Pet-Friendly Camping: Adventures with Your Furry Friends

There may be a few of us in the Wild Earth HQ that have, what some may call, an unhealthy attachment to our four-legged friends. Let’s face it, they have us wrapped around their adorable little paws. As an outdoor enthusiast and self-professed crazy dog lady, there truly is nothing better than going on an adventure with my pets. It’s such a rewarding experience that I feel really strengthens our bond and trust… and I avoid the overwhelming guilt of leaving my furry mates at home, along with the anxious wondering if they think the pet sitter is cool.

Before heading out on my pet-friendly adventures, there are a few important things I always keep in mind:

1. Research Pet-Friendly Hikes and Campsites

Not all campsites in Australia allow pets so it’s essential to do your research beforehand. Look for places that explicitly welcome pets and take time to research the local wildlife you may encounter.  It’s also important that your pets are wearing a secure ID tag at all times - you could even attach a GPS tracker to their collars.

 

2. Train and Socialise Your Pet

Make sure your pets are happy, well-behaved, and accustomed to being around other people and animals. Basic training commands like sit, stay, and recall are crucial for safety. Keeping your pets under control will protect local wildlife and avoid any potential encounters with dangerous animals.

 

3. Plan Activities and Be Prepared

Plan pet-friendly activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring. Remember to keep your pets’ fitness level and limitations in mind, make a note of the nearest veterinary centre, and always dispose of waste properly to preserve the natural environment.

 

4. Pack the Essentials

Pack enough food and water for the duration of your trip, plus extra in case of emergencies. Don’t forget the basics like waste bags, bowls, collars, and leashes (always bring spares!) You could also bring a portable shade or tent to protect your pets from the sun depending on your location.

 

5. Health and Safety

Ensure your pets are up to date on vaccinations and have received recent health checks. Use flea and tick preventatives and pack a pet-specific first aid kit, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any prescriptions from your vet.

We have an awesome expanding range of pet camping products at Wild Earth, so it’s only natural that my dogs have a gear space in the garage that is starting to rival my own. Here are a few of my top picks:

1. RUFFWEAR APPROACH DOG BACKPACK

If you’re the kind of person who never hits the trail without your four-legged best friend, meet your new favorite gear: the RUFFWEAR Approach Pack.

Designed for day hikes and light overnight adventures, this high-performance dog pack combines comfort, fit, and function. Radial cut saddlebags create a smart, passive compression system, making carrying gear more efficient and balanced over your dog’s shoulders.

Built on a breathable, integrated harness chassis, it provides excellent stability and all-day comfort,  even on rugged terrain. Lightweight materials and a streamlined design mean your pup won’t be weighed down, and thoughtful organization keeps essentials right where you need them.

Whether you’re heading out for a long hike or dipping your toes into backcountry camping, the Approach Pack makes every adventure easier, more comfortable, and more memorable, for both of you

2. TICK TOX 35ML FREEZE SPRAY

Tick Tox is an Australian device that is designed to instantaneously kill ticks on people and pets by snap freezing. I’m sure most of us have dealt with countless of these pesky creatures whilst camping in grassy bush so make sure you have one of these pocket-sized cans at hand! The Coghlans Tick Remover will also come in handy if you happen to run out of spray.

3 RUFFWEAR HIGHLANDS DOG PAD

The Highlands Pad is a lightweight, portable dog bed built for the backcountry. With an accordion-style fold, it packs down small for easy transport and is the first thing you’ll unpack to give your pup a warm, comfy place to relax while you set up camp.

• Lightweight & Insulated: Closed-cell foam and synthetic down insulate from cold, hard ground.
• Durable & Easy to Clean: Microsuede sleeping surface with a waterproof, non-slip base.
• Versatile Sleeping System: Use alone or pair with the Highlands Sleeping Bag (sold separately) for added warmth.

4. FRANK GREEN PET POO BAG HOLDER

Poo pick up, but make it fashion. Cute, durable and crafted for quick and easy access, the Frank Green Pet Poo Bag Holder will boujee up the pooey part of pet parenting. It dangles quietly from its silicone strap and comes with 15 compostable, plant-based bags. Say goodbye to single-use plastics!

5. HYDRAPAK ROVER 500ML DOG BOWL

Summer’s calling, and the trails are waiting, but keeping your dog hydrated is just as important as the adventure itself. Enter the Rover 500ml Dog Bowl: your go-to solution for hydration on the move.

Lightweight, ultra-packable, and adventure-ready, the Rover is designed for dogs and humans who roam together. Its sturdy, freestanding design makes it easy to use anywhere from dusty trails to mountain summits. It holds enough water to keep your dog refreshed during hikes, runs, and road trips.

When empty, just fold, roll, and buckle it up. Clip it to your dog’s collar, your pack, or your belt for easy access and zero hassle.

Key Features:

• 500ml capacity: perfect for quick refreshment
• Lightweight & packable: folds down small, clips anywhere
• Freestanding & sturdy: easy to use, even on uneven terrain
• Durable buckle closure: secure and simple to carry

Whether you’re hitting the trail, the park, or the campsite, the Hydropack Rover Bowl makes hydration effortless so you and your dog can focus on the fun.

6. RUFFWEAR AUDIBLE BEACON SAFETY LIGHT

When the sun dips low or the weather turns rough, your dog’s safety is non-negotiable. That’s where The Beacon comes in, a high-performance, rechargeable safety light designed to keep your pup visible in low-light conditions and inclement weather.

Built for adventure, made for safety, The Beacon is durable, waterproof, and built to withstand the elements. With an easy-to-use Quick Clip, it attaches securely to any Ruffwear harness, collar, or apparel or any gear loop you’ve got.

Cycle through three LED colours (Red, Blue, Green) and three light modes (Slow Flash, Fast Flash, and Steady On) to adapt to your environment and maximise visibility. Plus, battery indicator lights make it easy to monitor charging and battery life, so you’re never caught off guard.

Key Features:

• Rechargeable via USB
• Waterproof & robust for all-weather adventures
• Quick Clip attaches to any Ruffwear gear
• Three colours & three modes for customizable visibility
• Battery indicators for low power and charging status

Whether you’re out before dawn or finishing a hike after sunset, The Beacon ensures your dog stays safe and seen so you can keep exploring, no matter the light.

7. RUFFWEAR ROAMER BUNGEE DOG LEASH

 

 

Another absolute winner from Ruffwear, The Roamer is an adjustable dog leash that can be hand-held or worn around the waist for a dynamic hands-free leash experience. This is an absolute game changer for runners, with the stretch webbing reducing any sharp jerks and pulls for you and your exercise buddy.
 

Not sure what gear you need for your adventure? Chat with our friendly team of Outdoor Gear Specialists in-store or online today and don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram by tagging @wildearthaustralia and #mywildearth in your next post.