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Taking your dog on a trip means getting the right kit sorted before you hit the road. Whether you're planning a beach day in Kent or a weekend away, the right dog travel accessories keep your dog safe, comfortable, and legally secured in the car. Whether you're planning a beach day in Kent or a weekend away, the right travel accessories keep your dog safe, comfortable, and legally secured in the car.
Here's the thing most people don't realise: UK law requires every dog to be properly restrained in a vehicle. Rule 57 of the Highway Code states: "When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars."[1] If you're caught with an unrestrained dog, you could face a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points on the spot, or an unlimited fine and disqualification if it goes to court for careless driving.
It's strongly advised to avoid the front passenger seat for dogs. If you must transport a dog in the front, ensure they're suitably restrained, consider disabling the passenger airbag, and move the seat back fully. The primary risk is airbag deployment in a collision, which can injure or kill a dog, plus the distraction factor while driving.
But this isn't just about avoiding fines. An unrestrained 60-pound dog in a 50mph crash generates around 3,000 pounds of force. That's enough to injure everyone in the vehicle. The right accessories protect your dog, your passengers, and you.
Rule 57 of the Highway Code is the legal requirement for transporting dogs in the UK. It states: "When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars."[1]
The key word is "suitably." The law doesn't mandate a specific product, but your restraint method must prevent distraction and injury. If your dog isn't properly restrained and you're involved in an accident or stopped by police, you could face penalties ranging from a £100 fixed penalty notice and three points to an unlimited fine, disqualification, and 3-9 penalty points if the matter goes to court.
It's not illegal to transport a dog in the front passenger seat, but it's strongly advised against. The RAC highlights two major risks: airbag deployment in a collision (which can injure or kill a dog) and driver distraction.[2]
If you must use the front seat, ensure the dog is suitably restrained with a crash-tested harness, disable the passenger airbag if your vehicle allows it, and move the seat back as far as possible. The rear seats with proper restraint remain the safest option for dogs of all sizes.
Not all dog harnesses are crash-tested, and that matters. A regular harness might keep your dog in place on a smooth drive, but in a collision, only crash-tested models stand a chance of protecting them.
When a car hits something at 50mph, an unrestrained 60-pound dog becomes a projectile with 3,000 pounds of force behind it. A crash-tested harness spreads that impact across the chest and shoulders, reducing injury to your dog and stopping them from flying through the windscreen.
Look for harnesses certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) in the US. They run independent crash tests and only certify products that pass their strict standards.[3]
Not all "crash-tested" claims mean the same thing. Here's what to look for:
CPS Certified: The Center for Pet Safety runs independent crash tests using standardised protocols. Products that pass earn CPS certification—the gold standard for pet travel safety. Only a handful of harnesses worldwide carry this certification.[3]
Manufacturer Lab-Tested: Some brands conduct their own crash tests at registered facilities. These follow similar principles but aren't independently verified by CPS. They're still better than untested options, but check which facility conducted the testing and what weight limits apply.
General "Car-Rated" Restraint: Many harnesses are designed for car use but haven't been crash-tested at all. They'll restrain a calm dog during normal driving, but offer no proven protection in a collision.
Sleepypod Clickit Sport: This is one of the few harnesses to earn CPS certification.[3] It comes in sizes from small to extra-large and features wide, padded straps that won't dig in during a sudden stop. The quick-release buckle means you can get your dog out fast when you arrive.
Sleepypod Clickit Terrain: A heavier-duty version for active dogs who need something more robust. Same CPS certification, but with reinforced stitching and thicker webbing.
CarSafe Harness: Popular in the UK market, crash-tested and certified up to 32 kg at an Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) registered laboratory facility.[4] It has an extra-padded chest plate for comfort on long journeys, plus D-rings on both front and back so you can clip a lead on the moment you open the door. Adjustable straps mean you get a proper fit.
Crash-tested to 32kg with padded chest plate for comfort on long journeys. OVSC certified for safety compliance with UK law. Adjustable fit with front and back D-rings.
Shop CarSafe Harness →A good harness needs a good tether. Standard seat belt clips can twist and tangle. The Kong Ultimate Safety Tether solves this by using the ISOFIX system built into most modern cars.[5] It clips in like a child seat anchor, gives a secure connection, and swivels to stop your dog getting wrapped up.
Designed in the UK, it offers better control than a basic seat belt clip and keeps your dog in their spot without restricting movement too much. You'll need a car with top tether points on the rear seats—most vehicles made after 2012 have these, but check your vehicle manual to confirm ISOFIX anchor compatibility before purchasing.
For smaller dogs or anxious travellers, a secure carrier or crate often works better than a harness. They give your dog a den-like space and keep them safely contained if you brake suddenly.
