There’s no arguing 2020’s been a challenging year for everyone. The ongoing COVID pandemic has affected people’s daily lives all over the world. Traveling in 2020 became so restricted, it’s now nothing more than a distant memory for many.  

One question at the front of many people’s minds right now is, when will it be safe to travel again? Sadly, there’s no definite answer to that at present. No one, not even the scientists, can predict exactly what will happen over the next few months regarding Covid-19. 

With that in mind, we’d be the first to agree, jetting away to a far off destination might not be possible in the near future. Everybody needs a vacation sometimes, to have a change of routine and to be in a different environment for a while, so what can you do? We say make 2021 the year to travel with your dog in your own country.

There’s nothing more disappointing than having your vacation plans canceled. Plan to travel in your own country, and it’s a lot less likely to happen. Let’s face it, no matter what country you live in, there are probably amazing places to visit you’ve never seen. Travel in your own country in 2021, and you’ll be able to take your fur buddy with you without too much fear of cancellation.

There are many benefits to traveling in your own country apart from understanding the language. It’s reassuring to know you’re safe traveling during the coronavirus. Traveling in your own country means you’ll be able to catch up on the latest news as soon as it’s released. If there is another sudden nationwide lockdown, you’ll be able to get home without much trouble. 

You’ll have no worries about having to go into quarantine when you get home either, unlike you would if you’d traveled to a foreign country. Traveling in their own country for anyone British has an even bigger advantage in 2021. They won’t need to deal with all the new rules and regulations for traveling with a pet after Brexit.

One of the safest ways to travel in 2021 will be to take a road trip. By traveling in your car or an RV, you’ll be able to avoid public transport, crowded bus or train stations. When you take a road trip in your own vehicle, you know there’s no chance of someone who may be carrying the virus sitting next to you. It’ll be just you and your furry friend. You’ll still need to take precautions when you stop off at the gas station or a store, but traveling solo by car definitely minimizes the risk of coming into contact with the virus. 

Take a road trip with your dog in 2021, and you’ll have the best traveling companion ever. When taking your dog on a trip, you not only need to prepare for the trip but make plans for your dog as well.  

Dogs may get car sick if they are not used to riding in the car. Take a few short drives to test this out. Make an itinerary to make sure you can take your dog where you want to go and plan for pet emergencies.

Before you set off on your road trip, check out your itinerary, and see where your dog will be allowed. National Parks in the United States allow dogs at many of their parks. In the UK, many National Parks also allow dogs. If you are traveling in Europe, you will need to check each countries’ rules as the rules vary by country. 

After being cooped up in lockdown, your pup will appreciate having some outdoor adventure and exercise. The fresh air will make you feel good too. Remember that most parks and other sites will require your dog to be on a leash while you’re visiting.

When you don’t want to sleep in your vehicle; there are pet friendly hotels and apartments all over the US, Europe, and the UK who are more than happy to welcome four-legged guests. If they have a Woof Together badge, you’ll know without asking that they really are pet friendly and will provide all the amenities your dog needs for a comfortable stay.

Dogs can be naughty and tend to be very curious when not in familiar surroundings. Hopefully, you won’t need it, but you should either download a “Find a Vet” app or research vets in the area you will be traveling in. If you are camping, you should download a pet first aid app, such as Pet First Aid from the American Red Cross. 

There’s no reason to forget about traveling in 2021. Plan to travel in your own country, and it’ll turn out to be just as exciting as if you’d flown a few thousand miles. Travel with your dog in 2021 by taking a road trip; you’ll have the vacation of a lifetime, and so will your dog!