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The Ovano ethos is that your van should be a Swiss army knife and allow you to combine work, play, and adventure. Whether you’re taking your Volkswagen Transporter out for a weekend escape or embarking on an extended road trip, being able to bring your dog along transforms the journey into a truly special experience. As a family-run business dedicated to creating ultra-functional VW conversion products, we know thoughtful planning and the right gear can make all the difference. Here’s our guide to travelling and camping with your dog, ensuring both comfort and safety for your best friend.
Planning Your Adventure
Selecting Dog-Friendly Locations
The versatility of a VW camper means you can explore almost anywhere, but not all campsites are equally welcoming to dogs. Before setting off, research spots that allow pets and offer comforts like open spaces, pet-friendly trails, or dog wash stations. Many campsites allow dogs but will specify that they must be kept on leads at all times, so it is worth checking before booking. Obviously, with wild camping in mind, there will likely be fewer (or no) rules, but you’ll want to ensure your dog’s not likely to be able to run off, chase wildlife, etc.
Mapping Out Breaks on the Road
Dogs, like us, need to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves during long drives. Plan regular stops at dog-friendly rest areas or parks; this keeps your dog happy and ensures a safer and more enjoyable journey. Some services even have areas for letting your dog run around these days; our favourite is Gloucester Services.
Checking the Weather
Your Volkswagen Transporter, fitted with an Ovano system, provides flexibility and comfort—but extreme weather can still pose challenges. Hot campers can quickly overheat, and cold nights can chill your dog (and you). Dogs shouldn’t be left in the van, especially in hot conditions, as they’ll overheat. Monitor the forecast and pack accordingly to keep your pet comfortable, regardless of conditions.
Vet Visit Before You Go
This is more specific to longer trips, especially when travelling to Europe (or further still). Before setting off, it’s crucial to Schedule a check-up with your vet.
- Schedule a check-up with your vet.
- Ensure your dog’s vaccines are up to date (These may be required when travelling abroad) to ensure they’re protected against fleas and ticks and have a microchip with contact details.
- Carry a copy of their vaccination records; some campsites may require them.
Packing the Essentials for Your Dog
A well-equipped van is a hallmark of Ovano’s design ethos, and that extends to packing for your dog. Here’s a checklist to prepare for your trip:
- Food & Water: Pack enough food for the trip and store it in airtight containers to keep it fresh and secure. Include a collapsible bowl and plenty of water, notably if your destination lacks clean water sources.
- Lead & Collar: Bring a sturdy leash, a harness for hikes, and a collar with updated ID tags. A long line can give your dog freedom at the campsite, and it is also worth considering a ground spike or similar to tie your dog to.
- Comfort Items: A familiar bed or blanket will help your dog feel at home in the camper; if I’m honest, ours generally sleeps in our bed since our Caravelle bed system takes up most of our van. If you have swivel seats, they can often be spun around to make a handy dog bed, too.
- Toys & Treats: Keep them entertained with their favourite toys and chews, perfect for winding down.
- First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tick removal tools, and any prescribed medications.
- Poo Bags: Clean up after your dog to protect the environment and ensure campgrounds stay pet-friendly. Also worth considering is a sealable bin for carrying these, as the areas you visit may not have dog waste bins.
- Protective Gear: Depending on your plans, consider dog booties for rough trails, a jacket for colder weather, and even life jackets if you are likely to be on the water.
On the Road with Your Dog
Travel Safely
In a VW camper, your dog should be secured while driving. Use a travel crate or harness attached to the seatbelt to prevent movement and distractions. With Ovano’s functional interior solutions, you’ll find plenty of ways to organise gear and keep your dog safe. We produce a compatible dog crate for smaller dogs to fit alongside our SWB Narrow unit, allowing your dog to travel securely and have a place to stay beneath your Transporter or VW Caravelle bed.
Wildlife Awareness
Keep your dog on a lead when camping in nature to avoid encounters with wildlife. This protects your dog and the natural environment we all work to preserve.
Setting Up a Dog-Friendly Campsite
Choosing the Right Spot
Your Volkswagen Transporter’s versatility allows you to park almost anywhere, but choose a campsite that suits your dog’s needs. Look for shaded areas and avoid spots near hazards like thorny plants or sharp rocks and roads/tracks where vehicles may be moving.
Creating a Comfortable Zone
Dedicate a specific area in the camper or outside as your dog’s space. Whether it’s a cosy corner outfitted with their bed or a spot under an awning with toys and water, this will help them settle in and feel at home. Your consideration of their comfort will make their camping experience even more enjoyable.
Visibility at Night
Once the sun sets, keep your dog visible with reflective gear or a light-up collar to ensure their safety in low-light conditions and make tracking more manageable.
Sharing Adventures
Camping is all about shared experiences; your dog will love being part of the fun. Here are some ideas for making the most of your time together:
- Walking/ Hiking: Although an obvious one, it is worth thinking ahead to plan walks when travelling, as it’s not always as simple as it would be with the knowledge of your local walks. You’ll want to ensure these new walks are dog-friendly; it’s worth checking if there’s likely to be livestock or even cliff edges, which can all be hazards (especially if your dog is a crazy cocker spaniel like ours). Tailor your hikes to your dog’s energy level and the terrain. Stick to dog-friendly trails and carry plenty of water.
- Swimming: If your dog loves water, find a safe, dog-friendly lake or stream.
- Relaxing at Camp: Whether stargazing or sitting by the fire, include your dog in the downtime. Keep them at a safe distance from the flames and smoke.
Handling Challenges and Emergencies
Ovano products are designed to make your trips hassle-free, but it’s wise to plan for the unexpected:
- Know Local Resources: Research nearby veterinary clinics and save their contact details.
- First Aid Skills: Learn basic first aid for dogs, such as handling cuts or removing ticks.
- Stay Calm in Emergencies: If your dog gets lost, contact local authorities and use their ID tags or microchip to help reunite them with you.
Being a Responsible Camper
At Ovano, we’re committed to reducing environmental impact, which extends to camping with dogs. Always clean up after your pet, respect leash rules, and minimise noise to preserve the tranquillity of the outdoors. Being a responsible camper, you’re helping ensure that these spaces remain accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Please, please, please, don’t pick up dog poo and hang your bags on trees.
Wrapping Up Your Trip
As your adventure winds down, take time to check your dog for ticks, burrs, or signs of fatigue. Clean their bedding and your camper to prepare for the next outing. Reflect on what worked well and consider additional gear or adjustments for future trips.
The Ovano Way
We believe in creating products that enhance your adventures, combining functionality, style, and environmental consciousness. Your dog is an essential part of your everyday life and should become crucial to your travels, making each trip more memorable. So, load up your VW Transporter, pack for your pup, and set out on the open road—the perfect adventure awaits.
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Enjoy your travels! If you have any questions or need more insights, feel free to explore our FAQ or contact us. Safe travels and happy camping!
