Travelling with a Small Dog in Australia: A Practical Guide

One of the best things about having a small dog is that they travel easily. They fit in a car without rearranging everything, they stay in most pet-friendly accommodation without fuss, and they are enthusiastic about almost any destination you choose. Getting the logistics right makes the whole thing much more relaxed.

In the car

A carrier or crate is the safest way for a dog to travel in a car. It prevents them from moving around while you are driving, protects them in the event of a sudden stop, and keeps them settled rather than alert to every passing car. A familiar carrier your dog already uses for walks is ideal because they associate it with good things.

On longer drives, stop every hour and a half or so for a short walk and a drink of water. Small dogs can overheat in cars even with the air conditioning on, particularly breeds with flat faces like Pugs and Shih Tzus, so monitor for panting and keep the temperature comfortable.

Accommodation

Pet-friendly accommodation in Australia has improved significantly. Stayz and Airbnb both have strong filters for pet-friendly properties, and many regional towns have motels and holiday parks that accept small dogs without additional conditions. Book early in holiday periods and confirm directly with the property rather than relying solely on the listing.

Bringing your dog's own bed or blanket helps them settle quickly in an unfamiliar space. Their sense of smell is how they assess a new environment, and something from home speeds up the process considerably.

Dog-friendly destinations in Australia

The Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, the Mornington Peninsula and the Barossa Valley are all well-known for being genuinely dog-friendly: good cafes, accessible beaches and accommodation that does not treat a dog as an inconvenience. Regional towns along the east coast are often easier than capital cities, where restrictions on dogs in public spaces tend to be tighter.

What to pack

A collapsible water bowl, a lead, their usual food, any medication, and a familiar carrier for when they need a rest from walking. A foldable carrier is particularly useful for travel because it packs almost flat and you can take it everywhere without it taking up half a bag. The Hollydaz is sized to fit in a handbag or weekend bag when empty, which means it is easy to bring without planning around it.

A note on beaches

Beach access rules vary by council. Most beaches in Australia have on-lead zones and off-lead zones, and many have specific hours during summer when dogs are excluded from main swimming areas. Check the local council website for wherever you are visiting before you arrive so there are no surprises.

Travelling with a small dog takes a little more planning than travelling alone, and it is almost always worth it.