Camping is always better when you bring your best friend along... and yes, we mean your furry best friend!
Our dogs adore the little things - exploring new places and simply taking in the great outdoors. However, for you and your pup to get the most out of this precious bonding experience, there are a few essentials you need to bring along!
Please give our blog "Top 7 Essentials for Hiking With Your Dog" a read, especially if your camping trip involves hiking or walks. The sections around leashes, poop bags, first aid and treats are also applicable to a camping trip.
1. Hitching System - Knot-a-Hitch by Ruffwear
When you reach your campsite after a long day, you'll either begin setting up the camp, or if you're anything like myself, you'll need a rest. Either way, you need to hitch your dog up to keep them safe!
The Ruffwear Knot-a-Hitch is one of the most reliable, secure dog hitching systems on the market. Designed with a strong kernmantle rope that can be set up either between two trees or secured to a singular post. The carabiner on the rope swivels, so that your pup is securely attached to the line, while keeping your dog tangle-free. The rope 12 metres in length, allowing your pooch to safely roam while you get set up!
2. Dog Saddlebag - Palisades Pack by Ruffwear
If you're planning any walks or hikes nearby, giving your pooch a load is beneficial. This can help them build muscle and give them an excellent workout. Certain breeds love a job to do, and so giving them a load can help them focus and provide mental stimulation.
For a great everyday pack, we love the new Ruffwear Approach Pack! It allows your dog to efficiently carry a load, while also allowing freedom of movement thanks to the integrated harness. This saddlebag features a streamline design and is made of lightweight materials, making it comfortable for your dog to carry.
3. Toys - Camp Flyer Bowl by Ruffwear
You reach your campsite, and your pup is still raring to go! That's why it's important to pack a lightweight toy to keep your pup entertained.
The Ruffwear Camp Flyer Toy is perfect for playing fetch around the campsite. It's designed for middle-distance flight, meaning it won't fly too far out of sight. It packs down small when in your bag, but immediately bounces back into shape when taken out for playtime. The Camp Flyer can also double as a bowl, being waterproof.
4. Food Carrier - Kibble Carrier by Ruffwear
If you're camping, you'll no doubt be bringing along your dog's staple food - but hauling a 12kg bag of food isn't going to cut it when travelling or camping. A smaller form of kibble storage is a real relief on your back when travelling.
The Ruffwear Kibble Kaddie is compact enough to keep at your campsite, and you can simply fill the Kaddie with the appropriate amount of food for your dog and the length of the trip. The roll down closure reduces the size of the Kaddie, which then reduces the amount of space taken in your camp, luggage or car. The Kaddie is waterproof and oil-resistant to prevent any unwanted odours or leakage.
5. Sleeping Bag - Highlands Sleeping Bag by Ruffwear
A sleeping bag offers a safe place for your dog to rest. For familiarity, we would recommend letting your dog check this out at home, before bringing it along to the great outdoors.
The Ruffwear Highlands Sleeping Bag is the perfect bed for the spring and summer months. As far as sleeping bags go, the Highlands bag is lightweight and compact, thanks to the half length zipper.
The Highlands Sleeping Bag zips closed to keep your dog warm throughout the night, while protecting your dog from the elements. This will also deter your pooch from sleeping on a potentially muddy floor!
The Bag is water-resistant and durable, so it's highly unlikely to get damaged or too mucky. However, in the event the Bag gets a little dirty, it's easy to clean and quick drying!