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8 Questions You Should Ask Before Traveling With Your Dog
8 Questions You Should Ask Before Traveling With Your Dog

Yahoo

time5 days ago

  • Health
  • Yahoo

8 Questions You Should Ask Before Traveling With Your Dog

Going on vacation with your dog can be a great way to forge unforgettable memories and explore a new place without having to leave your canine companion behind. 'Traveling with your furry friends can be a lot of fun,' Maddi Bourgerie, a travel expert with the RV rental marketplace RVshare, told HuffPost. 'According to 78% of American pet owners travel with their pets each year.' But not every pet is suited for travel ― and not every destination and trip type is suited for pets. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long-haul flight across the country, you should carefully consider if it makes sense to bring your pup with you on the journey. So where to begin? Below, dog and travel experts outline eight questions to ask yourself before taking a trip with your dog. 'For those who are looking to bring their pups along for the ride, be sure to consider the different pet-friendly accommodations available in the area,' Bourgerie said. Do your research and find out which hotels and home rentals are available to you and your pup. Lauren Gumport, the vice president of communications and brand strategy at Faye Travel Insurance, recommended using the filters on sites such as and Airbnb. 'It's always nice when hosts or your hotel also love animals,' she said. 'I've had great experiences where a hotel asks me the size of my dog in advance so they can put an appropriately sized dog bed in the room.' In addition to dog beds, some accommodations offer pet-sitting services, treats and even special dog menus. 'A pet-friendly hotel will be a better option for you and your dog than one that's simply pet-tolerant,' said Dr. Tammy Hunter, a veterinarian with VCA Animal Hospitals. 'This is because while a pet-tolerant hotel will allow your dog to stay with you, a pet-friendly one will likely be more welcoming and have different dog-specific amenities available. Look for places that allow dogs access to on-site areas and offer plenty of outdoor space for your dog to play.' 'Always consider if your travel destination is somewhere your dog would enjoy being,' advised Nicole Ellis, a dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. 'Is your dog comfortable in new environments, are they comfortable around strangers or in crowded areas? Some dogs are better suited to quieter destinations with lots of nature, while others thrive in bustling towns.' On the other hand, some dogs might just be more comfortable at home playing fetch with a pet sitter. In addition to your pet's temperament, assess whether the destination has dog-friendly public spaces and activities that your pup could enjoy. 'A dog-friendly vacation should have walking areas, a dog-friendly beach, stores that allow dogs and ample parks, trails, beaches or other outdoor spaces where dogs are welcome to join ― leashed or off-leash,' Ellis said. 'Destinations with dog-friendly hiking trails or even kayak and boat rentals that allow dogs are a huge plus too. Ask yourself, are there dining options that [are] pet-friendly, such as on the patio?' 'You'll want to consider the weather conditions of where you're headed,' Bourgerie said. A Fourth of July trip to Florida might sound fun for you, but is that level of high heat exposure good for your dog? Are you able to ensure proper ventilation and temperature control in your car and your accommodations? Can you pack enough water and food to keep them safe in the event of an extreme weather incident? 'Depending on the size and breed of your dog, they may not be comfortable or safe in certain climates like extreme heat or cold,' noted Angela Laws, head of community at the home- and pet-sitting service TrustedHousesitters. 'Consider the length of your trip and how your dog handles travel, whether by car, plane or train,' Ellis said. 'A long journey might be stressful for some dogs, and some may love it where you can work in some nice roadside stops together.' Stress, anxiety, motion sickness, getting lost and exposure to infectious diseases are all potential issues for dogs in transit to a far-off destination. If your trip is short, consider whether it's worth the hassle and risk to bring your pup with you, versus letting them relax at home with a sitter or run around with other dogs at their favorite doggy boarding spot. Talk to your veterinarian if you're still unsure. 'When traveling with your pet, make sure to have access to their veterinary records, proper confinement ― bag, crate or both ― and any medication they may need,' said Dr. Carly Fox, a veterinarian at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center. 'In addition, make sure your pet has clear identification and is microchipped.' She recommended putting together a pet emergency kit with everything in one place. Beyond health and safety, consider their happiness and sense of security away from home. Are you able to pack familiar toys, blankets and grooming supplies? What about a water bowl, leash, waste bags and plenty of their regular food? 'How you get to and from places on vacation is something people may not think about until they get there, so dog parents should check in with public transportation, ride-share services and taxis to see if they're dog-friendly,' Laws recommended. Assess what you'd like to do on your trip and how to get there. If most activities are within walking distance, that can work out quite nicely. 'Always check local pet policies before you go, including leash laws and breed restrictions, just in case,' advised Dr. Michelle Dulake, a veterinarian and co-founder of Fera Pets. Destinations like Hawaii have strict rules and requirements for canine visitors, so you'll want to make sure you have the proper documentation. And other places simply do not allow dogs or limit their access to certain areas. 'If you're heading to national parks, make sure they accept dogs,' Gumport said. Service dogs may be exempt from certain restrictions, so do your research and make sure their paperwork is up to date. 'Finding cities and destinations that have local veterinary clinics, pet stores, dog-sitting services and boarding is a major plus for your pup's care,' Laws noted. Make sure to look up the resources available for you and your dog before you reach the destination. Get a sense of your proximity to care in the event of an accident or sudden illness. 'I always look for the nearest 24-hour veterinary emergency hospital in case of an unexpected emergency,' Fox said. 'It's better to be safe than sorry!' 10 Dog-Friendly Destinations Worth Visiting With Your Pet The Rudest Things You Can Do At The Dog Park Is It Too Hot To Take Your Dog Out? Here's What To Know Before You Go.

