Checklist for Fall Camping with Your Dog

Fall is right around the corner! As trail and campgrounds start to open back up, the possibilities for adventure are endless. While it’s near impossible to have a bad time when you’re enjoying the great outdoors, we’ve put together some resources to help you maximize your fall camping trips. Read our tips & tricks below, and you and your dog will be happy campers come your next trip.  🏕

 

1. Safety First 

Safety cannot be overlooked as you prepare for your next overnight trip. It can be tempting to throw a few things in your car or backpack and go, but being prepared to safely tackle any unforeseen obstacles will only make your trip more enjoyable. 

1. Location: Make sure you’re familiar with the location you plan on exploring. Pack a map, read up on the area, check the weather before leaving, and be sure to tell someone where you will be and when you plan on returning. Protip: An awesome resource we love for choosing a camping spot is freecampsites.net. Using this handy tool, you can quickly find FREE campsites for any location you’re looking to explore.
2. First Aid: Depending on where you choose to camp, you might not see anyone else the entire time you’re out there. It is important to know basic first aid not only for yourself, but your dog as well. There are a lot of great dog-friendly first aid kits available (some as small as 3 oz), or you can even make your own! Be on the lookout for an Alpha Pak first-ad kit coming soon. 
3. Pack Smart: Be sure to have an adequate amount of food and water for your trip, first aid supplies, and clothing layers appropriate for any weather conditions you’ll encounter. Still not sure what to pack? Watching our 11 essentials for time outside with your dog video is a great place to start!
4. Follow Local Regulations: All parks, forests, and campgrounds will have their own regulations when it comes to pets. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with the regulations for the area you choose before embarking on your adventure. One common rule is keeping your dog leashed at all times. Even if leashing isn’t something you typically do, it is important to follow this rule to respect other guests and local wildlife. 

2. Fuel Up

 

By now, we know how important it is to have water and snacks packed for your camping trip, but did you know fueling your body (and your dog’s) before the adventure is just as important? Staying hydrated under the hot summer sun has a lot to do with how you prepare leading up to your trip. Be sure to drink plenty of water the day before your camping trip begins, and don’t forget to hydrate when you get home as well. 

3. Take Your Time

Just like anything new, take time to introduce camping to your dog. Let them sniff the gear, explore the funny home (tent) they’ll be sleeping in before you head out, and be sure to practice hiking with a loaded dog pack on shorter excursions leading up to your camping trip. 

It might take your dog time to get used to this new style of adventuring. Start out with smaller hikes and backyard campouts, so they can feel confident about being away from home for an extended period of time. 

The truth is, not all dogs will enjoy camping, and that is okay! Never challenge your dog to do something they do not like or feel comfortable with. There are many other ways to get outside with your dog. Maybe they are more of a water dog and would enjoy kayaking a local river with you instead! 

4. Have Fun! 

  

  

Don’t forget to get dirty and have fun out there! We love keeping up with all of our fans’ adventures, so be sure to tag @myalphapak so we can share them on our social channels.