Take Your Pet on Holiday the Thoughtful Way

Travelling with your pet should be joyful, not stressful. At PetBubble, we’ve seen that there are plenty of truly pet-friendly stays across Australia – from inner-city apartments and coastal cottages to rural retreats with secure yards. The key to a relaxed trip is preparation and finding accommodation that genuinely welcomes your furry friend.

Why Planning Matters

Research shows that travel can be stressful for animals, but the right preparation reduces risk and improves wellbeing. Pets are an important part of the family, and more pet parents are choosing to bring them along rather than leave them behind. With a little planning, your next trip can be enjoyable for both you and your companion.

Choosing the Right Type of Stay

City Escapes

Perfect for quick getaways with easy access to vets, dog parks, and pet-friendly cafés. Look for hotels or apartments with ground-floor access or small courtyards for convenience.

Beach and Coastal Retreats

Ideal for pets that love the water and sand. Check local beach rules, as some have seasonal restrictions. Choose stays that provide outdoor taps or rinse areas for sandy paws.

Countryside and Rural Stays

Great for active pets that need space to roam. Prioritise fully fenced yards and safe walking trails nearby to give your pet freedom while staying secure.

What to Check Before You Book

• Pet Policies
  Check you stay's rules regarding pet species, size, breed, and maximum number. PetBubble makes this more simple, reducing guesswork and make it much quicker and easier to plan your getaway. Each host will provide information regarding potential cleaning fees or refundable deposits, so if anything is unclear, contact the host directly. 
   
• Pet Amenities
  Check for features such as fenced yards, food and water bowls, and secure outdoor areas. For pets that get anxious, look for a quiet, enclosed space where they can feel safe. Hosts are encouraged to customise their listings to reflect their amenities and policies, so if anything is unclear, contact them directly for clarification.
   
• Local Services
  Before travelling, identify the nearest 24/7 veterinary clinic and emergency hospital, and save their contact details before travelling. Check with your stay about fire and evacuation procedures, and ensure balconies, windows, and outdoor areas are secure.
   

PetBubble’s ever expanding Local Finds registry includes veterinary clinics and pet services, making it easier for pet parents to plan safely and confidently.

Keeping Pets Comfortable and Safe

• Bring Familiar Items
  Pack your pet’s bed, blanket, and favourite toy. Familiar scents help reduce anxiety in new environments.
   
  
• Maintain Routine
  Keep walking, play, and feeding times consistent to help your pet feel settled.
   
• Monitor Stress
  If travelling long distances, speak with your vet about strategies to manage travel anxiety or motion sickness.

Being a Responsible Guest

A respectful stay keeps doors open for all pet parents. Follow the property’s pet policies, use leads where required, clean up promptly, and keep noise to a minimum. Leaving a positive review for genuinely pet-friendly hosts also helps others in the community find welcoming stays.

Final Thought

Pet-inclusive travel is about more than convenience – it’s a shared experience that strengthens the bond between you and your pet. With a little preparation and the right information, your next Australian adventure can be comfortable, safe, and full of tail wags. Explore verified pet-friendly stays through PetBubble and make your next trip truly welcoming for every member of the family.

Sources

AIDR (2024) Planning for Animals, Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience. Available at: https://www.aidr.org.au
Buhalis, D. & Chan, J. (2023) Travelling with Pets: Designing Hospitality Services for Pet Owners and Hotel Guests, Bournemouth University and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCHM-01-2023-0102
De Winkel, T., van der Steen, S., Enders‑Slegers, M.–J., Griffioen, R., Haverbeke, A., Groenewoud, D. & Hediger, K. (2024) ‘Observational behaviours and emotions to assess welfare of dogs: A systematic review’, Journal of Veterinary Behaviour – Clinical Applications and Research, 72, pp. 1–17. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2023.12.007
Jahn, K., Ley, J., DePorter, T. & Seksel, K. (2023) ‘How well do dogs cope with air travel? An owner‑reported survey study’, Animals, 13(19): 3093. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13193093
O’Haire, M. (2010) ‘Companion animals and human health: Benefits’, Anthrozoös, 23(1), pp. 1–22. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2010.02.002
RSPCA Australia (2023) Three Essential Tips for Holidaying with Pets. Available at: https://www.rspca.org.au/blog/2023/three-essential-tips-holidaying-pets/