If you're looking for a pup-friendly vacation, camping with your dog should be high on your bucket list. It’s a great opportunity to explore the great outdoors – and best of all, you won’t need to worry about finding a pet-friendly hotel or buying an expensive doggy passport.
Whether you choose a national park or a private campsite, make sure you double-check the area's official policies on bringing pets. You might need to keep them on the best dog leash and follow certain rules.
If you've never gone camping with your dog before, you might be wondering what to pack. Below, we've created a complete checklist of what to bring camping for your dog – from heat-protective gear and portable bowls to canine first aid kits and bio-degradable poop bags. Happy camping!
What to bring camping for your dog
1. Collapsible food and water bowls
Instead of lugging around your dog's bulky bowls, invest in a collapsible version to save space in your bag. This two-pack from Amazon is perfect for water and food, and are super affordable at under $10. They're BPA-free, tear-resistant, and dishwasher-safe, plus they come with a handy clip for your bag or coat.
2. Dog first-aid kit
A doggy first-aid kit is essential for any camping trip – and is something you should keep in the cupboard at home too. Whether your dog steps on a thorn or scrapes their paw, you never know what’s round the corner – and this handy little kit will help your pooch stay out of trouble.
3. GPS tracker
Even if you plan on keeping your dog on the leash, we'd still recommend using one of the best GPS trackers for pets to offer that extra peace of mind. Clip it to their collar and you can track their live location – a complete lifesaver if your dog gets distracted by wildlife and runs off.
This one from Amazon is fully waterproof, has unlimited range, and doesn't rely on Wi-Fi to find your furry friend. Unlike other trackers we've tested, you won't need to pay a costly subscription service either.
4. Poop bags and holder
It wouldn't be a dog camping checklist without a pack of trusty poo bags – and these ones from Amazon are kinder to the planet thanks to their biodegradable design. You’ll get 1,200 bags in the pack, plus a holder that makes them easy to dispense on-the-go.
5. Elevated dog bed with canopy
As well as bringing your dog’s regular bed, you might also want to consider an elevated option to keep outside – like this one on Amazon. The raised design and optional canopy will help your pooch stay cool, and it’s perfect for placing outside the tent when everyone’s hanging out. It's like their own camping chair, but better!
6. Cooling jacket
If you're planning your camping trip during the hot summer months, be sure to pack the appropriate gear – like this cooling vest from Amazon.
Remember, you should never take your dog outside if it’s too hot, and if you need a reminder, we have a helpful guide on when it’s too hot to walk a dog. You’ll also want to be mindful that tents can heat up quickly – so keep an eye on the temperature.
7. Protective boots
It might seem silly, but protective boots are a must-have for any camping trip. Not only do they protect their little paws from hot surfaces, but it will also prevent thorns and rough surfaces from causing injury. This set from Amazon come in a range of sizes and cute colors.
8. Thermometer
If your dog is healthy, your tent should stay between 50–85°F (10–29°C), according to expert vet Dr Lisa Coder. This thermometer from Amazon will help you keep an eye on the temperature and features a handy clip that attaches to the tent or your bag. You can also take it with you on walks.
Dr Coder adds: "If your dog is acclimated to hotter weather in the summer or cooler weather in the winter, you can potentially have about a 5°F (3°C) increase or decrease in the temperature range.
"If there are no additional options for cooling, or the temperature rises above 93–95°F (34–35°C), you should consider ending your camping trip. If humidity is high, dogs have an even harder time cooling themselves, and you should consider a heat index of 80°F (26°C) as the maximum temperature when humidity rises.
"Use caution in the heat and contact your veterinarian for advice if your dog is elderly, has heart trouble, is obese, or has a short snout (brachycephalic breeds, such as pugs, Boston Terriers, bulldogs, etc)."
9. Dog life jacket
If you have a dog breed that's made for swimming and you plan on taking them for a dip, make sure you pack a life jacket to keep them safe. Ruffwear's Float Coat provides buoyancy in the water and features a handle for pulling them out, as well as reflective strips for visibility.
10. Cooling mat
The best dog cooling mat is a summer essential – especially if you're planning a camping trip. This one on Amazon is pressure-activated, so there's no need to worry about putting it in the fridge.
You will also need:
- Dog-friendly tent
- Your usual pick of the best dog food
- Your dog’s favourite dog treats
- Medication
- Fast-absorbing towels
- Collar with ID tag
- Leash
- One of the best dog harnesses
- A selection of the best dog toys
- One of the best dog brushes
- Dog cleaning wipes and dog shampoo
- The best dog bed and bedding
- Swim-safe leash (like this one on Amazon)
- Portable fence
- Pet cleaning spray
This checklist might seem like a lot to remember, but it's always best to be prepared – especially when your furry friend is involved! Not all dogs will enjoy camping, but if you have an adventurous pup who loves the great outdoors, you're sure to have a blast!
Just remember to keep an eye on their body language to gauge how they're feeling, and make sure the weather conditions are safe.
Planning more adventures with your pooch? Read our expert guide to hiking with a dog and the best dog walks in the US
Dr. Lisa Coder graduated from the University of Missouri in 2013. Since then, she has worked in many different types of clinics, from equine, to mixed animal, to ER. She even served a few years with the United States Department of Agriculture as a public health veterinarian. She loves all animals and strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and compassionate place for the people and pets who make up our community family. Dr. Lisa and her practice Vital Animal Veterinary Clinic serves the greater Sioux Falls, South Dakota area, with compassionate care for cats, dogs, small exotic mammals, and reptiles. She is currently pursuing board certification in both types of exotic medicine. She has an absolutely brilliant staff, who supports her love of learning, teaching, and endeavoring to continually improve.
Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.
Recent updates
This page was last updated in April 2025 by Megan Milstead.
