Best Dog Camping Gear 2026: A Complete Packing List for Every Trip

Good dog camping gear doesn't just make your trip more comfortable, it makes it safer. From safety essentials to comfort gear and everything in between, this list covers what to bring, what to look for, and our top picks for every category.

The best dog camping gear is built around three priorities: keeping your dog safe, keeping them comfortable, and keeping the trip manageable for you. From containment and ID to shelter, nutrition, and everything in between, the right kit means less problem-solving and more time enjoying the trail.

Whether you are heading out for a weekend trip or a multi-day backcountry adventure, use the checklist below to help build your optimal dog camping kit.

Dog Camping Checklist

Good preparation isn't just about what you know; It's also about what you pack. Having the right gear on hand means you can spend less time problem-solving and more time enjoying the trail. Here's what we recommend for a well-stocked dog camping kit.

Check out some of our top recommendations for the most important dog camping essentials!

Safety & ID Collar with ID tags | Safety lights | Flea & tick prevention | Insect repellent | Pet first aid kit

Food & Water Dog food | Portable dishes | Treats | Long-lasting chews

Shelter & Comfort Dog bed | Shade | Cooling gear | Sun protection | Grooming supplies

On-Site & Activity Tie-out | Dog life jacket | Enrichment toys | Poop bags

Not sure where to start? We've broken down each item below with our top pick and what to look for so you can build the right kit for your trip. Jump to any category using the links above, or read straight through for the full rundown. 

Safety & ID

These are the non-negotiables. Before you think about comfort or activities, make sure your dog is identifiable, protected from pests, and covered for minor injuries. 

Collar with ID Tags

Your dog's collar is their lifeline if they get loose at the campsite. Even if you plan to use a harness, a collar with an up-to-date ID tag should always be on your dog in the wilderness. Shop our huge selection of dog collars to find the right style for your adventurous pal.

Our Picks: Red Dingo Stainless Steel ID Tags | Kuma Backtrack Dog Collar

What to look for: A secure, durable collar with a tag that includes your dog's name, your phone number, and ideally your campsite or accommodation info for the duration of the trip.

Safety Lights

Late-night bathroom breaks and early morning walks happen at every campsite, and a safety light makes sure your dog stays visible in the dark. They're also useful for spotting your dog near a road.

Our Pick: Ruffwear Beacon

What to look for: Something durable, weatherproof, and bright enough to be seen from a distance. Clip-on styles that attach to a collar or leash are the most practical.

Flea & Tick Protection

Camping means long grass, brush, and wooded trails, which is prime tick territory across most of Canada. Make sure your dog is protected before you leave home, not after. Browse our flea and tick preventatives to find the right option for your dog's weight and size.

Our Pick: Elanco Advantix II

What to look for: Weigh your dog before purchasing a flea & tick product. Most are dosed by weight, and the wrong dosage could be ineffective or dangerous. Coverage length matters too. A single-application product should last the duration of your trip and beyond, but your dog may need multiple applications to last the season.

Insect Repellent

Use a pet-friendly insect repellent to prevent your dog from bug bites and the diseases that may come with them. Respray throughout the day to keep your protected.

Our Pick: Citrobug

What to look for: Pet-safe, DEET-free formulas only. Natural, plant-based options are generally the safest choice.

Pet First Aid Kit

Purchase a pet first aid kit for your trip. This will make sure you are prepared for minor injuries, like scrapes and bug bites. Cleaning and disinfecting a wound can prevent an injury from worsening or a cut from getting infected until you get back to civilization.

Get basic dog first aid tips and CPR techniques to help you stay prepared and keep your dog safe.

Our Pick: Kurgo First Aid Kit

What to look for: A range of minor wound care supplies, including gauze, alcohol wipes, scissors, antiseptic wipes, and bandages.

Food & Water

Getting nutrition and hydration right on a camping trip takes a bit more planning than a regular day at home. Active days burn more calories, clean water isn't always available, and wildlife means food storage matters.

Dog Food

Active camping days burn more calories than a typical day at home, so plan to increase your dog's portions slightly on high-activity trips. Make sure you bring a nutrient-dense, lightweight formula, like freeze-dried or dehydrated dog food.

