What to Pack for a Camping Trip with Your Dog
Nov 6th 2025
Camping with your dog requires thoughtful preparation, especially when heading to busy events or unfamiliar terrain. Bringing the right gear means fewer hassles and more time enjoying the experience together. Here's a complete packing guide for dog owners planning their next outdoor adventure, featuring practical essentials that fit into one well-organized bag.
Food Storage and Feeding Essentials
Ruffwear Kibble Kaddie™
A waterproof dry bag designed specifically for dog food keeps kibble fresh and protected from moisture. Most models include a built-in compartment for a collapsible bowl, making feeding convenient at camp or on the trail.
Shop the Ruffwear Kibble Kaddie™
No-Spill Water Bowl
Standard bowls tip easily in vehicles or tents, leaving dogs without water when it matters most. A no-spill design allows dogs to drink freely while preventing messes during travel or at the campsite. Fill to the indicated line, and the bowl stays upright even when bumped or nudged.
Extra Collapsible Bowls
Backup bowls take up minimal space and ensure you always have clean options for food and water. Staying hydrated is critical during outdoor activities, and having multiple bowls makes it easier to maintain that routine.
Cleaning and Comfort Gear
Dexas MudBuster® Gentle Paw Washer
Dusty trails and muddy campsites are part of the outdoor experience, but dirty paws don't have to come into the tent. A paw cleaner with bristles and water removes dirt quickly before dogs track it everywhere. Add a small amount of dog-safe soap for extra cleaning power.
Shop the Dexas MudBuster® Gentle Paw Washer
Quick-Dry Towel
Weather changes fast outdoors. A compact, fast-drying towel handles rain, river crossings, or dewy mornings without taking up much pack space. These towels fold down small and dry dogs efficiently before settling in for the night.
Safety and Training Equipment
Slip Leash
Every dog owner should carry a slip leash, always. Whether in the car, at camp, or on the trail, having a backup leash ready prevents emergencies. Slip leashes pack down to nearly nothing and provide instant control when needed.
Shop the 6' British Style Slip Leash
Backup Rope Leash
A durable rope leash offers another layer of security. Lightweight and compact, it's ideal for keeping in a bag or vehicle as a reliable spare.
Basket Muzzle
Even the friendliest dogs benefit from having a basket muzzle on hand. Stressful situations, injuries, or unexpected interactions can change behavior quickly. A properly fitted basket muzzle allows panting and drinking while keeping everyone safe if circumstances require it.
Shop the RAM Adjustable Mesh Muzzle
First Aid Kit
Accidents happen outdoors. A compact canine first aid kit fits easily into a trail belt or daypack and provides peace of mind during hikes or campsite activities. Look for kits designed specifically for dogs, with items like bandages, tweezers, and antiseptic wipes.
LED Collar Light
Dark-coated dogs disappear at night. A clip-on LED light attached to the collar makes dogs visible during evening walks around camp or late-night bathroom breaks. It's a simple tool that significantly improves safety after sunset.
Shop the TAG-IT Dual Function Lights
Gear for Active Dogs
Dog Harness
Comfortable, well-fitted harnesses distribute pressure evenly and provide better control than collars alone. For dogs who pull or need extra support on uneven terrain, a quality harness is essential.
KONG™ with Rope
Mental stimulation doesn't stop just because you're camping. A KONG on a rope keeps dogs entertained during downtime and provides an outlet for chewing energy. The rope handle makes it easy to play tug or hang from a tree branch.
Organizing It All
Trail Belt
Hands-free convenience makes managing a dog at busy campsites or events much easier. A trail belt holds essentials like treat pouches, first aid kits, and waste bags while keeping both hands available for setting up camp or navigating crowds.
Durable Gear Bag
Choose a bag with multiple compartments to keep items organized and accessible. Mesh pockets work well for frequently grabbed items like slip leashes and first aid kits, while larger compartments handle bulkier gear like towels and food storage.
Shop the Dog Handler Bag by Mud River
Be Ready for Anything
Camping with dogs means planning for best-case and worst-case scenarios. The right dog gear makes both situations manageable. From backup leashes to emergency muzzles, being overprepared beats scrambling for solutions when problems arise.
Whether heading to a weekend campout, a multi-day trail adventure, or a dog-friendly outdoor event, packing thoughtfully ensures both dog and owner can focus on enjoying the experience. All of the gear mentioned is available at J&J Dog Supplies. It’s built for the real world, just like your dog.
