Things You Should Do Before Taking a Road Trip with Your Dog x Red Roof Inn

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx on behalf of Red Roof.

Calling all dog moms and dads! Are you planning your first cross-country road trip with your pooch soon? You're in the right place. I, too, love bringing my beagle on roaming adventures. But let me tell you, traveling with pets is not all rainbows and butterflies. It can be stressful if you don't plan accordingly, especially when looking for dog-friendly accommodations.

In this blog, you'll find things you should do before hitting the road. But before I share my travel tips, I want to tell you about my go-to pet-friendly hotel – Red Roof.

What is Red Roof?

Finding a place for you and your dog just got more accessible and more affordable! Many hotels and rentals charge additional (and ridiculous) pet fees. These extra costs add up and can increase the price of your trip. No, thank you!

That's why I'm so excited to have discovered Red Roof. With over 660 properties in the U.S. and enhanced amenities at a value price, Red Roof Inns take pet-friendly road trips to a new level. Most locations allow one pet per room for FREE. To top it off, their RediRewards membership offers more savings and rewards such as free and discounted stays. I'm so excited about my upcoming California trip with Stella and look forward to staying at one of their locations.

Did I mention that they also have enhanced cleaning protocols? They follow all government guidelines and best practice policies to protect both two and four-legged guests.

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Now without further ado, here are things you should do before taking a road trip with your dog.

Make sure your pets are comfortable with long car rides.

Take your dogs on short mini-trips so that they can get used to car rides. Getting them comfortable will prevent any stress on the road. I started bringing Stella on day trips when she was seven months old, and it's paying off! I now have a dog who loves car rides.

Get your vehicle ready.

Safety first! Purchase a dog seatbelt or a type of harness that attaches to your car's belts. Lay blankets or use seat covers to protect your vehicle.

Prepare a mobile pet travel bag.

Make your trip a breeze by having everything your dog needs in one bag. In addition to packing dog food and treats in a single tote, you should also bring all necessities: pet medications, supplements, cleaning supplies for accidents, portable food, water bowls, and doggy waste bags ready for rest stops.

Bring a toy that will keep them occupied.

Just like people, dogs can quickly be bored on long car rides. Keep them entertained by bringing their favorite ropes, balls, or bones. I'm sure you would prefer that they chew on these rather than their seat belt!

If your pet has a favorite blanket, bring that too! It always amazes how much power blankets have over Stella. She can't resist them!

Pack your pet's health records.

In case of an emergency, you should also bring their health/vaccination records. More importantly, make sure your dog is up to date with its shots.

Make a pet-friendly itinerary.

When traveling with your dog, it's essential to know where to eat, play, and stay. Not all restaurants and national parks allow dogs, so be sure you do your research and create a list of pet-friendly destinations. Luckily, you now have an idea for a road trip hotel!

Red Roof Inn & Red Roof PLUS+ provide all guests affordable stays with the comforts of home, allowing guests to Sleep Easy and Spend Less.®