Always bring more than you think you'll need, pre-portion in resealable bags or containers for ease, or bring a measuring cup for on-the-go portioning.

Our Pick: Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Crunchy Nibs

What to look for:  Lightweight, nutrient-dense, and easy to portion on the go. Freeze-dried and dehydrated foods are ideal.  They're compact, shelf-stable, and don't require refrigeration. Some food styles need rehydration, so plan to pack extra water for meals.

Travel Dishes

A dedicated set of travel dishes keeps feeding time simple and sanitary at the campsite. You'll need one for food and a separate one for water. Don't double up.

Our Pick: Messy Mutt Silicone Non-Spill Travel Bowl

What to look for:  Collapsible or foldable styles pack down small and clip easily to a bag or backpack. A no-spill design is worth it on uneven terrain. Don't forget to pack plenty of filtered water. It's always better to have a little too much than not enough.

Treats

Treats can play multiple roles on a camping trip, from rewarding good behaviour in a new environment to giving your dog a quick energy boost between activities. High-calorie treats are worth packing for longer or more active trips. Browse our natural jerky treats and freeze-dried treats for camping-friendly options.

Our Pick: ValuePack Canadian Beef Liver Bites

What to look for:  Flavourful, high-calorie treats are ideal for boosting nutrition during high-energy activities and for reinforcing good behaviour.

Long-Lasting Chews

To keep your dog busy while you're sitting around the campfire, bring a long-lasting natural chew to keep your dog busy during downtime. Many chews offer a fun and tasty activity, support dental health, and even provide your dog with some essential calories and protein. See our full guide to long-lasting dog chews for more ideas.

Our Pick: Eldon's Odourless Bully Sticks

What to look for:  Something durable enough to last a full campfire session, but also easy to digest. Bully Sticks and collagen chews are a great option for most dogs.

Shelter & Comfort

A comfortable dog is a calm dog. This category covers everything that helps your dog rest, regulate their temperature, and stay clean over a multi-day trip. 

Cooling Mat

Hot days at the campsite can be dangerous, especially for flat-faced breeds, thick-coated dogs, and senior dogs. A cooling mat gives your dog a place to regulate their temperature during the hottest part of the day without any active cooling required.

For dogs on the move, a dog cooling vest or bandana is worth packing alongside them. Set up a shaded area using a canopy or beach umbrella for additional relief during peak heat hours (11 am–4 pm).

Our Pick: Goo-Eez Cooling Mat

What to look for: Stick to pressure-activated gel mats over other styles to keep them effective throughout the day. Wearable cooling gear should be used for on-the-go activities.

Sun Protection

Did you know dogs can get sunburnt, too? The areas around the muzzle, ears, back, and belly are most prone to sunburn. Hairless and white or light-coloured-coated breeds are particularly susceptible to this. Sunscreen that is truly safe for dogs is hard to find, so try to limit sun exposure and keep them covered when the sun is at its hottest.

Our Pick: Canada Pooch Sun Shield Tee

What to look for:  Opt for apparel or gear that covers large areas, and pair with dog-safe sunscreen for sensitive spots like snouts.

Shade or Canopy

When the sun is scorching, offering your pet a shaded spot to relax in can make a huge difference in both comfort and safety. You can't always rely on natural shade at your campsite, so pack supplies to create shade, like a tarp or umbrella, or invest in a canopy or shelter designed for dogs.

Our Pick: Cooler Pup Pop-Up Shade

What to look for: Make sure whatever you use has plenty of air flow. Shade without airflow will actually increase the temperature.

Outdoor Bed

Your dog needs somewhere cozy to relax, both at night and around the campsite. A familiar bed also helps anxious dogs settle in an unfamiliar environment. Browse our outdoor dog beds and dog sleeping bags for options suited to different climates and tent sizes. 

Our Pick: Ruffwear Basecamp Bed

What to look for:  Machine-washable and made from durable, weather-resistant material. If your dog runs cold, prioritize insulation. If they run hot, look for breathable fabrics. For around the campsite, a raised camping chair like the Kuma Lazy Dog Bed is a popular option.

Grooming Supplies

Though beautiful, nature is dirty, and it won't take long for your dog to get dirty, too. Some simple grooming supplies can help you spot clean your pooch and help keep dirt, mud, and bacteria out of your sleeping areas.

