Pets have always been a part of the family, now more and more are being brought along on trips. Now that families are spending more time at home between distance learning and working from home, Vrbo has seen a strong interest in fall trips overall. Families are looking into road trips close to home so they can easily jump in the car and bring their favorite furry friend along with them.
Vrbo data reveals a more than 50 percent increase in families traveling with pets this fall, compared with last year.
“The increase in people looking for pet-friendly getaways is yet another pandemic-driven change in travel,” said Melanie Fish, Vrbo travel expert. “Many families are making the best of the flexibility to work remotely and attend school virtually. They’re booking Vrbo stays later in the year, staying for longer periods of time and driving instead of flying. These new circumstances make it easier to bring pets along for a fall family break.”
Vrbo offers some tips for families looking to travel with their pets:
- Use search filters and pay attention to amenities: When looking for a place to stay, make sure to use Vrbo’s “pets allowed” search filter to find pet-friendly properties. Pay close attention to property details, photos and amenities to understand what’s available at the vacation homes you’re considering, such as whether they have a fenced-in yard or are close to pet-friendly hiking trails.
- Check for fees and house rules: Some homeowners may charge a pet fee or have extra house rules for bringing furry guests, so before booking, make sure to understand if these may apply to your stay. If anything isn’t clear or you have any questions, message the homeowner to get more information.
- Prep for “just in case” scenarios: Make sure your pet is wearing ID tags and is microchipped and registered with updated, accurate contact information. Before you head out, research local veterinarians and emergency services in your destination, just in case you need them while away. Don’t forget to keep your pet’s latest vaccine records handy, too.
- Pack for your pet: Bring a carrier or harness for the car ride, and plenty of treats, food and water for snack breaks. Make sure to also pack some of their favorite things from home, like a bed or a few toys, to help them feel comfortable when you arrive at the vacation home.
Families looking for more destination inspiration can use Vrbo’s pet-friendly destinations site at www.vrbo.com/travel/pet-friendly.
—Jennifer Swartvagher
Featured photo: Jay Wennington on Unsplash
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