The holiday season brings out hustle and bustle – especially when it comes to travel. In fact, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) saw 7 of the 10 busiest travel days in history already in 20231. The records aren’t just for air travel, as AAA predicts that 2023 will see the third-highest travel numbers for the holiday stretch since 20002.
If you are one of the many travelers planning to make a trip over the river and through the woods this holiday season, you probably have a good idea of what you need to travel successfully. If you plan to take your pet along with you, they have a different set of needs for safe travel, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.
Here are some of Coastal Pet’s must-haves for holiday traveling with your pet.
Travel by Car
Traveling by car is the most routine way to travel, but pet owners have options when it comes to keeping pets safe and comfortable during the trip. Our top recommendation for short journeys, long journeys, and all journeys in between is the Bergan® Auto Harness. Designed to fit pups of all sizes, this harness has proven durability and safety with its crash-tested design. The seat belt loop on the back secures your pup when riding in the car and helps minimize any road trip distractions for drivers. As a bonus, the harness easily transitions from an auto harness to a walking accessory with its front-connect D-ring.
For pups up to 30 pounds, the Bergan® Comfort Hanging Dog Booster gives your furry copilot a clear view of the road while remaining secure during the ride. The adjustable tether strap keeps your dog secure, and the booster’s height is adjustable so you can customize it for their roadside attraction sight-seeing pleasure. The Comfort Hanging Dog Booster is easy to install so you can hit the road in a snap. For a two-in-one option, try the Booster Pet Carrier that doubles as an over-the-shoulder carrier and car booster seat.
We can’t forget about our feline friends. For a safe trip with a view, the Bergan® Cat Carrier is a great option. This cat carrier features a panoramic viewing window at one end for nearly 360-degree views while on the road. Plus, the seat belt loops make for a safe, secure car ride.
Don’t forget other essentials like seat protectors and barriers to keep your vehicle clean while keeping your pet contained during your trip.
Travel by Plane
If you’re going wheels up this holiday season, your pets can go up, up, and away with you, too! Bergan has a variety of Comfort Carriers that comply with the standards and guidelines established by most U.S.-based airlines. It is recommended that you check with your airline for their guidelines prior to flying with your pet to ensure there are no surprises at the airport. Whether it’s the standard comfort carrier, Comfort Carrier Voyager, or Wheeled Comfort Carrier, they all feature our Pet Connect® opening for easy access to comfort your pet while on the go. The washable fleece pet beds make travel comfortable for your pet, too.
All comfort carriers feature a Seat Belt Loop for a seamless, secure transition from the air to the road making it easier than ever to take your pet along with you.
Other Travel
For travel by bus, plane, subway, or even on foot, Bergan has you and your pets covered when it comes to safe, convenient transport. The large mesh windows provide plenty of ventilation while giving your pet a view of their surroundings on the go.
Bergan Backpack Carriers come in a rolling or non-rolling version with shoulder straps that make it easy to carry your pet. In line with all other Bergan carriers, these feature a washable fleece pet for the ultimate pet comfort no matter where they are.
Whether it’s traveling home for the holidays or a quick trip to the vet, Bergan by Coastal has a variety of secure, comfortable options to ensure your pet remains safe while traveling. Throughout this holiday season and into the new year, Coastal wishes you and your pets safe travels.
Travel Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure you pack other essentials for your pet: food, water, medication, toys, bedding
- Ensure your pet has a collar with a current ID tag in case of separation during your trip
- Consult your veterinarian to ensure your pet is up-to-date on any necessary vaccines, or for medication options if car sickness is a worry
- For long road trips, plan a few breaks in advance to let pets out to use the bathroom and stretch their legs – just as you do
- Make and take copies of any pet-related documents (medical/vaccination records, pet-friendly hotel booking confirmations, flight information), think of this as their pet passport
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