The first time I decided to take Winter camping with me was on a trip to Pace Bend Park in September 2018. I had zero idea of what I would need, or not need. So, I did the natural thing every millennial does and googled “what to bring when camping with dogs.” A lot of resources came up, and this post is not going to be all inclusive. I just want to outline what I pack and use, and give you some resources to find even more information.
What I Pack when Camping with Winter
The necessities I take when camping with dogs include the following:
- Collapsible food and water bowls. I have the Bonza Collapsible Dog Bowl which I purchased on Amazon.
- Dog Food and Water. I always pack extra food because typically when we go camping Winter is getting a much higher level of activity than normal.
- Leash that is able to easily be attached to me. I have a Kong Leash with a clip that is expandable to clip around my waist. This leash is not good for dogs who pull.
- 25 foot lead and stake. Depending on where you are camping, the stake may or may not be necessary. I tend to not use the stake, instead opting to loop the lead around a well developed tree.
- Soft Collar for around camp. Typically I have Winter on a pinch collar, specifically designed to prevent pulling on leash. When she is on the lead, I use a soft, cloth collar.
- A dog first aid kit small enough to put in your day pack. My first aid kit includes: hydrogen peroxide (both for wound cleaning and accidental ingestion of something a dog should not eat), tweezers, liquid bandages, and gauze with athletic/medical tape. You will find lists online that are much more inclusive than this for dog first aid kits. These are the items I have found useful for both myself and Winter while hiking and camping.
- Blankets/Dog Bed/Kennel. I pack an extra blanket to have for Winter at night since she co-sleeps with me. There are companies that make camping bed for dogs. If your dog is kennel trained, bringing the kennel is a good idea so they have a space they are comfortable if necessary.
- An Extra Towel to clean off paws before entering the tent.
- Natural Bug Spray. I use Natures Repel lavender oil and water based bug repellent.
- Plenty of poop bags.
Things I Do Not Pack
Many resource I have read recommend booties for your dog to protect their feet while camping and hiking. I have tried, and failed, many times to get Winter to wear these. They are always off within 2 minutes of putting them on. There is a wax product for paw pad protection that I have not tried, though many people swear by it.
My packing list also does not include a comb or brush. Winters coat is almost non-existent, it is so short and wiry. I do highly recommend packing your dogs brush or comb if they have longer, thicker hair!
Additional Resources
This post is part of a series on Camping with Dogs. Click here for more articles about preparing for camping, what I pack, and dog management at camp and on hikes.
The websites where I found the most useful information about camping with dogs are the American Animal Hospital Association and REI’s co-op Journal.