Travelling with Clarkie, my ever-hungry beagle, has become one of my favourite ways to explore the UK. From coastlines to countryside, we’ve shared long drives, spontaneous train trips, and even a few chaotic bus rides, all made possible with a bit of planning (and a lot of snacks).
And we’re not the only ones. Pet-friendly travel is on the rise, with more than half of UK pet owners planning trips with their animals each year. Whether you’re visiting family, heading to the hills, or just escaping for the weekend, taking your pet with you is easier than ever – if you know what to expect.
This guide brings together the tips, hiccups, and helpful services I’ve discovered on the road, rail, and beyond – all tested and approved by Clarkie herself.
Travelling on Trains with Your Pet
Clarkie’s first train trip was to Brighton. I felt nervous, but she was curious. She curled up at my feet, happy, while the conductor gave her a biscuit. Many UK train services allow dogs.
On most National Rail services, you can bring a maximum of two pets for free if they are well-mannered. This makes it great for a calm and scenic journey, as long as your dog doesn’t mind the occasional announcements.
What I’ve Learned:
- Bring a blanket or bed to help your pet feel comfortable.
- Always keep your pet on a lead or in a carrier.
- Travel during off-peak hours and choose quieter carriages.
- Bring water and snacks for the trip.
On Clarkie’s first train trip to Brighton, she relaxed at my feet while the conductor gave her a biscuit. This pleasant moment showed how easy it can be to travel with pets.
Taking Your Pet on Public Buses
Buses can be unreliable. Smaller local routes usually work well, but it often depends on the driver. Clarkie has been allowed on some Stagecoach buses, but sometimes, we’ve been politely turned away in busy areas.
My Tips:
- Always ask the driver if boarding with your pet is okay.
- Keep your pet close and under your control.
- Use carriers for small dogs or cats, as they are often more accepted.
- Try to travel during non-peak times for your pet’s comfort.
Local trips are generally acceptable, but long-distance coach services such as National Express or Megabus usually prohibit pets unless they are service animals.
Car Journeys with Pets: Making It Safe and Stress-Free
Clarkie loves car rides. She wags her tail and puts her nose to the window. But there’s more to travelling with pets than just rolling down the windows.
On one of our first trips, I didn’t realise how important it was to keep her secure. She kept jumping between the seats until I learned that the Highway Code says dogs need to be restrained. Since then, I have used harnesses or a crate in the boot. It’s much safer for both of us.
A recent survey revealed that 40% of pet owners in the UK do not know the rules of Highway Code for travelling with dogs. Additionally, 21% admit they do not secure their dogs properly in the vehicle. Understanding and following these rules is essential for the safety of both pets and travellers.
What Helps:
- Use a seatbelt harness, a pet carrier, or a boot guard.
- Plan to stop every few hours for breaks.
- Never leave pets alone in a hot car.
We have a “car kit” in the boot. It includes a water bowl, a spare lead, treats, and her favourite squeaky fox. This kit makes sudden trips much easier. If your pet gets car sick, talk to your vet. Calming sprays and natural remedies can help.
Flying with Pets in the UK
I’ve never flown with Clarkie, and I don’t plan to. Most UK airlines don’t allow pets in the cabin, and I worry more about her travelling in the cargo hold than she would.
After Brexit, you need an Animal Health Certificate to travel to the EU. Unless it’s vital, we prefer to travel by land. According to PBS Pet Travel, only about 6% of pets in the UK fly each year. All in all, air travel is uncommon and can be stressful for animals.
Important Considerations:
- Airlines require specific travel crates.
- To confirm their policies, book directly with the airline.
- Prepare your documentation well in advance.
If you are not moving or cannot reach your destination, I suggest avoiding flying.
Planning for Last-Minute Pet Transport
Of course, not every trip is planned. Sometimes your car’s in the garage, or you’ve got a last-minute vet visit, or you’re trying to get to the airport with a stressed-out pup. It’s in those situations that things can get tricky – especially if you don’t know which taxi services will actually take pets.
I’ve definitely had those “uh oh” moments, like the time Clarkie needed an urgent vet check after eating part of a sock (don’t ask). I was lucky to find a driver who was okay with dogs, but not everyone is. Since then, I’ve made a point of keeping a few pet-friendly car services saved in my phone, just in case.
If you’re in Surrey, for example, A1 & Eden Cars have been reliable in my experience – they’ve handled muddy paws and all without fuss. But whatever area you’re in, it’s worth asking around or doing a quick check online for local options that welcome pets.
Here’s what I’ve learned the hard way:
- Always say you’re bringing a pet when you book – it avoids last-minute issues.
- A blanket on the seat helps keep things clean and familiar for your pet.
- A favourite toy or treat can do wonders for calming nerves during short trips.
Having that backup plan can make all the difference when you’re already juggling logistics and a possibly anxious animal.
Conclusion
Travelling with pets isn’t always smooth – we’ve dealt with spilt water bowls, surprise detours, and the occasional barking fit in a quiet train carriage. But over time, it gets easier. With each journey, you and your pet figure out what works, what to pack, and how to stay calm when plans change.
The UK is more pet-friendly than ever, and with a bit of planning (plus a few backup options), even unexpected trips become manageable. So whether you’re heading out on a long road trip or just navigating the local bus route, bring snacks, pack the lead, and keep your go-to contacts handy – your pet will thank you for it.
