Making Holidays with Your Pets Simple and Enjoyable

Holidays with your pets can be some of the most rewarding trips you ever take. From exploring sandy beaches to wandering countryside trails, your four-legged friend can be part of every memory. Planning ahead is the secret to a smooth experience, especially when it comes to flights, hotels, and on-the-road comfort. The right preparation helps your journey feel less stressful and more about shared adventures.

Preparing Your Pet for Travel

Before setting off, preparation makes all the difference. Every pet reacts differently to change, so it’s wise to ease them into new experiences.

• Schedule a vet check-up to confirm vaccinations and microchip details are up to date.
• Practice short car rides to help dogs and cats grow accustomed to motion.
• Invest in a secure travel carrier or harness to keep them safe.

Routine is reassuring. Bring along favourite toys, blankets, or bedding. A familiar scent lowers stress and gives them a sense of home, even in a new setting. Planning this early means fewer surprises when you travel further afield.

Choosing the Right Mode of Transport

How you travel with your pet matters as much as where you go. Each option has its own considerations:

• Car journeys offer flexibility. You can stop often for water, exercise, and toilet breaks.
• Train or ferry travel may require specific carriers or reserved spaces for pets. Always check operator rules.
• Flights involve stricter requirements. Some airlines welcome small pets in the cabin, while larger animals may need approved crates in cargo.

Before booking, compare policies carefully. Rules vary between carriers and routes. The key is ensuring your companion is comfortable and secure. Would they feel more settled with a shorter journey by car rather than a long-haul flight? Your decision shapes their wellbeing.

Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodation

After travel, where you stay is equally important. Many hotels, cottages, and resorts now embrace pet-friendly stays, but facilities differ widely.

Look for:

• Access to outdoor spaces for walking.
• Clear policies on pets in rooms, dining areas, or communal spaces.
• Amenities such as dog beds, bowls, or even welcome treats.

Checking these details in advance saves stress at check-in. Some properties go the extra mile, with dedicated dog-walking services or maps of local trails. A good night’s rest benefits both you and your pet, setting the tone for a relaxed holiday.

Destinations for Holidays with Your Pets

Travel choices expand when you know where pets are truly welcome. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to Mediterranean coastlines, there are plenty of destinations where your furry friend can feel at home. Below are some excellent starting points.

Cornwall, England

Cornwall’s beaches, coastal paths, and quaint villages make it one of the UK’s favourite spots for pet-friendly travel. Many beaches allow dogs year-round, while cliff-top trails provide endless opportunities for scenic walks.

Hotel suggestion – The Scarlet Hotel, Mawgan Porth

This eco-friendly, adults-only retreat welcomes dogs in select rooms and offers direct access to the beach. The floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the ocean, and the atmosphere is calm and restorative — perfect after a day exploring sandy coves.

At Jamie Wake Travel, we work with a wide range of Cornish hotels and cottages. Many run seasonal offers that can make your trip more affordable without sacrificing quality. Ask us about the latest options for dog-friendly breaks in Cornwall.

The Lake District, England

With its lakes, fells, and woodlands, the Lake District is ideal for adventurous pets and their owners. Trails vary from gentle lakeside strolls to more demanding hikes, so there’s something for every energy level.

Hotel suggestion – Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa, Borrowdale

Set beside Derwentwater, this hotel combines luxury with practicality. Dogs are welcome in certain rooms, and there are designated lounges where you can relax together. After long walks, the on-site spa lets you recharge while your pet rests comfortably.

Jamie Wake Travel has access to an extensive selection of Lake District properties, from rustic inns to elegant resorts. Ask us about seasonal packages or exclusive rates available for your preferred travel dates.

Provence, France

If you want to travel further afield, southern France is an excellent choice. Provence offers sunny days, charming villages, and relaxed café culture, all of which make it surprisingly dog-friendly. Many restaurants and markets allow pets to join their owners.

Hotel suggestion – Domaine de Manville, Les Baux-de-Provence

This boutique countryside hotel has spacious grounds and a warm, welcoming feel. Dogs are greeted as guests, and the location offers easy access to both vineyards and walking routes through olive groves.

Jamie Wake Travel partners with French properties that understand the needs of pet owners. From rustic farmhouses to luxury villas, we can advise on the best offers available when you’re planning holidays with your pets in France.

Tuscany, Italy

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Packing Essentials for Holidays with Your Pets

Packing for pets takes a little extra thought. The aim is to balance comfort with practicality so you’re never caught short. A simple checklist can help:

• Food and water bowls
• Enough food for the whole trip, plus extra in case of delays
• Travel-friendly water bottle and collapsible bowl
• Favourite toy or blanket
• Poo bags and cleaning wipes
• Any medication or supplements
• Up-to-date ID tags and copies of vaccination records

Keeping these items organised avoids last-minute stress. A small dedicated bag for your pet ensures everything is within easy reach. That way, you can focus on the journey rather than rummaging for supplies.

