Life on the road with your dog is one of the greatest adventures you can share — but it also comes with its challenges. From muddy paws to cramped sleeping spaces, vanlife with dogs requires a little creative thinking to make it all work smoothly.
Whether you’re a weekend wanderer or a full-time traveller, these vanlife dog hacks will help you stay organised, keep your dog comfortable, and make life on the move as stress-free as possible.
1. Create a Dedicated Dog Zone
You want to make sure you have a dog friendly van conversion. In a small space, it’s important to keep your dog’s area organised. Designate a corner or section of the van for all things canine — bed, bowls, toys, lead, and towels. This not only keeps clutter down but gives your dog a clear “safe space” where they can retreat and relax after a long day of adventures.
Pro tip: Use collapsible storage boxes or hanging organisers to maximise space.
2. Use a Non-Spill Water Bowl
Vanlife means movement — and a normal water bowl can quickly turn into a mini tidal wave when you hit a bumpy road. Invest in a non-spill or no-splash bowl designed for travel. They’re stable, easy to clean, and ensure your dog stays hydrated without soaking your floor.
3. Keep a ‘Dog Towel Drawer’
If your vanlife adventures include beaches, muddy trails or rainy walks, you’ll quickly learn that a dedicated towel stash is non-negotiable. Keep a few microfibre towels within easy reach by the door for quick paw and belly wipe-downs before your dog jumps inside.
Bonus hack: Hang a small hook near the entrance for wet towels to air dry while you drive.
4. Pack a Portable Dog Shower
A portable shower is a vanlife essential — not just for you, but for your dog too. Compact rinsing systems (like the Mud Daddy or Karcher OC3) make cleaning up muddy dogs fast and easy, especially when you’re off-grid or wild camping.
If you’re on a budget, even a simple pump-action garden sprayer filled with warm water can work wonders.
5. Use a Cooling Mat or Heating Pad
Dogs can struggle with extreme temperatures in a van. A self-cooling mat helps during hot summer months, while a low-voltage heating pad or fleece blanket keeps them cosy on cold nights.
Always ensure proper ventilation and never leave your dog unattended in warm weather — even with windows open.
6. Install a Clip Hook for Leads
Attach a small carabiner or hook near the door for easy lead access. It sounds simple, but when you’re juggling muddy boots, rain gear and a dog that’s desperate to explore, having the lead right there saves time and frustration.
You can also use additional hooks outside your van to clip your dog’s lead safely while you cook or relax.
7. Keep a Dog First Aid Kit
Vanlife often means exploring remote areas, so it’s smart to keep a basic dog first aid kit onboard alongside your other camping equipment for dogs. Include antiseptic wipes, tick removers, bandages, and any regular medications your dog needs.
Tip: Add your vet’s contact details and the number for the nearest 24-hour emergency vet to your phone and glove box.
8. Manage Mud and Hair
Dog hair and mud are inevitable — but manageable. Use washable rugs or removable mats to catch dirt, and keep a compact handheld hoover for quick clean-ups.
Hack: Rubber gloves or a damp microfibre cloth work brilliantly for gathering up loose fur from van seats.
9. Store Food Smartly
Dog food takes up more space than you think. Transfer dry kibble into airtight containers or stackable tubs to save space and keep it fresh. For wet food or raw diets, consider a compact 12V fridge or cooler to prevent spoilage during longer trips.
Bonus: Keep a collapsible scoop in the same container so feeding time is fast and fuss-free.
10. Build a Fold-Out Feeding Station
If your van layout allows, a small pull-out drawer or fold-down shelf makes the perfect feeding station. It keeps bowls stable and stops your dog from pushing them around the floor.
When not in use, it folds away neatly — ideal for small vans where every inch counts.
11. Keep a Dog-Walking ‘Go Bag’
Create a grab-and-go bag stocked with walk essentials — lead, poop bags, treats, collapsible bowl, and a towel. That way, you can head out quickly for spontaneous adventures without rummaging through cupboards every time.
Pro tip: Use a lightweight dry bag so you can take it on hikes or paddle trips without worrying about it getting soaked.
12. Add a Dog Ramp for Easier Access
Jumping in and out of a high van can be tough on dogs’ joints, especially as they get older. A lightweight, foldable ramp or set of steps helps prevent injuries and makes loading up after a hike much easier.
13. Create Shade Outside the Van
If you spend time parked up in the sun, carry a small pop-up awning or shade cloth. It gives your dog somewhere to lie comfortably outside without overheating, and doubles as a great chill spot for you too.
14. Keep ID and Microchip Info Up to Date
If your dog ever goes missing while you’re travelling, having up-to-date details is critical. Double-check that your dog’s microchip info includes your mobile number and that their ID tag clearly states “travelling vanlife dog” with your current phone number.
If you’re travelling with your dog in Europe (or anywhere outside of the UK), you should also research ahead and make sure you know where the local vets are.
15. Always Carry Spare Everything
Spare lead, spare collar, extra poop bags, and even a backup bowl — if it’s an essential item for vanlife with a dog, it’s worth carrying extra. They take up little space but can save the day when something breaks or goes missing mid-trip.
Final Thoughts
Vanlife with dogs is one of the most rewarding ways to travel — every day brings a new trail, a new campsite, and a new memory shared with your best friend. With a bit of planning and these clever vanlife dog hacks, you can make life on the road more comfortable, organised, and safe for you both.
So pack up, hit the road, and let adventure lead the way — paws and all.