Our Pick: Earth Rated Dog Wipes

What to look for:  Pet wipes for quick cleanups, a slicker brush for debris and matting, or even a waterless bath if your dog gets particularly messy.

On-Site & Activities

These items are more situational than the rest of the list, but for most camping trips, at least a few of them will apply. Things like tie-outs and poop bags are universal, while life jackets and enrichment toys depend on your specific trip. 

Tie-Outs

Most Canadian campsites require dogs to be on leash or secured at all times. A good tie-out gives your dog freedom to move around the campsite without you holding a leash all day. Browse our full range of dog tie-outs for options suited to different dog sizes and campsite setups.

A zip line-style tie-out is a popular option, as it keeps the tie-out off the ground. This way, your dog can roam without tripping you or knocking things down as they move.

Our Pick: Kurgo Ridgeline Tie Out

What to look for:  This is one purchase where a better-quality product can make a big difference. Also, choose a cable that is designed to withstand your pet's weight and pulling instead of just going with a plain leash.

Life Jacket

If you'll be swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, or boating with your dog, a dog life jacket is a must. Check out Best Dog Life Jackets to see the features and benefits of our top-selling life vests for dogs.

Our Pick: Hurtta Life Savior ECO

What to look for:  Secure fit with an adjustable chest strap, a handle on the back for lifting your dog in and out of a boat, and high visibility colouring.

Enrichment Toys

There is going to be some downtime at the campsite, so make sure you bring along some enrichment toys to keep your dog occupied. A couple of mentally stimulating toys that can be filled with food or snacks are a great way to help prevent boredom, especially on rainy days. Browse our dog chew toys for durable options that can handle outdoor use.

Our Pick: Woof Pet Pupsicle Dog Toy

What to look for:  Durable, easy to clean, and mentally engaging. Leave puzzle feeders and anything with small parts at home. Stick to tough, simple toys that can get dirty.

Poop Bags

Leave no trace applies to your dog, too. Poop bags are non-negotiable on any camping or hiking trip. Pick up after your dog every time, even in backcountry areas where it might feel unnecessary. When bear activity is a concern, burying waste far from trails and campsite is recommended.

Our Pick: Homes Alive Pets Poop Bags

What to look for: Thick, leak-proof bags in a dispenser that clips to a leash or backpack for easy access on the trail.

Different Gear for Different Camping Styles

Not all camping is created equal, and the gear you choose should reflect that. From trip length and environment to the camping style you've selected, you may need to choose different gear to make your camping trip safe, comfortable, and fun.

Gear for Tent Camping with Dogs

Though the list above covers almost everything for tent camping with dogs, a few additional items are recommended to keep your dog safe. As shelter is limited, you need to consider how to keep your pet clean, cool, dry, and contained. Here are a few tent camping additions to consider: 

• Towels & Mats
  
• No-Spill Water Bowl
• Pet Wipes

Gear for Car Camping with Dogs

The car or truck gives you a built-in shelter backup, which means you can scale back on some of the bulkier comfort gear from the main list. The tradeoff is that your vehicle takes more wear over a multi-day trip. A few additions worth packing: 

• Car Seat Covers 
• Window Shades
• Hitch Tie-Out
  
• Pet Ramp or Stairs

Gear for RV Camping with Dogs

RV camping opens up options that tent and car campers can only dream about. With a fridge, running water, and significantly more storage space, you can prioritize your dog's comfort and nutrition in ways that just aren't practical when you're packing light.

A few things worth taking advantage of:

• Cozy Bed or Crate
• Frozen Food or Treats
• Puzzle Toys & Indoor Activities

Dog Camping Gear for Any Weather

You can't predict the weather, and even upcoming forecasts can be way off. Being prepared for sudden weather changes can make a huge difference in the safety and comfort of both you and your dog.

This could mean packing a little extra gear to weather-proof your campsite when conditions change.

Hot Weather

Spending the day under the hot summer sun could be dangerous, so make sure to pack cooling gear and shade for your dog if the forecast calls for extreme heat. Days should offer reprieve from the sun, and evenings should be comfortable enough to sleep soundly.