When travelling abroad, preparation goes beyond bowls and toys. Pets need the correct documents to cross borders smoothly. For most European destinations, that includes a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and an Animal Health Certificate issued by your vet. Some countries may have additional entry rules, such as tapeworm treatments for dogs. Missing paperwork can mean delays or even refusal at the border, so it’s worth double-checking requirements early. You can review the official guidance on the UK Government website to make sure everything is in order before you set off. Having this sorted well in advance keeps the journey stress-free and allows you to focus on enjoying the experience with your pet.

Keeping Your Pet Calm During the Journey

Travel can unsettle even the most laid-back animal. Simple strategies help them stay calm:

• Stick to regular feeding times.
• Take exercise breaks during car or train travel.
• Avoid overfeeding before flights to reduce motion sickness.
• Use a pheromone spray or calming aid if advised by your vet.

Remember, your mood affects theirs. If you stay relaxed, your pet is more likely to feel secure. Creating a sense of routine keeps the journey smooth.

The Benefits of Booking with Jamie Wake Travel

When planning holidays with your pets, peace of mind is priceless. Booking through Jamie Wake Travel means you’re protected every step of the way.

Every tailor-made holiday comes with:

• Supplier Failure Insurance – covering you if a supplier goes out of business.
• Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance – protecting your flights.
• ATOL protection – safeguarding package holidays that include flights.
• Membership of Protected Trust Services – ensuring your money is fully secure until your travel is complete.

These safeguards mean your focus stays on enjoying the trip. You can trust that your holiday is backed by financial security and expert care.

Jamie Says:

“Travelling with pets is about making memories as a family. With the right planning, it can be as smooth as any other journey. At Jamie Wake Travel, we love helping customers choose destinations where every member of the family — paws included — feels welcome.”

Worldwide Inspiration for Holidays with Your Pets

Not all holidays with your pets need to stay close to home. More destinations are opening their doors to animal companions, making international travel easier than ever. Here are a few inspiring options.

Algarve, Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve is known for its golden beaches, warm climate, and relaxed atmosphere. Many coastal walks are dog-friendly, and several towns host pet-friendly cafés and restaurants.

Hotel suggestion – Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa, Porches

This five-star resort welcomes pets in selected rooms and offers extensive grounds to explore. With direct access to clifftop paths and nearby beaches, it’s a superb base for both relaxation and activity.

Jamie Wake Travel can connect you with a variety of Algarve stays, from luxury resorts to private villas. Ask us about special offers for pet-friendly packages in Portugal.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona blends culture with coastal living. Dogs are welcome on many public transport lines and can enjoy specific sections of city beaches. Parks such as Parc de la Ciutadella are also perfect for leisurely strolls.

Hotel suggestion – Hotel SB Icaria Barcelona

Situated near the beach, this modern hotel allows pets and provides spacious rooms. The location balances city exploration with easy access to the sea, giving you flexibility.

Through Jamie Wake Travel, you’ll find multiple hotels in Barcelona with pet-friendly policies. We can guide you toward the right property depending on your plans and preferences.

New York City, USA

For something further afield, New York City is surprisingly pet-friendly. Central Park is an obvious highlight, and many hotels provide pet amenities as standard. With open-air dining and plenty of walking routes, your pet won’t feel left out.

Hotel suggestion – The Kimpton Muse Hotel

Located near Times Square, this hotel is known for its pet-friendly approach — no size restrictions, no extra fees. Pets receive bedding, bowls, and treats, making the stay as enjoyable for them as it is for you.

Jamie Wake Travel partners with international hotel groups offering packages that include pet-friendly stays. We’ll help you find the perfect Manhattan base with the right mix of comfort and convenience.

Vancouver, Canada

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Making Memories Together

Holidays with your pets are about more than logistics. They’re about shared experiences that feel special because every member of your family is included. Whether it’s running across a Cornish beach, sipping coffee in a French village square, or hiking Canadian trails, these moments linger long after the journey ends. Careful planning means fewer worries and more time to enjoy the adventure.

Why Book Holidays with Your Pets Through Jamie Wake Travel

Travelling with pets requires more than a quick online search. You want trusted advice, secure bookings, and reassurance that every detail has been considered. That’s where Jamie Wake Travel makes the difference.

• We offer personal service backed by years of expertise.
• Your money is always protected through ATOL and Protected Trust Services.
• Every tailor-made holiday includes Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance.
• We have access to a wide range of pet-friendly suppliers and tour operators.

You can now create and book bespoke holidays directly on our website — holidays that are as unique as you are. The search function is available on every page, making it easy to start planning right away.

Prefer a personal touch? Call us on 01495 400005 or use our holiday enquiry form. We’re only ever a message away, ready to design the perfect trip for you and your pets. With us, your holiday is more than a booking — it’s a promise of comfort, care, and unforgettable memories.

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