📍 How to rent an RV for your next road trip adventure
📍 How to rent an RV for your next road trip adventure

USA Today

time19-05-2025

  • Automotive
  • USA Today

📍 How to rent an RV for your next road trip adventure

📍 How to rent an RV for your next road trip adventure Pack it up and experience an unforgettable glamping trip this summer with RVshare. Who doesn't crave a breath of fresh air and a change of scenery every now and then? With new REAL ID restrictions for travelers and increased prices across categories coming from tariff policies, RV rentals are becoming a super popular, affordable and memorable way to travel in 2025. With a simple, user-friendly platform and a wide range of affordable RV rentals, RVshare takes the stress out of planning your next adventure. Traveling with pets for Memorial Day weekend? You can search for pet-friendly RVs and avoid costly boarding fees with RVshare. Want to take a road trip this summer and enjoy a taste of the glamping lifestyle? RVshare can help make it happen. Below, we've highlighted how RVshare works, how much it costs and helpful tips to help you rent an RV for your next road trip easy. What is RVshare? RVshare is the largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace in the U.S., connecting RV owners with travelers looking to rent everything from luxury motorhomes to cozy camper vans. Think of it as the Airbnb of RVs—you can browse listings, find the RV that is perfect for your needs, compare prices and book directly through the platform. Search by location, travel dates and number of travelers. Filter by RV type, location, price, amenities and more. Contact the owner or use Instant Book if available. Verify your ID and complete payment. Pick up or have the RV delivered to your location. With the freedom to combine transportation and lodging into one convenient experience, RV travel is becoming more popular for road trips, especially to National Parks, music festivals and tailgating events. Whether you're chasing scenic views or front-row parking at your favorite event, RVs offer a flexible, adventure-ready way to travel. Below, check out RVs in the most popular destinations of 2025 so far, according to RVshare. RV rental prices vary based on the type of RV, location, season and rental duration. Here's a general breakdown of how much the most popular types of RVs cost when booked through RVshare: 📍 Class A Motorhomes: Luxury on Wheels Class A motorhomes are the largest and most luxurious RVs available, often resembling tour buses with their spacious interiors and high-end features. These motorhomes are ideal for families or travelers looking for a glamping experience, offering amenities like full kitchens, bathrooms, entertainment and even washer-dryers in some models. Cost: In California, the average rental price for a Class A motorhome is around $275 to $300 per night, while in other popular cities, the average is closer to $250. Budget-conscious travelers can find options as low as $150 per night, while glampers can find premium rentals that go up to $700 per night. 📍 Class B Campervans: Compact and Adventure-Ready Known as the #vanlife favorite, Class B campervans are the smallest self-contained RVs. They're easy to drive, fuel-efficient and surprisingly versatile—great for off-the-grid adventures, National Park hopping or weekend getaways. Cost: Rental prices typically average around $200 per night in major cities, but deals can be found for under $100. On the higher end, luxury campervans can cost up to $350 per night. 📍 Class C Motorhomes: The Best of Both Worlds Class C RVs offer a balance between the spaciousness of Class A and the maneuverability of Class B. Best known for their over-cab sleeping area, they're a popular choice for road trips, family vacations and travelers who want comfort without the bulk of a Class A. Cost: Rental prices for Class C RVs generally range from $175 to $200 per night, with the most affordable options starting at around $100 and premium models reaching up to $400 per night. Additional costs may include: Service fee s: A small percentage of the booking s: A small percentage of the booking Insurance : Offered through RVshare : Offered through RVshare Optional add-ons: Delivery, kitchen kits, generators Book now REI's biggest sale of the year is live! Save up to 30% on Gerber, Coleman, Big Agnes Many owners offer RV delivery and setup at your campsite or home for an extra fee. Delivery is a popular option for first-timers and travelers who are flying to a destination for an event (music festival, NASCAR race, etc.) and want to have their RV set up and ready for them upon arrival. From the RVshare: 44% of RVshare bookings this year opted to have their RV delivered to their campground or destination. Is RVshare safe to use? Yes. RVshare verifies IDs, offers secure payments, and provides 24/7 roadside assistance with most rentals What's included in the rental? Most RVs come with basic amenities like beds, kitchens and bathrooms. Extra amenities like linens, cookware and outdoor gear may be included or available as add-ons depending on the listing you're interested in. Do I need a special license to drive an RV? In most states, no special license is required to drive RVs under 26,000 pounds. Always check local laws. Got your REAL ID? Stay prepared with top travel-friendly road trip essentials What if I need to cancel my RVshare rental? Cancellation policies vary by owner, but RVshare clearly lists them on each listing. Some offer flexible or moderate cancellation terms. Book on RVshare