Tavo Maeve Pet Protection System: This luxury 3-in-1 system works as a car seat, carrier, and stroller. The brand markets it as crash-tested with an ISOFIX base similar to child car seats.[6] If you've got a small dog and want a premium multi-function system, this is it.
Luther Bennett Dog Pod 2.0: A UK brand that combines style with safety. The brand claims this is crash-tested and uses ISOFIX connectors to lock it firmly in place.[7] The soft padding helps reduce travel anxiety and motion sickness. Works for small to medium dogs, and you can use it as a bed when you reach your destination.
Dog Den: The first double-wall rotomoulded dog crate designed and built in England. The brand claims it's crash-tested up to 34 kg.[8] It's easy to clean and light enough to move between cars without breaking your back. The double-wall design helps regulate temperature, keeping your dog cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
If you've got a larger dog who travels in the boot, a proper crate beats a fabric carrier every time. It's solid, secure, and gives them their own space. For those serious about maximum crash protection, our comprehensive guide to crash-tested dog car crates covers independently verified options including MIM Variocage, 4pets PRO, and Thule Allax with detailed safety ratings and UK stockist information. For general purpose heavy-duty options, see our heavy-duty dog crates guide.
Dogs bring mud, water, and hair into your car. A good seat cover or boot liner saves you hours of cleaning.
Kong Car Seat Cover & Hammock: Ticks all the boxes. It's waterproof, converts from a hammock style (protecting the footwell and back of the front seats) to a flat cover, and has a mesh window for ventilation. Machine washable means you just chuck it in the wash when it gets filthy. Adjustable straps keep it tight and secure.
Pecute Waterproof Cover: Another solid option. 100% waterproof with side flaps that protect the doors. The mesh window helps if your dog gets car sick, as airflow makes a big difference. It converts to a hammock too.
MuttStuff & Co. Single Seat Cover: Perfect for smaller cars or if you only need one seat protected. Zippable side panels and a waterproof base mean no leaks onto the upholstery.
Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner: If your dog travels in the boot, this liner gives a tailored fit and includes a safety tether. It's rigorously tested, high quality, and machine washable. Beats cheap alternatives that slide around.
100% waterproof hammock-style seat cover with mesh window and storage pocket. Scratchproof, non-slip design that's machine washable. Universal fit for cars, SUVs, and trucks.
Shop Car Seat Covers →Dogs can't tell you when they're thirsty, so you need to stay on top of it. Unlike camels, they can't tank up before a journey. On hot days, they'll need water much more often.
Simple rule: whenever you take a drink, offer one to your dog. Stop for breaks, offer water. Before and after walks, offer water. It becomes second nature once you get into the habit.
Carrying a bowl and a bottle separately is a pain. Travel bottles with built-in bowls solve that problem and waste less water.
Springer Flip Dog Travel Bottle: Simple squeeze-and-drain design. Squeeze water into the bowl, let your dog drink, and any leftover drains back into the bottle. Nothing fancy, but it works and saves water.
Springer Pets Dog and Me Insulated Water Bottle: Double-wall stainless steel keeps water cold for up to 12 hours on scorching days, or stops it freezing on winter walks. The detachable silicone bowl looks like a normal bowl, which some dogs prefer. Worth the extra cost if you're out all day.
MalsiPree Leakproof Portable Dog Travel Bottle: One-handed operation makes this brilliant for use in the car or when you've already got a lead in one hand. Fill and drain the bowl without putting anything down.
Leak-proof design with one-handed operation. Built-in bowl makes hydration easy during walks, hiking, and camping. Food-grade materials, perfect for travel.
Shop Water Bottles →Kong Duo Trek Range: A clever 4-in-1 system with an insulated water bottle, water bowl, food bowl, and even a cup for you. If you're spending the whole day out, this keeps everything in one place.
Pup & Kit Lid-it Dog Bowl: UK-made stainless steel bowl with a non-slip base and an airtight lid. Pre-portion your dog's food before you leave, seal it up, and it stays fresh until mealtime. No soggy kibble, no mess.
Once you're out of the car, you need kit that keeps your dog comfortable and handles small emergencies. From cooling down on hot days to dealing with minor injuries, being prepared makes the difference between a good trip and a stressful one.
Dogs cool themselves by panting, which isn't very efficient. On hot days, a cooling mat helps them regulate their temperature without needing power or refrigeration.
Rosewood Chillax Cool Pad: Self-cooling gel activates when your dog lies on it. Folds away in seconds, making it perfect for chucking in the boot or moving between the car, garden, and indoors. Sturdy enough to last multiple summers.
Pair this with an insulated water bottle filled with cool water, and you've covered the basics for summer travel.
Pressure-activated gel cooling mat that requires no refrigeration. Large 90x50cm size suitable for most dogs. Non-toxic, durable, and perfect for car travel or home use in hot weather.
Shop Cooling Mats →EzyDog Flotation Device: If you're heading to the beach or a river, a life jacket gives you peace of mind. Even strong swimmers can tire or panic in waves. The grab handle on top means you can haul them out if needed.
