Dogs Getting Started

Understanding the Different Types of Pet-Friendly Transportation Options

By
Jenna Stregowski
Jenna Stregowski, Pet Health and Behavior Editor, The Spruce Pets and Daily Paws
Jenna Stregowski
Jenna Stregowski is the Pet Health and Behavior Editor for Daily Paws and The Spruce Pets. She's also a registered veterinary technician with over 20 years of expertise in the field of veterinary medicine.
Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process
Published on 04/19/23
Reviewed by
Amy Fox
Dr. Amy Fox
Reviewed by Amy Fox

Dr. Fox received her veterinary education at Cornell University and has 15-plus years of experience in the field. She has worked in emergency, shelter, medicine, surgery, and general medicine. Dr. Fox is passionate about client education and making sure pet parents have the most up-to-date, accurate, and accessible information to empower them as caregivers and companions.  

Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Veterinary Review Board
dog travels on train with owner

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In This Article

Looking to travel with your pets? Whether you're going across town or to the other side of the globe, there are several pet-friendly transportation options available. Pets can typically travel by car, bus, train, or plane depending on where you live and your destination. All it takes is some planning and preparation.

Car Travel with Pets

Traveling with a pet by car can be a fun experience, but it requires some preparation and planning to ensure that your pet is safe and comfortable during the journey.

For safety, choose a carrier or restraint that is appropriate for your pet's size and comfort, and ensure it's securely fastened in the car to prevent movement during sudden stops or turns. Avoid putting your pet in the front seat—like kids, pets are safer in the back seat.

Plan to stop every few hours to allow your pet to stretch their legs, go to the bathroom, and get some fresh air. Many highway rest stops have dedicated areas for walking pets. Be sure to bring waste bags and clean up after your pet. For cats, a travel litterbox can help make the trip less stressful for you and your pet.

Bring a blanket or pillow for them to lie on, and adjust the temperature in the car to a comfortable level. You may also wish to purchase seat covers to protect your car. And keep an eye on noise levels; dogs have much more sensitive ears than humans.

If your pet is not used to car travel, take steps to train them to get used to car rides. This can help prevent fear and anxiety in the car. Cats may take longer to get used to them, but even they can learn to enjoy car rides.

Warning

Never leave your pet alone in the car, especially in warm or hot weather. Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can quickly become dangerously high.

If you don't have a car or need assistance transporting your pet, you can search for a pet taxi service in your area. These services are designed specifically for pets and often come equipped with crates or carriers for their safety and comfort.

In addition, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft allow pets in their cars at the driver's discretion. It's important to check with the driver beforehand and ensure your pet is well-behaved and comfortable in the car.

Pros and Cons of Car Travel with Pets

Pros

  • Convenient, especially if you own a car

  • Less expensive than other transportation

  • You have more control over the frequency of stops

Cons

  • Long-distance trips take longer

  • If you don't own a car, it can get expensive

  • You must ensure all pit stops are pet-friendly as well as any hotels you will stay in along the way

Bus Travel with Pets

Traveling with a pet by bus can be a bit more challenging than traveling by car or train as many bus companies have strict policies when it comes to pets on board. For example, Greyhound does not allow pets of any kind; only service animals are permitted on board. Check the pet policy of the bus company before booking your bus tickets. If you do find a pet-friendly bus company, you may be required to make a reservation for your pet in advance and pay a fee.

Most bus companies require pets to be transported in a carrier or crate. If you're using public transportation, some cities allow pets in carriers or bags. Choose a carrier that is appropriate for your pet's size and comfort, and make sure that it meets the bus company's requirements.

Some buses make periodic stops, which can allow time for your pet to have a potty break and stretch their legs. Check the schedule ahead of time to make sure your pet will have enough breaks. Avoid booking a trip that requires your pet to remain confined for longer than they can typically hold their bladder (usually six to seven hours maximum).

Arrive at the bus station early to allow plenty of time to check in and get your pet settled. Follow the instructions of the bus company when it comes to boarding the bus and placing your pet's carrier in the designated area.

If your pet is not used to traveling in cars, a bus ride can be extra stressful. Take some time before the bus trip to acclimate your pet to car rides.

Pros and Cons of Bus Travel with Pets

Pros

  • You'll have your pet with you at all times (in a carrier)

  • If the bus route makes stops, it can allow your pet potty breaks

  • Less expensive than air travel

Cons

  • It may be difficulty to find a pet-friendly bus line

  • Bus travel may not be possible with large dogs

  • Trips may take longer than driving


    Other passengers may be disturbed by a pet who is barking, whining, or distressed in such a small space

Train Travel with Pets

While most trains allow small pets, each company has different rules and restrictions. Check the pet policy of the train company you'll be using, and contact them to make a reservation for your pet as early as possible. A fee may apply depending on the train company's policy.

Like buses, train companies typically require pets to be transported in a carrier. Many cities permit pets on public trains as long as they are in a carrier of some kind such as a backpack carrier or a duffel carrier. Be sure to choose a carrier that is comfortable for your pet and meets the train company's requirements. And make sure the trip won't require your pet to wait too long between potty breaks.

Arrive at the train station early to allow plenty of time to check in and get your pet settled. Follow the instructions of the train company when it comes to boarding the train and placing your pet's carrier in the designated area, which is usually under the seat in front of you.

Pros and Cons of Train Travel with Pets

Pros

  • You'll be with your pet the whole trip (in a carrier)

  • More affordable than flying

Cons

  • Trips may take longer than driving

  • Some trains don't allow large dogs


    Other passengers may be disturbed by a pet who is barking, whining, or distressed in such a small space

Plane Travel with Pets

Flying can be a stressful experience for your pet, so it's important to plan ahead and make sure your pet is comfortable and safe. Before booking your flight, check the airline's pet policy. Some airlines allow pets in the cabin, while others require them to travel in the cargo hold. Also, some breeds or sizes may not be allowed on certain airlines or routes.

If your pet is traveling in the cabin, you will need an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, choose an airline-approved crate that is appropriate for their size and comfort. Either way, make sure the carrier is labeled with your contact information and your pet's name.

Airlines have limited space for pets, so make a reservation for your pet as early as possible. You may need to pay a fee for your pet's travel, so be sure to budget for this expense.

Depending on your destination and the airline, you may need to obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian, so check the airline's policies ahead of time and bring this documentation with you when you travel. If you're traveling internationally with your pet, you will need an international health certificate. Depending on what country you are traveling to, there may be special tests and/or treatments needed prior to departure, so begin planning at least six months in advance. Be sure you see a vet who is USDA-accredited to provide an international health certificate for your trip.

Arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time to check in and get your pet settled. Follow the instructions of the airline when it comes to boarding the plane and placing your pet's carrier in the designated area. If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, make sure to follow the instructions for drop-off and pick-up.

Pros and Cons of Plane Travel with Pets

Pros

  • Can travel farther distances in less time

Cons

  • Most expensive type of travel

  • The cargo hold can be dangerous for some pets due to pressure and temperature changes

  • Planes can be very stressful for some pets

Pet-Friendly Transportation Resources

If you plan to travel with your pet in the coming months, start planning now with the resources below.

Trains

Airlines

Bus Lines

Public Transportation