This Colorado National Park Was Just Named a Grand Canyon Dupe—and It Has a Scenic 7-mile Drive, Steep Gorges, and Epic Stargazing
This Colorado National Park Was Just Named a Grand Canyon Dupe—and It Has a Scenic 7-mile Drive, Steep Gorges, and Epic Stargazing

Travel + Leisure

time05-05-2025

  • Travel + Leisure

This Colorado National Park Was Just Named a Grand Canyon Dupe—and It Has a Scenic 7-mile Drive, Steep Gorges, and Epic Stargazing

If you're concerned about the number of people that descend upon national parks each summer—especially as the parks face staffing shortages driven by the recent layoffs and hiring freezes—you may want to shift your trip to more underrated, less crowded destinations. And RVshare has a few data-backed suggestions. The RV rental platform created a list of 'crowd-free destination dupes' by analyzing geographic similarities (looking at landscape, rock formations, waterways, and unique natural features), visitor data, trail and space availability, and local insights and travel reports. From there, it matched some of the most popular national parks, including Grand Canyon National Park, with parks that offer a 'comparable yet quieter experience.' So instead of visiting the Grand Canyon, a park that had nearly 5 million visitors in 2024, consider making your way to western Colorado, home to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. In 2024, there were just 335,262 recorded visitors, but the park's steep cliffs, spires, gorges, and hiking trails are similar to those you'd find in Arizona. And instead of the Colorado River winding through the canyons, you have the Gunnison River, which, over millions of years, carved through volcanic deposits and rock to form the area we see today. The similarities don't end there, though. Both parks are split up into two main areas. Like the Grand Canyon, the Black Canyon's South Rim is easy to access, and therefore more popular, while the remote North Rim remains quieter. Instead of the Desert View Drive, the scenic road that begins near Grand Canyon Village, Colorado visitors can drive the South Rim Road. The seven-mile route has several viewpoints (like Gunnison Point and Painted Wall) and short hikes you can tackle on a day trip. The parks are also incredible for stargazing. In September 2015, the Black Canyon was certified as an International Dark Sky Park, a title the Grand Canyon received in June 2019. There are no closing hours at the Colorado park, so visitors can make their way to Chasm View Overlook, Dragon Point Overlook, or Sunset View Overlook on the South Rim; or Chasm View Nature Trail or Kneeling Camel Overlook on the North Rim to get a glimpse of the majestic night sky. To discover more national park 'dupes' and learn more about RVshare's methodology, head to

