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Travel with your pet

The best guide to travel with your pet

Pernille H. A.
Calendar August 16, 2024 Time 7 mins to read

Ever dreamt of moving to or travelling with your pet around the world? Travelling with pet(s) can easily be a great experience, but it does require some extra planning and preparation. This guide and tips are for all pet parents, to get you ready for going abroad.

Preparation is key when you travel with your pet

Before booking your flights it’s important to do your research about travelling with pets. Make sure to look into the pet import requirements of your destination, such as vaccinations, microchipping, and necessary paperwork. It’s important to be aware of the regulations of each country beforehand.

Be prepared: Get all the necessary paperwork, vaccinations, and microchip information in order well in advance. Different countries have different requirements, so research thoroughly. You can check our article on settling abroad with your pet HERE.

  • If you’re travelling to the EU from a non-EU country, start preparations at least 3-4 months in advance, as requirements are strict. Your pet must be at least 7 months old, have a 15-digit ISO-compatible microchip, and be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before travel. After vaccination, you’ll need a Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) with results taking around 3 months.

Avoid stress: Arrive early at the airport to avoid last-minute rushes that can stress you and your pet out. Let your pet relieve themselves before the final check-in, and remember, they might not be fans of long lines, so be flexible and adjust your schedule accordingly.

Friendly airlines (sometimes): Not all airlines allow you to travel with your pet, and some have limitations on the number of pets they can carry. Book your flights well in advance, and be prepared for potential extra fees. Pet travel fees vary depending on the airline and the size of your pet. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $300 each way for domestic flights and potentially more for international travel.

  • For pets over 8 kg, they typically need to travel in the cargo hold. If your pet is travelling in the cabin on Lufthansa, for example, only two pets are allowed per flight. 1 in economy and 1 in business class. Each pet must be pre-booked up to 72 hours before departure. Additionally, a USDA-approved crate with maximum dimensions (55 x 40 x 23 cm) and total weight (up to 8 kg) is required.

Bonus tip: Some airlines are more pet-friendly than others. Do your research in your available airlines to find one that offers a comfortable and stress-free experience for your furry travel companion.

Travelling with pets
Travel with your pet cat
Travelling with dogs

Pack wisely when you travel with your pet

Your pet also needs their own suitcase. Remember to bring along their favourite toys, bed, food, and any medications they might need for the trip. A familiar environment can help ease their anxiety in new surroundings.

For pet carriers, we, in Job Squad, have personally tested several bags before choosing one that worked for both size and strength. Adding items like blankets with your pet’s scent, a portable litter box, a harness, and extra snacks can help them feel comfortable. Our tip: avoid sleeping pills for pets, as they can lower heart rates due to air pressure changes.

Carrier comfort: Invest in a comfortable and airline-approved carrier when travelling with pets. It should be big enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Bonus points if it’s waterproof and breathable (accidents happen).

Essentials on board: Pack a travel-sized water bottle, their favorite snacks, waste bags, a cosy blanket, and some familiar toys to keep them occupied.

Treat time before takeoff: Flying can be stressful for pets, so pack a special chew toy or treat to help them relax during the flight.

Pro-tip: Train your pet to love their carrier. Make it a positive experience by letting them sleep in it at home and offering treats when they’re inside.

Get your pet comfortable with travel

Help your pet get comfortable with travelling by slowly introducing them to the experience. Begin with brief car rides or visits to the park to help them become more comfortable with being on the move. It’s a good idea to invest in a quality pet carrier to ensure your furry friend stays safe and secure during flights or long car rides.

Travelling can be tough for pets, so make sure to focus on their well-being during your journey. Remember to take regular breaks for bathroom breaks, exercise, and plenty of cuddle time. Try to maintain a consistent routine to help them feel more comfortable in new environments.

  • Leave it to the experts: If the move involves lengthy periods where your pet can’t be with you, consider leaving them with a trusted friend, family member, or pet sitter.
  • Home is where the heart (and your pet) is: Once you’ve settled in your new home, explore pet-friendly accommodations and research the local laws and regulations regarding pet ownership.
  • New country, new customs: Each EU country mandates microchipping, and vaccinations must follow the microchip implantation. Dogs require vaccinations for distemper, hepatitis, and leptospirosis; cats for panleukopenia and rhinotracheitis. Pets also need a Veterinary Health Certificate within 5 days of travel.
  • New country, new customs: Be aware of cultural differences and local regulations when you travel with your pet. These differences can be regarding pet vaccinations, insurance, and leash laws.
Travel with your pet
Travelling with pets

Airlines: Travel with pets

Most airlines have a dedicated section on their website outlining their pet travel policies and fees. Here are some popular European airlines to explore:

Trains: Travel with pets

Buses

  • Eurolines: Another major European bus company with different pet policies depending on the route. Check their website for details  

My journey travelling abroad with pets

In 2018, I set off for Barcelona with my dog Marino. But instead of catching a flight, we opted for a scenic train ride. Why? Because it’s not just about the destination, it’s about the journey, right? Plus, it gave Marino a chance to sniff out new adventures along the way! During our three-day trip, we stayed at pet-friendly hotels and explored charming towns en route. But here’s the scoop: Travelling with pets means doing your homework. Each country has its own rules for pet travel, from vaccinations to paperwork. So, be sure to research before you go.

Fast forward to 2022, and I’m hitting the road again, this time from Lisbon to Berlin with my two furry pals. We hopped on trains and cars, making pit stops and soaking in every moment. But travelling with dogs isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. In some countries, like Germany and Austria, pet expenses can add up. And in France, they have special dog tickets for trains, but you can’t travel on the fast trains unless you have a crate. Portugal has rules about how many dogs can ride the train, so I had to get some extra hands to help out. But with a little planning and a lot of love, travelling with pets can be a blast.

Moving abroad with your pet? We’ve got you covered

Remember, planning is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience when you travel with your pet – for both you and your pet. With the right preparation and these handy tips, you can go on unforgettable adventures together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Click HERE to find all available jobs abroad if you’re still thinking about where you want to move to with your pet.