Updated 15 September 2026
A pet-friendly spring holiday starts with checking accommodation rules, your animal’s travel needs and the conditions at your destination.
September is a useful time to prepare for Australian spring getaways, whether you choose a caravan park, cabin or hotel.
Pet-friendly does not always mean pets can sleep indoors, visit every beach or join every activity.
Check what pet-friendly accommodation includes
Carla Francis, author of Travelling with Pets, shares practical advice in her original interview with Animal Friendly Life.
“A lot of properties have size or breed restrictions, so it’s important to double-check,” says Carla.
“And often what constitutes one person’s idea of ‘pet friendly’ might not always be the same as yours.”
Before paying a deposit, ask the property to confirm:
- Whether your pet is accepted for your specific dates and accommodation type.
- Any limits on animal numbers, size or breed.
- Whether pets can sleep indoors and access shared areas.
- Cleaning fees, deposits and cancellation conditions.
- Fencing, lead rules and whether pets can ever stay alone.
- Nearby places where your pet is permitted.
Carla identifies caravan parks as an option worth considering.
“I still find caravan parks to be the best places to stay with pets,” Carla explains.
“They are often in great locations next to a beach or lake, and you’re also likely to meet other people travelling with pets.
“So, it can be a great way to swap stories and recommendations.”
Confirm each park’s current policy directly. A dog-friendly campsite may have different rules from its cabins.
Prepare your pet for the journey
RSPCA Australia recommends preparing dogs for car travel gradually and checking their health before departure.
Ask your vet about travel anxiety, motion sickness, medication supplies and protection against parasites at your destination.
Secure your pet appropriately in the vehicle. Never leave them unattended in a car, even in mild weather.
Keep identification and microchip contact details current. Save nearby veterinary contacts before you travel.
Carla recommends familiar items and routines to help pets settle.
“Remember what they need at home, they’ll need on the road,” says Carla.
“I’d recommend packing your pet’s own bed, blanket, toys, and any other familiar items from home because the scents will provide them comfort,” suggests Carla.
“Set up a designated area for your pet with their bed and familiar item, this will help them feel secure and provide a sense of their own space.”
Keep feeding, exercise and rest routines as consistent as possible.
What to pack for a spring pet-friendly holiday
- Your pet’s usual food, treats and any prescribed medicines.
- Fresh drinking water and food and water bowls.
- A suitable vehicle restraint, lead, harness and identification tag.
- Familiar bedding, toys and a carrier or crate where appropriate.
- Waste bags, towels and grooming supplies.
- Vaccination information and emergency veterinary contacts.
- A pet first-aid kit and any vet-recommended parasite protection.
Plan regular breaks for water, toileting and on-lead movement.
“Look for pet-friendly rest areas or parks along the route,” Carla says.
“It’s a good idea to try and find rest stops that are slightly away from the main road in case your pet gets free.”
Attach the lead before opening vehicle doors. Choose stops where pets are permitted and traffic risks are manageable.
Check spring hazards and local access
Read our spring pet health checklist for ticks, grass seeds, allergies and garden hazards.
Check beach and walking-track rules directly with the relevant council or park manager before visiting.
Pet dogs cannot enter NSW national parks. Nearby dog-friendly accommodation does not change park access rules.
Keep dogs away from wildlife, nesting birds and long grass. Plan walks for cooler conditions and carry water.
If travel does not suit your animal, arrange care with someone who can meet their needs.
Read our guides to camping with dogs and choosing a pet sitter.