5 Ways Inflation Is Making International Travel Cheaper This Year
5 Ways Inflation Is Making International Travel Cheaper This Year

Yahoo

time17-03-2025

  • Yahoo

5 Ways Inflation Is Making International Travel Cheaper This Year

If you've been dreaming of an international getaway but held off due to high costs, 2025 might be the year to book that trip. Read Next: Find Out: While inflation has driven up prices on many everyday expenses, it's also creating unexpected opportunities for budget-conscious travelers. From favorable exchange rates to airline fare adjustments, certain factors are making international travel more affordable than you might expect. Here are five ways inflation is actually working in your favor — and how you can take advantage of lower travel costs this year. In a recent RVshare renter survey, nearly 70% said that rising travel costs impact their decision to travel this spring or summer, according to Maddi Bourgerie, travel expert at RVshare. 'For those Americans who are planning to travel abroad, there are a few factors that could be driving down the cost of international travel, including increased airline capacity and competitive pricing following pent-up supply post-pandemic,' she pointed out. Learn More: A lot of travelers are simply shifting to more budget-friendly destinations, according to Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago. But another way that inflation works in the traveler's favor, he said, is that 'traveling simply feels a lot less expensive because inflation here in the U.S. is not reflected equally in other places around the world, so their dollar does carry more weight.' While the dollar can fluctuate, by locking in international travel now, and even ordering foreign currency early through your bank, you may be able to take advantage of better exchange rates. A strong U.S. dollar can allow travelers to have more purchasing power and stretch their dollars further in other countries with weaker currencies, making accommodations, dining and activities more affordable for Americans abroad, Bourgerie said. However, she urged travelers 'to always do your research ahead of traveling abroad to stay up to date on the latest exchange rates.' Additionally, Bourgerie said that some airlines are adding capacity and keeping international fares fairly flat compared to years past, as a result of inflation, though 'hotels are seeing mixed trends.' While some hotels may lower rates in off-peak seasons or for newly launched properties, she noted that travelers are opting for budget-friendly spots, domestically and abroad. Regardless, Bourgerie said it's a good idea to plan as far in advance as you can, booking between six and nine months early or as soon as flights become available, taking advantage of miles and points. 'Look into alternative travel accommodations for your travels … and research free and inexpensive activities to take advantage of,' she said. She recommended researching and targeting destinations that have 'weaker currencies where you can get more bang for your buck,' while also exploring somewhere new and on your bucket list. While travel is still pricey in the best of economic times, going abroad may bring relief as you stretch your travel budget further. More From GOBankingRates 5 Types of Vehicles Retirees Should Stay Away From Buying 3 Changes That Could Be Coming to Social Security Now That Congress Is Republican This article originally appeared on 5 Ways Inflation Is Making International Travel Cheaper This Year

If you've always dreamed of RV life, here's how to try it
If you've always dreamed of RV life, here's how to try it

