The winter holidays are a great time to explore new destinations and visit furmily—but winter travel can present some challenges, especially for pet parents. From unpredictable weather to time sensitive pet import requirements, it’s crucial to plan ahead. Whether you're traveling between the U.S., Canada, Bermuda or beyond, here are three essential travel tips to keep in mind!

1. Book Refundable (or at least flexible) Airfare and Accommodations

Winter weather can bring unexpected delays—whether you're flying, taking a train, or driving. To make your journey as stress-free as possible, flexibility is key when it comes to both travel and accommodations.

Flight Delays and Weather: Winter storms and icy conditions can disrupt travel plans, causing delays or cancellations to flights. To decrease your likelihood of being delayed with your pet, consider traveling on the most direct route possible. Take your pet’s normal routine into consideration, along with possible layover lengths - is it short enough so your pet will connect from one flight to the other seamlessly? Or is it too short where it’s the only flight and you might miss the connection? Is it long enough to exit to take your pet to an outdoor relief area? Will they get bored? It’s a lot for a pet parent to consider!

Accommodation Flexibility: If your pet is traveling with you, before you depawt verify that your accommodations are pet-friendly and confirm that any adjustments in your schedule—due to delays or cancellations—won’t affect your stay. And, don’t forget to identify at least 2 different hotels around all the airports you will be traveling to, through or from before you begin your journey!

2. Use PadsPass 2.0 To Check Your Travel Schedule and Pet’s Vaccines

When it comes to traveling internationally with your pet, timing is everything. Each destination has specific import/export regulations, so reviewing your pet's health documentation ahead of time is crucial to avoid delays or potential entry issues. One of the best ways to streamline the process for ensuring that your travel schedule and pets’ vaccines will allow for seamless travel is if you use PadsPass 2.0. The features within the app helps Bermuda, US and Canada bound travelers like you, plan travel with pets both confidently and safely.

For Bermuda residents: using PadsPass 2.0 allows you to ensure you have enough time to comply with Bermuda pet entry regulations when traveling back to Bermuda. We recommend using the Vaccine Checker and the updated Travel Schedule Checker before leaving the island to avoid hiccups during your return!

3. Book Pet Sitters or Dog Walkers Now

Whether your pet is accompanying you on your holiday travels or staying at home while you enjoy a pet-free getaway, booking reliable pet care in advance is essential.

Pet Sitting at Home: If your pet is staying behind, avoid the stress of last-minute bookings by securing a trusted pet sitter or dog walker now. Services like Rover (available in the U.S., Canada, UK, and some EU countries) allow you to book pet sitters or walkers in your area. (get $20 off your first booking with ALIZAB48230). Wag! is another excellent option in the U.S., with $10 off your first booking using Aliza's $10 off link. 

If you’re a Bermuda resident, there are several pet sitters available on the island which we look forward to featuring in our new product releasing next year - the digital pet passport. If you have a small dog and are looking for pet sitting, check out Woofers to see if they have any last minute availability. 

Pet-Free Time During Your Travels: If you plan to enjoy a day out without your pet—whether for sightseeing or visiting family where pets are not allowed—it's helpful to arrange pet care at your destination. It's best to book ahead on services like Rover and Wag!, especially during the busy holiday season.

Final Thoughts: Winter travel with your pet can be a joyous experience, but it requires thoughtful planning. By allowing for flexibility in your travel schedule, double-checking your pet's health documentation with tools like PadsPass 2.0, and securing reliable pet care soon, you can avoid stress and focus on enjoying the holiday season. 

Interested in gaining access to PadsPass 2.0? Become a member of the Furst 50 - but hurry! We’re closing membership at the END OF THIS YEAR as all members will have furst access to our new product, the digital pet passport, in 2025 before any other hoomans or pets!

Safe travels—and may your winter holiday be filled with relaxation, exploration, and happy tails!