5 Things I Always Pack for My Dog While Camping and Hiking

Last weekend, my wife (Jen) and I headed to Hocking Hills, Ohio for the VetQuest CE Conference. Since we’re campers, we skipped the lodge and opted for a few nights under the stars at the KOA Holiday Campground instead. Of course, we couldn’t leave behind our favorite hiking and adventure buddy—Franklin the Maltese.

Camping and hiking with a dog is fun and incredibly rewarding, but it does take a bit of prep work on the front end. Here are five must-pack items I never leave home without:

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1. Collapsible Bowls and Water Bottles

When you go for a hike, you probably always pack a water bottle for yourself—don’t forget to bring one for your dog too! Even if there are streams or rivers along the trail, you never know what types of bacteria or toxins might be in the water.

Although Franklin is vaccinated against leptospirosis, we always pack clean water for him. A small collapsible water bowl, a special water-bottle bowl, and some fresh bottled water fit easily in our hiking bag—even for short day trips.

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2. Walking Supplies: Collar/Harness, Leash, and Poop Bags

This one seems basic, but it’s also one of the easiest things to forget—especially if your dog is usually off-leash at home. Don’t forget a good-quality leash (I don’t recommend retractable leashes), and a collar or harness that’s comfortable and durable.

For poop bags, consider biodegradable bags (and don’t just leave your dogs poo – even if it is “natural,” you don’t want to upset the ecosystem you are visiting!)

Pro Tip: Use a carabiner to clip your dog’s leash to your hiking bag for a hands-free experience on the trail.

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3. Campsite Tie-Out

Campgrounds are usually full of other dogs, people, and tempting smells, so it’s important to keep your dog safely contained. Most campsites don’t allow fences and require pets to be on a tie-out. We use a smaller/shorter tie out, because we don’t want him to be able to get tangled or run into any trouble.

Always keep an eye on your dog when they’re tied out—never leave them unattended where they could get tangled or hurt. I also recommend attaching the tie-out to a harness rather than a collar for added safety.

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4. Bandage Supplies / First Aid Kit

Okay, my first aid kit might be a little over the top—but I’m a vet, after all. We always keep a pet (and human) first aid kit in the camper. Ours includes bandaging materials, antibiotic ointment, an e-collar, and emergency medications like Benadryl, a vet-prescribed anti-inflammatory, and Franklin’s regular meds (like his joint supplement and Apoquel).

Not sure what to pack? If you’re comfortable with basic care, start with bandage materials, antibiotic ointment, an ice pack, and Benadryl. You can even buy ready-to-go Pet First Aid Kits online. I also recommend keeping a copy of your pet’s medical records handy—just in case.

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5. Extra Towels and Dog Shampoo

Since Franklin is a small, fuzzy, white dog, I always bring an extra towel on hikes—plus a grooming kit with dog shampoo, detangler spray, and a brush for the camper. He doesn’t love the after-hike baths nearly as much as he loves wallowing in creeks, but it helps keep his coat healthy (and the camper clean).

I recommend a general-purpose or oatmeal shampoo unless your dog is prone to skin infections. Avoid flea and tick shampoos—they’re often harsh, ineffective, and not worth the risk.

Pro Tip: In a pinch, blue Dawn dish soap or Johnson & Johnson baby shampoo can work (and you can find them at almost any gas station). Just don’t use them too often—they’ll dry out your dog’s coat.

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Bonus: Parasite Prevention

This one doesn’t always travel with us, unless it happens to be dose day, but it’s still worth including. I recommend monthly parasite prevention for all pets—especially if they’ll be outside in the summer.

Franklin is on Simparica Trio, a monthly chewable that covers fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal worms. Ask your vet what’s best for your pet—and don’t skip it! You don’t want parasites ruining your outdoor adventures.

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Conclusion

With a little planning, you and your dog can have a fun, safe, and stress-free camping trip. Where have you taken your dogs hiking or camping? What’s been your most memorable outdoor experience? Comment below and share this post with your favorite canine-loving camping buddies!