Camper trips are an excellent way to get to know a country, and not only the places well trodden by tourists but also the smaller towns that are visited rarely, yet it is often in them that a country's greatest beauty lies. An added advantage is that when travelling in a vehicle like this you can always take your pets with you, and once the right conditions have been created for them they will feel great and comfortable.

Documents – the first thing to take care of

This time we are talking not about a person's documents but about those for the animal, since obtaining them can take quite some time. It is best to contact a veterinary clinic several months in advance, so that there is time to carry out all the necessary examinations and give the required vaccinations for the pet to be taken to other countries.

Of course, you need to look into the laws of the country you are travelling to. Although the great majority of the rules in the EU are similar, attention to detail will certainly do no harm. Those who keep dogs of dangerous breeds should also take note. They may of course be very friendly, but simply because they are classed as a dangerous breed you must have additional documents proving their sound temperament and behaviour. What is more, they may not even be admitted to certain countries, so you must look into this in more detail.

Campsite rules

Those planning a camper trip usually draw up their route straight away and at the same time decide which campsites they will sleep at. It is best to do this while still at home, when you can calmly find out each campsite's rules so that you can prepare for them properly. Some places state strictly that dogs must be tethered, with no exceptions. In other cases they may be loose, but only if they are socialised. Rules are rules, so they have to be followed. That way you protect both your own and other people's peace and privacy, and avoid trouble before the trip has even begun.

A comfortable campsite set-up for the animal's needs

Understandably, you want trips to be as comfortable as possible not only for the person but also for the animal. In that case you need to take care of the small things that will let it feel better even on longer drives.

• Always keep as many bags for collecting excrement to hand as possible. Wherever you stay, you must make sure the surroundings are not left soiled after the animal has done its business.
• We also suggest bringing the bed your pet is most used to, where it can sleep throughout the trip. Ideally, always in the same place. This will be its safe zone and will remind it of home.
• Some dogs feel discomfort on long journeys at the very beginning. To reduce the stress, we suggest bringing its favourite toys so that it can relax with them.
• Of course, it is also important to bring special food intended specifically for your pet. This should be not just dry or tinned food but also special treats that can keep the dog occupied for longer and so calm it down.
• You also need to buy the basic medicines the dog may need. After all, you take care of medicines for yourself too, don't you?

A trip with a dog will be not only more fun but also safer. The most important thing is to make sure your travelling companion feels well.