Ready to head out from Northamptonshire for a well-deserved getaway? A trip can be a great way to spend quality time with your furry companion, but it’s important to make sure your pet is ready for the road.

To help you prepare, our vets at Kettering have put together the ultimate 2026 pet travel checklist. Read below about pre-travel health checks, packing lists, and managing travel stress, and determine if bringing your pet is the best choice for their comfort and wellbeing.

Before you set off, it may be best to book an appointment to ensure your pet is up-to-date with vaccinations and parasite prevention. 

Book a pre-travel appointment today

Should I take my dog or cat on holiday

While many dogs thrive on new adventures, the team at Northlands suggest that for most cats, staying in the comfort of their own home with a trusted sitter is often the less stressful option, as cats are sensitive to environmental changes. If you are unsure about travelling with your cat you can always get in touch with our friendly team.

Regardless of species, always confirm that your destination is pet-friendly and free of any potential hazards before you depart. Some locations may have specific rules, so doing your homework early ensures a warm welcome for everyone.

Essential health checks

The team at Northlands recommend ensuring your pet is healthy enough for travel before any long journey. This is especially important for senior pets or those with underlying conditions.

• Do I need vaccinations to travel with my dog or cat? To ensure your pet is protected against local diseases or requirements for boarding, you should check that all boosters are up to date. This is vital if other animals are present on your journey.
• Pet microchipping requirements: It is a legal requirement for dogs and cats to be microchipped. Before you leave, double-check that your contact details are correct on the national microchip database. If your pet wanders off in an unfamiliar area and is handed in to a vet or rescue centre, accurate details give you the best chance of being reunited.
• Parasite prevention: Ticks, fleas and worms can be more prevalent in certain holiday destinations. Make sure your pet’s flea, tick, and worming treatments are current. Our vets can advise you on whether your pet would benefit from any other type of parasite protection.

If you are unsure about your pet’s vaccinations or parasite treatments, get in touch today to speak with our experts.

What to pack when travelling with your pet

Packing for your pet requires as much thought as packing for yourself. To make the journey as stress-free as possible, the Northlands team suggest including these essentials in your kit:

• Collar, lead and ID tag
• Familiar bedding
• Enough of their usual food and treats for the whole journey
• A secure travel crate or harness (appropriate for your travel destination and mode of transport)
• Waste bags and towels
• Collapsible water bowls and plenty of fresh water for the journey
• A copy of their clinical records and any current medications
• A pet-safe first aid kit for minor scrapes
• A couple of your pet’s favourite toys

While we love having our pets with us, Northlands reminds owners to consider if travel is truly the best option for their pet’s temperament and wellbeing.

Travelling abroad? Get in touch with our team well in advance of your travel dates so they can advise you on the rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatments, animal health certificates and anything else your pet will need for their destination.

If you have concerns about travel sickness or anxiety, or more specific guidance on packing, book an appointment with our friendly team in Kettering to discuss how we can help.

Book your pet’s travel check up