The Ultimate Dog Packing Guide for Las Vegas

Whether you’re road-tripping to Las Vegas for a summer escape or heading into town for the holidays, packing for your pup takes a bit of thoughtful planning. Between desert heat, bright lights, and endless adventures waiting around the corner, being prepared helps ensure your dog stays safe, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the city right alongside you.

This is our tried-and-tested packing guide — built from years of exploring Las Vegas with our own dog, Roadie. We’ve included what we actually use (and why we love it) to help you pack smart for your next trip, no matter the season.

Health and Safety First

Before you travel, double-check that your dog’s vaccinations and vet records are current. Some hotels, boarding facilities, and dog-friendly attractions may ask for proof of health. If you’re visiting during warmer months or plan to explore outdoor areas, talk with your vet about region-specific protection, such as canine influenza or rattlesnake vaccines (you can find more about rattlesnake aversion classes from our recent participation.)

We always travel with a small pet first aid kit stocked with wipes, bandages, and regular medications. It’s one of those things you hope you never need — but you’ll be glad you packed it if you do.

Keep Cool and Comfortable

The Las Vegas sun can be strong year-round, so protecting your dog from the heat is essential. For hot pavement, we use these dog booties from Rocky Mountain Paw Protection. They take a little effort to get on, but they stay on — even after long walks downtown or across the park.

To help Roadie stay cool, we love the LUCO Love Cooling Vest. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and stays moist without feeling heavy or restrictive. It doesn’t fray easily, and Roadie forgets it’s even on — which makes it a win in our book.

Hydration is another big deal in the desert. We rely on this travel water container for longer days out — it’s durable, holds plenty of water for big drinkers, and can handle being tossed around in the car.

Travel Essentials

A well-organized dog travel bag makes every trip smoother. We’ve used a few over the years, but our current favorite is this Modoker dog travel bag. It’s compact, durable, and includes bowls and a mat for quick meals on the go.

We always pack food, treats, leashes, poop bags, and a backup set of ID tags in one spot. Bring two leashes if possible — one for everyday use and one for busier areas or quick rest stops.

Don’t skip the comforts of home. Familiar items like your dog’s bed, favorite toy, or puzzle feeder can help them settle in more easily in a hotel or rental. If your dog travels in a crate, label it clearly and make sure it’s cozy and secure.

Calm and Collected on the Road

Travel can be exciting, and sometimes a bit overwhelming for dogs. A comfortable, secure harness helps them feel grounded and safe. We use this adjustable harness because it’s easy to resize, has a solid car clip, and includes a handle — handy for navigating busy sidewalks or rest stops.

For downtime, Roadie listens to dog-friendly jazz playlists from Wagnific — yes, he really has a preference. Music can make a long drive or hotel stay calmer for everyone.

When we need an extra bit of relaxation support, we reach for Reggie enrichment chews or Progility calming chews depending on the situation. Both help take the edge off travel days or noisy environments.

Ready for Adventure

No matter when you visit — summer, winter, or in between — Las Vegas has plenty of dog-friendly adventures waiting. With the right prep and gear, you can explore safely, stay comfortable, and enjoy every moment together.

When you’ve packed smart and prepared well, Las Vegas becomes more than just a destination — it’s an experience you and your dog can share, any time of year.

Need more ideas? Visit our Travel Tips & Recommendations for insights on dog-friendly hotels, local events, and hidden gems across the city.