USA Today

time12-03-2025

  • Automotive
  • USA Today

If you've always dreamed of RV life, here's how to try it

If you've always dreamed of RV life, here's how to try it Show Caption Hide Caption What to know before traveling in a camper van It's important to know these camper van tips before you hit the road. ProblemSolved, Reviewed RV rentals are a popular option for travelers seeking unique and flexible vacations. Rental costs vary depending on factors like RV type, location, and duration, with potential fees for excess mileage and generator use and damages. Staying in an RV can be more affordable than hotels, especially for larger groups, with the added benefit of cooking meals instead of dining out. My bucket list is pretty short, but one thing I have always wanted to try was staying in an RV. I'm not alone. A survey of 1,709 leisure travelers commissioned by the RV Industry Association last year found that 50% of Americans showed interest in taking an RV trip within a year. While recreational vehicle ownership has risen in recent years, the number of people who want to stay in RVs far eclipses the number of people who own them. That's where RV rentals can come in. Just like booking a vacation rental through Vrbo or Airbnb, travelers can rent RVs from owners through platforms like RVshare and Outdoorsy or from companies like Cruise America. Here's what it's like and what travelers should know. How do I choose an RV? There are all different sizes and styles of RVs, ranging from small teardrop trailers to luxurious Class A motorhomes as big as buses. Two things to consider off the bat are how much space you need and what you're comfortable driving or towing. 'The Class As, I always recommend my renters have some driving experience,' said Asher Cousins, whom I rented from through RVshare. He owns Bozeman RV Adventures in Montana. On the plus side, Class As are very spacious, but that also means they can be harder to drive. Cousins recommends first-timers start with smaller Class Cs, those mid-size motorhomes that look kind of like U-Hauls with a bunk over their cab, or even Class Bs, also known as camper vans, if they want a drivable motorhome. 'They're just much more maneuverable,' he said. 'There aren't any like hydraulic leveling systems that you have to worry about.' If you'd rather drive a regular vehicle, you could rent a travel trailer, like I did. I chose a 2017 Jayco White Hawk trailer for my trip to the Yellowstone area, but I didn't tow it. Because it was my first RV rental and the idea of driving it around the national park felt daunting, I purposefully looked for a rental with destination delivery, a search filter in RVshare. 'It's essentially like (a short-term homestay) waiting for you at whatever concert venue, family reunion, something like that you want,' Cousins said. 'Pretty much, you don't need to know anything about RVs. It'll just be essentially a mobile house where you need it.' Perfect. How much is it to rent an RV? Rates vary widely depending on the RV type, location, rental duration, add-on services like delivery, and fees covering things like insurance. RVshare says their average rental ranges between $150 to $200 a night, including taxes and fees. Travelers should also budget for related expenses like gas and campsite fees. With larger RVs, Cousins said, 'You're also going to have to book usually larger spots at RV parks, which can be slightly more expensive than, say, a shorter trailer.' What are the hidden costs of RV rentals? While not hidden per se, renters can be surprised by post-trip fees, which owners may assess upon the RV's return. Reasons include but are not limited to vehicle damage, unpaid tolls and traffic violations, and exceeding allotted mileage or generator use, according to RVshare. In an abundance of caution, I meticulously documented the condition of my RV rental at dropoff and pickup with photos and video. I also made sure to tidy up, follow checkout instructions to a T, and wait for Cousins to review everything before we parted ways. Yes, you can camp at Disney World. But here's what you should know first. Is renting an RV cheaper than a hotel? Nothing about RVs is cheap, but renting one can be more affordable than staying in a hotel, particularly considering how many people can stay in an RV. The RV I rented sleeps up to six people, but some Class As sleep up to 10. You'd need to book multiple hotel rooms to accommodate that many. You can also save money by cooking in the RV instead of eating out, like you might have to during a hotel stay. What it's like staying in an RV I've only tent-camped before, so having a spacious RV with a memory foam bed, full kitchen, private bathroom with hot showers, and climate control felt luxurious. Even though the model was several years old, it was comfortable, clean and had everything I needed for my short trip. I did encounter a few minor hiccups during my stay, including the tub not draining the last day, but Cousins was quick to respond and help me troubleshoot. RVshare also offers 24/7 roadside assistance, an RV tech hotline and a mobile mechanic, all included in the fees that renters pay up front. As a whole, it was such a smooth experience, I might just try a motorhome next time and drive to different destinations. 'It all depends on what you want out of your adventure – if you want a trailer as a base camp with a rental car that you can explore the surrounding area (with) or if you want to be mobile, stay in a different spot every night,' Cousins said. Something else for the bucket list. The reporter on this story received access from RVshare. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.

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