Must-Have Camping Gear for Dogs

There is nothing that I love more than packing up the tent and our two dogs for a camping getaway. However, after years of camping with a dog by my side, I have learned that it’s not as easy as packing a leash and a bag of dog food. There are many factors to consider if you want to ensure that your pup is having a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re bringing your pup for the first time or looking to update your camping supplies, the following list of camping gear for dogs will help get you started!

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If this is your first time taking your pup camping, congratulations! Not only does bringing your dog save you the hassle of having to find a pet sitter or kennel, but it will also provide quality time, allowing you to strengthen your connection. After all, they do say that a dog is man’s best friend!

In our home, whether or not the dogs are coming along isn’t even a question. We pack up the tent and hit the road at least once a month throughout the standard camping season (April to October), and we never leave without the pups. They love exploring the trails, relaxing by the fire and visiting the various dog-friendly beaches throughout our travels. They really do make the best camping buddies!

My husband and I have bins of camping gear on the ready, prepared to hit the road on a moment’s notice should we decide to take a last-minute adventure, and the dogs are no exception! We have one bin dedicated solely to camping gear for dogs, including everything they need for a safe, fun-filled trip.

Looking for some suggestions? I’ve got you covered…

Don’t Start Your Next Adventure Without First Checking Out The Following Camping Gear for Dogs

Note: Pricing included was the price listed at the time this article was written. Pricing is subject to change and therefore is not guaranteed. To see the most recent pricing on the item in question, click through to the product listing. 

Pet First Aid Kit

Whether you’re pulling an RV into a car camping site or heading out to enjoy the backcountry, there is always a risk that something could happen. As your dog’s physiology differs from your own, in the event of an emergency you will need a different set of gear and supplies in order to respond appropriately. It’s your job as a responsible pet owner to do everything in your power to keep your pup safe. So, don’t be caught unprepared!

RC Pet Products Pet First Aid Kit – $35 USD

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ID Tags with Up to Date Contact Information

This may sound like a no brainer, but you would be surprised by the number of dog owners who forget to check their dog’s tags from year to year. This is extremely important as it could make the difference as to whether or not your dog is returned to you if they become lost during your travels.

If your dog is currently wearing a traditional-style dog tag, you need to check it for wear and tear which can occur over time. If there is any doubt over whether or not someone can read the information, replace it.

With the wonders of modern technology, some dog owners are choosing to use a more ‘high-tech’ approach with digital ID tags. These tags are approximately the same size as a traditional tag however in place of the engraved information, the tag displays a QR code. This is a digital code that, when scanned by an electronic device, will pull up the dog’s account from the company’s web-based server. This allows the owner to include more information if the dog was found including back-up phone numbers, addresses, important health-related documentation and even a travel itinerary to alert the finder as to where you will be throughout your trip.

Whichever option you choose, you want to make sure that your information is up to date. There are far too many stories about pets being located with old tags containing old or disconnected phone numbers. It only takes 2 seconds to check!

GoTags Stainless Steel Pet ID Tags – $7.95 USD

Dynotag Web Enabled Smart ID Tag with DynoIQ & Lifetime Recovery Service – $19.95 USD

Hands-Free Dog Leash

Okay, so this one isn’t necessarily a ‘must-have’ but it will definitely add to your experience! If you enjoy hitting the hiking trails while you’re camping, a hands-free dog leash will provide you with the freedom to use your hands while you’re out and about including consulting a map or GPS, taking a drink of water or even taking photographs of the beautiful scenery.

There are many different options for hands-free leashes available. Depending on the style, they can be worn over one shoulder, attached to a day pack or around the waist. In addition, there are different lengths and levels of durability to consider. With our pack, I prefer the construction of the Tuff Mutt dual-handle bungee leash. It fits securely around the waist to allow hands-free hiking or running, but also includes easy to use handles, allowing you to use the leash in the traditional manner when necessary.

Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Dual-Handle Bungee Leash – $22.97 USD

Dog Backpack

Continuing with the hiking conversation, there is no reason that your dog can’t carry some of their own gear! This isn’t to say that you should weigh them down with an abundance of kit, too much weight can lead to injuries. However, if your dog is a working breed, they will thrive off having a job to do while on the trail.

