A family happily walks alongside the stationary VW Multivan Energetic.

Volkswagen’s guide to campervan holidays with your dog

The UK is a nation of dog lovers, with a third of Brits owning at least one dog. And with more UK families than ever (55%)1 looking to staycation in the UK this year, what better time than to plan a getaway with your four-legged friend? 

Ready for this year’s National Dog Day, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Canine Campervan Guide combines tips and tricks for every campervan adventure with pets, as well as a range of dog-friendly destinations to discover.

Our top tips for campervan holidays with dogs 

1
Packing for your pooch

Before setting off on the road, make sure to pack all the essentials for a stress-free trip: a lead and seatbelt harness, fixable dog crate or bed, towel, portable water bowl, food for the duration of the trip, as well as a goody bag of toys and treats to keep your pooch entertained along the way.

2
Go on a pre-adventure walk

Encourage your dog to have a run-around before setting off, to expend any pent-up energy and help them to relax on the road. 

3
Driving with dogs

When driving with dogs, ensure they are suitably secured in case of any sudden stops, using a seatbelt harness or fixable crate, in line with Rule 57 of the Highway Code.  

4
Dog-friendly campsites

While the majority of campsites are dog-friendly, it’s a good idea to check the campsites’ pet policies before you pitch up, with most requiring dogs to be kept on a lead while on the campsite.

5
Plan frequent pit stops 

Make sure to take regular rest breaks and hydration stops, to give your canine chum a chance to stretch their legs. It’s recommended to stop every two hours, which allows you to recharge your own batteries, too. 

Photo showing a boy riding a bicycle.

For further tips, dog-friendly campsites and locations to explore, the Canine Campervan Guide can be found here

As icons of freedom and adventure on the road, Volkswagen campervans are the ideal vehicles for a getaway with pets, with the space, facilities and home comforts for any dog-friendly adventure. 

Take the Grand California – the space that this campervan offers means there’s plenty of room for the entire family, and for your four-legged friend to stretch out and relax.

Dog-friendly details, such as an external shower are perfect for hosing sand or mud off mucky pups after a long day of exploring, with a temperature control feature that allows your canine chum to leave the ice-cold hose offs behind. 

Also featuring a built-in wet room and fully-fitted kitchen, living and dining space, you can enjoy all the home comforts without having to leave your dog’s side. 

Photo showing a boy riding a bicycle.

See the Grand California’s dog-friendly features

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To put Volkswagen campervans to the ultimate ‘canine camping’ test, we teamed up with leading dog influencers, Jess (@foxredpeggy) and Alice (@hectorthechocolabo), to experience the Grand California’s dog-friendly features for themselves. Watch the video to see how they got on.

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