Flexi Comfort Extendable Lead: For comfort breaks in unfamiliar areas or busy car parks, an extendable lead gives your dog a bit of freedom after being confined. Keep it short near roads, extend it when safe. Simple, but useful for those quick stops.
High-visibility flotation device with strong rescue handle. Adjustable straps for secure fit. Perfect for beach trips, river walks, and boating. Available in multiple sizes.
Shop Life Jackets →Minor cuts, sprains, and upset stomachs happen. A first aid kit means you can deal with them until you reach a vet.
Mountain Paws Dog First Aid Kit: Made in the UK with 40 components. Includes paw sleeves to protect bandaged feet, saline solution for rinsing eyes or wounds, tick tweezers, scissors, and hygienic wipes.[9] Covers most situations you'll face on a day trip or weekend away.
If you're building your own kit, make sure you include:
Poo bags can double as makeshift gloves if you've run out of proper ones.
Comprehensive emergency kit with bandages, wipes, tick remover, scissors, and saline solution. Compact and durable bag perfect for car, camping, and home use. Essential for every dog owner.
Shop First Aid Kits →Dogs get muddy, leave hair everywhere, and track dirt into the car. Having the right cleaning tools means you can deal with it fast.
Earth Rated Wipes: Big packs with secure closures that keep them from drying out. Perfect for muddy paws after a walk, wiping down dirty faces, or cleaning up spills in the car. They work, they're cheap, and you'll use them constantly.
Tydi Lint Roller: Simple but brilliant for removing dog hair from seat covers, your clothes, and any fabric surface. Keep one in the car, use it before you get home, and save yourself the job of hoovering everything later.
Award-winning drying solution for muddy walks and wet weather. Keep your car and home clean with this luxury microfibre bag. Over 800+ five-star reviews. Voted finalist for Product Innovation Award 2022.
Shop Pawdaw Drying Bag →Before you set off, run through this quick checklist to ensure you're prepared:
If your dog is nervous about travel or new equipment, don't just chuck them in a harness and drive off. Let them get used to it at home first.
Put the harness on indoors for short periods. Let them sniff the carrier and explore it with treats inside. Take short trips to places they enjoy, like the park, so the car becomes linked with good experiences. Build up gradually.
Same goes for cooling mats or life jackets. Let them investigate at home before you expect them to use it on a hot day or in the water.
The right travel accessories aren't just nice to have. They're the difference between a safe, comfortable journey and a stressful one. Crash-tested restraints protect your dog and everyone in the car. Water bottles and cooling mats keep them comfortable. First aid kits mean you're prepared for small emergencies.
UK law requires proper restraint, and the consequences of ignoring it go beyond fines. An unrestrained dog in an accident can injure themselves, you, and your passengers.
Get the basics sorted: a crash-tested harness or secure crate, a travel water bottle, and something to keep your car clean. Add a first aid kit and a cooling mat if you're travelling in summer. That covers most situations.
Once you've got the kit, use it every trip. Make it routine. Your dog will settle into it, and you'll stop worrying about whether they're safe and comfortable.
No, it's not illegal, but it's strongly advised against—especially with a live passenger airbag. If you must transport a dog in the front seat, ensure they're suitably restrained with a crash-tested harness, disable the passenger airbag if possible, and move the seat back fully. The RAC recommends the rear seats as the safest option.
Rule 57 states that dogs must be suitably restrained to avoid distracting the driver or causing injury in a sudden stop. Acceptable restraint methods include a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage, or dog guard. The specific method matters less than ensuring your dog cannot move freely around the vehicle.
Yes. Crash-tested harnesses (particularly CPS-certified ones) provide defined performance in collision tests. Many harnesses are marketed as "car rated" for restraint but haven't been independently crash-tested. In a high-speed collision, only properly tested harnesses offer proven protection. Check for CPS certification or evidence of independent lab testing.
ISOFIX tethers connect to the same anchor points designed for child car seats, providing a secure attachment point. They're safe when used as directed by the manufacturer and when paired with a suitable harness. Always confirm compatibility in your vehicle manual before purchasing, as not all vehicles have accessible ISOFIX anchor points in the rear.
Essential items include: suitable restraint (harness, carrier, or crate), tether with secure anchors, water and travel bottle, first aid kit, seat or boot cover, cleaning wipes, and a collar with compliant ID tag showing your contact details. For summer trips, add a cooling mat; for winter, pack a warm blanket.
If caught with an unrestrained dog, you could receive a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points on the spot for careless driving. If the matter goes to court—particularly following an accident—you could face an unlimited fine, 3-9 penalty points, and possible disqualification from driving. Insurance claims may also be affected if an unrestrained dog contributed to an accident.
This guide is based on verified sources and manufacturer specifications:
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