Look for a comfortable saddle bag that will distribute the weight properly for your dog. You also want to select a pack that will work securely with whatever style of harness or collar you use while on the trails. With both our dogs being German Shepherd mixes, they love the sense of purpose that comes with putting on their packs. We use it to carry some of the lighter weight basics including food/treats, a small first aid kit, collapsible food and water dishes, a bottle of water and extra poop bags. Make sure that you distribute the weight evenly on each side to make it comfortable.

Outward Hound Kyjen Dog Backpack – $14.99 USD

LED Dog Collar and Leash

When you’re out in the wilderness and the sun goes down, you no longer have the luxury of streetlights to light your way. Providing your dog with an illuminated dog collar will not only help you to see where your dog is on your campsite, but it will also provide additional light so that your dog can see easier when moving about the area. Pair this with an LED leash when you head out for a walk around the park to ensure that you and your dog can be seen by oncoming vehicles or fellow campers.

While there are many options available, I recommend selecting a brand that offers a rechargeable design. This will eliminate the waste created by disposable batteries while also cutting the costs associated with using it over time.

Illumiseen LED Dog Collar USB Rechargeable – $17.99 USD

Illumiseen LED Dog Leash USB Rechargeable – $24.99 USD

Dog Bed

Whether you’re travelling with a 150lb Mastiff or a 5lb Chihuahua, your dog deserves to have a comfortable place to curl up and relax. Deciding which style of bed your dog will prefer depends largely on your dog, their size and their individual preferences. Many dog owners will pack a raised dog bed as it provides for better airflow around your pet keeping them cool during the summer months. Some dogs, however, aren’t comfortable on an elevated bed. If this is the case, you want to select a bed made from a material that’s easy to clean. Your dog’s bed can be used outdoors throughout the day and then brought into the tent (or trailer) at night.

Cheerhunting Waterproof, Washable Outdoor Dog Bed 43”x26” – $28.49 USD

YEP Large Elevated Folding Pet Cot – $33.99 USD

RELATED: ‘Review: Carlson Pet Products Portable Pup Pet Bed’

Dog Goggles

While many people may look at this and laugh, dog goggles actually serve a very important purpose. If you are going to be spending an extended time out in the sun or in the snow during your next trip, you are likely packing yourself sunglasses in order to protect your own eyes. Why would you not do the same for your dog? A quality pair of UV goggles will allow your dog to see easier on even the brightest days while also protecting their eyes from exposure.

Doggles Originalz Goggles for Dogs – Starting at $14.83 USD

Collapsible Dog Bowls

You can’t make a list of camping gear for dogs without discussing options for dog dishes! We all know that the limited space when packing for a camping trip is valuable. By selecting collapsible food and water dishes, you can save space while ensuring your dog has its own designated dishes for mealtimes. There are different varieties available including cloth designs and those made from food-grade silicone as well as a wide variety of sizes to match your dog.

RUFF BarkBowl Collapsible Silicone Dog Food & Water Dish – $12.89 USD

Leashboss Collapsible Dog Bowls (Set of 2) – $18.98 USD

Dog Life Jacket

If you are planning on taking your dog out in the canoe or on the kayak, water safety is important! Not only should you be packing a lifejacket for each human member of your family, but you also need to outfit your dog to keep them safe in the event of an emergency as well. A well-constructed pet life jacket will secure your pet both under the stomach as well as across the chest to ensure that your dog doesn’t slip out of it. It will also include handles on the back of the jacket to make it easier to lift your dog back out of the water if necessary. Make sure you take the time to consult the sizing chart for the jacket you choose and measure your dog carefully so that it will fit correctly.

Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket – Starting at $8.67 USD

Biodegradable Dog Poop Bags

It should be a given to pack dog poop bags any time you are heading out. After all, as a responsible dog owner, you wouldn’t leave your dog’s waste behind for the next camper, right? However, what not all dog owners consider is the amount of waste that cheap, plastic dog poop bags create. We live in a world where we are working on trying to cut down on single-use plastics, and this is a great place to start! There are some great 100% biodegradable options that will breakdown effectively eliminating unnecessary waste while still allowing you to uphold your role as a responsible dog parent.

Greener Walker Dog Waste Bags 540 Bag Pack – $14.99 USD

What is your ‘must-have’ camping gear for dogs? Did I miss mentioning something that you can’t imagine travelling without? If so, feel free to share it with other dog owners in the comments below!