Traveling with Golden Retrievers: Tips for Summer Road Trips
There’s something so special about summer road trips—the windows down, the snack bags packed, the kids buzzing with excitement, and the dog curled up (or pacing!) in the backseat. With us recently bringing home our newest little pup, Sunday, travel has been on my mind a lot more than usual. Even short drives feel like a bit of an adventure when there’s a fluffy, curious puppy along for the ride!
Over the years, we've logged quite a few miles with our Golden Retrievers in tow. From quick weekend getaways to longer family visits, traveling with Golden Retrievers has become part of our rhythm. They’re just so easygoing and eager to be part of the fun—whether that means tagging along to a creekside picnic or snoozing at our feet during a long car ride.
But that doesn’t mean it’s always smooth sailing (especially when there are kids and snacks involved). So today I thought I’d share a few of my favorite, tried-and-true tips for traveling with Golden Retrievers—whether you’ve got a new puppy like Sunday or a seasoned companion who’s part of the family.
1. Start Small (Especially with Puppies!)
Sunday has reminded me how new everything is through a puppy’s eyes. The car, the crate, the smells—it’s all brand new. If you're planning a road trip with a young Golden Retriever, try to take a few short, positive car rides first. A trip to the post office, a quick drive to grandma’s—these help build confidence and reduce car-related stress.
We like to keep those early rides short and sweet, with plenty of praise and a treat at the end. Even just sitting in the parked car with your puppy can help them associate the vehicle with calm and comfort.
2. Pack for Them Like You Pack for Your Kids
I’ve learned to pack a “dog bag” just like I do for the kids. Here’s what usually goes into it:
Travel water bowl + a jug of water
Their usual food (in pre-measured bags if it’s a longer trip)
Collar with ID tags and a leash
Crate or travel-safe harness/seat belt
Poop bags (can never have too many)
A familiar toy or blanket
Natural calming chews if your dog tends to get anxious
Towels… because someone always finds a mud puddle
Having these essentials ready to go helps us avoid those “Oh no, we forgot…” moments in the middle of nowhere.
3. Stick to Their Routine When You Can
Golden Retrievers are wonderfully adaptable, but like kids, they do better when their basic rhythms are respected. When we’re on the road, I try to keep mealtimes, potty breaks, and even short walks on a schedule similar to what they’re used to at home.
It doesn’t need to be perfect—but feeding your pup dinner around the same time or making sure they get a good morning walk can go a long way in keeping them calm and settled in a new environment.
4. Make Pit Stops a Priority
This is one tip our dogs and kids appreciate! We always try to plan for a few extra breaks so the dogs can stretch their legs, go potty, and burn off some energy. Golden Retrievers love a good sniff-around or game of fetch, even if it’s just in a quiet corner of a rest area.
Pro tip: Bring a long leash so your dog can move around a bit more without running off.
5. Crate Training Makes All the Difference
One of the best things we’ve done with all of our dogs is crate train them from the beginning. Not only does it give them a safe, cozy place to rest at home, but it makes car travel so much easier. A secure crate keeps your dog safe in case of sudden stops and helps prevent anxious pacing or attempts to climb into your lap while you’re driving.
With Sunday, we’ve been using a smaller travel crate that fits snugly in the backseat. She curls right up with her blanket and usually falls asleep within a few minutes of driving.
6. Choose Dog-Friendly Destinations
Whether we’re heading to visit family or taking a quick weekend away, we always double-check that our accommodations are dog-friendly. It’s a big help to know that there’s space to walk the dogs, and we’re not stuck sneaking them in the back door. Some of our favorite little cabin rentals even leave out dog treats or have fenced yards, which makes things feel extra welcoming.
7. Be Ready for the Unexpected (and Laugh About It)
No matter how well-prepared you are, road-tripping with dogs—and kids!—comes with surprises. We’ve had dogs get carsick, toddlers spill water bowls in the car, and one memorable moment where a dog leapt straight into a hotel bathtub for a nap.
We’ve learned to expect a little chaos and pack our sense of humor along with the leashes.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with Golden Retrievers might take a bit more planning, but to me, it’s always worth it. They’re such loyal, loving companions who just want to be near their people—whether that’s at home on the farm or riding shotgun on the way to a family reunion.
As Sunday settles into life with us, I’m already dreaming of the adventures we’ll have together—little hikes, road trips to visit grandparents, and quiet mornings by the lake with her curled up at my feet.
If you’re planning a trip this summer, I hope these tips give you a little inspiration—and remind you that traveling with a Golden Retriever doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of prep and a lot of love, it’s just another sweet chapter in the life you’re building together.
- Millie
Dog lover | Golden Retriever mama | Family-first farm girl
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