comfortable regardless of the weather. This feature is especially beneficial for pets that are sensitive to temperature changes. Whether you’re travelling in the cold of winter or the heat of summer, the campervan maintains a stable and cosy environment for your pet.

Convenient Access
The Thule automatic slide-out step is a standout feature for dog owners, providing easy entry and exit for pets. This is particularly useful for older dogs or those with mobility issues, as it reduces the need for jumping or being lifted into the vehicle. This thoughtful design element ensures that your dog can enter and leave the campervan with ease, enhancing overall travel convenience.

Outdoor Enhancements
The 3.5m wind-out awning creates a shaded outdoor area, perfect for setting up a comfortable spot for your dog to relax outside. This feature allows you to extend your living space into the outdoors, providing a cool and protected environment for your pet to enjoy fresh air without direct exposure to the sun. It’s an excellent addition for outdoor-loving pets.

Adaptable Living Space
The B64 has a pop-top roof which allows for extra sleeping space. This makes it easy for your four-legged friend to use the lounge area downstairs to sleep at night while you have a comfortable double bed in the roof.

Even better, the B64 has achieved EN-1646-1 Grade III classification for heating and thermal insulation even with the pop-top up, meaning everyone will stay warm and cosy all night.

Embark on a thrilling journey with your furry friend in a Bailey Endeavour campervan. Our dog-friendly features ensure comfort and convenience for both you and your pet. Visit our website to discover more and start planning your perfect campervan adventure today!

Explore Bailey Endeavour Campervans here

See the PRIMA dog-friendly range of campervan accessories here