• Extra water - Keeping your dog hydrated is vital to help them stay safe. Water can also be used to wet cooling gear or even your dog directly to manage body temperature.
• Cooling Gear -  When temperatures stay high into the evening, a range of cooling beds and wearable gear can make a big difference.
• Shade - Tree cover isn't always enough. Make sure to provide your dog with easy access to shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Cold Weather

A cold snap, especially on a spring or summer camping trip, can be a problem if you are not prepared. Depending on where you are camping, nights can cool significantly, even when daytime temps are hot. This could mean changing your sleeping arrangements to help your dog maintain a safe body temperature.

If you and your dog are winter campers, we do think you're nuts, but your dog may need a thicker coat or more insulated gear to stay warm and safe. Check out our selection of Winter Dog Coats to find the right gear for winter camping with dogs.

Focus on:

• Dog Sleeping Bag - Unlike a bed, a sleeping bag allows our dog to be tucked in, providing a shell of warmth.
• Insulated Dog Jacket - Proper attire for cooler days can make walks and quiet hangouts by the campfire more comfortable.
• Paw Protection - Unexpected snow or frost can be combatted with a set of dog boots.
  

Rainy Weather

When you get surprised with rain on your camping trip, the main goal is to keep everyone and everything as dry as possible. In addition to using a tarp to keep your sleeping areas dry, there are some things you can do to limit how damp and muddy your dog gets and how much of that mess they bring back to the campsite.

• Rain Suit - Jackets are fine for short exposure, but a full body suit is going to be the most effective way to keep your dog dry, especially if you plan to embrace the rain.
• Waterproof Boots - Add another layer of protection and cleanliness with a set of waterproof dog boots or socks. No muddy footprints in the bed.
• Towels - No one wants to sleep next to a wet dog, so make sure to pack a few quick-drying dog towels. 

Gear You Probably Don't Need

The internet will tell you that camping with a dog requires an overwhelming amount of specialized gear. Some of it is genuinely useful. Some of it is solving a problem most dogs don't have.

You want to make sure you have the essentials, but you also need to pack efficiently, so don't bring everything and the kitchen sink on the off chance you might need it. Make some reasonable guesses about weather, environment, and activities and pack based on that.

Here's what you can safely leave at home for most trips:

A dedicated dog tent: Unless your dog is genuinely too large or too disruptive to share your tent, a separate dog tent is more hassle than it's worth. A good sleeping bag and a familiar blanket inside your tent will do the job. In fact, leaving them unattended can lead to anxiety or even accidental escape.

Booties for casual campsite use: Dog boots are genuinely useful for rough terrain, hot pavement, wet weather, and winter hiking, but if your trip is mostly flat campsite walking on mild terrain, most dogs don't need them. Save the boots for when the trail actually calls for them.

A full grooming kit: Pet wipes, a slicker brush, and a quick-dry towel cover 95% of campsite grooming needs. Leave the full doggy spa for when you get back home. Instead, do some pre and post-camping grooming to minimize how messy your dog gets.

A crate: In most camping scenarios, a full-sized crate will be too large and cumbersome to bring along. Sharing your sleeping arrangements, using a durable tie, and keeping them on leash are usually easier and just as safe as crating them.

Best Dog Camping Gear FAQs

What gear do I need to go camping with my dog?

The best dog camping gear covers four main categories: safety and ID, food and water, shelter and comfort, and on-site activity gear. Each category includes must-have essentials like a collar with ID tags, portable bowls, a dog sleeping bag, and a tie-out, plus situational items depending on your trip length, camping style, and the weather.

Do dogs need a sleeping bag for camping?

They don't need a dog sleeping bag specifically, but they are a helpful option. Most dog beds would be suitable. You may want to consider two beds: one for inside the tent that is warm and soft, and one for outside that is elevated or weather proof.

Do dogs need boots for camping?

Dog boots aren't typically needed for the campsite, but they can be useful for any daily excursions. Rain boots or socks may be helpful if you anticipate wet weather or muddy terrain at the campsite.

What is the best dog food to take camping?

Kibble, freeze-dried, and dehydrated diets are the easiest to store and lightweight to pack, making them ideal for camping.