Overlanding With Dogs Checklist
✅ Travel Safety
- ☐ Crash-tested seatbelt harness OR secured crate
- ☐ Vehicle barrier (if free-riding in SUV/truck)
- ☐ Ventilation fans / sunshades for parked breaks
- ☐ Reflective leash & harness for night use
- ☐ ID tags with current contact info
- ☐ Microchip registered and up to date
- ☐ GPS collar or tracker (optional but recommended)
✅ Health & First Aid
- ☐ Vaccination records + proof of rabies
- ☐ Flea/tick/heartworm preventatives
- ☐ Medications (with extras for longer trips)
- ☐ Dog first-aid kit:
- Gauze, non-stick bandages, vet wrap
- Antiseptic wipes/solution (chlorhexidine)
- Tweezers / tick remover
- Digital thermometer & lubricant
- Benadryl (check dosage with vet)
- Booties or socks for paw injuries
- ☐ Emergency vet contact list (along your route)
✅ Food & Water
- ☐ Enough food for the full trip + 2–3 days extra
- ☐ Portable, airtight food storage container
- ☐ Collapsible food & water bowls
- ☐ Treats / chews for comfort and training
- ☐ Reliable water source (jugs, filtration, or purification tablets)
- ☐ Dedicated dog water bottle
✅ Comfort & Camp Gear
- ☐ Dog bed or sleeping pad
- ☐ Blanket (smells like home)
- ☐ Portable kennel or soft crate (for base camp use)
- ☐ Tie-out cable or stake (safe perimeter)
- ☐ Shade tarp or pop-up shelter
- ☐ Cooling vest / mat (for hot climates)
- ☐ Dog jacket or sweater (for cold weather)
- ☐ Towels / grooming wipesmindset.
✅ Trail & Adventure Gear
- ☐ Sturdy leash + backup leash
- ☐ Hands-free leash (for hiking/running)
- ☐ Harness with handle for lifting/assists
- ☐ Poop bags & pack-out system
- ☐ Paw protection (boots, balm, or wax)
- ☐ Backpack for dog (optional if trained)
- ☐ Life jacket (for water adventures)
✅ Documents & Prep
- ☐ Health certificate (if crossing borders/parks that require it)
- ☐ Pet insurance info
- ☐ Recent photo of your dog (in case lost)
- ☐ Route plan shared with emergency contact
- ☐ Practice trips before long expeditions